CBD is a popular natural remedy for several health conditions, but more research is needed. It has been shown to improve mood disorders and alleviate pain. It is also believed to reduce high blood pressure and prevent seizures in some people with epilepsy.
This retrospective observational study analyzed data from 279 participants over 18 years who received CBD-rich treatment at a network of clinics dedicated to medical cannabis. Patients were grouped based on their self-perceived emotional (ESAS-r) and pain/wellbeing symptoms at FUP1 and FUP2.
Antidepressant
Studies show that CBD can help alleviate depression and anxiety symptoms, though it’s important to talk to your doctor before adding CBD supplements to your medication. Abruptly stopping prescription medications can lead to serious side effects, so you should only use CBD in conjunction with a doctor’s supervision.
CBD can boost serotonin and noradrenaline neurotransmitter systems in the brain, resulting in rapid antidepressant-like effects. These effects are mediated by a combination of endocannabinoid and monoamine mechanisms. The results of a microdialysis study in the prelimbic cortex confirmed that CBD significantly increased 5-HT neurotransmission. A previous study showed that CBD reduced heroin cue-induced cravings, resting heart rate and salivary cortisol levels in a model of opioid addiction.
One of the reasons that it’s best to consult a doctor before taking CBD is because it inhibits enzymes in the liver that metabolize most prescription medications, including antidepressants. This can lead to higher doses of those drugs, which may cause more intense side effects.
Anti-inflammatory
CBD can help to reduce inflammation by inhibiting proteins that signal the immune system. It also has antioxidant properties. It has been found to be effective for reducing chronic pain in humans and animals. It is particularly useful in reducing neuropathic pain, which is often unresponsive to other medications.
CBD has been shown to protect against neuronal damage in several preclinical studies. Its anti-inflammatory effects can be explained by its interactions with the body’s endocannabinoid system. This complex system regulates a variety of functions, including appetite, sleep, and immune response.
Studies have also shown that CBD has antioxidant properties and can help with oxidative stress. It counteracts UV-induced changes in lipid and protein metabolism in the skin of rats. It also increases the activity of Cu,Zn-SOD and GSH-Px as well as their levels.
Antipsychotic
CBD has antipsychotic effects, and it may be useful as a supplement to existing medication. However, more research is needed before CBD can be recommended for clinical use. Earlier trials found that CBD reduced psychotic symptoms in Parkinson’s disease patients. It has also been shown to have antipsychotic effects in animal models. These results suggest that CBD can balance the ECB system and help reduce psychotic symptoms.
Current antipsychotics target the dopamine system, but these medications don’t work for a lot of people and have serious side effects. Researchers are seeking alternatives, including CBD, which does not impact the dopamine system. CBD has been shown to have antipsychotic-like effects in animal models by inhibiting fatty acid amide hydrolase and by D2 receptor antagonism. It is also known to have a variety of other mechanisms that may be involved in the antipsychotic action of CBD.
Anti-seizure
CBD is an anti-seizure compound that has been shown to reduce seizure activity in animal models. It works by inhibiting the activity of calcium channels in the brain, thereby decreasing seizure activity. CBD also has anti-psychotic and antidepressant properties, which makes it useful in treating PTSD.
A randomized controlled trial has found that CBD can improve the control of seizures in patients with refractory epilepsy. The study involved twenty patients who had already been stabilized on their existing antiepileptic drugs (AEDs).
Participants were given an oral CBD solution and titrated over a two-week period to determine the best dose. Approximately half of the patients experienced a significant decrease in their weekly seizure frequency. In addition, the CBD was well-tolerated. There were no serious adverse events (SAEs) reported in either the CBD or placebo group.
Cardiovascular health
Many heart diseases are caused by hardened arteries, which cause blood flow to become restricted. This can lead to heart failure and other problems. CBD has been found to reduce the buildup of plaque in arteries and reduce inflammation. This can help prevent heart disease and strokes. In addition, it can decrease high blood pressure and reduce arrhythmias.
Studies have shown that CBD inhibits NF-kB activity in immunocompromised mice, decreasing the expression of inflammatory cytokines and reducing monocyte cell activation. It also limits fibrosis and decreases the production of myocardial infarct size, as well as reducing cardiac troponin cTnI levels.
Research has also shown that CBD increases acetylcholine-induced vasorelaxation in Zucker diabetic rats, which improves heart function. It also increases the production of endothelial nitric oxide synthase, which can promote vascular relaxation and prevent atherosclerosis.
