Just about every patient I know who’s managed an active disease state for any length of time has a recipe of wellness-based and self-help practices to cope with pain and stress.
In recent years, an increasing number of states have recognized the medical benefits of marijuana.
Hetanshi Naik, PhD, CGC, is the researcher conducting the CAM and Cannabis Use study sponsored by The Porphyrias Consortium.
Naik is hoping to collect 200 completed surveys from each porphyria subtype and will keep the research study open as long as she can.
I didn’t know what to expect, but I was pleasantly surprised when the questions were about patients’ experiences with practitioners like chiropractors, acupuncturists, naturopaths, and spiritual healers.
I’ve created a “flare kit” of self-help methods to manage my porphyria, but have not personally had success with marijuana easing my chronic or acute porphyria pain.
Recently, I’ve found that a very low dose of THC mixed with CBD helps ease generalized anxiety, more as a general mental health remedy.
Speaking to others with AIP, I heard similar stories of intoxication avoidance and opting for a lower dose of THC.
I spoke to a couple people who are too nervous to try it, fearing it could make their attacks worse, and I totally get it.
Even if cannabis isn’t for you, I hope you’ll participate in Naik’s research if you qualify.
The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Porphyria News or its parent company, BioNews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to porphyria.
Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.