CBD and Lung Inflammation: What Scientific Research Reveals
Allergic asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by lung inflammation, airway hypersensitivity, and progressive remodeling of respiratory tissues. Faced with the limitations of current options for reversing this remodeling, the scientific community is studying the immunomodulatory properties of certain natural compounds, notably cannabidiol (CBD).
A pharmacological study focused on CB1 and CB2 receptors
On January 15, 2019, researchers from the University of Southern Santa Catarina (in Criciúma, Brazil) published a study evaluating the impact of CBD on the mechanisms of allergic asthma.
In the central nervous system and immune system cells, CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors play a key role in regulating inflammation. To understand the action of CBD, the scientific team conducted tests on animal models sensitized to ovalbumin, while analyzing the expression of CB1 and CB2 receptors in the sputum of asthmatic individuals.
Key observations from the Brazilian study
The laboratory results provide valuable information on tissue and immune response:
- Reduction of hyper-reactivity: CBD treatment decreased airway hyper-reactivity at all tested doses, while static lung elastance was reduced at the highest doses.
- Mitigation of tissue remodeling: Researchers observed a decrease in collagen fiber content in the airway and alveolar septa.
- Decrease in inflammatory markers: Analysis of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and lung homogenate revealed a significant decrease in cytokine levels and inflammatory markers.
- Role of CB1/CB2 signaling: The study highlighted an inverse correlation between lung function in asthmatic patients and the level of CB1 receptors. These observations confirm that CB1 and CB2 signaling actively participates in modulating inflammatory processes.
Distinguishing clinical research and CBD use
This academic work provides fundamental knowledge on the biology of endocannabinoid receptors. However, it is essential to differentiate these laboratory studies from the use of commercially available CBD products.
Asthma is a serious chronic disease that requires strict medical management and treatments prescribed by a pulmonologist. CBD is in no way a treatment for asthma. Furthermore, in cases of respiratory sensitivity or fragility, inhaling plant products is not recommended.
To learn more about the overall functioning of these receptors in the human body, you can consult our dossier on the endocannabinoid system and biological balance. To understand how the plant develops its natural components, also discover our guide on hemp flower terpenes. You can also browse our categories of organic CBD flowers and selected CBD resins intended for ambient use and general well-being.