Marijuana for Anorexia Nervosa

Anorexia nervosa is a serious eating disorder that affects millions of people every year. Those who suffer from anorexia often face significant challenges with maintaining a healthy appetite, which can lead to dangerous weight loss and various health complications.

While traditional treatments like therapy and medication are commonly used to help manage this condition, medical marijuana is emerging as a possible supplement to these therapies, potentially providing relief for some symptoms of anorexia.

Does Marijuana Help With Anorexia?

Marijuana has been shown to potentially help with anorexia by stimulating appetite and reducing anxiety—two key challenges for people with this condition. The active compounds in marijuana, particularly THC, are known to increase appetite and reduce stress levels, which might help individuals struggling with anorexia to feel more comfortable eating.

Scientific studies have indicated that cannabinoids, like THC and CBD, interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating mood, appetite, and stress responses. By activating certain receptors, marijuana might promote feelings of relaxation and well-being, which could indirectly encourage people with anorexia to eat more regularly and reduce their anxiety around food.

What Is Anorexia Nervosa and What Are Its Symptoms?

Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image, leading to severe restriction of food intake and malnutrition. People with anorexia often experience extreme weight loss, fatigue, dizziness, and other physical health issues. The condition can have a profound impact on both physical and mental health, and in severe cases, it can be life-threatening.

Traditional treatments for anorexia typically include psychotherapy, nutritional counseling, and sometimes medications like antidepressants or antianxiety drugs. However, these treatments are not always effective for every individual, and many people may experience long-term struggles with their symptoms.

Can You Get a Medical Marijuana Card for Anorexia?

Yes, you can get a medical marijuana card for anorexia in several states. Although each state has its own list of qualifying conditions, many states recognize that medical marijuana might benefit individuals suffering from anorexia.

States where Anorexia is a qualifying condition for medical marijuana include:

• California
• Illinois
• Maryland
• Nevada
• New Hampshire (induced by chemotherapy)
• New Mexico
• North Dakota
• Washington

If you reside in any of these states and suffer from anorexia nervosa, you may be eligible to obtain a medical marijuana card to potentially assist with managing your symptoms.

How to Use Marijuana for Anorexia

There are several ways people with anorexia might choose to use marijuana, depending on their preferences and health needs:

• Smoking/Vaping: Smoking or vaping provides fast relief, which might help individuals experiencing sudden anxiety or loss of appetite.
• Edibles: While edibles provide longer-lasting effects that can aid appetite stimulation, their high sugar content may be unappealing for individuals with anorexia nervosa.
• Tinctures/Oils: Tinctures or oils can be consumed sublingually (under the tongue) for a more controlled dosage, making it easier to manage the effects.

The Sanctuary recommends consulting with a medical marijuana doctor to determine the best method for your situation. For more information on methods, check out our article on Edibles vs. Smoking.