Recently, people have been researching the effects of CBD on the human body as hemp-derived CBD has been legalized in 47 US states. While 36 states only permit it for medical purposes, 11 states have legalized its recreational use. CBD can be one of two types based on its source – hemp-derived and marijuana-derived. While the hemp-based CBD has been legal for some time, the latest Farm Bill alters some of the federal authorities over cannabis plants and their derivatives. In this post, we will learn about CBD and how does the CBD affect the brain.
Under the new rules, cannabis plants and derivatives with THC(Tetrahydrocannabinol) content below 0.3% of dry weight are no longer considered as controlled substances.
As the studies related to the CBD affect the brain has only begun, there are still some misconceptions about it.
For instance, CBD affect the brain, It is considered to be intoxicating having similar effects on the mind as its cousin THC extracted from marijuana.
Psychoactive chemicals affect the central nervous system (CNS) of a body and cause temporary changes. Though the calming effects of CBD mean that it can be used as a relaxant and it does not create any hallucinatory effects that are caused by THC.
Table of Contents
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol or CBD is extracted from either hemp or marijuana. The hemp-derived CBD is relatively new and is known to be more effective than the marijuana, which has been used for a long time.
CBD is one of the many phytocannabinoids of the cannabis plant. It is often confused with its cousin THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) which is the psychoactive component of marijuana and creates the associated “high”.
Cannabidiol has a lesser effect on the receptors of the nervous system and loosely binds with CB1 endocannabinoid system (ECS) receptor which causes temporary changes in the brain.
How Does CBD Affect The brain?
Our Central Nervous System (CNS) is closely associated with a neuromodulatory system known as the Endogenous Cannabinoid System (ECS). This structure is thus named as it was discovered in the 1990s when studying THC and its influence.
Though the entire structure of the ECS system and the way it affects us is still being explored, there have been some breakthroughs.
The ECS system has been found to have a direct bearing on mood, appetite, sleep patterns, fertility, memory and reproduction.
The three main components of the ECS system are
- endocannabinoids,
- enzymes and
- receptors.
So far, the two main endocannabinoids identified are 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and anandamide (AEA).
The two main types of receptors identified are
- CB1 receptors, mostly associated with the CNS, and
- CB2 receptors, which are connected to the peripheral nervous system.
Studies show that the ECS has cannabinoid receptors that can be influenced by the use of CBD or THC.
Although more research is being conducted to understand the exact effects caused by CBD and THC, it has been found that the active substances in both interact with the ECS receptors.
A research posits CBD use as a useful tool in the treatment of Substance Use Disorders, as the ECS system is closely connected to the reward-facilitating effects felt when taking drugs.
Cannabidiol is substantially effective in inhibiting such behaviour by attaching itself to ECS receptors.
Other Benefits Of CBD
CBD Impacts The Blood Flow
The reduction of blood flow in our brain is the reason for anxiety disorder, and CBD helps increase blood flow in the hippocampus and helps the user feel relieved and comfortable.
To better understand the effect of CBD, a study was conducted on a small group of subjects prone to Social Anxiety Disorder. The researchers discovered that their subjects felt much better with the usage of CBD, and it modified their brains’ response to anxiety. If you are looking for an effective and affordable CBD oil with permissible amounts of THC, you can buy from a trusted brand like Fab CBD.
CBD Manages Pain
CBD has shown promising results in managing the symptoms by modifying the CB2 receptor’s ability to sense pain.
CBD affects how CB2 receptors respond to the pain signal and in turn and has the potential to relieve pain and inflammation associated with arthritis . CBD might be a safe and useful treatment for OA joint pain.
CBD Reduces Oxidative Damage
The process of energy generation in our body and the effects of external environmental toxins can release free radicals in our body.
To manage and stabilize these free radicals, our body releases antioxidants.
However, in some cases, our body is not able to tackle the free radicals created because of its inability to produce enough antioxidants.
In such cases, the radicals start affecting the cell’s DNA which causes degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and others.
CBD helps manage the oxidation damage caused by these free radicals.
CBD Reduces Excitation In Brain Cells
Excessive stimulations can cause our brain cells to become overactive and causes excitation.
This can lead to improper functioning of the brain, hearing loss, and even stroke. CBD plays a role in the treatment of such neurodevelopmental disorders.
CBD Has Antipsychotic Properties
Recent studies have shown that CBD can help prevent psychotic effects. It can function as a highly effective antipsychotic drug.
CBD is believed to influence the temporal cortex and striatum directly.
Anandamide is a neurotransmitter which can improve our mood and also can reduce our pain.
The impact on anandamide is related to CBD’s antipsychotic effect. This also causes the elevation of anandamide in the cerebrospinal fluid.
CBD can treat the symptoms of anxiety and depression. It’s benefits to treat depression are derived from the evidence linking its usage to the positive effects on serotonin receptors in the brain.
CBD products like CBD Oil , Tinctures, Candies are gaining popularity worldwide as a useful option to treat the symptoms of depression and anxiety like fatigue, nausea, sweating and many more.
Conclusion
CBD has a vital role in the medical field, as it improves the lives of several persons who are suffering from mental and physical illness. The use of CBD helps tremendously to keep our body and mind healthier.
CBD studies are still at the early stages, so still many of its long-time use effects are unknown. However, recent studies have shown promising results in managing chronic pains, symptoms of cancer treatment and many psychotic disorders such as anxiety and depression.
But before purchasing any product, check your state’s laws and regulations as CBD use is still prohibited in some states.
