The National Institute of Drug Abuse found that up to 29% of patients who are prescribed opioid medication misuse or abuse them. And in an age where prescription medication and surgical intervention appear to be the "norm," many are turning to alternative medicine instead. Cannabinoids, along with CBD products and marijuana (both legal and medicinal), are rapidly growing in popularity for this reason. A Gallup survey found that one in seven adults use CBD products. What exactly are cannabinoids, and what do they do?
We'll go over that in this article. First, we're going to discuss what cannabinoids actually are. Then, we'll discuss how they work and some of their medical benefits. Finally, we'll wrap up with some of the risks that you might face taking them.
1
What Cannabinoids Are
Cannabinoids originated from the cannabis plant, the same plant where hemp and marijuana come from. A cannabinoid is considered a chemical or a compound that interacts with the endocannabinoid system within the body. As of now, researchers have discovered over 60 cannabinoids.
The more common ones include THC, which is the active ingredient in marijuana that produces psychoactive effects. Another is cannabidiol, an ingredient known to calm and soothe the body's nervous system. It's important to note that not all cannabinoids will get you high.
2
What They Do And How They Work
When cannabinoids enter your body, the first system they interact with is something called the "endocannabinoid system." This is where they bind to the cannabinoid receptors in your brain as well as in your immune system. Cannabinoids are known to reduce the activity level of neurons within your body.
As a result, Future Medicinal Chemistry states that your pain pathways are inhibited. Inflammation is less likely. And finally, your nervous system is calmed to an extent.
3
Cannabinoids And Medicinal Benefits
Given these recorded benefits and further ongoing research, there's great potential for cannabinoids to be used in the treatment of many health conditions. Most of the research into cannabinoids is still in the preliminary stages. This means that you may want to consult with your doctor before adding this substance to your treatment regimen. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, the conditions and symptoms that cannabinoids may be useful for are included in the list below.
Cancer, HIV, & AIDS (i.e., reduced vomiting/nausea, increased appetite, and weight gain)
Epilepsy (i.e., lower risk of seizures, reduced frequency of seizures)
Multiple sclerosis and arthritis (i.e., less joint and nerve pain and greater mobility)
Lower dependence on opioids
Reduced severity of anxiety, PTSD, and sleeping problems
Fewer digestive issues (specifically IBS)
4
Possible Risks And Dangers
Though research is still underway into the benefits of using cannabinoids, there have been reported risks and dangers that come along with its use. These side effects are considered rare, but they are something that you should think about before using cannabinoids. Some of the possible risks and dangers, according to Neurotherapeutics, include the list below.
Increased risk of tachycardia (heart rate 100 beats per minute or higher)
Higher blood pressure
Greater risk of both prostate and cervical cancer
Risk of suppressing your immune system
Reduced amounts of slow-wave sleep and lower sleep quality
Impaired memory, thinking, and attention
It's important to understand that there is a lot of opposing research related to the side effects. For example, some studies have shown that cannabinoids suppress the immune system, while others are known to strengthen it. So there's no telling whether you'll have a good or bad experience with these substances.
Now, you have a better idea of what cannabinoids are and what they're for. First, we talked about what cannabinoids are. Then, we covered what they do, how they work, as well as some of their potential medical benefits. Lastly, we finished with some of the risks that you might face taking them.
Cannabinoids have great potential in the medical world, but it's important to realize that these substances and products aren't a cure by any means. There have yet to be conclusive studies that prove cannabinoids to be successful one way or another majority of the time. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before beginning the use of these products.
