CBD Effects on the Brain

CBD is everywhere you look and many claims are being made about the plant-based compound. Is it a wonder drug, snake oil or somewhere in between? Research is ongoing, but studies have been occurring for more than a decade over the impact of CBD for brain and many of the findings are very positive. The relationship between CBD and the brain and their resulting influence on the body are worth reviewing.

Neurological Effects of CBD

CBD is a compound, one of many, derived from the cannabis plant. It is known as a cannabinoid. Another common cannabinoid is THC, which is the compound that produces a “high” feeling in those who consume it: it is psychoactive. CBD, on the other hand, is not psychoactive.

It is thought that CBD attaches itself to receptors in the brain, mimics natural cannabinoids in the body and helps promote the production of natural cannabinoids. The specific receptors, CB2, that are related to CBD are largely responsible for the immune system, inflammation and pain. They can also be related to motor skills and anxiety.

Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease

Dementia is an umbrella term under which Alzheimer’s falls as a specific type, or subset. All types of dementia impact the brain’s ability to function cognitively at a normal level, impact memory, and sometimes motor skills. Studies have shown promise for CBD for dementia and CBD for Alzheimer’s in effectively delaying the onset and progression of Alzheimer’s.

Tumors

Some studies seem to indicate that cannabinoids fight tumor growth at the molecular level. CBD antitumor effects need more research, but the findings so far are interesting. The Concussion Alliance reports that a study done by the University of Miami found that CBD for traumatic brain injury showed positive findings and on concussions in particular. The more CBD is researched, it seems, the more opportunities abound.