CBD For Gut Health And Weight Loss
Updated: Jan 31
What is CBD and how does it work in the gut microbiome
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a chemical compound found in cannabis plants. Unlike THC or tetrahydrocannabinol, CBD does not produce psychoactive effects. Instead, it interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which regulates various functions in the body, including mood, appetite, and pain. CBD is thought to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, and it is also being studied for its potential to treat other conditions, such as anxiety and obesity. Some research suggests that CBD may also have a role in gut health. For example, one study found that CBD was able to reduce inflammation in mice with colitis. Additionally, CBD appears to promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria.
Another compound found in cannabis plants and one that Blackhouse Botanicals includes in our products is CBG or cannabigerol. This compound is known for its antimicrobial properties and has been shown to be effective against certain types of bacteria. There is some evidence that CBG may also have beneficial effects on the gut microbiome, including reducing inflammation and supporting the growth of healthy bacteria. However, more research is needed to better understand how CBD and CBG interact with the gut microbiome.
Some researchers have also looked into the potential of terpenes, another compound found in cannabis plants, to affect gut health. Terpenes are compounds that give cannabis plants their distinctive smell and flavor. They are believed to have therapeutic properties, such as anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. Research suggests that terpenes may reduce inflammation in the gut and help maintain a healthy balance between beneficial and harmful bacteria in the microbiome.
Overall, it is clear that compounds found in cannabis plants may have a beneficial effect on gut health. It is important to note that CBD, CBG, and terpenes do not produce any psychoactive effects and won't get you "high" as THC can. Additionally, it is always best to consult with your doctor before trying anything new for your health.
The benefits of CBD for gut health
CBD may be best known for its ability to calm the mind and ease anxiety, but this potent compound can also do wonders for your gut health. CBD is a natural anti-inflammatory and has been shown to help reduce inflammation in the gut, relieving conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. CBD is also beneficial for gut health because it helps to reduce stress and anxiety, two common triggers for gastrointestinal issues. The findings of a recent study on the effects of THC and CBD found several health markers were significantly improved in mouse models including reducing the inflammatory response, improving glucose tolerance, and partially mitigating microbiome dysbiosis (Source). This study also showed, as with many we cite, that CBD was more effective than THC at improving these health markers. The efficacy of CBD vs. THC is a common debate and many believe incorrectly that THC is more psychoactive therefore it must be a more medicinal cannabinoid. CBD is shown to be a more effective treatment for a host of disease pathologies and symptoms in several reputable studies.
Symptoms of and conditions related to microbiome dysbiosis can include:
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Obesity
Cancer
Cardiovascular Disease
Ulcerative Colitis
Crohn's Disease
Depression
Chronic fatigue
Digestive Disorders
Indigestion or Acid Reflux
You can see that there are a host of problems created by issues with your gut health. In recent years studies have found strong connections between mental health and physical health related to gut health. This link may help us understand and improve many mental health conditions that modern doctors, psychology and pharmacology have struggled to understand and treat.