CBD and immunity. What is the role of CBD here?

CBD, a cannabinoid, is a substance abundantly present in hemp plants that provides a wide range of benefits to our bodies. Thanks to its immunomodulatory, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, CBD has a high potential to boost our immune system. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at immunity and what role CBD plays here.

How does the immune system work?

It is not only during the autumn and winter months that we should keep our immunity strong; on the contrary, a healthy immune system is important all year round. As we also wrote in our article on melatonin and immunity, if the immunity is functioning properly, the body can defend itself against pathogens and thus prevent various diseases. The immune system is made up of a network of organs, tissues, and molecules that work together to fight foreign substances and pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, and microbes. The immune system keeps the body in homeostasis, that is, in a stable environment despite changing external conditions. Immunity can be divided into two groups: natural immunity, which is responsible for the initial and rapid defence against pathogens, and adaptive immunity, made up of T and B cells, which come to the rescue when natural immunity is insufficient. While T cells signal danger and thus activate other immune cells, B cells produce antibodies to destroy pathogens. One of the most costly manifestations of the immune system’s fight against pathogens is inflammation, for which the important effects of the cannabinoid, CBD, have been observed.

CBD and immunity

CBD has its place in both parts of the immune system. CBD has immunomodulatory effects, which means that it can influence the function of T and B cells so that the body’s defences are boosted and the autoimmune response is alleviated. CBD and its reaction with the endocannabinoid system can alleviate inflammation in the body. Studies show that CBD can suppress inflammatory reactions in diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, or certain diseases of the nervous system. Positive results have also been shown in the treatment of various types of cancer, thanks to the endocannabinoid system and its main role in ensuring balance in the body. In addition, CBD has antioxidant properties that protect cells from damage and promote their proper function.

How to strengthen immunity?

Immunity can be weakened due to an unhealthy lifestyle, lack of exercise or prolonged stress. It can manifest itself in drowsiness, skin problems, reduced appetite, frequent colds and a general high susceptibility to various diseases.

Bowel care

The digestive tract is a very important part of the immune system and therefore it is good to take care of a healthy microflora. Eating enough fibre, vitamins and especially a varied and balanced diet can contribute to a healthy body and a stronger immune system. CBD contributes to a healthy digestive system thanks to its content of omega-3 fatty acids, flavonoids (antioxidants) or terpenes such as myrcene and limonene.

Less stress, more exercise

Good quality sleep and frequent exercise can reduce stress and therefore reduce the production of the stress hormone cortisol, which weakens the immune system. Regular movement also supports the function of the lymphatic system, producing endorphins, also called happiness hormones, which in turn will help with stress relief. Taking CBD helps in better quality sleep, calms, reduces symptoms of anxiety or depression. It also has a positive effect on muscle recovery after strenuous physical activities, thus contributing to a balanced lifestyle.

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin D, which we can get from the sun, is mainly associated with immune system function. Vitamins such as C and E and the minerals selenium and zinc are also important, as they promote the formation of new immune cells. These can also be supplemented with nutritional supplements, which include CBD rich in chlorophyll, vitamins A, D, E, some of the B vitamin groups or phytosterols. A deficiency of these substances can weaken our immunity and can lead to eczema, vascular or digestive problems.

CBD and its rich composition supply the body with beneficial substances and thus support the immune system. Broad spectrum CBD oils also contain flavonoids, terpenes, vitamins, minerals, amino acids or chlorophyll. However, it should be noted that research on CBD in relation to the immune system is still scarce, and several studies point to gaps in knowledge about the effects of CBD on the immune system.

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