What are the effects of CBD?
Cannabis is a plant that generates a lot of interest, but also controversy, due to its health effects. Some countries have legalized its therapeutic, or even recreational, use, while others consider it a dangerous narcotic. But what are the compounds responsible for these effects? And how do they act on the human body?
Even though there are still few medical studies on cannabidiol, consumer testimonials are compelling. Anxiety, fatigue, sleep problems – CBD has, in some cases, allowed them to reduce medication intake. A natural and effective solution that offers a glimmer of hope in the field of health and well-being. What is really going on and why does it work?
In this article, we will decipher the beneficial effects of cannabidiol (CBD) on health. CBD and THC are the two most abundant molecules in the hemp plant. We will see how CBD acts on the endocannabinoid system, what its medical uses and specific applications are, as well as its possible side effects and consumption.
If you want to know more about CBD, its beneficial effects on health, and how to choose products containing these substances, read on!
CBD: how does it work?
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol and delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (more simply THC) are the two main molecules present in the hemp plant. Both are cannabinoids, also called phytocannabinoids, meaning a cannabinoid of plant origin, present in cannabis. Unlike THC, CBD has no psychotropic effect.
What is the mechanism of action of CBD?
To understand how CBD acts on the body, one must first know the endocannabinoid system (ECS). It is a regulatory system involved in many physiological processes, such as appetite, pain, stress, sleep, etc.
The ECS consists of three main elements: endocannabinoids, cannabinoid receptors, and enzymes. Endocannabinoids are molecules produced by the body, which bind to cannabinoid receptors to modulate their activity. There are two types of cannabinoid receptors: CB1 and CB2, located in the central nervous system, as well as in the immune system.
CBD binds with these receptors and helps regulate a multitude of physiological processes.
CBD acts as a support for the conductors and musicians of our ECS, helping them to coordinate better and optimize their performance. For example, CBD stimulates the endocannabinoids responsible for stress, which in turn causes cortisol levels, one of the stress hormones, to drop and activates serotonin receptors, a hormone involved in regulating anxiety and mood.
CBD can also act in the regulation of metabolism and inflammation.
Admittedly, studies are still too few, and the lack of data means that the medical community remains cautious about the molecule. However, cannabidiol (as well as cannabis) are already the subject of some studies, particularly for their ability to relieve pain and their anti-inflammatory actions.
Medical Uses
In-depth investigations are underway to decipher the exact mechanisms by which CBD exerts these effects, paving the way for new breakthroughs.
ANSM is the National Agency for the Safety of Medicines and Health Products and has been working on medical cannabis since September 2018. A committee composed of health professionals and patients meets regularly to review scientific advancements and feedback.
Report and medical advancements:
The ANSM's monitoring committee for the French medical cannabis trial regularly publishes reports of its meetings and the topics discussed.
The committee is chaired by Professor Nicolas Autier, author of the Little Book of CBD (available here).
According to the committee's report of September 15, 2022, CBD shows promise in endometriosis as well as in the treatment of epilepsy in children and adults. NB: Other topics were discussed, feel free to consult the website for more information.
In summary, the efficacy of CBD in epileptic encephalopathies is confirmed. There is little follow-up on pharmacoresistant focal epilepsies, and on seizure types, and the adult population is underrepresented in studies. A priori, CBD is effective whether pure or with a low THC ratio.
Source: Report of the Temporary Scientific Committee for the follow-up of the French medical cannabis trial, (paragraph 4, p.5)
Thanks to these studies and this supervised monitoring, we have some conclusive information on the subject and on the effect of CBD on the body and health.
Pain relief and anti-inflammatory properties:
CBD has many potential applications in the medical field, thanks to its effects on the brain and on various pathologies. Here are some examples of medical uses of CBD, based on available scientific studies.
Effects of CBD on the brain
CBD acts on the brain by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, as we have seen, this regulatory system is involved in many physiological processes, such as appetite, pain, stress, and sleep.
CBD modulates the activity of CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors, which are found in areas of the brain that control pleasure, memory, thought, concentration, sensory and temporal perception, as well as movement.
CBD also affects the production of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, which are involved in the regulation of mood, anxiety, and depression.
Effects of CBD on epilepsy
Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by sudden epileptic seizures, caused by hyperactivity of a group of neurons in the brain.
CBD has demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing the frequency and severity of epileptic seizures, particularly in certain forms of epilepsy resistant to conventional treatments.
CBD acts as an anticonvulsant, stabilizing the electrical activity of the brain and preventing abnormal neuronal discharges.
CBD is the first cannabis-based medication to be approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States, under the name Epidiolex, for the treatment of epilepsy.
However, its effectiveness is not fully proven. We do not know if CB has any effect on all forms of epilepsy, particularly on pharmacoresistant focal epilepsies. Studies on the subject still lack sufficient follow-up.
Effects of CBD on endometriosis
Endometriosis is an inflammatory and chronic disease of the female reproductive system. It manifests itself by the presence of endometrial tissue, which normally lines the uterus, outside the uterine cavity, causing pain and abundant bleeding during menstruation.
CBD could help relieve the symptoms of endometriosis, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
CBD could also act on the mechanisms involved in the development of endometriosis, such as cell proliferation, cell migration, lesion vascularization, lesion innervation, synthesis of inflammatory prostaglandins, and modulation of the immune response.
Clinical studies are underway to evaluate the efficacy and safety of CBD in the treatment of endometriosis. Therefore, there is no proof of a possible cure. However, it would be a valuable aid in relieving symptoms.
To conclude on medical uses, studies are few, and medicinal uses in the treatment of certain diseases lack data and hindsight. Therefore, the use of CBD in specific treatments must be monitored and supervised by the medical profession.
However, according to available information, CBD can have several beneficial effects on well-being symptoms and improvement of quality of life.
Specific CBD symptoms and uses
Thanks to numerous consumer testimonials, and based on known molecular data, we know that CBD contributes to improving health and well-being.
This is true for several specific symptoms and uses, whether for sports, relaxation, and especially sleep.
CBD as a muscle relaxant
CBD and sport? Of course!
Before sport, it promotes concentration and bodily relaxation. Thanks to its effects on concentration, you gain efficiency and energy without the side effects of coffee or stimulants.
After sport, CBD is a real asset! Used as a natural muscle relaxant, it will be useful for relieving muscle tension, cramps and aches.
Praised by athletes who subject their muscles to intense exercise, but also for people who suffer from muscle diseases, CBD can improve muscle recovery, mobility, and quality of life.
We also know from experience that, in some cases and with medical supervision, CBD could relieve arthritis and pain from multiple sclerosis.
Muscle relaxant and cramps? Not only athletes are concerned! Menstrual pain often means (fortunately not always!), cramps, abdominal pain, and restless sleep.
Taking sublingual CBD oil can prove very effective in this case! As we have discussed throughout this article, CBD combines several favorable factors to reduce these pains: it acts as a muscle relaxant and will help reduce abdominal cramps, it is also an ally for the relaxation of body and mind. A considerable asset for sleep.
CBD to improve sleep
This is one of the great qualities of CBD! Not only does it promote falling asleep, but it has the virtue of providing quality sleep.
Indeed, cannabidiol acts on the probable causes of sleep disorders, such as stress, anxiety or pain. CBD activates one of the serotonin receptors, a neurotransmitter involved in regulating mood, anxiety, and sleep.
We have had several testimonials on the subject. For Tony, for example, CBD significantly improved the quality of his sleep.
CBD can help you fall asleep more easily, extend the duration of sleep, and improve its quality by promoting deep sleep, which is the most restorative. CBD can also reduce night awakenings.
The effects of CBD on the digestive system
In this case, CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system present throughout the gastrointestinal tract, which regulates digestive functions.
CBD helps to relieve digestive problems; after a meal, as an infusion, it can be an incomparable ally. Remember to try it!
Consumption of CBD products
Side Effects
CBD is generally considered a safe and well-tolerated substance, but it can have side effects, drug interactions, and contraindications. It is therefore important to be well-informed before consuming CBD, and to choose quality products.
Moreover, each person is different and it is possible to be intolerant to CBD. According to testimonials, we have been able to list side effects. In general, these effects appeared in cases of high dose intake. However, they are mostly mild, infrequent, and temporary. Thus, we have noted cases of drowsiness and fatigue, dry mouth, and in rarer cases, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting (occurring mostly in cases of overdose).
CBD can also modify the metabolism of certain medications, by inhibiting or stimulating liver enzymes that degrade them. This can increase or decrease their effectiveness, or their undesirable effects. It is therefore advisable to consult a doctor before taking CBD if you are on medical treatment.
Different types of CBD products available on the market
There are many CBD products on the market, available in various forms and concentrations (from 0% to over 60% depending on the products, for example our distillate).
The choice of product depends on the desired goal, dosage, and personal preference. You may already be familiar with them if you have read our article on the most suitable form for your needs.
As a reminder, there are:
- CBD oils
- CBD capsules
- CBD e-liquids
- CBD distillates
- CBD food products: chocolate, infusion, beer, gummies...
- Hemp flowers
Recommendations on product choice
To choose a CBD product, it is important to check its quality, composition, and origin.
Here are our tips for fully enjoying your product.
- Prefer products from organic farming, without pesticides or herbicides.
- Check the CBD and THC content of the product, which must be indicated on the label. In France, the THC content must not exceed 0.3%, according to current regulations. It is advisable to consume products from French agriculture directly adapted to the French market.
- Look at the certificate of analysis. It certifies the quality and purity of the product, and reveals the absence of contaminants, such as heavy metals, solvents, or bacteria. Most of the time, you will find them using the QR code on the product packaging.
- Start with a low dose of CBD, and gradually increase until the desired effect is obtained. It is also important to adjust the concentration according to your weight, sensitivity, and the desired effect. If in doubt, you can ask an expert for advice or be redirected to a competent person.
In summary, you have learned that CBD acts on the endocannabinoid system, which regulates many physiological processes. CBD can have medical applications and can also have more specific uses such as managing emotions, stress, relieving pain, or being a valuable ally against sleep disorders.
Generally well-tolerated, CBD can, in rare cases, have side effects due to overdose or intolerance with other medications. We therefore recommend discussing specific issues with your doctor. You will see that, more and more, doctors recommend turning to this natural solution.
In fact, people have contacted us more than once on the advice of a doctor for sleep problems!
Before consuming CBD, find out about its uses, the forms that suit you, and ensure the quality of the product you consume.
Preferably, organic and grown in France, it's even better!
If you are interested in CBD, its beneficial effects on health, and how to choose products containing these substances, do not hesitate to consult our articles where you will find more information, advice, and testimonials. You can also contact us by email or via the contact page of our site, if you have any questions or specific needs. We are here to listen to you, and we support you in your well-being journey.
