Hay Fever Treatment

As the seasons change and pollen counts rise, millions of people worldwide suffer from the symptoms of hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis. Sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and congestion can make daily life miserable for those affected. While over-the-counter antihistamines are the go-to treatment for many, they often come with unwanted side effects and may not provide complete relief.

In recent years, medicinal cannabis has emerged as a promising natural alternative for managing the symptoms of hay fever. In this article, we’ll explore the potential benefits of using CBD oil and other cannabis-derived products to alleviate seasonal allergies.

Hay fever is an allergic reaction to airborne pollens from plant’s pollen, animal dander or anything else in our surrounding environment.. When a person with hay fever inhales these pollens (or other antigens), their immune system mistakenly identifies them as harmful substances and releases histamines to combat the perceived threat. Histamines are responsible for the inflammation and irritation associated with allergic reactions, leading to the characteristic symptoms of hay fever.

The severity and duration of hay fever symptoms can vary depending on the type and amount of pollen in the air. In New Zealand, the pollen season typically runs from September to March, with different plants releasing their pollens at various times throughout this period. The NZ Annual Pollen Calendar provides a helpful guide to the peak pollen times for different species.

Moreover, antihistamines can cause side effects such as drowsiness, dry mouth, and dizziness, which can interfere with daily activities. Some people may also find that their hay fever symptoms are not adequately controlled by antihistamines alone, leading them to seek alternative or complementary treatments.

Research has shown that the ECS is involved in modulating allergic inflammation, with CB1 and CB2 receptors expressed on mast cells, a key player in the allergic response. Mast cells release histamines and other inflammatory mediators when activated by allergens, leading to the symptoms of hay fever.

The Endocannabinoid System and Allergic Inflammation

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex network of receptors, enzymes, and endogenous cannabinoids that plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes, including immune function and inflammation. The two main receptors in the ECS are cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) and cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2), which are activated by both endogenous cannabinoids and phytocannabinoids found in the cannabis plant.

Several studies have investigated the potential of cannabis-derived compounds, particularly CBD, in managing the symptoms of hay fever and other allergic conditions.

‍A 2013 study published in the journal Pulmonary Pharmacology & Therapeutics demonstrated that CBD could inhibit antigen-induced contraction of airway smooth muscle in animals, suggesting a potential role in reducing airway obstruction in allergic responses. The authors also found that CBD possessed both anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties, which could help alleviate the symptoms of hay fever.

In another study, researchers examined the effects of THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids on mast cell activation in vitro. They discovered that certain cannabinoids, including CBD, could inhibit the release of inflammatory mediators from mast cells, supporting their potential as anti-allergic agents.

‍A 2013 study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology provided further evidence for the role of the endocannabinoid system in regulating mast cell function. Using a human nasal polyp organ culture model, the researchers found that CB1 receptor activation could control mast cell degranulation and maturation in situ, with CB1 stimulation counteracting excessive mast cell activation.

This suggests that targeting the endocannabinoid system could be a novel approach to managing allergic conditions like hay fever.

Interestingly, a 2005 study in the journal Biochemical Journal reported a paradoxical long-term increase in cAMP levels following CB1 receptor stimulation in mast cells. Elevated cAMP is known to suppress mast cell secretion, indicating that this CB1-mediated effect could contribute to an anti-inflammatory response.

At the Cannabis Clinic, we have seen firsthand the potential benefits of medicinal cannabis for people suffering from hay fever. Many of our patients report significant improvements in their symptoms after incorporating CBD oil or other cannabis-derived products into their treatment regimen.

CBD, being non-psychoactive, is well-tolerated by most people and has a favourable safety profile.

Unlike antihistamines, which can cause drowsiness and other side effects, CBD is generally associated with fewer adverse reactions, making it an attractive option for those seeking a natural alternative.

While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind CBD’s anti-allergic effects and to determine the optimal dosage and formulation for hay fever relief, the available evidence and our clinical experience suggest that medicinal cannabis could be a valuable tool in managing seasonal allergies.