the science of cbd

By Dr. Barry Morrison

Now for the science of CBD. As you learn more regarding the effects of the cannabinoids derived from Hemp, one thing will become quickly evident. Cannabis has a profound influence on the homeostasis of the human body. Hemp is one herb with its variety of compounds which seem to affect almost every aspect of our bodies and minds.

But how is this possible? Now, as a doctor, I am naturally wary of any compound that even hints to be a cure-all. But, as I explore the potential of the cannabinoids derived from hemp, I find no lack of evidence. In fact, I find an explosion of scientific research from PubMed alone on the potential science of CBD from cannabis. Matter of fact, more evidence than one can find on some of the most widely used therapies of conventional medicine.

A PubMed search for scientific journal articles published in the last 20 years containing the word “cannabis” revealed 8,637 results. Now, when we add the word “cannabinoid,” the results increase to over 20,000 articles. That’s an average of more than two scientific publications per day over the last 20 years! This illustrates the present scientific interest in understanding more about cannabis and its components. But it also emphasizes the need for high quality reviews and summaries on the topic.

A Vital Body System

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) named after the plant that led to its discovery, is perhaps one of the most important physiologic systems of the body. This is involved in establishing and maintaining human health. Endocannabinoids, which are the cannabinoids that are manufactured within the body, along with their receptors are both found in multiple areas throughout the body. Located in the brain, organs, connective tissues, glands, and the immune system as well as many other parts of the body. In each tissue, the endocannabinoid system performs different tasks, but the goal is always the same. Homeostasis, which is the maintaining of a stable internal environment despite fluctuations in the external environment.

Hemp Cannabinoids

Cannabinoids derived from Hemp are found to promote the ECS. This system in turn creates the all-important homeostatic function at every level of biological life. From the sub-cellular, to the organism, and perhaps to the community and beyond. Here’s one example: autophagy. This is a process in which a cell sequesters part of its contents to be self-digested and recycled. It is a process that is mediated by the ECS. This process keeps normal cells alive, allowing them to maintain a balance between the synthesis, degradation, and subsequent recycling of cellular products. It also possesses a deadly effect upon malignant cells, causing them to consume themselves in a programmed cellular suicide. The death of these cells, of course, promotes homeostasis and survival at the level of the entire organism.

Our endocannabinoid system, with its complex actions of our immune system, nervous system, and all organs, are literally a bridge between body and mind. With this system, we begin to see a mechanism that explains how states of consciousness can promote health or disease. With the emerging science of hemp and its cannabinoids such as CBD, one thing remains clear. A functional ECS is essential for health and life.

Enhancing the ECS

From embryonic implantation on the wall of our mother’s uterus, to nursing and growth, to responding to injuries, endocannabinoids help us survive in a quickly changing and increasingly hostile environment. As I realized this, I began to wonder: can an individual enhance his/her ECS by taking a CBD rich supplement? Is it possible to promote a healthy lifestyle by stimulating this ancient endocannabinoid system that is hard-wired into all of us? I now believe the answer is Yes. Research has shown that small doses of the full spectrum cannabinoids which includes CBD are very beneficial. They have the potential to signal the body to manufacture more endocannabinoids as well as build more endocannabinoid receptors.

Despite the two largest U.S. physician associations (American Medical Association and American College of Physicians) calling for more research, our U.S. gov. continues to limit the ability for scientific research to be done. However, there are other countries that are not as closed minded who have pioneered this search to answer the public’s demand for safe, natural and inexpensive options to improve their quality of life.

Removal from the Controlled Substance Act 

In addition to that, the Federal laws surrounding the classification of hemp and its cannabinoids have just recently changed removing hemp entirely from the controlled substance act and placing it into a true medicinal realm. Of course, we need more human-based research studying the effectiveness of the cannabinoids derived from hemp, but the evidence base is already large and growing constantly, despite some efforts to discourage cannabis-related research.

This is where CBD PRO products and its full spectrum of the cannabinoids derived from Hemp enters the picture. Hope this was informative and look forward to answering other common questions pertaining to the subject of cannabis and CBD.