The Endocannabinoid System , located in our brain and with receptors in the rest of the body, has two well-known types of receptors: CB1 and CB2.
CB1 receptors are located mainly in the brain and are associated with components of the cognitive system such as coordination, mood, rational thinking, memory and appetite.
CB2 receptors are related to the immune system, and therefore modulate inflammation and other immune system reactions.
Tetrahydrocannabidiol or THC, one of the two main cannabinoids in the cannabis plant, binds to CB1 receptors and therefore has a psychoactive effect on the cognitive system. However, THC is not found in CBD oils sold in Europe and its name is still more closely linked to the legality of the plant than to its therapeutic effects.
Cannabidiol or CBD, via CB2 receptors, has a profound effect on pain and inflammation in the body. This is the main non-psychoactive cannabinoid in hemp, however, we can find over 100 different cannabinoids, plus terpenes and other medicinal compounds!
Arthritis
One of the main benefits of CBD for osteoarthritis patients is the significant reduction in pain, as confirmed by current research.
As we can see in multiple data and academic trials, researchers claim that CBD reduces pain by reducing joint inflammation and helping repair the nervous system surrounding them.
Chronic pain
CBD oil tincture with a high concentration has been shown to be a good palliative for managing pain.
Many scientific studies have found positive effects on the pain caused by Fibromyalgia in people taking CBD, with very few side effects from long-term use compared to chemically derived opiates. Continued use of this type of oil may only cause a sensation of dry mouth or some dizziness.
Anxiety
Cannabis oil has also been associated with a decrease in anxiety. This effect is due to CBD stimulating the ECS serotonin receptors, increasing overall levels of this neurotransmitter. Many regular CBD users report feeling a greater sense of calm, less irritability, a renewed interest in their favorite activities, and improved mood. In 2011, a small study with humans showed that people with anxiety felt less nervous when speaking in public if they had previously taken CBD.
Acne and Psoriasis
Did you know that there are also Endocannabinoid system receptors in the skin?
It turns out that when you apply CBD oil to your skin, it prevents cells from being affected by acne or psoriasis outbreaks, as well as significantly reducing the sensation of itching and inflammation.
Intestinal inflammation
Many conventional treatments simply put a “band-aid” on the symptoms. High-concentration CBD cannabis oil has been shown to prevent inflammation before it appears . By activating ECS (cannabinoid) receptors connected to the intestinal and digestive tract, CBD helps increase peristaltic movements, balance stomach acid, prevent constipation, and reduce nausea and vomiting. Still, more studies are needed to confirm the effective dosage for each intestinal ailment.
Little by little we will gain access to new studies and medical-scientific progress is advancing more and more quickly, so it is only a matter of time before new benefits and ways of use are discovered.
Written by: Diego Colodrón
