Can You Use Cannabis to Treat Colds and the Flu?

Crap! You’ve got a tickling sensation in the back of your throat, and it won’t go away.
Maybe it’s nothing. Maybe you just inhaled some dust and your throat is irritated.
But the next day, the tickling has transformed into a full-on ache. You’re congested, you’ve got a cough, and your nose is running faster than Usain Bolt.
No, my friend. It’s not dust. It’s cold. Or worse. The flu.
You search online, looking for natural remedies that will help you get better as quickly as possible. Ginger. Garlic. Tea. Gargling with saltwater. You’re ready to try it all – even cannabis!
But can cannabis be used to treat a cold or flu, or should you lay off of it until you get better?

Recreational Use vs Medicinal Use

If you’re a regular smoker known for taking multiple bong rips every 30 minutes, then yes, you should definitely lay off the cannabis for a while.

You’re sick. You need to focus on getting better, and your respiratory system is already being taxed enough. Bringing smoke into your lungs can make a bad situation worse and increase your chances of getting bronchitis.

HOWEVER…

You can try using cannabis strategically so that it actually helps you fight the cold and flu.

How Cannabis Could Help With Cold and Flu Symptoms

Sinus headaches are a common symptom of colds and the flu. Cannabis can help relieve the pain being caused by sinus pressure, and it can also help relieve body aches.

Cannabis might also help any inflammation that arises because of the cold or flu. Both THC and CBD (the two major cannabinoids in the cannabis plant) have anti-inflammatory properties.

Try Cannabis-Infused Tea!

Tea is a popular remedy for cold and flu sufferers. If you want to try incorporating cannabis into your medicinal regimen, tea might be the best way to go about it.

The easiest way to do that is to use cannabis-infused honey as a sweetener in your tea.

We strongly recommend that you consult with your doctor before starting any cold or flu regimen that involves cannabis. We all react to cannabis differently, so you want to make sure that cannabis treat doesn’t negatively interact with any other medications you’re taking.

Other Things to Keep in Mind

• Don’t share a joint or pipe with anyone while you’re sick. That’s a quick and easy way to spread the illness. Be a good friend, and keep the virus to yourself.
• Drink plenty of liquids and get plenty of rest. Watch a funny movie or TV show. They say laughter is the best medicine. Yes, it’s a cliche, but think about how good you feel after you’ve had a good laugh. It can’t hurt!
• Since smoking and even vaping might be harsh on your lungs, you can try edibles (like honey) or tinctures. Topicals might be useful for achy muscles as well.

Hope you found this information helpful. Get well soon!