Medical Marijuana for Lupus

Nicholas DiBella
Published: May 26, 2025

Lupus is a complex and often debilitating autoimmune disease that affects millions of people worldwide. For many individuals living with lupus, conventional treatments like immunosuppressants and corticosteroids provide only partial relief and often come with difficult side effects. As a result, more patients are exploring complementary therapies, including medical marijuana, to help manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

This article explores how cannabis might help individuals living with lupus, how to obtain a medical marijuana card, and what strains and methods of consumption may be most beneficial.

Does Marijuana Help With Lupus?

Medical marijuana has been shown to help manage symptoms commonly associated with lupus, including chronic pain, inflammation, fatigue, and mood disturbances. While research into cannabis for autoimmune diseases like lupus is still ongoing, existing studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that the plant’s active compounds, particularly THC and CBD, may offer therapeutic benefits.

Cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a network of receptors in the body that helps regulate inflammation, immune response, and pain perception. In lupus, where the immune system becomes hyperactive and attacks healthy tissue, modulating this system with cannabis could help reduce inflammation and manage pain.

A 2018 review published in Frontiers in Pharmacology found that cannabinoids possess anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties, which could be especially beneficial for autoimmune conditions like lupus.

CBD has also shown promise in animal studies for regulating immune response and reducing neuroinflammation.

What Is Lupus and What Are Its Symptoms?

Lupus, or systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues and organs. It can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, brain, heart, and other organs, making it a particularly challenging condition to diagnose and manage.

Common symptoms include:

Chronic joint pain and swelling
Persistent fatigue
Skin rashes, particularly a butterfly-shaped rash across the face
Fever
Kidney dysfunction
Sensitivity to sunlight
Cognitive issues, like brain fog

Lupus is typically managed through a combination of medications, such as corticosteroids, antimalarials, and immunosuppressants. However, these treatments can have significant side effects and may not work for everyone, leading many to seek alternative therapies like medical marijuana.

Can You Get a Medical Marijuana Card for Lupus?

Yes, you can get a medical marijuana card for lupus in several states. States such as Hawaii, Illinois, and New Hampshire all list lupus as a qualifying condition for medical marijuana.

Even if you do not live in a state where lupus is a qualifying condition, you may still qualify for a medical marijuana card. Most states with medical cannabis programs allow access for autoimmune diseases or chronic pain, both of which are applicable to lupus. Some states explicitly list lupus as a qualifying condition, while others require a physician’s recommendation for chronic pain, inflammation, or a related issue.

At the Sanctuary Wellness Institute, we help patients in multiple states obtain their medical marijuana cards, including Pennsylvania, Florida, Maryland, and more. Our certified medical marijuana doctors evaluate your condition and determine if cannabis is a suitable treatment option.

To learn more about obtaining a medical marijuana card, visit our medical marijuana card page.

How to Use Marijuana for Lupus

There are several ways to consume cannabis, and each method may offer unique benefits depending on the symptoms you’re managing:

Tinctures and Oils: These are ideal for precise dosing and discreet use. Sublingual absorption provides relatively fast relief from pain and inflammation.
Edibles (Gummies, Capsules): Great for long-lasting relief from chronic symptoms like fatigue and joint pain. However, effects can take up to 1–2 hours to kick in.
Vaping or Smoking: Provides immediate relief but may be less ideal for individuals with lung sensitivity.
Topicals: Creams and balms infused with cannabinoids can be applied directly to inflamed joints or skin rashes for localized relief.

To compare methods of consumption, visit our blog post on edibles vs smoking. Always consult with a qualified medical marijuana doctor to determine the best approach for your specific symptoms.

What Are the Best Marijuana Strains for Lupus?

Certain cannabis strains may be more effective than others in managing the varied symptoms of lupus, such as pain, fatigue, and inflammation. Below are a few strains commonly recommended for autoimmune conditions:

ACDC: High in CBD and very low in THC, this strain offers potent anti-inflammatory effects without the psychoactive high. Ideal for daytime use.
Harlequin: A balanced CBD:THC strain known for pain relief and calming effects. Suitable for reducing anxiety and inflammation.
Blue Dream: A sativa-dominant hybrid that may help combat fatigue and elevate mood, making it useful for those struggling with lupus-related depression.
Air Jordan OG: This indica strain is often used to relieve anxiety and promote restful sleep.
Granddaddy Purple: Known for its sedative effects and pain-relieving properties, making it a strong choice for nighttime use.

For a deeper understanding of the differences between strain types, check out our guide on indica vs sativa.

Conclusion

While medical marijuana is not a cure for lupus, it might offer significant symptom relief for those who struggle with chronic pain, inflammation, and fatigue. As research continues to evolve, cannabis is becoming a more widely accepted complementary therapy in the treatment of autoimmune diseases like lupus.

If you’re interested in exploring medical marijuana as part of your lupus management plan, The Sanctuary Wellness Institute can help you begin the process. Our team of experienced professionals will guide you through each step, from scheduling a consultation to obtaining your medical marijuana card.