The human body could produce its own CBD to naturally reduce stress.
- The human body naturally produces chemicals very similar to THC and cannabidiol (CBD).
- Called “endocannabinoids”, they could help naturally reduce stress levels.
- Intense and/or repeated stress is bad for your health.
You may be surprised to learn that the human body naturally produces chemicals very similar to THC and cannabidiol (CBD). Known as “endocannabinoids”these compounds were only identified in 1992 and still remain poorly known to scientists.
Endocannabinoids reduce stress
Recently, new data have already indicated that they could play an important role in many functions of the body (learning, memory, pain control, immune reactions).
In a new study done on mice, scientists at Northwestern University also discovered that stressed animals release endocannabinoids in the emotional center of the brain, the amygdala. In turn, these compounds dampen stress signals from the hippocampus, a brain region linked to memory and emotion.
To verify their statements, the scientists then “disabled” cannabinoid (CB1) receptors in the brains of the mice tested, which appeared to reduce their ability to cope with stress.
Towards new treatments for stress-related disorders?
This phenomenon has only been identified in mice so far. However, researchers believe it most likely applies to humans. And, if so, it could open the door to new possibilities for treating stress-related psychiatric disorders.
“Determining whether increasing endogenous cannabinoid levels can be used as a potential therapeutic for stress-related disorders is the logical next step in this study and our previous work,” concludes the director of the study Sachin Patel. “Ongoing clinical trials in this area could help answer this question in the near future,” he finishes.