Can CBD Lower Blood Pressure?

The good news about medical marijuana and the promising benefits of the cannabinoids in the plant matrix of the cannabis plant is that it is still in its stage of infancy. While there is so much being said about CBD and medical marijuana and the amount of good it can do now, much is still to come. This is because numerous relevant clinical researches are being carried out to understand the full scope of benefits embedded in the plant and how it can be maximized. One of the proposed ways of maximizing CBD is its application in lowering blood pressure. Read on as we ascertain the possibility of CBD use in lowering blood pressure.

High blood Pressure

As the name suggests, a persistent increase in blood pressure which is so known as hypertension is a major health issue that can lead to other secondary health concerns like heart attack and stroke. There are different proponents of high blood pressure but it is a characteristic health concern common to the elderly in tropical regions. High intake of alcohol, smoking, and obesity have however been identified to be risks factors with a high chance of increasing incidence of high blood pressure.

High blood pressure gives few symptoms which are why many people that have the condition do not know until it has caused severe damage. Some of its common symptoms such as dizziness, nose bleeds, headaches, shortness of breath, chest pain, blood in the urine, and flushing are characteristic of other conditions as well. This is why health practitioners recommend that all persons should check their blood pressure regularly. High blood pressure is a condition that with proper maintenance or pharmacological intervention can be minimized and properly handled. CBD has been pushed as a viable product for lowering blood pressure in recent times, but let’s see what the science says.

CBD and Blood pressure

Although the majority are used to the name CBD, it won’t be surprising to find out that many do not know enough about the useful cannabinoid. CBD is a legal cannabinoid derived from different species of the cannabis plant. Contrary to the known effects of THC its counterpart in giving intense and energetic euphoria, CBD helps to promote calmness and all-round body and mind wellness. Its medicinal applications include pain relief, insomnia, anxiety, inflammation, and possibly addiction. The natural product is available in isolate, broad a spectrum, and full-spectrum with the latter conferring entourage effect from other compounds in the plant.

The endocannabinoid system of the body is a unique biological system that plays a huge role in a number of activities in the human body. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system through the main cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2. These receptors help in modulating the activities of the system metabolism, pain, sleep, motor control, sleep, and mood. THC also binds to cannabinoids receptors in the same manner as CBD and endocannabinoids to aid in the modulation of its activities. One of the major theories in the relationship between CBD and the system is that CBD prevents its breakdown granting prolonged effect.

There are different types of CBD products used for medical purposes by patients under the medical marijuana scheme. These products include topicals, oils, tinctures, and edibles. Oils have higher bioavailability compared to the other products which confer greater efficacy and are why it is used by most patients.

Can CBD reduce blood pressure?

While many expect a definite answer to the inquiries into the possible role of CBD In reducing blood pressure, it is important to state that the reports from current research are still somewhat contradictory. A study conducted by a team of experts in 2017 using a single dose of CBD on nine male participants lowered blood pressure in those at rest while it reduced blood pressure as well for those who were under stress. A different study carried out in 2017 using mice also showed that CBD can bring about a reduction in increased blood pressure and heart rate brought about by induced stress.

While some of these earlier studies have shown promise, researchers are still cautious to give a general conclusion yet some studies have indicated the need to do more concrete studies into the relationship. A 2020 study on rats showed antioxidant effects for CBD with no apparent effect in reduction of blood pressure. The importance of cardiovascular complications means there is a need for concrete studies ad full elucidation of the roles of CBD in reducing blood pressure. Nonetheless, early signs show much promise.

Safety of CBD use for high blood pressure

CBD is the bedrock of medical marijuana and is safely used for a number of conditions by different patients in the medical marijuana program. A common question for many who want to use CBD for Hugh blood pressure is the possibility of complications arising from its use. The FDA and WHO having acknowledged the potentials of CBD as a medicinal agent has also attested to its safety profile which nullifies the problems of dependence and possible misuse. Though more research is still ongoing cases of side effects with CBD have been recorded with patients having diarrhea, fatigue, and change in appetite or weight.

Can you take CBD alongside other medications?

The interactions of CBD with other drugs have not been fully elucidated yet but it should be noted that it has been proven that CBD can interact with some medications including those used for hypertension. This means that if you are looking to take CBD to lower blood pressure and you are on other medications, proper consultation with a physician is necessary. This reduces the possibilities of adverse reaction and therapeutic failure of both CBD and the antihypertensive.

Takeaway

There is still room for more research to be carried out into the use of CBD in lowering blood pressure. This research will cover all areas that might be involved in the pathophysiology of the condition and show beyond any doubt the effectiveness of CBD in lowering blood pressure.