CBD has continual anecdotal proof of being a drug that aids numerous ailments, it’s non intoxicating, shows no sign of forming dependence (like nearly every other substance) and can “potentially” eliminate many cases of those with multiple symptoms having to take multiple medications to find relief. Aside from helping combat anxiety, reducing seizures and lowering tobacco and heroin cravings, CBD has exhibited its considerable ability in reducing inflammation. In an interview I did with Dr. Junella Chin during my M.S. in Cannabis Science & Therapeutics program, she explained that inflammation was the root cause of most diseases. This includes Endometriosis, IBS, Arthritis, Type-2 Diabetes and more. While the aforementioned are commonly discussed in our community, I wanted to highlight 3 not as commonly known topics:
CBD Primarily Targets Our Immune System
Where THC primarily targets the receptors in our brain (appetite, learning, memory, mood, and other neural activities and disorders), CBD primarily targets systems outside of our brain and central nervous system (where we process and send signals internally). Though CBD does not appear to strengthen the immune system, it’s shown to support the regulation of an overactive immune system. Simply put: When we’re less stressed and get better sleep, we’re helping our body do what it needs to do, which is recover. Speaking of recovery - remember when people were saying that smoking weed prevents COVID? Well, they were on the right path. As dope as that sounds, there’s truth to this when taking CBD alone, but when combining other cannabinoids (like THC), it can actually counteract CBD’s antiviral properties. In this study, all three tests showed CBD “potently inhibiting” SARS-CoV-2 from replicating in the tested cells. This means that CBD has the potential to stop the infection from replicating or strengthening, which chances can be increased when taken with a (good) high fatty meal.
Take Note: CBD works better over time & when used consistently.
In High Concentrations, CBD Counteracts THC
CBD is (mostly) a substance that does not initiate a physiological response and may actually work as an antagonist (a substance that stops the action or effect of another substance) when given in high concentrations, counteracting those high feelings. This can be understood in one of two ways: In general, CBD helps with unwanted anxious feelings. In a study by Front Psychiatry, they were able to provide an analysis showing that CBD may have neuroprotective properties. They also found that CBD has been shown to produce the opposite effects of THC in certain parts of the brain (potentially where that mitigation comes in). The next reason can be explained as less about counteracting THC’s strength, but more about the synergistic effects of combining both THC & CBD. When combined, rather than enhancing each other's effects, an entirely new profile is created. More research on this synergy needs to be done, but nevertheless, they are shown to work in beautiful harmony when used together, creating a more calm and enjoyable experience.
CBD Concentration In The Bloodstream Can Be Increased 4-5x With a High Fat Meal
In general, based on how you decide to ingest your CBD and the food eaten that day, the way CBD moves through your body varies. Cannabis is lipophilic, meaning it’s dissolved through fat. One way to increase consistency is through a good, high-fat meal. The composition and caloric intake of meals can have a significant effect on the drug absorption of CBD and how it moves through your body. When taking CBD with healthy fats like avocado and peanut butter, the amount available in the bloodstream, as well as the time feeling the highest concentration, increases.
Important to Note:
- We are still unsure of exactly how CBD works but, what we do have, is evidence that it’s working.
- As of now, CBD is completely safe with no evidence stating otherwise.
- Try CBD by itself, in combination with other cannabinoids, and have fun playing with what ratios suit you best.
- Always do more research and enjoy taking your regimen into your own hands!