The slow, gradual dysfunction and loss of neurons in particular nervous system regions cause neurodegenerative disorders. Most symptoms start appearing when there is a cell loss, which causes deterioration in cognitive ability. The most common chronic neurodegenerative conditions are Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and Multiple Sclerosis. These disorders damage the brain’s neurons, which initiates the local immune cells to start the inflammatory response. In most cases, the inflammation goes out of control, causing long-term inflammation in the brain. There are many treatments and medications to help control inflammation. However, in this article, we will discuss how cannabidiol (CBD) works on inflammation of neurodegenerative diseases.
Cannabidiol, a plant-based drug prepared from the cannabis plant, is used for recreational and medicinal purposes. The various studies on cannabis plants have resulted in the development of different medicinal uses. Let’s look at the mechanism of top quality cbd flower in our bodies.
Our body consists of an endocannabinoid system that helps maintain a balance between multiple body functionalities. It produces CB1 and CB2 receptors, also known as endocannabinoids, to regulate numerous body functionalities. According to studies, consuming CBD can interact with the ECS to support homeostasis of the nervous system.
Here are the various ways CBD resist inflammation of neurodegenerative disorders:
Neurodegenerative disorders come with various symptoms like nausea, insomnia, and pain. Depending on the severity of the condition, the medications and treatments might change. However, reports show that CBD can help alleviate anxiety and improve sleep quality.
People with the chronic neurodegenerative disorder suffer from chronic pain, which makes it difficult to sleep. Improper sleep or insomnia leads to other mental health issues like anxiety and depression. Consuming or applying CBD tincture or sativa strain for pain can help reduce pain and thus help with better sleep.
2. Autoimmune disease prevention
Our body’s immune system is the primary defense mechanism that shields our body against diseases and other threats. A robust immune system recognizes and combats intruders like bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Lymphocytes (B cells and T cells) remember these intruders, so that next time they attack, our immune system can act quickly. In the case of neurological autoimmune diseases, the body’s immune system starts attacking its own tissues. This immune system failure damages the fatty material that covers and guards the nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord.
Cannabis can help reinstate the balance in the system. Studies explain that it can help heal autoimmune disorder by regulating the immune system, reducing inflammation, and improving the digestive system. The CB2 receptors in Cannabis repress cytokines and intensify anti-inflammatory cytokines, assisting rebuild the body’s balance. CBD can modulate the immune system. It decreases T-cell production and represses the immune system memory, which helps reduce the chances of future autoimmune attacks.
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are oxidants that are essential for human life. They are known for their high reactivity and powerful effectiveness in a minute concentration. The cells in our body possess antioxidant defense, although some pro-oxidants escape from this defense mechanism and cause molecular damage. A disruption in the balance between reactive species and insufficient antioxidant defense mechanisms causes oxidative damage like aging and neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s disease. Neuronal apoptosis is a neurodegenerative disease triggered due to oxidative damage of proteins, lipids, and DNA.
According to reports, CBD acts as a powerful antioxidant that gives neuroprotection from neurological disorders. It can increase the cell’s production of superoxide dismutase, which helps fight against free radicals. CBD also protects the cells by inhibiting the generation of free radicals.
Neuroinflammation is the nervous system’s prolonged inflammation, initiated due to an infection or brain injury, or autoimmunity. Although inflammation is essential to protect the body while healing, chronic inflammation causes pain and other disorders. CBD has anti-inflammatory features that can be beneficial in diminishing inflammation and pain in various neurodegenerative conditions.
As CBD can interact with the ECS, it can be advantageous for people with neurological disorders. As per a 2015 review, CBD reduces inflammation and acts as a potential treatment for various inflammatory conditions. In another study, people with epilepsy were given 2.3 grams of CBD oil per 2 kg of their body weight. The results showed that these people suffered fewer seizures after taking CBD oil.
As per a PubMed article, an oil spray called Sativex that contains CBD and THC can be safely used to reduce muscle spasticity experienced by people with Multiple Sclerosis. According to test-tube studies, CBD can help decrease inflammation and prevent neurodegeneration like preventing cognitive decline caused by Alzheimer’s disease.
The use of CBD has increased over the years. More and more countries are legalizing Cannabis seeing the various health benefits. CBD works wonders for treating neurodegenerative disorders by acting as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant-rich, and strengthening the immune system. It is always a good idea to consult a doctor before taking any CBD product.
