How CBD works: breaking down the substance's mechanism of action.
The
rapid growth in the global popularity of cannabidiol (CBD) is driven by a
unique combination of its therapeutic potential and a high level of safety for
the body [1]. The scientific community and proponents of preventive medicine
are showing significant interest in this compound, as numerous studies confirm
its ability to effectively counteract neuroinflammation, provide protection for
nerve cells, and act as a powerful antioxidant [2].
A
key advantage of CBD is that it helps minimize manifestations of anxiety,
depressive states, and pain without causing the side effects that often
accompany traditional pharmaceuticals with a similar focus [3].
The impact of CBD on the FAAH enzyme
A
deep understanding of exactly how cannabidiol works requires an analysis of its
interaction with numerous biological components of our body: from ion channels
to specific enzymes and receptors [4].
Contrary
to widespread myths, the primary endocannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 are not
the main targets for this substance. In particular, CBD shows no activity
toward CB1 receptors, which explains the absence of the psychoactive effects
characteristic of THC. Similarly, cannabidiol does not directly activate CB2
receptors, which are mostly localized in immune system cells.
The
primary therapeutic pathway of CBD lies in inhibiting the activity of the FAAH
enzyme, which leads to a natural increase in anandamide levels in tissues.
Since anandamide is an internal cannabinoid that independently stimulates CB1
and CB2 receptors, inhibiting its breakdown allows for the enhancement of the
entire endocannabinoid system's performance. It is this mechanism that ensures
mood improvement and sleep normalization.
Additional mechanisms of CBD action
Beyond
its influence on the endocannabinoid system, CBD engages a number of additional
physiological levers. Its sedative properties are partly explained by
interaction with glycine receptors, which are responsible for inhibiting excess
excitation in the brain [7].
Significant
relief from symptoms of depression and anxiety is achieved through its effect
on 5-HT1a-type serotonin receptors, which also contributes to overall emotional
recovery and analgesia [8].
The
additional analgesic effect is achieved through the TRPV1 capsaicin receptors,
which regulate our perception of temperature and pain stimuli [9].
The
ability of cannabidiol to modulate the function of sodium and calcium channels
allows for the adjustment of the brain's electrical activity, which is the
basis of its anti-epileptic action [4].
In
addition, CBD comes into contact with opioid and dopamine receptors [10]. This
allows the substance to be used to reduce symptoms of psychosis, which is
currently being actively studied in the context of schizophrenia therapy using
high doses of cannabidiol [12]. The specific impact on the reward system results
in not only the absence of a risk of developing an addiction to CBD itself but
also its ability to help overcome cravings for substances such as nicotine,
cocaine, or alcohol [11].
Such a multifaceted interaction with various body systems makes CBD a promising subject for further clinical research, which will allow for an even fuller disclosure of its medical potential.
References :
1. https://www.singlecare.com/blog/news/cbd-statistics/
2. https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-019-02524-5
3. https://www.mdpi.com/2218-273X/10/11/1575
4. https://bpspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/prp2.682
5. https://bpspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/bph.12944
6. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2017.00744/full
7. https://www.intechopen.com/chapters/50856
8. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6319597/
9. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1575333/
10. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5315552/
11. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4444130/
12. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6843725/