Cannabis and endocannabinoid modulators: Therapeutic promises and challenges

The discovery that botanical cannabinoids such as THC exert some of their effect through binding specific cannabinoid receptor sites,has led to the discovery of the Endocannabinoid Signaling System, which in turn has spurred research into the mechanisms of action and addiction potential of cannabis.

This paper reviews current understanding of CB1, CB2, and other possible cannabinoid receptors, their arachidonic acid derived ligands (e.g. anandamide 2 arachidonoyl glycerol), and their possible physiological roles. CB1 is heavily represented in the central nervous system, but is found in other tissues as well CB2 tends to be localized to immune cells. Activation of the endocannabinoid system can result in enhanced or dampened activity in various neural circuits depending on their own state of activation.

This suggests that one function of the endocannabinoid system may be to maintain steady state. The therapeutic action of botanical cannabis or of synthetic molecules that are agonists, antagonists, or which may otherwise modify endocannabinoid metabolism and activity indicates they may have promise as neuroprotectants, and may be of value in the treatment of certain types of pain, epilepsy, spasticity, eating disorders, inflammation, and possibly blood pressure control.

"Neuroprotective Effects Of Cannabis" by Sensi Seed

Following on from our recent article on the relationship between cannabis use and stroke, we now investigate the role of cannabinoids in mitigating brain damage caused by traumatic brain injury and ischemic stroke. There is mounting evidence to suggest that their various properties have great therapeutic potential.

-Antioxidative & anti-inflammatory properties

In recent years the evidence for the antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties of various cannabinoids has become well-established, and our understanding of the role they play in modulating neurotransmission too has grown. Thus, serious consideration is now being given to their potential as neuroprotective agents. Cannabinoids have been shown to prevent neuronal death in acute neuronal injury, including Ischemic Stroke (IS) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), as well as provide symptomatic relief in Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Huntington’s disease, and other chronic neurodegenerative diseases.

"Prescription of a THC/CBD-Based Medication to Patients with Dementia: A Pilot Study in Geneva"

Dementia is characterized by a deterioration in memory, thinking, behavior, and autonomy in daily life activities. 

According to the World Health Organization, there were around 50 million persons worldwide suffering from dementia and this number is increasing with the global aging of the population in most countries. 

Currently, the options for treating BPSD (Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia) include pharmacological and nonpharmacological therapies. Psychotropic medications are often used to reduce the frequency and severity of BPSD, but in the majority of patients, they provide only modest symptom control and important side effects.

The interest of cannabinoids in Alzheimer disease and other forms of dementia has increased first as neuroprotective drugs in animal studies. Indeed, some studies suggest a potential beneficial effect of CB1 and CB2 receptor agonists on reducing harmful β-amyloid peptide action and tau phosphorylation seen in Alzhei­mer disease as well as increasing intrinsic brain repair mechanisms.

"CBD Oil for Peripheral Neuropathy"

Neuropathy can affect your overall wellbeing and quality of life. It involves an intense pain that is challenging to manage because it affects the nerves of the peripheral nervous system. 

Patients suffering from neuropathy often use opioids pain medications. Although these medications can be useful in reducing pain, they pose the risk of overdose, addiction, and abuse.

Due to this, most people look for alternative treatments.

CBD is becoming a preferred alternative remedy for patients with neuropathy. This is because its the non-psychoactive component of marijuana that has numerous health benefits. CBD doesn’t produce any side effects and is an appropriate option for patients.

What is Peripheral Neuropathy?

Understanding what Peripheral neuropathy means is important to appreciating the possible remedy that CBD oil brings to the victims. It is a medical disorder that occurs when there is damage to the nerves that link the other body parts such as skin and muscles to the spinal cord and the brain. Damage to these nerves interferes with communication between other parts of the body and the brain. Besides, it reduces sensation in the legs and arms, affects movement and causes pain.

However, the dose matters when it comes to neuropathic pain, and it is crucial to start with small doses and examine their impact on your body before increasing the quantity. Once you get a preferred dosage, stick to it.

"Neurological Aspects of Medical Use of Cannabidiol"

The aim of this review from NCBI was to describe the state of art about the pre-clinical research, the potential use and when existing, the clinical evidence related to CBD in the neurological field. 

It is important to notice that in this research, 6 Italian

university departments took part 

BACKGROUND:

Cannabidiol (CBD) is among the major secondary metabolites of Cannabis devoid of the delta-9-tetra-hydrocannabinol psychoactive effects. It is a resorcinol-based compound with a broad spectrum of potential therapeutic properties, including neuroprotective effects in numerous pathological conditions. CBD neuroprotection is due to its antioxidant and antiinflammatory activities and the modulation of a large number of brain biological targets (receptors, channels) involved in the development and maintenance of neurodegenerative diseases.