Tag: inflammation

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CBD Benefits: Alcohol Consumption, Hangovers, and the Microbiota Gut-Brain Axis

Recently I stumbled upon some research that I just had to share. If you are anything like me and like to treat yourself to an alcoholic beverage every now and then (or more than every now and then) and detest that nasty hangover, then this one’s for you…

Based on this research, I now vow to always consume Cannabinoids alongside my alcohol consumption to help mitigate negative effects.

We all are somewhat aware that alcohol is essentially poison, but let’s get into what it really does so we can understand how to combat its negative effects…

Alcohol has been shown to cause damage to the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, in particular by inducing neuroinflammatory mediators and/or oxidative stress. These brain regions are known to be associated with problem solving, attention, information processing, learning, and memory.

Since CBD has neuroprotective effects that prevent oxidative damage, it has been considered for the treatment of cognitive impairments caused by alcohol. These effects of CBD have been hypothesized to be mediated by the 5HT1A (serotonin), or CB2 receptors. 

These exciting results have been reported to support the potential therapeutic benefits of CBD for Alcohol Use Disorder, particularly in the areas of neurodegeneration, hepatotoxicity (chemical-driven liver damage), and  cognition.  Additionally, CBD can have a therapeutic effect in alcoholic liver diseases characterized by inflammation, oxidative stress, and steatosis (the abnormal retention of fat within a cell or organ).

There are several proposed mechanisms through which cannabinoids (and CBD in particular) may confer beneficial effects in the context of Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). First, CBD may directly impact specific brain mechanisms underlying AUD to influence alcohol consumption and the clinical features of AUD.

Second, CBD may influence AUD symptoms through its actions across the digestive, immune, and central nervous systems, collectively known as the microbiota-gut-brain axis (MGBA). These MGBA disruptions have been associated with AUD symptoms such as craving and impaired cognitive control.

Furthermore, Preclinical data suggest that cannabinoids may confer beneficial effects on the gastrointestinal and immune system. These findings include reducing intestinal permeability, regulating gut bacteria, and reducing inflammation. Thus, cannabinoids may exert AUD harm-reduction effects, at least in part, through their beneficial actions across the MGBA.

Not to mention the effects alcohol has on dehydration. Electrolytes are what our bodies need to absorb water and remain hydrated. When people drink alcohol or caffeine, or exercise, not only do they become more dehydrated, but any water consumed after is not as effective due to a low balance of electrolytes.  Insufficient electrolyte replenishment is a leading cause of why over 75 percent of people are chronically dehydrated.

With cannabis now legal in several U.S. states and industrialized hemp production legal nationwide, consumer curiosity in alternative forms of stress-release and relaxation is piqued. Whether it is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD, or other botanicals with purported relaxation benefits, consumers are interested in trying drinks that support their desire to slow down, market research firms say.

I hope you have learned from our research, like we have greatly. If you are one of these people looking to try alternative forms of stress-release, or just something to help balance out the negative effects of booze when you do choose to consume, take a look at our products.

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Written by: Rylee Josipovich, Founder of Golden Bee Hemp & Robin H. McDonald, RPh, Research & Product Development Specialist for Natural Oils Inc.

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CBD for Dementia: A Promising Therapeutic Agent for Neuroinflammation

Alzheimer’s disease is the leading cause of dementia accounting for 60% to 80% of all cases. The impairments of memory and thinking in Alzheimer’s disease have been linked to two abnormal features in the brain—amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. The damage associated with plaques and tangles leads to the death of neurons in regions essential to memory and thinking and eventually spreads to other areas of the brain as well. 

For most people with Alzheimer’s disease, worsening problems with memory are the most prominent early symptom of the disease. Although people with Alzheimer’s are frequently able to recall events from many years ago, they have profound difficulty acquiring new memories. That’s partly because the hippocampus and other structures in the brain’s memory network are particularly vulnerable to the damage from Alzheimer’s disease. A person with dementia may ask a question, get an answer, then ask the same question a few minutes later. As we now know, dementia is a result of neurodegeneration; more specifically, the death of neurons that control memory and thinking.

The Endocannabinoid System takes part in the regulation of neurogenesis and neurodegeneration. Most studies suggest that endocannabinoid signaling is usually beneficial. The cannabinoid receptors CB1, CB2 and a protein coupled receptor GPR55 take part in the regulation of neurogenisis or neuronal rebuilding.   Endocannabinoid signaling may also be beneficial because of its impact on halting neurotoxicity and neuroinflammation. It has been shown that deletion of CB1 accelerates brain aging through tumor necrosis factorα(TNF-α ), while CB1 binding decreases neuroinflammation. 

The odd positive impact of ECS activation on cognitive enhancement may be also due to CB2 anti-inflammatory action or the impact of emotional state on learning and memory, all of which are modulated by ECS. Recent studies have shown CB2 presence in the central nervous system.  In particular, it has been demonstrated that CB2 receptors are expressed in cells of the brain such as microglia, astrocytes and neurons in areas including the hippocampus, striatum and brain stem.

Noteworthily, it has been shown that CB2 receptors are largely distributed in activated astrocytes and microglia and thus they have an important role in the regulation of neuroinflammation when activated.  CB2 activated receptors have an important role in the regulation of neuroinflammation.

Furthermore, it has been suggested that CB2 receptors could represent a promising therapeutic target in several neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Huntington’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and multiple sclerosis. In particular the activation of CB2 receptors might affect disease progression through the regulation of neurotransmission and neuronal function. Interestingly, the most largely studied mechanism of neuroprotection involves the anti-inflammatory effects of the CB2 receptors.  This is of particular relevance considering that neuroinflammation is a crucial component of Dementia pathogenesis. 

As the population ages and people live longer, dementia has become one of the most important health challenges in the world. The WHO estimates that around 50 million people have dementia worldwide and every year there are nearly 10 million new cases. The estimated proportion of the general population aged 60 and over with dementia at a given time is between 5–8%. The total number of people with dementia is projected to reach 82 million in 2030 and 152 in 2050.

REF:

Basile MS, Mazzon E. The Role of Cannabinoid Type 2 Receptors in Parkinson’s Disease. Biomedicines. 2022 Nov 20;10(11):2986. doi: 10.3390/biomedicines10112986. PMID: 36428554; PMCID: PMC9687889.

Galve-Roperh I, Palazuelos J, Aguado T, Guzmán M. The endocannabinoid system and the regulation of neural development: potential implications in psychiatric disorders. Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci. 2009 Oct;259(7):371-82. doi: 10.1007/s00406-009-0028-y. Epub 2009 Jul 9. PMID: 19588184.

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Written by: Robin H. McDonald, RPh, is a registered pharmacist in Newport Beach, California. She received her B.S. from the University of Pittsburgh, School of Pharmacy, in 1991. She has enjoyed many facets of her career over the last 31 years. Including her retail pharmacy practice, she also has been an independent pharmacist, compounding pharmacist and a regional Pharmacy scheduler for a small retail pharmacy company in Birmingham, Alabama. Her interest in the health benefits of CBD oil was piqued when she became witness to the healing potential of CBD. 

To this day, Robin has semi-retired from retail pharmacy practice which allows her to devote dedicated time to research and development into the expanding forefront of CBD oil and its benefits.  Robin is also dedicating research to a broad range of botanical benefits, including CBD, for skincare purposes.  Robin enjoys living in Newport Beach with her loving husband, Bill. 

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FAQ: How Can CBD help in Aging?

As we age, we can experience slower metabolism, increased likelihood of polypharmacy, cognitive decline and chronic physical/mental health problems.

CBD has no intoxicating effects or abuse liability, and because of its widespread activity in the Endocannabinoid System in the body, it has been proposed to be beneficial therapeutically for a variety of health conditions in people of all ages.

Generally, older adults suffer from more chronic medical and mental health conditions (eg, chronic pain, insomnia, and mood and cognitive disorders) than younger adults.  Experts say CBD use will continue to gain momentum in the health and wellness world, with some scientific studies confirming it may ease symptoms of ailments like chronic pain, inflammation, and anxiety.

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FAQ: How does CBD affect Brain Health & Strokes?

“Cannabinoids and Blood–Brain Barrier (BBB): The BBB works as an effective border between the Central Nervous System, and systemic circulation & microglia represents the main line of defense of the brain. When neuroinflammation occurs, the BBB protective function can be reduced by an inflammatory reaction from an immune-related cells involvement.

The BBB is prone to the consequences due to chronic systemic inflammation as it leads to brain inflammation and consequently can impair its integrity.

In this context, interest has grown about the cannabinoids as potential anti-inflammatory drugs. These findings suggest that CBD could be part of a new strategic approach useful to treat inflammatory diseases of [Central Nervous System] indicating that CBD might be useful for the positive modulation of the BBB as a future treatment in ischemic stroke.”

Cannabinoids, Blood–Brain Barrier, and Brain Disposition” Calapai, Fabrizio; Cardia, Luigi; Sorbara, Emanuela Elisa; Navarra, Michele; Gangemi, Sebastiano; et al. Pharmaceutics; Basel Vol. 12, Iss. 3, (2020): 265. DOI:10.3390/pharmaceutics12030265

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FAQ: How can CBD help my Diabetes?

Diabetic Neuropathies (DPNs) is the most common complication associated with diabetes and is a leading cause of disability due to foot ulcerations, fall risks and can lead to infection and limb amputation. 

CBD play roles in modulating neurotransmission and immune function.

When a nerve is injured or damaged, nociceptive (pain receptor) pathways and the immune system are affected, and the dysregulation of these neuroimmune processes has been associated with pain.

Topical CBD was found to help with both joint neuropathy and osteoarthritis by serving as a protectant to the nerves and reducing joint inflammation.

One of the reasons why using CBD oil topically is preferred for arthritis pain or neuropathy is because when applied topically, Cannabidiol has a direct and targeted impact on the affected body joints, muscles and nerves. In other words, topical CBD offers localized relief.

Shop our Topical Lab-Tested, Pharmacist Formulated Products such as our Golden Bee Hemp Pain Salve for Icy- Hot Rapid Relief!

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FAQ: What is the Relationship Between CBD & Autoimmune disorders?

Autoimmune Diseases such as: Lupus, Psoriasis, Type 1 Diabetes, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Inflammatory Bowel Disease, etc. have shown to be linked to stress. For example, in this study citing a higher incidence of autoimmune diseases among people who were previously diagnosed with stress-related disorders. Another paper publishes:

“Physical and psychological stress has been implicated in the development of autoimmune disease, since numerous animal and human studies demonstrated the effect of sundry stressors on immune function. Moreover, many retrospective studies found that a high proportion (up to 80%) of patients reported uncommon emotional stress before disease onset.

It is presumed that the stress-triggered neuroendocrine hormones lead to immune dysregulation, which ultimately results in autoimmune disease, by altering or amplifying cytokine [inflammatory response] production. The treatment of autoimmune disease should thus include stress management and behavioral intervention to prevent stress-related immune imbalance. “

Because of CBD’s ability to combat stress levels (see previous blog post), it provides as a preventative measure and potential therapy for Autoimmune Disorders as a stress management tool.

**These statements have not been evaluated by the food and drug administration (FDA). These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is not medical advice, and should not be treated as such. 

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FAQ: How can CBD help my Stress Levels?

Modern-day science continues to show the link between Stress & Disease. Stress can be defined as any experience that causes tension, whether that be physical, psychological, or emotional- and especially if it sets off the “fight or flight” response – during which the adrenal gland releases adrenaline, leading to rapid pulse and breathing, and increased blood pressure).

“Chronic stress result [in] failures of homeostasis, [and] thus lead to various diseases such as atherosclerosis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and depression. However, while 75%–90% of human diseases is related to the activation of stress system, the common pathways between stress exposure and pathophysiological processes underlying disease is still debatable.

Chronic inflammation is an essential component of chronic diseases. Additionally, accumulating evidence suggested that excessive inflammation plays critical roles in the pathophysiology of the stress-related diseases, yet the basis for this connection is not fully understood.” this paper publishes.

In previous blog posts, we have spoken widely about CBD’s potential in regulating inflammation and returning the body to homeostasis. We have even shown how CBD acts in a similar way as antidepressants as it works on the serotonin (5HT)1a receptor. Serotonin deficiency is associated with depression and other psychiatric disorders, and it is likely that the effects CBD has on mood and anxiety are related to this interaction.

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FAQ: Can CBD help with Skin Cancer?

The potential role of cannabinoids (CBD, CBG, etc) as antitumoral drugs is being explored in relation to the inflammatory component of skin cancer.

In vivo and in vitro studies that employed either phyto-, endo-, or synthetic cannabinoids show promise in topical treatment of Skin Cancer.

Cannabinoids are regarded with growing interest as eligible drugs in the treatment of skin inflammatory conditions with potential anticancer effects.

Topical CBD was also found effective in alleviating the symptoms of the following conditions: oxidative stress on dermal cells, skin conditions characterized by inflammation and keratin disorders, such as eczema or atopic dermatitis, wound healing, pain & muscle relief, itch (pruritis), Acne/Seborrhea, modulation of hair growth, skin & hair pigmentation, oral care, and other skin disorders such as antibiotic-resistant skin infections, cutaneous malignancies such as Melanoma, and Psoriatic Plaques.

Many studies currently report these effects, and the readiness in monitoring of effects and the facility of topical application may contribute to the growing support of the use of these substances. Not medical advice.

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FAQ: Can CBD affect my Heart Health & Blood Pressure?

The Month of February is all about Hearts. It is designated as Heart Health Month in the US, a time when all people can focus on their cardiovascular health.

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of mortality worldwide. They have a set of characteristic molecular components, such as a proinflammatory profile present in heart failure (HF), diabetic cardiomyopathy, and autoimmune myocarditis.

All of these molecular components associated with diverse CVDs can be modulated with Cannabinoid administration. Of particular interest of the Cannabinoids present in Cannabis, which is also produced within our bodies, has been CBD.

CBD is a potent anti-inflammatory and reduces the production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, thus resulting in reduced tissue injury. Such effects can be taken advantage of in varied diseases, such as cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, pain, obesity, and metabolic syndrome.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is often called the ‘silent killer’ because most people who have it don’t have any symptoms. This can be a scary notion if we let it be, but we can also choose to take care of our bodies by making healthy choices to maintain our overall wellness.

A recent 2017 study on cardiac parameters in healthy males showed that subjects who had taken CBD, as opposed to a placebo, experienced lower blood pressure when exposed to stress.

In a 2009 study on rats, they were subjected to stressful situations, which in turn increased their heart rate and blood pressure. When the rats were then given a dose of CBD, their blood pressure and heart rate lowered.

It is proven high blood pressure can lead to stroke, heart attack, vision loss and kidney disease. However, we have now seen how CBD can be of great value as a cardioprotective agent due to its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. 

As advocates in the CBD industry, our team is pleased to see many clinical studies employing the use of CBD as potential treatments of such destructive diseases. We also know encourage our community to remember that CBD is not a cure-all, though it can help. A balanced diet, mindset, and lifestyle are just as important in maintaining a healthy body and a health heart.

Thank you for letting us share this information with you. As always, this is not Medical Advice. Consult your trusted health professional, especially if you are on any prescribed medication.

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FAQ: Is CBD Effective Topically?

CBD topical application is considered the latest breakthrough in managing joint pain and inflammation. Together with its highly effective pain relieving properties, it possesses systemic absorption as well. ⁣

⁣CBD is absorbed through the skin where it binds to the body’s own CB2 receptors. Once it connects with these receptors, CBD has a pain relieving and anti- inflammatory effect on the body at the site of application.⁣

While CBD is popping up in many topical products, it’s not the only phyto-chemical within the cannabis plant to pay attention to. There are a lot of beneficial cannabinoids within cannabis, and our body has an entire system that regulates them. All of this comes into play when you slather the plant’s broad or full spectrum extracts on your skin.⁣ For example, THC has been shown to be 20 times more anti-inflammatory than aspirin and 2 times more anti-inflammatory than hydrocortisone.

The spectrum of cannabinoids work in concert more efficiently and effectively on these receptors than one on its own—hence it’s good to look for the whole plant’s extract infused with the plant’s helpful terpenes such as our True Natural Oils lotion or Golden Bee Hemp Pain Salve available here.

Topical CBD was also found effective in alleviating the symptoms of the following conditions: oxidative stress on dermal cells, skin conditions characterized by inflammation and keratin disorders, such as eczema or atopic dermatitis, wound healing, pain & muscle relief, itch (pruritis), Acne/Seborrhea, modulation of hair growth, skin & hair pigmentation, oral care, and other skin disorders such as antibiotic-resistant skin infections, cutaneous malignancies such as Melanoma, and Psoriatic Plaques.

In terms of Arthriits, one animal study from the European Journal of Pain reports CBD “significantly reduced” joint swelling/inflammation and pain from to arthritis when applied to skin. Additionally, CBD it is even being recommended by the Arthritis Foundation.

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