COPD

Symptoms
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is an umbrella term for progressive lung disease characterized by: breathlessness, wheezing, chest tightness, excess mucus, chronic cough.

Benefits
Breathlessness, wheezing, and chest tightness are all characterized by inflammation within the lungs caused by disease. The anti-inflammatory properties of cannabis, specifically CBD, reduce inflammation within the lungs that causes many of the symptoms associated with COPD. Some studies have found that low levels of CBD have helped treat nicotine addictions as well. Nicotine has been shown to lead to the development of COPD and worsen the symptoms, so cessation of smoking is an important step in combating COPD.

Treatment
Strains containing both THC and CBD are effective in the treatment of inflammation. THC was found to deactivate inflammatory proteins where CBD has continued to reduce the amount of inflammation. Ingestion through edibles or oils is recommended due to the nature of COPD. Smoking as well as vaporizing may irritate the lining of the lungs, so these methods of intake are not preferred. That being said, there are some benefits to vaporizing strains that have high amounts of Pinene. This terpene acts as a bronchodilator, which will decrease resistance in the airway and increase airflow to the lungs.