In addition, the findings also showed that
CBD reduces mucus hypersecretion – a
hallmark characteristic of asthma.
While the study was not replicated on
humans, the researchers concluded CBD
could be a powerful treatment for asthma as it
regulates
exaggerated
inflammatory
responses in the body.
A study in 2014 also indicated cannabis’
effectiveness for alleviating muscle spasms in
the lungs. In fact, the researchers believe this
mechanism may explain the acute
bronchodilation (expansion of the bronchial
air passages in the respiratory tract) produced
when ingesting cannabis.
Cannabis alleviates asthma-related pain
Cannabis reduces muscle spasticity
α-Pinene is a terpene found in specific strains of
cannabis. It is found in the oils of many coniferous
trees, most notably the pine tree, and is also found in
the essential oil of rosemary.
Bronchospasm, otherwise known as bronchial
spasms, are a sudden constriction of the
muscles in the lungs. Causing difficulty in
breathing, reactions range from mild to
severe.
For those with asthma, this likely comes as no
surprise. Bronchospasms are a hallmark
symptom of the condition.
But cannabis has shown to be incredibly
effective for alleviating, and even eliminating
muscle spasms.
How is this possible?
According to Dr. Jessica Knox, it has to do
with two components in specific cannabis
strains – CBD and alpha-pinene.
“Alpha-pinene and CBD have some muscle
spasm relief effect which is crucial to hitting
those bronchial muscles and helping them
relax so that you can breathe better,” Knox
says.
By relaxing the muscles in the lungs, the
airways expand, allowing for an increase in
airflow.
An asthma attack may not only cause difficulty in
breathing, it can also be painful.
While pain is not a primary symptom
associated with asthma, over 75% of people
who experience an asthma attack also
experience chest pain. For those with severe
forms of asthma, this pain can be
uncomfortable and even debilitating.
However, it is important to note though that
there are no pain receptors in the lungs.
Asthma sufferers primarily experience pain
because they are unable to breath properly.
When normal airflow is interrupted,
additional stress is placed on accessory
muscles such as the sternocleidomastoid and
scalene.
During an asthma attack, these muscles must
contract to help expand the ribcage. Because
there is additional stress on these muscles,
asthma sufferers often experience pain. This
is primarily due to the fact that these muscles
are rarely (if ever) used for normal breathing.
It is essentially the same principle that applies
after a tough workout for the first time. When
a muscle is worked that has not been used,
pain ensues.