For the last few years, the use of CBD has increased at an impressive rate, thanks to its medicinal benefits. Hundreds and thousands of people are opting for CBD-based products to treat different conditions like depression, stress, and pain, among others.
From the above conditions that can be treated by cannabis, you can understand that this component doesn’t only have an impact on our mind, but also on our brain. But, is it good or bad?
This article looks into the effects CBD might have on our brains.
CBD for Brain – How Does It Help?
Components from Cannabis Sativa have the ability to mimic endocannabinoid messengers in your body. The Endocannabinoid system (ECS) is your body’s neuromodulatory signaling system, which is responsible for several mental and physical health conditions.
Your brain contains protein receptors all throughout it that respond to endocannabinoids. When a person ingests CBD, it binds to the protein receptors of your brain that respond to endocannabinoids. Since CBD can mimic endocannabinoid messenger, it may play an important role in synaptic plasticity, and central nervous system development, among others.
Researchers have found that CBD can help your brain in several ways.
CBD Can Promote Healthy Brain Cells.
As you age, memory loss becomes a common experience. This cognitive decline is relatively slow for some people, while unfortunately, some may experience drastic memory loss.
Instead of your age, the cognitive decline also depends on neurogenesis and neuroplasticity in the brain. Neurogenesis means the birth of new brain cells, while neuroplasticity is your brain’s ability to recognize.
A 2017 research shows that CBD has the ability to increase neuroplasticity, as well as neurogenesis.
It Can Soothe Inflammation.
Although inflammation is important for your survival, an overactive inflammatory response can be extremely harmful to you.
Several neurological conditions such as depression, anxiety, Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, etc. can happen due to neuroinflammation. In fact, it’s also responsible for brain fog and fatigue, according to some studies.
A similar study that proves CBD’s ability to promote brain cells also concludes that it can reduce inflammation in your body and your brain.
CBD Can Fight Oxidative Damage
One of the most common reasons for age-related memory decline is the oxidative damage caused by free radicals. Excessive exposure to pollution, stress and an unhealthy diet can make your body generate free radicals, which can be prevented by antioxidants.
Since CBD contains powerful antioxidants, a moderate amount of intake may help reduce oxidative damage.
It May Treat Epilepsy
Epilepsy is the second leading neurologic cause of death, following a stroke. It means the disease can be deadly if not treated in time. This neurological condition is characterized by frequent seizures.
A study published in the Journal of Epilepsy Research proves that CBD can effectively reduce seizures.
However, researchers aren’t sure exactly how this component helps in reducing the symptoms of epilepsy. Some of them think CBD antagonizes CB1 receptors in the endocannabinoid system, which may reduce seizures.
CBD Can Interact With The Neurotransmitters
Your brain uses chemical messengers called neurotransmitters to move information throughout your body. An imbalance in these chemicals can affect your mood, sleep, as well as concentration.
Genetic predisposition, food habits, medications, stress, etc. can cause an imbalance in neurotransmitters.
According to some animal studies, CBD could successfully increase serotonin and glutamate neurotransmitters in depressed mice. Your mood relies on the level of serotonin, while glutamate can help in learning.
Availability & Ways to Use CBD
Due to its huge popularity, CBD has become one of the fastest-growing supplements in the United States. Especially, since some studies have already proved some of the neurological benefits of cannabis, people are looking for different types of supplements, both online and in health food shops.
However, legality is an important issue when purchasing CBD products. While it’s highly popular around the world, not every state has legalized it. Also, the way you’re taking it has a great impact on how it’s going to help you.
While there are several ways to take CBD such as CBD oil, vapes, edibles, gummies, etc. one of the best ways to take it is by smoking the flower. There are several reliable online shops such as Cannaflower shop, where you can find high-quality CBD flowers.
However, while purchasing, make sure this product is legal in your area.
Final Thoughts
CBD has been known to provide relief in several conditions such as stress, anxiety, brain fog, and Alzheimer’s, among others. Several animal studies and human trials have already shown some positive effects of cannabis on our brains.
However, since the products aren’t legal everywhere, purchasing it without knowing the law is strictly forbidden. Also, consult with your physician before using CBD if you’re a new user.
