We're still learning about CBD's medical and health-related applications, though there have been promising developments in recent years. In 2018, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved its first prescription drug containing cannabidiol as an active ingredient. Epidiolex was designed to treat seizures caused by Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, two rare forms of epilepsy. In 2020, the drug was approved for use in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex as well.
Early reports have indicated promising developments when it comes to CBD's connection to the immune system. If you want to learn more, keep reading for five ways CBD may help to boost your immune system. You'll even get a bonus review of gummies infused with CBN at the end.
1. Promotes Healthy Inflammatory Response
CBD's anti-inflammatory properties have been praised anecdotally by users since its use became widespread. There is research, including animal research, that supports the idea that CBD could be useful for managing and reducing inflammation. This is thought to be the result of CBD impacting activity in the body's endocannabinoid system and binding to its receptors in cases of both chronic and acute inflammation.
2. Supports NK Cells
Some early studies, including animal studies on autoimmune health, indicate that CBD can play a role in immunomodulation. Beyond immunomodulation, an important function in and of itself, the research found that CBD also supported the activity of natural killer (NK) cells, which are a type of white blood cell that your body uses to fight off many types of disease and infection. They're a central part of your body's response to viruses. Some in vitro studies have posed the idea that CBD may be most beneficial to liver immune health, but more research is needed.
3. Maintains Gut Health
Though the link will need further study, CBD's cortisol-lowering effects are believed to have potential as a probiotic. A healthy gut is essential for supporting your body's natural immunity. You might be surprised by how much of your immune response is controlled by your GI tract. Your gut is an important part of regulating immune response, so it's a good idea to take care of yours.
4. Facilitates Rest
Sleep deprivation has been proven to weaken immunity, which is why exploring CBD's potential to manage sleeplessness is so important. Sleep Medicine Reviews praised CBD and CBN's potential for alleviating certain kinds of sleep issues. Some of the issues that researchers were keen to learn more about were CBD’s and CBN's impact on sleep apnea, rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder, narcolepsy, and sleeplessness caused by PTSD.
5. Reduces Stress
Consumers have frequently described relaxation and reduced stress as one of the primary benefits they experience when using CBD. Many people don't realize it, but stress can play a significant role in weakening our immune response. Stress has been proven to impact your body's lymphocytes, which are the white blood cells that help to fight off infection.
