Inflammation is a natural response of the body to protect from infection; in most cases, it is a sign of a healthy, functioning body. When a body part is inflamed, it often hurts, swells and turns red. This is because the immune system sends high amounts of white blood cells to fight off bacteria and other possibly dangerous intruders. Acute inflammations happen regularly. They can last hours, days or a few weeks until the damage is healed and are no reason to worry.
However, in some cases, inflammation can become a severe problem. In chronic inflammation, the body’s defense mechanism is misled and does not stop, even if the original trigger is long gone. Many chronic inflammations are caused by autoimmune disorders, where the immune system turns against its owner. This can last years and cause much suffering. Chronic inflammation is linked to diseases like diabetes, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and cancer.
There are several pharmaceutical medications available against inflammation. Some are very common, like ibuprofen, and some are very strong and need to be prescribed by a doctor, like steroids. Anti-inflammation medicines work, but they can be accompanied by side effects and may not be tolerated well by some people.
Does CBD have anti-inflammation properties?
CBD is active in the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex structure of receptors, transmitters and enzymes within the body. The most prevalent receptors of the ECS, CB1 and CB2, are also found on immune cells. Scientists believe that this means cannabinoids like CBD, which interact with these receptors, may play an integral part in regulating.
Several studies point to the fact that CBD may have anti-inflammatory effects. For example, animal studies have shown that CBD was able to lower inflammation levels in mice with autoimmune diabetes and multiple sclerosis. In vitro studies have found anti-inflammatory properties of CBD as well. Clinical studies with humans have shown that CBD-enriched balms can help with inflammatory skin diseases like acne.
However, the exact mechanisms of how CBD may treat inflammation are still unclear and a matter of ongoing research.
Can CBD help with inflammation?
While studies suggest that CBD may have anti-inflammatory properties, there is, unfortunately, not enough evidence to make secure claims of CBD as a medication against chronic inflammation. CBD might help with certain inflammatory issues, but more research and high-quality human clinical trials are needed.
CBD is non-psychotropic, well tolerated by most people and has a very good safety profile. This makes it ideal for many people to try out and see if it helps with various issues. However, the use of cannabinoids has different results for every individual. If you have a health issue where CBD might help, always consult a medical professional beforehand!
