The human body produces endocannabinoids, which are neurotransmitters that bind to cannabinoid receptors in the nervous system. Studies have shown that CBD can help reduce chronic pain by affecting endocannabinoid receptor activity, reducing inflammation, and interacting with neurotransmitters. After enzymes break down cannabinoids, endocannabinoids seek to bind to receptors. Researchers believe that CBD does not bind directly to the receptor, but rather influences it in some way. The activation of these receptors is what enables many of the health benefits that people associate with the compound.
CBD inhibits fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), which breaks down anandamide and weakens it. CBD weakens FAAH, which leads to an increase in the concentration of anandamide. Anandamide is considered the “molecule of happiness” and plays an important role in generating pleasure and motivation. Increasing the concentration of anandamide may have a positive effect on the endocannabinoid system. CBD directly interacts with several ion channels to confer a therapeutic effect.
CBD, for example, binds to TRPV1 receptors, which also function as ion channels. TRPV1 is known to mediate perception of pain, inflammation, and body temperature. When CBD influences TRPV1, it effectively blocks pain signals from reaching the rest of the body. Preclinical studies indicate that CBDA is a potent antiemetic, stronger than CBD or THC, which also has anti-nausea properties. CBD oil is used in a variety of different products ranging from capsules to tinctures, edible gummies and more. Although CBD has little binding affinity for either of the two cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2), cannabidiol modulates several non-cannabinoid receptors and ion channels.
When CBD is consumed, it increases the production of anandamide that interacts with brain receptors, increasing dopamine levels related to pleasure and happiness. By blocking GPR55 signaling, CBD can act to slow both bone resorption and cancer cell proliferation. Since a toxic dose of CBD is probably huge compared to the effective dose, it is not likely to harm anyone. As a negative allosteric modulator of the CB1 receptor, CBD lowers the ceiling of THC psychoactivity, so people don't feel as “high” when using CBD-rich cannabis compared to when they use THC-dominant drugs. At high concentrations, CBD directly activates the serotonin 5-HT1A (hydroxytryptamine) receptor, which confers an anxiolytic effect.
According to Teaera Roland of Lotus Health, CBD modulates the 5th serotonin receptor, which can treat psychotic disorders. Additionally, topical CBD products also have medicinal benefits and are not products of deception.
