How does CBD affect the immune system and autoimmune diseases?

Translated from the website The Cannabis Exchange

As more countries around the world continue to recognize the potential of CBD, the full biological effects of the cannabinoid have not yet been fully understood. However, some research shows that CBD has anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties.

But what does this mean for those who use CBD products and who could benefit from it?

CBD is one of the most common chemical compounds found in the Cannabis plant. It is classified as a cannabinoid, along with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabinol (CBN) and over a hundred other compounds in the plant. Cannabinoids are natural chemicals that have become known for their medicinal and wellness potential.

It is also clear that in some cases, CBD can be used to treat specific diseases for which other available treatments have failed to be effective. While we know it produces effects on the central nervous system, unlike THC, which is psychoactive, CBD does not create the so-called "high" feeling.

Everything you need to know about our immune system

In a nutshell, the immune system is the main defense our body has against diseases and other potentially harmful threats. When it functions properly, the immune system identifies and attacks invaders, such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites - distinguishing them from the body's healthy tissue.

Lymphocytes, or B cells and T cells, fight antigens and help the body remember substances that have been fought off so that next time the immune system can act quickly and effectively.

Endocannabinoid System (ECS) and Immune System

Despite the existence of the endocannabinoid system being confirmed only by researchers in the 1990s, we already know that this system can play an important role in many bodily functions, including brain functions. Endocannabinoid receptors are expressed throughout the central nervous system, as well as in the human immune system.

Interactions between endocannabinoids and receptors are thought to influence mood, emotions, appetite, pain sensation, and memory, among other important physiological and cognitive processes. Phytocannabinoids (the most well-known are CBD and THC) interact with this system in a similar way to endocannabinoids.

So, what are the effects of CBD on our immune system?

According to the research of James M. Nichols and Barbara LF Kaplan, it seems that "considering all studies conducted on immune responses and inflammation, the data predominantly demonstrate that CBD is immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory".
While the definition of something as anti-inflammatory should be clear, CBD acting as an immunosuppressant may require clarification.

As a potential immunosuppressant, CBD may reduce the inflammatory responses of the immune system, promote apoptosis (cell death), and inhibit rapid cell growth. In certain cases, these features may have a negative effect on the immune system of a healthy human being.

Additionally, exposure to CBD may also suppress the functions of cytokines, chemokines, and T cells - all of which play an important role in immune defense.

Using immunosuppressants as treatment

It has been suggested that CBD may have potential as an adjunct treatment for some autoimmune diseases.

An autoimmune disease occurs when the immune system begins to attack healthy cells, tissues, and organs. This can occur basically anywhere in the body and can result in the weakening of certain bodily functions and, in some cases, life-threatening conditions. The most common autoimmune diseases include multiple sclerosis (MS), rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriasis.

Inflammation plays a significant role in autoimmune diseases. As an anti-inflammatory, CBD can help the body fight the disease. Additionally, the immunosuppressive nature of CBD can help deal with hyperactive immune systems that attack themselves.