Dec 23rd 2022
Does CBD Help the Immune System?
“Does CBD help immune systems?” is a very frequently asked question for individuals in the market for cannabidiol products, and the answer is certainly worth taking a deeper dive into. While research is slim and extensive knowledge of the endocannabinoid system is not entirely understood as of yet, there are a few indications of a potential link between CBD and immune systems. Let’s take a closer look into how the endocannabinoid system operates, and the potential ways CBD can impact our immune system for the better.
Understanding How CBD Suppresses Immune System
In order to fully understand how CBD suppresses the immune system, it’s important to take a look at how the endocannabinoid system (ECS) works, and what it actually does within our bodies. This cell-signaling system works when endocannabinoids bind with the two main endocannabinoid receptors in our body, which are as followed:
- CB1 Receptors - Found in the central nervous system
- CB2 Receptors - Found mostly in the peripheral nervous system and in immune cells
The endocannabinoid system is rather complicated, but studies have indicated a link between the ECS and body processes such as:
- Sleep
- Mood
- Motor control
- Metabolism
- Appetite and digestion
- Cardiovascular system
- Chronic pain
- Stress
While CBD is a phytocannabinoid, it doesn’t quite bind to the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the way other phytocannabinoids do (such as tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC). Instead, many researchers believe that CBD prevents endocannabinoids from breaking down in order to provide a more potent effect on the body.
Does CBD Oil Boost Your Immune System?
Research has indicated that CBD acts as an immunosuppressant and an immunomodulator. As the name suggests, immunosuppressants suppress the body’s immune system and keep it active when underperforming. They are known to help treat conditions such as lupus, Crohn’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriasis.
Immunomodulators are then used to regulate the immune system. What many studies have highlighted is that CBD is very likely an immune system regulator, meaning it works to help modulate certain body processes that could benefit health. For example, cannabidiol has been shown to both help modulate and suppress the functioning of cytokines, as well as their secretion levels. These proteins help regulate inflammation, immunity, and white blood cell production, boosting our body and the immune system overall.
Further Insights Into CBD and Immune Systems
CBD has also shown the potential of improving autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, arthritis, and chronic skin conditions like psoriasis. This is due to its likely role as a natural anti-inflammatory, which would then help the body’s ability to manage the disease’s symptoms. Further, many of these diseases form when the body’s immune system becomes overactive, in turn attacking healthy tissues and cells. CBD’s role as an immunosuppressant could then potentially assist in regulating these hyperactive systems to a proper level.
Another fascinating insight found between CBD and immune systems is the likelihood of cannabidiol-inducing apoptosis. Consider apoptosis as a programmed system to kill and rid of damaged, harmful, and unwanted cells within the body. Since apoptosis is significant in developments such as morphogenesis and homeostasis, our bodies would very likely benefit from CBD inducing this process.
Shop the Best CBD Oil For Immune Systems
If you’re looking for where to buy CBD oil in Prescott, AZ, MyHealthEtc has you covered on all of the top products you’ll need. Our inventory is filled with tinctures, gummies, topicals, and CBD oil for immune system health. Learn more about the benefits of CBD on our website, or contact us today with any questions regarding our products.
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