Cannabis and Yeast Infections: What Every Cannabis User Should Know

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Fungal infections can range from mild to potentially dangerous. They are typically very difficult to cure because fungi are eukaryotic (organisms whose cells contain a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles) unlike bacteria.

According to a research published by the CDC, those with weakened immune systems who use cannabis have a slightly increased risk of developing a fatal fungal infection. This isn’t because of the characteristics of cannabinoids, but rather because of the growth of mold and fungus on cannabis plant.

There is still much to learn about how cannabis affects infections, with varying degrees of success. It is not yet known whether marijuana can treat fungal infections like yeast infections.

So, can medical marijuana be used to cure a yeast infection? You will find the answer in this article.

Understanding Yeast Infections

Before getting into the details of using marijuana to treat a yeast infection, it is important to have a basic understanding of what a yeast infection is.

Candida Albicans is an organism that causes the condition known as yeast infection. Since a yeast infection is the same as a fungal infection, this type of infection is also known as vaginal candidiasis.

Candida typically lives on the skin and doesn’t spread, but when conditions allow for growth near the vagina, it can result in vaginal yeast infection, also known as vulvovaginal candidiasis. Another typical of yeast infection is oral thrush, often called oral candidiasis.

Candida overgrows in moist, humid places like the mouth, vagina, and other skinfold regions. Vaginal candida infection is one of the most frequent causes of vulvovaginitis, which is a broad term for inflammation of the vulva and vagina.

Signs and Symptoms of Yeast Infection

The common occurring symptoms of yeast infection include:

• In case of oral candidiasis, creamy white lesions can appear on your tongue, inner cheeks, tonsils, gums, and the roof of your mouth.
• Fatigue is one of the most prevalent signs of Candida. Candida causes magnesium deficiency which can lead to fatigue.
• When you have a yeast infection, you may suffer pain when peeing. Another common symptom of vaginal yeast infections is a thick, creamy discharge.
• The fungus that is developing in your digestive tract could cause a gas backup and put a lot of pressure on your body, which could result in additional problems. This includes constipation or leaky gut syndrome, both of which can worsen your abdominal pain.
• Your fingernails can also be affected by yeast infection. The nail area is often swollen and irritated, and the nails may completely fall off.
• If a candida infection gets into your bloodstream and circulates throughout your body, it can infect the joints.

Cannabis: A Brief Overview

There are more than 120 cannabinoids components in cannabis. The two most well-known and extensively studied cannabinoids are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). The “high” that many people identify with cannabis is caused by THC, but CBD is a non-intoxicating, non-euphoric component.

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine declare that there is clear proof that cannabis or cannabinoids can help in the management of:

• Chronic pain
• Multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms include nausea and vomiting
• Symptoms brought on by chemotherapy.
• There is some evidence that it can aid those who experience sleep issues due to sleep apnea, fibromyalgia, chronic pain, or MS.

Cannabis can be consumed in the following ways:

• Edibles
• Pills, capsules, and tablets
• Smoking
• Tinctures
• Cannabis Topicals

The most effective consumption method above all is smoking cannabis because its quick and immediate effects are beneficial for those who need quick relief. It is easy to use and doesn’t require any technical knowledge.

What should you avoid if you have Candida?

Candida is the most prevalent fungus in the human body. It often appears in the mouth, skin, digestive system, toenails, rectum, and vagina.

Although it is mostly harmless, an overgrowth of this fungus can cause infection.

If you have candida then you can follow the candida diet. This diet is a stringent eating plan designed to reduce the signs and symptoms of candida infections.

Here are the food that you should avoid if you have candida:

• Veggies that are high in starch, like potatoes, maize, beans and peas.
• Fruits high in sugar include raisins, figs, bananas, and mangoes.
• Some meats, including farm-raised fish and processed meats.
• Grains including wheat, barley, and rye that contain gluten.
• Dairy items with a high lactose content, like milk and soft cheeses.
• Processed oils and fats, such as margarine, canola oil, and soybean oil.
• Artificial sweeteners and simple sugars, including sucrose, aspartame, agave, maple syrup, corn syrup and honey.
• Nuts and seeds, such as cashews, pecans, pistachios, and peanuts.
• A few beverages, including alcoholic beverages, caffeinated coffee and tea, and drinks with added sugar.

A recent study on the relationship between CBD and Candida Albicans development revealed that CBD may delay and modify Candida growth, potentially preventing it from spreading infections.

Can Marijuana Increase The Risks Of Candida?

Cannabis usage in the form of cigarettes can result in a number of oral changes, including an increase in the density of Candida albicans, periodontitis, caries, xerostomia, and a reduction in salivary pH.

According to a study on THC and systemic Candida Albicans infection, the immune response required to combat the pervasive fungal infection was actually weakened by THC.

Cannabis And Vaginal Candida

According to a 2004 Obstetrics and Gynaecology study, there may be a link between cannabis use and vaginal yeast infections .

According to the article, yeast infections may be worsened by cannabis use within the previous four months.

Injectable birth control, sexual activity within the previous five days, or having particular bacteria simultaneously are all mentioned as contributing factors in the research paper.

Instead of cannabis use alone, these contributing factors may have a greater impact on women who experience vaginal yeast infections.

However, other sources claim that some cannabinoids found in cannabis have demonstrated antibacterial and antifungal properties. These properties proved to be an effective medicine for candida overgrowth.

Potential Risks of Cannabis Consumption

Cannabis, like any agricultural product, is susceptible to fungal contamination. Improper drying and storage conditions can foster the growth of these fungus on cannabis plants.

When the contaminated cannabis consumed by individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or with HIV/AIDS, face heightened susceptibility to infections, potentially leading to severe respiratory issues and invasive infections.

Fungal infections trigger an immune response, prompting inflammation as the body attempts to eliminate the invading pathogens. In the context of contaminated cannabis, the immune system may react to the mold’s presence, causing inflammation, particularly in the respiratory system.

Prolonged exposure to fungal contaminants can contribute to chronic inflammation, associated with respiratory conditions like bronchitis and asthma.

Medical cannabis users, often relying on cannabis to manage chronic conditions, may be more vulnerable to the adverse effects of contaminated cannabis. Patients with compromised immune systems or underlying health issues should get the cannabis products from reputable sources.

Conclusion

The complex relationship between cannabis usage and yeast infections, particularly candida, requires more research. If you want to use cannabis for treating the infections you should seek guidance from medical professionals who can offer personalized recommendations based on your unique medical conditions and needs.