CBD is an incredibly complex cannabinoid, and its interaction with the endocannabinoid system must be thoroughly investigated to reveal its full potential. But what we do know is that CBD directly interacts with several ion channels to confer a therapeutic effect. For example, CBD binds to TRPV1 receptors, which are known to mediate perception of pain, inflammation, and body temperature. Additionally, CBD operates in 60 different molecular pathways, affecting serotonin receptors, the immune system, vanilloid receptors, and more. A team of scientists from Stony Brook University have also discovered that CBD works as an inhibitor of anandamide reuptake and breakdown, increasing endocannabinoid levels in brain synapses.
This process of improving endocannabinoid tone through reuptake inhibition may be a key mechanism by which CBD confers neuroprotective effects against seizures, as well as many other health benefits. CBD also acts as a negative allosteric modulator of the CB1 receptor. This means that it changes the shape of the receptor in a way that weakens the ability of CB1 to bind to THC. As a result, people don't feel as “high” when using CBD-rich cannabis compared to when they use THC-dominant drugs. On top of that, CBD comes with a host of health benefits. Although hemp-derived CBD is classified as a dietary supplement, there are legions of people who have improved their quality of life with the simple use of Cannabidiol.
There is moderate evidence that CBD can improve sleep disorders, fibromyalgia pain, muscle spasticity related to multiple sclerosis, and anxiety. Now that some states have legalized the recreational and medical use of marijuana products, including CBD, scientists are finding it easier to conduct research. Coincidentally, many preliminary and anecdotal evidence supports the therapeutic or preventive benefits of CBD in these areas. CBD also works through several receptor-independent pathways. For example, it reduces anandamide's access to FABP carrier molecules and delays the passage of endocannabinoids into the cell. It also enhances or inhibits the binding action of certain G-protein-coupled receptors.
