The Biochemical Ballet: Understanding the Science Behind How CBD Interacts with the Body
The emerging science behind Cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD, has sparked a renaissance in medicinal marijuana research. As an active ingredient in cannabis, CBD is non-psychoactive and many are touting its therapeutic potential over a range of ailments. Beyond the hype, however, lies a complex network within our own bodies—the endocannabinoid system—that responds uniquely to the presence of CBD.
At the heart of this interaction is the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a biological system within the human body discovered in during the late 1980s and early ’90s. This system is composed of endocannabinoids (naturally produced compounds in the body similar to cannabinoids in cannabis) and receptors. According to the U.S National Library of Medicine, the primary goal of the ECS is to maintain homeostasis, or equilibrium, within the body.
The ECS is primarily composed of two types of receptors—CB1 and CB2. While CB1 receptors are most prominent in the central nervous system, CB2 receptors are more commonly found in peripheral organs, especially cells associated with the immune system.
So, where does CBD come into play?
Rather than binding directly with CB1 or CB2 receptors as one might expect, CBD actually works by interacting with these receptors indirectly. This interaction seems to modulate and influence other receptor systems in our brain. For instance, CBD is known to interact with serotonin and vanilloid receptors, which are involved in mood regulation and perception of pain, respectively. This indirect interaction mechanism is one of the reasons why CBD is non-psychoactive.
An interesting complexity of CBD science is its variable bioavailability – the degree and rate at which a substance is absorbed into the body’s circulatory system. A study led by the Pharmacology of Neuropsychiatric Disorders supports the fact that bioavailability of CBD largely depends on the method of administration. For instance, when CBD is inhaled, the bioavailability can be as high as 40% but when taken orally, it dips to around 6%, due to what’s known as the “first-pass effect”.
The ‘first-pass effect’ is a phenomenon of drug metabolism where the concentration of a drug is significantly reduced before it reaches the systemic circulation. This is a key point in understanding CBD’s limitations, as it could point researchers towards delivery mechanisms that bypass this effect.
The effects of CBD on the human body are as varied as they are profound. Evidence suggests that CBD can provide relief from pain, anxiety, inflammation, and even certain types of seizures. This is in part due to CBD’s interaction with the TRPV1 receptor, which is known to mediate pain perception, inflammation, and body temperature.
While CBD is still being studied, it appears the compound has a high degree of synergy with our bodies’ own endocannabinoid systems. Its interaction with various receptors and its varied bioavailability together create a highly interesting field of study in both medicinal science and pharmacology.
In essence, the science of CBD is a study into our own internal mechanics. It is a testament to the complexity of the human body, revealing not just one mechanism of action, but multiple interactions and pathways. This complexity presents challenges to researchers, but it also holds the promise of unlocked potential and revolutionary pharmaceutical advancements.
It is clear that we are only just scratching the surface of CBD science, and much of the compound’s full capabilities remain unknown. Nevertheless, with further research and a better understanding of the body’s own endocannabinoid system, the hope is that CBD can provide scientific advancements and therapeutic options for those struggling with a variety of health concerns.
The emerging science behind Cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD, has sparked a renaissance in medicinal marijuana research. As an active ingredient in cannabis, CBD is non-psychoactive and many are touting its therapeutic potential over a range of ailments. Beyond the hype, however, lies a complex network within our own bodies—the endocannabinoid system—that responds uniquely to…