Nausea and vomiting: Causes, symptoms, experiences & medical cannabis

Nausea and vomiting can have many causes, from harmless stomach upsets to serious illnesses such as chemotherapy side effects or chronic stomach problems. According to Techniker Krankenkasse, common triggers can be infections, stress or medication. While conventional medication can help, many patients turn to medicinal cannabis with THC as a natural alternative. Click here to return to the overview: medical cannabis for illnesses.

What nausea is and what causes it

Nausea is an unpleasant feeling in the stomach that is often associated with vomiting. The body uses this reflex to get rid of potentially harmful substances. However, sometimes nausea occurs for no apparent reason and can severely disrupt everyday life.

There are many possible causes of nausea and vomiting. Gastrointestinal infections, food intolerances or side effects of medication are often responsible. Psychological stress or hormonal fluctuations can also play a role.

• Gastrointestinal infections or food poisoning
• Motion sickness and dizziness
• Side effects of medication (e.g. chemotherapy)
• Hormonal changes (e.g. pregnancy)
• Stress or anxiety

Nausea and vomiting:

• Professional Association of German Gastroenterologists – Causes & treatment options
• Onkopedia Guidelines – Recommendations for the treatment of nausea in cancer
• NetDoktor – Overview of causes and home remedies

How THC works in the body and why it can help

THC influences the so-called endocannabinoid system (a part of the nervous system that regulates the gastrointestinal tract, among other things). It can help to calm the vomiting center in the brain and alleviate feelings of nausea. People with chronic nausea or chemotherapy side effects in particular report positive effects.

• Can calm the vomiting center
• Can relieve stomach cramps
• Can stimulate the appetite

You can find out more about medicinal cannabis in our article on cannabis on prescription.

What studies on THC and nausea show

Several scientific studies have investigated whether THC can alleviate nausea. Initial research results show that THC can be particularly effective in chemotherapy patients by reducing vomiting. Techniker Krankenkasse provides information on the medical use of cannabis.

• Can significantly reduce nausea
• Can prevent vomiting
• Can increase appetite with long-term use

Experiences: How THC can help in everyday life

Many people with chronic nausea report positive experiences with THC. Here are two case studies:

Anna W. from Neu-Ulm, 42:

“After my chemotherapy, I often had severe nausea and could hardly eat. THC helped me to relax and regain my appetite.”

Jonas S. from Berlin, 35:

“I suffer from chronic stomach problems and often had to deal with nausea. With medicinal cannabis, the symptoms have become significantly less.”

What THC products are available

THC can be consumed in various forms. Some products work faster, others longer. The choice of the right method depends on individual needs.

• Flowers for inhalation (quick effect)
• Oil for targeted dosing
• Capsules for a uniform effect
• Sprays for easy application

You can find out more about the different options in the article about cannabis doctors online.

What advantages and disadvantages there are

THC can help to alleviate the symptoms of nausea and vomiting. However, there are a few things you should be aware of.

• Can effectively reduce nausea
• Can stimulate the appetite
• May cause drowsiness in high doses
• Temporary memory problems possible

Other methods for treating nausea

In addition to THC, there are many other ways to reduce nausea. These methods can help:

• Drink ginger tea or peppermint tea
• Prefer easily digestible food
• Eat slowly and in small portions

Frequently asked questions about THC and nausea

Here are the 3 most frequently asked questions from patients:

Does THC help immediately against nausea?

THC can help to reduce the feeling of nausea in the short term, but is not a long-term solution.

Is THC addictive?

In controlled medical doses there is no high risk of addiction.

Can I get THC for nausea without a prescription?

In Germany, medicinal cannabis is only available on prescription. However, THC can also be consumed in social clubs under certain conditions.

5 tips for dealing better with nausea

Nausea can severely affect everyday life. In addition to THC, there are simple things that can help.

1. Eat slowly and chew well
2. Drink enough water
3. Avoid strong odors
4. Fresh air and light exercise
5. Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing

Anyone who regularly suffers from nausea should try out what helps. Small changes often bring a big improvement.

Medical cannabis in use

Are you interested in the practical application of medicinal cannabis? Studies on cannabis show how THC is being used more and more. Learn more here, here you come back to the overview:

• Medical cannabis for diseases