How does CBD act in the human brain?
Author: Jakub Dufek
Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of many cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is known for its psychoactive effects, CBD does not have psychoactive properties. Nevertheless, CBD has significant effects on the human brain and body, making it an interesting subject of research for its potential therapeutic uses. This article explores in detail the mechanisms by which CBD acts in the human brain and examines its potential health benefits.
CBD interacts in the brain through the endocannabinoid system
The endocannabinoid system is a complex network of receptors and signaling molecules that plays a key role in maintaining the body's homeostasis. This system includes CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are located in various parts of the body, including the brain. CB1 receptors are primarily found in the central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are mainly located in the immune system.
CBD does not have a strong affinity for these receptors, but it can influence their activity indirectly. For example, CBD inhibits the enzyme FAAH (fatty acid amide hydrolase), which breaks down the endocannabinoid anandamide. Increased levels of anandamide may lead to improved mood and reduced pain. This mechanism may explain why CBD can be effective in treating anxiety and depression.
Serotonin receptors
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in regulating mood, sleep, and appetite. CBD binds to the serotonin receptor 5-HT1A, which may contribute to its antidepressant and anxiolytic effects (anxiolytic = anxiety-reducing). Research shows that stimulating this receptor can lead to relaxation and reduced anxiety, which may be helpful for individuals suffering from anxiety disorders.
GABA receptors
GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is the brain's main inhibitory neurotransmitter, which plays a crucial role in regulating neuronal excitability. CBD can influence the activity of GABA receptors, potentially leading to sedative effects and reduced anxiety. This mechanism may also explain why CBD can be effective in treating epilepsy and other neurological disorders.
Anti-inflammatory effects
Inflammation is the body's natural response to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation can lead to various health problems, including neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease. CBD has anti-inflammatory properties that may protect the brain from inflammation and oxidative stress. This could contribute to the prevention and treatment of these diseases.
Neuroprotection
CBD may promote neurogenesis, the process of creating new neurons in the brain. This ability could be particularly important for treating neurodegenerative diseases and improving cognitive function. Additionally, CBD can protect neurons from damage caused by oxidative stress and inflammation, contributing to overall brain health.
Glutamate receptors
Glutamate is the most abundant excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain, playing a crucial role in synaptic plasticity and cognitive functions. However, excessive activation of glutamate receptors can lead to excitotoxicity, a condition where neurons are damaged or destroyed due to overstimulation. CBD can modulate the activity of glutamate receptors, which may contribute to its antiepileptic effects and neuroprotection.
Other mechanisms
In addition to the mechanisms mentioned above, CBD may interact with other receptor systems and signaling pathways in the brain. For example, CBD can affect opioid receptors, which play a role in pain regulation, and it can also modulate the activity of ion channels that influence neuronal excitability.
Potential therapeutic uses
Due to its complex effects on the brain, CBD has a wide range of potential therapeutic uses.
These include:
- Treatment of anxiety and depression: CBD may be effective in reducing anxiety and improving mood through its interaction with serotonin and GABA receptors.
- Antiepileptic effects: CBD has been approved for the treatment of certain forms of epilepsy, such as Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, due to its ability to modulate glutamate receptors and other neuronal pathways.
- Neuroprotection: CBD may protect the brain from damage caused by inflammation and oxidative stress, which could be helpful in preventing and treating neurodegenerative diseases.
- Pain management: The anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of CBD may be useful in treating chronic pain.
Study: Antipsychotic effects of CBD in the human brain!
A study from London presented, for the first time, the brain of a psychosis patient under the influence of cannabidiol (CBD). The study demonstrates the antipsychotic potential of CBD.
Psychosis is a serious mental condition defined as the inability to behave and act according to circumstances. It is essentially a dissociation between perception, behavior, and experience. It is usually treated with synthetic drugs, but CBD could change everything!
The research examined 13 patients with psychosis. Each patient participated in two sessions—once with a placebo and once with CBD.
A comparison of patients with psychosis under the placebo with a healthy control group revealed significant differences in functional connectivity between the striatum (a deep area of gray matter within the brain's hemispheres) and the hippocampus (part of the brain). However, under the influence of CBD, dysfunctional connectivity in psychosis subjects was significantly reduced.
“This study provides important information about the brain mechanisms that cause the antipsychotic effects of CBD,” explains study author Sagnik Bhattacharyya.
“This provides confidence in the antipsychotic potential of CBD, showing that it targets the function of brain areas involved in psychosis and demonstrates that even a single dose can mitigate some changes in brain function that may underlie psychosis.”
The study suggests that CBD somewhat normalizes activity in the prefrontal and medial temporal brain areas in patients with psychosis. The study also recorded a temporary reduction in psychotic symptoms after a single dose of CBD.
The research offers valuable evidence based on the growing interest in CBD's antipsychotic effects, especially given the current spread of cannabis legalization worldwide.
The full study is available HERE.
General summary of CBD's effects on the human brain
CBD is a multifunctional compound with a wide range of effects on the human brain. Its ability to interact with the endocannabinoid system, serotonin, GABA, and glutamate receptors, along with its anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, makes it a promising substance for treating various neurological and psychological conditions. Although further research is needed to fully understand all the mechanisms and potential uses of CBD, current findings suggest that it has great therapeutic potential.