The Science of CBD
Evidence and Research on CBD
Medical research on CBD is still in its infancy. Due to the long-standing illegal status of cannabis, scientific studies have been underutilized or outright prohibited in the past. Yet things are evolving!
In early 2017, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine completed a comprehensive review of over 10,000 scientific studies on marijuana health research. In their final report, the researchers deemed many of the health applications listed above to have “conclusive and substantial evidence” for therapeutic benefits. Some only have “moderate” or “limited” evidence – such as for migraines or stopping cancer cell growth. But again, that may only be because the studies themselves have been limited. Each year, more and more trials are being conducted.
Consumer experiences and personal reports of the benefits of CBD are also substantial. Let me tell ya, the CBD we use significantly helps with my anxiety, stress, joint pain, and sleep issues. I’ve heard numerous wonderful testimonials and success stories directly from people I know as well! When you’re shopping around, don’t forget to browse the reviews. Since each of our bodies (and issues) are unique, the best confirmation is personal trial and error.
HOW DOES CBD WORK?
The Endocannabinoid System
When ingested or inhaled, CBD molecules interact with our internal endocannabinoid system to trigger a variety of physiological responses. Yes, you read that right! Similar to an immune or endocrine system, our bodies contain an entire network of natural receptors that are designed to interact with cannabinoid compounds.
Scientists only recently discovered the existence of the human endocannabinoid system in the mid-1990’s, and have since revealed that all mammals have one! Moreover, they’re discovering just how critically connected it may be to good health and wellbeing. A properly functioning endocannabinoid system helps our bodies maintain homeostatic balance to the nervous and immune systems, as well as many other organs.
When the endocannabinoid system is out of whack, serious issues can arise. Researchers believe that a clinical endocannabinoid deficiency (a shortage of either compounds or receptors) throws off homeostasis or normal balanced bodily functions, and therefore allows for disease to develop. It is suggested that everything from cancer and IBS to migraines and fibromyalgia could be attributed to deficiencies of the endocannabinoid system.
CB1 and CB2 receptors
The endocannabinoid system is made up of two key receptors, CB1 and CB2. They’re designed to accept cannabinoid molecules like a lock and key. When this connection happens, they in turn influence one or more body processes – such as those related to mood, appetite, pain sensation, metabolism, anxiety, sleep, and more. The receptors respond to both internal endocannabinoid compounds (those naturally produced by the body) as well as introduced phytocannabinoids – like CBD.
Both CB1 and CB2 receptors are found readily throughout the body, though each is concentrated in distinct areas that directly correlate to the response they elicit. For example, CB1 is primarily concentrated in the brain and central nervous system. Fittingly, CB1 stimulation plays a significant role in memory, mood, sleep, pain and motor functions.
In contrast, CB2 extends outward to other parts of the body and peripheral organs, including muscles, skin, the stomach, kidneys, pancreas, liver, cardiovascular system, immune system, glands and nerves. Considering, it should come as no surprise that CB2 is the good guy responsible for controlling inflammatory responses, cell regeneration, and tissue repair.
In a nutshell, when one of these systems is having a hiccup (and giving us an unpleasant physical response), CBD can come in and right its course. And while CBD can be powerful on its own, it is even more effective when its friends come along for the ride!