Medical marijuana works by targeting inflammation via the endocannabinoid system:
THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids trigger immunosuppression through apoptosis. They can induce apoptosis in immune cells such as T lymphocytes and macrophages, reducing the body’s natural chronic inflammation producers.
THC reduces inflammation by decreasing the immune signaling proteins produced by immune system cells, called cytokines. When cytokines are disrupted, immune system activity and white blood cell production decrease. Inflammation responses within and around cells are also reduced. THC inhibits inflammation and alleviates symptoms while the body is attacking itself, causing inflammation.
The anti-inflammatory properties of cannabis are mediated by various immune symptoms related to the endocannabinoid system (ECS). How marijuana works at the cellular level depends on the type of inflammation and its location in the body.
There are many other complex pathways that cannabinoids use to reduce inflammation. Clinical evidence shows that CBD is an antioxidant in the body and can target harmful free radicals. Additionally, CBD has been shown to reduce inflammation in conditions such as inflammatory diseases and Parkinson’s disease. It has also been shown to be effective in treating inflammatory skin conditions such as psoriasis.
Preliminary research on diabetic rats has shown promising results in using CBD to reduce inflammation. CBD targets CB2, and this mechanism can increase vasodilation, helping decrease diabetic neuropathy. Additionally, CBD has been shown to accelerate wound healing in diabetic rats.
Research has also indicated that inflammation could be the cause of over 20% of human cancers. Inflammation is linked to cancer, and cancer can also cause inflammation. This vicious cycle can be created by both. CBD can slow tumor growth in cancer patients and help fight cancer by promoting anti-inflammatory responses.
We are just beginning to understand marijuana’s relationship with inflammation, but our understanding is encouraging. More research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms of action, therapeutic potential, and long-term health effects of marijuana on inflammation.
This article was written by a cannabinoid specialist at DRIP Cannabinoids. DRIP Cannabinoids joined the market in June 2020. We quickly established our mission: providing customers with the purest oil on the market, and in tandem providing a premium product. Our products range from delta 8 oil, delta 8 pre-rolls, delta 8 THC gummies, delta 8 THC carts, and more. Through each and every one of our products, DRIP strives to relieve people from the discomfort, stress, and anxiety of daily life by giving them access to cutting-edge cannabinoids such as Delta-10 and Delta-8 THC. DRIP’s formulas and procedures are all designed with the purity and safety of the customer in mind.