Medical Cannabis for Gastrointestinal Health with Dr. Nick Jikomes

This is part 2 of a 2-part episode on medical cannabis and the endocannabinoid system with cannabis expert Dr. Nick Jikomes. In this episode we speak about the role of cannabinoids in gastrointestinal mucosal defense and inflammation. The cannabinoids from cannabis have been used in Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn's Disease, and Irritable Bowel syndrome to help with issues related to digestion, appetite, pain, anxiety, inflammation. and altered bowel function. In this episode we talk about how taking cannabinoids may help decrease GI inflammation and possibly improve the important gut neurotransmitter serotonin.  We talk about the nuts and bolts of selecting an appropriate strain for medicinal needs. If you listened to episode 1  you will appreciate some of the practical applications of this episode. About our Guest Nick Jikomes, PHD With a decade of scientific research experience, Dr. Jikomes works to ensure that Leafly takes a data-driven approach to product development, content and strategy. As Director of Science & Innovation, h lead efforts in research and data strategy. This includes forging strategic partnerships with cannabis testing facilities and licensed producers to incorporate laboratory data into Leafly’s massive consumer-facing platform. By combining the latest scientific research insights and data science techniques, he works to enhance the Leafly platform by creating exciting new product exploration and recommendation tools for consumers. Before joining Leafly, Dr. Jikomes completed ten years of formal training in biological research and science education and I earned a B.S. in Genetics from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a Ph.D. in Neuroscience from Harvard University.