CBD and the Nervous System: Actions and Interactions of Cannabidiol

CBD products have been proven to have some impact on both our endocannabinoid and nervous systems in numerous trials over the years.

We know that CBD products are received inside our bodies by endocannabinoid receptors. These receptors work together to comprise the endocannabinoid system.

The endocannabinoid system works as a “ground zero” for helping us understand how our bodies process CBD. When we look at the actions of the endocannabinoid system, we can honestly see what CBD does for our bodies.

What is the Endocannabinoid System?

The endocannabinoid system has been hailed one of the most important physiological systems. Cannabinoid receptors are present throughout our bodies. They can be found in our organs, nerves, immune cells, brain, connective tissues, and our glands. Depending on our bodies current needs, cannabinoid receptors can multiply, move, or work to a lesser or greater extent.

When cannabinoid receptors are activated, they perform a range of actions depending on their location inside the body. A common trend for their working mechanisms is that once activated; they promote homeostasis.

CBD products can help with chronic pain, reducing inflammation, strengthening the immune system, reducing blood pressure, and a host of other common ailments that we suffer from as human beings.

CBD and the Nervous System

The nervous system has two parts:

The Central Nervous System - Which includes the brain stem and the brain.

The Peripheral Nervous System - Which is compromised of nerves that spread out all across our bodies.

Within our peripheral nervous system, there are four functions which are provided by specialized cells. These include motor neurons, neurons, sensory neurons, and reflex neurons. While each of these different types of neurons is responsible for various actions, neurons essential have the same effects throughout the body.

When certain conditions arise, neurons pass small chemicals known as neurotransmitters to each other. These interactions trigger responses related to hormone regulation, pain, and a wide range of other conditions.

Cannabinoids that work with the GPR55 receptor have been proven to help to promote overall functionality within neurons across the body. GPR55 has also been linked to promoting programmed cell death. This allows nerves to function at optimum levels as they recycle old cell mass at the correct times.

Another important nervous system function that is related to cannabinoids is the production of acetylcholine. Acetylcholine promotes the activation of skeletal muscles naturally during movement. 

In this case, cannabinoids aid in the function of motor neurons. With abnormal acetylcholine levels, smooth movement becomes impossible. This chemical is still within our bodies and travels from our nervous system through to neuromuscular junctions. When it reaches its intended destination, it incites chemical changes, causing muscle contraction.

Trauma and anxiety-related disorders can cause a state of hyperarousal in the peripheral nervous system. This state can range in severity and can cause mild discomfort, or be completely debilitating. 

Recent research has supported the use of cannabinoids in reducing the release of corticosterone. This chemical can trigger a range of stress response reactions that lead to adverse health outcomes.

By regularly taking CBD products, people can help achieve higher levels of homeostasis throughout their central and peripheral nervous systems.