How CBD Works: CBD And Neurotransmitters

Neurotransmitters play a major role in the brain, helping neurons send and receive messages. Sometimes neurotransmitters can become imbalanced and, as a result, neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease and others can occur. However, cannabidiol (CBD) can interact with these neurotransmitters and their receptors to provide specific benefits, such as relieving anxiety, protecting neurons from damage, and rebalancing neurotransmitter levels. Neurotransmitters transmit messages between neurons. The brain sends signals via neurons that carry messages to the proper areas of the body. However, there are gaps between neurons called synapses. This is where neurotransmitters come in. After the axon (a long nerve fiber between neurons that signals travel through) sends an electrical impulse called action potential, neurotransmitters are released to either carry the message from the axon to the neuron or stop the message from sending. After they do their job, neurotransmitters are broken down by enzymes or are absorbed by neurons.



Several neurological disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease, have been associated with dysfunction of specific neurotransmitters. However, scientific research shows that CBD has helped normalize neurotransmitter levels, providing therapeutic benefits for these types of illnesses. Anandamide is an endocannabinoid that binds with cannabinoid receptors in the body. It was named after the Sanskrit word "ananda" meaning happiness and joy because it is known to heighten mood. Anandamide also regulates memory and promotes neurogenesis. However, a deficiency in anandamide may cause some anxiety disorders. According to a study by researchers at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, anandamide deficiency can lead to stress-induced anxiety. Anandamide activates the CB1 receptors in the endocannabinoid system (ECS). CB1 receptors are abundant in the brain and nervous system, regulating mood and memory. CBD can elevate anandamide levels by inhibiting anandamide’s enzyme, fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). This allows anandamide to produce its effects longer. These effects include relieving anxiety, improving mood, and potentially disrupting fear memories, a useful effect in treating stress-induced anxiety in disorders like PTSD.



CBD may also help treat acne by its interaction with anandamide. Anandamide synthesizes lipids (fat molecules) in the skin, which can lead to the production of sebum (an oily substance in the skin). When sebocytes (cells that make sebum) overproduce sebum, Balance Bloom wellness it contributes to the development of acne. CBD prevents anandamide from synthesizing lipids, making it a viable option for removing acne. 2-AG is another endocannabinoid neurotransmitter. It primarily activates the CB2 receptor in the ECS. The CB2 receptors are abundant in the immune system, thus, 2-AG helps modulate immune function. It may also have analgesic and neuroprotective properties. A deficiency in 2-AG, as well as anandamide, may contribute to the development of migraine and IBS. CBD seems to increase levels of 2-AG by inhibiting its enzyme, much like CBD does with anandamide. Glutamate is one of the most important and abundant neurotransmitters. As an excitatory neurotransmitter, glutamate helps neurons fire to send messages. Research shows that Glutamate helps with brain function, such as regulating memory.



It is also found in food and can help maintain a healthy gut. However, excess glutamate is toxic to neurons and seems to be a major contributor to the development of several neurological disorders including epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s, neuropathic pain, and migraines. Oxidation can lead to the overproduction of glutamate. Since CBD is an antioxidant, it may help prevent excess production of glutamate. CBD has also been shown to normalize glutamate by activating the CB2 and 5-HT1A (serotonin) receptors. Dopamine is part of the reward system in the brain. Its functions include regulating movement and emotional responses. Dopamine deficiency is the major contributor to Parkinson’s disease, as the disease destroys the dopamine-producing neurons in the brain. This leads to tremors and bradykinesia (slowness of movement), the hallmarks of Parkinson’s. CBD may help reverse dopamine deficiency and protect neurons from damage. Serotonin seems to be involved in mood, social behavior, and cognitive function. Research points to serotonin deficiencies as the source of some anxiety disorders and possibly depression.