Cannabidiol (CBD) is among the many cannabinoid molecules from the cannabis plant.
When thinking of how CBD works, these plant-derived cannabinoids are described by their skill to act on cannabinoid receptors. These receptors are found in the endocannabinoid system or ECS.
Maintenance of the Homeostasis
To better understand the ECS of your body, it’s also vital to learn the primary biological idea of homeostasis. It refers to the reaction or process that your body uses to actively keep a stable inner environment. In many cases, the functions lead to maintaining balance and are vital for every organism to survive. To help maintain our bodies’ homeostasis is one of the ways how CBD works. Homeostasis is a healthy state of equilibrium and inner stability against unknown external factors. These factors could disrupt how your body would typically function. Compared to the compound THC, how CBD works as a non-intoxicating compound is great. It’s because it doesn’t have any psychoactive effects that are commonly linked with THC. While THC is the main psychoactive content of cannabis with some medical uses, CBD stands out since it is non-intoxicating. Plus, it offers a wide range of medical benefits. These include aid for anxiety, seizures, pain, and inflammation. These benefits make how CBD works, an attractive and positive therapeutic compound.
The Endocannabinoid System
Before looking at how CBD works, you should first know what the ECS is.
Your body naturally produces endocannabinoids. They are neurotransmitters that link to your cannabinoid receptors in the nervous system. These support the ECS or the endocannabinoid system.
Like any other nutrient, people can have a deficiency of it and may require additional support. This is where cannabis comes in.
The cannabis plant creates phytocannabinoids that interact with your ECS.
What Is the Endocannabinoid System?
Unlike the reproductive, nervous, and circulatory systems, the ECS is a relatively new spot for study.
Though no less important than other biological systems, the ECS was only discovered in the year 1992. Researching the effects and benefits of cannabis led to its discovery.
Interestingly, the ECS is named after cannabinoids; endo, which means inside, hence, the endocannabinoid system.
To answer what the endocannabinoid system is, it’s a molecular system in your body. This works and is responsible for controlling and balancing a lot of processes in your body.
These include the body’s immune & inflammation response, communication between the cells, memory, mood, sleep, plus your appetite and metabolism. It also helps balance your mood control, cardiovascular function, muscle formation, liver function, stress, and more.
These functions all contribute to homeostasis, stability, or the body’s internal environment.
For example, an external force like pain due to an injury or fever disrupts your body’s homeostasis. To keep everything balanced, the ECS functions to help your body work ideally.
Discovery of the ECS
The ECS was discovered in 1990 when professionals were studying the plant-like cannabinoids produced by the body. Its primary role is to maintain your body’s homeostasis, which is the biological harmony during environmental changes.
These changes include both physical and mental stress.
Research shows that ECS is present in anybody with a vertebra like birds, mammals, reptiles, fish, and amphibians.
The Endocannabinoid System’s Three Main Components
As part of how CBD works, the ECS also needs to function. To do so, three elements allow it to work adequately.
There are two types of cannabinoid receptors, the CB-1 and CB-2 receptors. These occur throughout your central and peripheral nervous systems.
Specifically, these exist in your immune system, liver, kidneys, brain, gastrointestinal system, and others.
CB-1 and CB-2 determine the behavioral effects of cannabis when taken. It also determines the effects of your own cannabis chemicals in the body. These are the 2-AG and anandamide.
The CB-1 receptors are found in your brain and throughout your body. As for the CB-2 receptors, they’re mostly found in your gastrointestinal and immune system. Not only that, but the CB-2 receptors are also present in your brain.
However, they are not expressed as densely as the CB-1 receptors.
The CB-2 receptors are predominantly sent throughout the immune system. These are known to be responsible for immune-related activities like anti-inflammation.
Endocannabinoids are also referred to as endogenous cannabinoids. They’re molecules that are naturally created by your body.
These are similar to cannabinoids, but as mentioned, are produced by the body. Endocannabinoids influence the human body via binding to the CB-1 and CB-2 receptors.
An example here is endocannabinoids may aim for the CB-1 receptors in your spinal nerves to alleviate pain. Others could bind to the CB-2 receptors in your immune cells to notify that your body is suffering from inflammation. This is the most usual sign of autoimmune issues.
As studies commence, experts were able to identify the two primary endocannabinoids. These are the AEA or anandamide and 2-AG or 2-arachidonoylglycerol.
These two aid in keeping the internal functions running seamlessly. Technically, your body produces them as required, making it challenging to know what standard levels are necessary for each.
When the endocannabinoid works to keep your body’s homeostasis in one area, an enzyme will work to degrade it.
There are two primary enzymes that are responsible for it. These are the fatty acids called amide hydrolase, which work for breaking down AEA. The other enzyme is the monoacylglycerol acid lipase. It usually breaks down the 2-AG.
How CBD Works on Cannabinoid Receptors
CBD interacts directly or indirectly with many different receptor systems in your brain. It indirectly affects the primary cannabinoid receptors. This occurs by reducing THC’s capacity to stimulate it.
Plus, this reactor also interplays with other receptors that are present.
Despite being cousins in a chemical manner, THC and CBD have extremely different effects. The main difference is that THC will give you a high while CBD won’t give any psychoactive effects.
This is because the two compounds affect our ECS (endocannabinoid system) in a variety of ways.
CB-1 is the primary ECS receptor in your brain and is activated by THC and not CBD. Generally, CBD can even get in the way of such compounds like THC, inhibiting it from activating the CB-1 receptor.
This is why the THC:CBD ratio is extremely vital when influencing the effects of cannabis-based products.
Despite being a cannabinoid, CBD doesn’t interact directly with the two cannabinoid receptors (CB-1 & CB-2). Instead, it indirectly alters its signaling through CB-1 and CB-2 receptors.
This somewhat explains why CBD is non-intoxicating, unlike THC.
Aside from its indirect influence on these classic receptors, the compound can boost the levels of your body’s cannabinoids. These are the naturally-produced endocannabinoids, which can increase by curbing the enzymes that break them down.
How CBD Works on Non-Cannabinoid Receptors
CBD also affects a lot of non-cannabinoid receptor systems in your brain. It interacts with the receptors that are sensitive to different types of drugs and neurotransmitters.
These include opioid receptors, which are known for their part in pain management.
Here’s how CBD works on non-cannabinoid receptors to discuss its manifold therapeutic effects.
Opioid Receptors
Opioid receptors are the main targets of pharmaceutical pain killers, as well as drugs of abuse. These drugs include heroin, fentanyl, and morphine.
Not only that, but CBD can interact with dopamine receptors. These play a critical role in managing the different aspects of cognition and behavior, including reward-seeking behavior and motivation.
PPARS – Nuclear Receptors
CBD also provides an anti-cancer effect by stimulating the PPARs (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors). These can be found on the surface of your cell’s nucleus.
The activation of the receptor called PPAR-gamma provides an anti-proliferative effect. Plus, it can also induce the regression of tumors in your lung cancer cell lines.
The activation of the PPAR-gamma degrades the amyloid-beta plaque. It’s a key molecule connected to the progress of Alzheimer’s disease.
This is why the cannabidiol called PPAR-gamma agonist can be a beneficial cure for Alzheimer’s disease patients.
Additionally, the PPAR receptors control genes involved in lipid uptake, energy homeostasis, insulin sensitivity, plus other metabolic functions.
Moreover, even diabetics can benefit from treatment regimens that are rich in CBD.
CBD – As a Reuptake Inhibitor
How CBD works once it gets inside a human cell to connect one nuclear receptor is great. It gets in by first passing through your cell membrane, together with the fatty acid-binding protein or FABP. It will then lead numerous lipid molecules into your cells.
These intracellular-transport molecules also take THC, as well as your brain’s marijuana-like molecules, the anandamide, and 2-AG endocannabinoids. They’re brought across the membrane to different targets in the cell.
Both CBD and THC modulate the receptors found on the nucleus’ surface, which manages mitochondrial activity and gene expression.
Also, CBD competes with our ECS’ for the same transport molecules.
Once it reaches inside your cell, the anandamide is broken down by the FAAH as part of its molecular cycle. The FAAH or fatty acid amide hydrolase is a metabolic enzyme.
According to a team of scientists at Stony Brook University, CBD works as a breakdown inhibitor and anandamide reuptake inhibitor. It then boosts the endocannabinoid levels in your brain’s synapses.
Boosting the endocannabinoid tone through reuptake inhibition can be the key where CBD receives its neuroprotective effects.
Adenosine Reuptake
The anti-anxiety and anti-inflammatory effects of CBD can be attributed to its restriction of the adenosine reuptake. By putting off the reuptake of this specific neurotransmitter, CBD increases the levels of adenosine in your brain.
It then regulates the adenosine receptor’s activity.
The A1A and the A2A adenosine receptors play highly vital roles in your cardiovascular function. This is because it regulates the myocardial oxygen use and the coronary blood flow.
These following receptors have extensive anti-inflammatory effects throughout your body
CBD as an Allosteric Modulator
With how CBD works and with how efficient it is, the compound can even function as an allosteric receptor modulator. It means that the compound can either inhibit or enhance how one receptor sends a signal via altering its shape.
Australian scientists noted that for the GABA-A receptor, CBD acts as a positive allosteric modulator. In other words, the compound interacts and relates with the GABA-A’s receptor in a way that improves its binding affinity.
It is vital for the receptor’s dominant endogenous agonist, the gamma-Aminobutyric acid (GABA). This is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter found specifically in the mammalian central nervous system.
The tranquilizing effects of Valium and other Benzos are arbitrated by GABA receptor transmissions. CBD decreases anxiety by altering the shape of the GABA-A receptor that amplifies GABA’s natural calming effects.
Scientists from Canada have also described CBD as a “negative allosteric modulator” of the CB-1 receptor. This is concentrated in your central nervous system and the brain.
While CBD doesn’t directly bind to CB-1 receptors like how THC does, the compound interacts and connects allosterically with CB-1. Then, it alters the receptor’s form in a way that will weaken CB-1’s capabilities to bind with THC.
As a negative allosteric modulator of the CB-1 receptors, CBD decreases the ceiling on the psychoactivity of THC. This is the reason why people don’t get high when utilizing CBD-rich cannabis, unlike when they take in THC-based medications.
A product that’s rich in CBD and has little traces of THC can bring about therapeutic benefits. It’s highly possible to benefit without experiencing any dysphoric or euphoric effects.
GPR55—Orphan Receptors
Generally, how CBD works directly stimulates the 5-HT1A serotonin receptor and a couple of TRPV ion channels. Based on some studies, these signify that CBD works as an antagonist. It either deactivates or blocks another G protein-coupled receptor that is known as the GPR55.
The GPR55 has been named as an “orphan receptor”. The reason for this is because scientists are still unsure if the receptor belongs to a bigger group of receptors.
Additionally, GPR55 is greatly expressed in your brain, particularly in the cerebellum. This orphan receptor is concerned with harmonizing bone density and blood pressure. This is among other physiological processes and developments.
GPR55 bolsters osteoclast cell functions, which assist in the bone reabsorption’s progress. The overactive GPR55 receptor signaling is linked with osteoporosis.
Also, when this orphan receptor is activated, it encourages cancer cell generation. In 2010, a certain study was made by researchers from the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Shanghai. They claimed that the receptor is expressed in different kinds of cancers.
A GPR55 antagonist is another way on how CBD works. This is based on a study from the scientist Ruth Ross, of the University of Aberdeen. By restricting the GPR55’s signaling, CBD may act to lessen both cancer cell proliferation and bone absorption.
Vanilloid Receptors
CBD interacts directly with a certain number of ion channels. It’s done to confer a therapeutic effect. The compound binds to the TRPV-1, which are receptors that also work as ion channels.
TRPV-1 is known to aid in inflammation, mediating pain perception, and body temperature.
TRPV is basically the special abbreviation for “transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V.”
TRPV-1 is one of the many other TRP subfamilies or receptor types. It mediates the effects of a plethora of medicinal herbs.
TRPV-1 is mostly expressed in your central nervous system’s tissue, as well as in the dorsal root ganglions’ sensory neurons. This specific receptor also confines to the neurons that line your nasal and oral cavities.
This receptor is located in a subset of sensory nociceptive nerve fibers.
Scientists also call the TRPV-1 as a “vanilloid receptor”, which is literally named after the vanilla bean.
Vanilla has eugenol, which is a vital oil containing analgesic and antiseptic properties. Additionally, it aids in unclogging blood vessels.
Historically, the vanilla bean has been utilized as a folk remedy for headaches.
Serotonin Receptors
At increased concentrations, CBD activates the hydroxytryptamine (5-HT1A) serotonin receptor directly. It then confers an anti-anxiety effect.
The G-coupled protein receptor is implied in a plethora of neurological and biological processes. This includes but isn’t limited to addiction, anxiety, pain perception, appetite, vomiting, sleep, and nausea.
5-HT1A is part of the 5-HT family of receptors. These are triggered by the neurotransmitter serotonin.
It can be found in both the peripheral and central nervous systems. Here, the 5-HT receptors activate different types of intracellular cascades of chemical messages. This occurs to create either an inhibitory or excitatory or response, which depends on the chemical framework of the message.
CBDA or cannabidiolic acid is the pure, raw, and unheated version of CBD. This form can also be found in the cannabis plant. It has a great affinity with the 5-HT1A receptor, even more so compared to CBD.
Preclinical studies and research shows that CBDA is a powerful anti-emetic. It’s stronger and more dominant than either CBD or THC, which also comes with anti-nausea properties.
Benefits of CBD
For lots of people, how CBD works, as well as its benefits, are the key reasons why people take it. They love how it effectively keeps a sense of equilibrium in the systems of the human body.
Remember that the EU classified CBD as a ”novelty food”. Meaning, it wasn’t freely and readily utilized prior to the year 1997.
As a result, research and studies that surround it are in their preliminary stages.
This has increased the awareness of CBD products and how these can improve our health. Hence, resulting in a boost of usage and purchases among individuals searching for natural alternatives.
CBD-based products have many uses, and these can help aid with a plethora of health issues. How CBD works is undeniably positive, and a lot of people also claim it to be greatly effective.
With its wide range of benefits and capabilities, CBD can help address a wide range of issues.
With how CBD works alone is already a boost in its popularity. Hence, more people will get to experience its benefits.
We know that having the right amount of sleep on a regular basis is important for everyone’s health. It’s also detrimental to everyone’s quality of life and well-being.
Yet in this day and age, a lot of people suffer from sleeping issues. They’re often having problems with getting sleep and acquiring proper rest.
If you’re among the crowd, CBD can be utilized to help reduce stress and relax the mind. Thus, it will help you sleep more easily.
Moreover, it increases your serotonin levels that play a crucial part in sleep regulation, among other benefits.
It doesn’t matter if it’s due to an injury or because of a health condition. Living and suffering from inflammation, as well as with pain can have a great impact on your quality of living.
The good news is that with how CBD works, it can help relieve and ease pain and inflammation. It may sound simple, but it’s extremely ideal for people who suffer from these discomforts.
CBD has grown popular for its outstanding anti-inflammatory properties. With that, a couple of individuals are touting it as the pain relief of the next generation.
Numerous individuals find themselves in situations with a lot of stress, and the reasons for this range greatly. It could include stress from work, finances, relationships, and a lot more.
When you’re one of these individuals, it can eventually take its toll on a lot of areas of your life. Yet with how CBD works, it can definitely help.
CBD helps in decreasing your stress levels while boosting the amount of serotonin as well. Increased serotonin can improve your mood, thus, decreasing your stress levels.
With how CBD works, it can offer an excellent solution for numerous individuals experiencing a plethora of health issues.
Enjoy the ease, affordability, convenience, and a highly efficient product.
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