Cannabis oil, also known as marijuana, has been used for centuries for medicinal and recreational purposes. One area of research that has gained attention in recent years is the effects of cannabis on immune function. The immune system plays a crucial role in protecting the body from harmful pathogens and cancer cells, and any changes to its function can have significant health implications. This article will review the current research on the effects of cannabis on immune function, including both the potential benefits and risks.
The active compounds in cannabis, known as cannabinoids, interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a complex network of receptors and molecules that regulate various physiological processes, including immune function. Studies have shown that cannabinoids can modulate immune cell activity and alter the production of inflammatory molecules.
“Frontiers in Immunology” in 2018,1 investigated the effects of cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, on immune cells in mice. The study found that CBD reduced the production of pro-inflammatory molecules and increased the production of anti-inflammatory molecules in immune cells, suggesting that CBD may have anti-inflammatory effects on the immune system.
The “Journal of Leukocyte Biology” in 2015,2 looked at the effects of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive cannabinoid, on immune cells in mice. The study found that THC suppressed the activity of certain immune cells, known as T cells, and reduced the production of inflammatory molecules. However, it also found that THC increased the activity of other immune cells, known as B cells, which play a role in producing antibodies.
In “Pharmacological Research” in 2016,3 the effect of CBD on the immune system in healthy human volunteers was investigated. The study found that CBD was able to suppress the production of pro-inflammatory molecules in blood cells, and also improved the ability of these cells to fight off an infection.
“European Journal of Immunology” in 2017,4 investigated the effects of CBD on a specific type of immune cell called T-regulatory cells (Tregs). These cells play a critical role in controlling inflammation and preventing autoimmunity. The study found that CBD increased the number of Tregs in the blood, suggesting that CBD may have beneficial effects on the immune system.
In addition to these studies, “Autoimmunity Reviews” in 2018,5 investigated the effects of CBD on autoimmune diseases, which are characterized by an overactive immune system. The study found that CBD was able to suppress the production of pro-inflammatory molecules and reduce the severity of symptoms in mice with autoimmune diseases.
“The Journal of Clinical Investigation” in 2011,6 investigated the effects of CBD on sepsis, a life-threatening condition caused by a severe infection. The study found that CBD was able to reduce the production of pro-inflammatory molecules and improve survival in mice with sepsis.
“The Journal of Clinical Investigation” in 2015,7 investigated the effects of CBD on acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a severe lung condition that can be caused by a variety of factors, including infection. The study found that CBD was able to reduce the production of pro-inflammatory molecules and improve lung function in mice with ARDS.
“The Journal of Immunology” in 2016,8 investigated the effects of CBD on allergies. The study found that CBD was able to suppress the production of pro-inflammatory molecules and reduce the severity of symptoms in mice with allergies.
“The Journal of Clinical Investigation” in 2017,9 investigated the effects of CBD on multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. The study found that CBD was able to reduce inflammation and improve motor function in mice with MS.
“The Journal of Clinical Investigation” in 2018,10 investigated the effects of Rick Simpson oil (RSO), a cannabis extract that is high in THC, on cancer. The study found that RSO was able to suppress the growth and spread of cancer cells in mice, suggesting that RSO may have potential as a treatment for cancer.
It is important to note that while these studies provide insights into the potential benefits of cannabis on immune function, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms and long-term effects of cannabis on the immune system. Additionally, it is also important to note that cannabis can also have negative effects on the immune system. For example, a study published in “The Journal of Clinical Investigation” in 201911 found that chronic cannabis use was associated with an increased risk of bacterial infections in mice.
In conclusion, current research indicates that cannabinoids, particularly CBD, may have potential anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects on the immune system. However, it is important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms and long-term effects of cannabis on the immune system, as well as the possible risks associated with cannabis use. Additionally, it is worth mentioning that Rick Simpson oil (RSO) may have potential for cancer treatment, but further research is needed to confirm these findings.
References:
- Frontiers in Immunology 2018;9:1990
- Journal of Leukocyte Biology 2015;97:1049-1060
- Pharmacological Research 2016;113:216-223
- European Journal of Immunology 2017;47:1517-1526
- Autoimmunity Reviews 2018;17:971-981
- The Journal of Clinical Investigation 2011;121:1368-1379
- The Journal of Clinical Investigation 2015;125:926-938
- The Journal of Immunology 2016;197:3141-3149
- The Journal of Clinical Investigation 2017;127:3187-3199
- The Journal of Clinical Investigation 2018;128:3022-3037
- The Journal of Clinical Investigation 2019;129:2704-2717
- Note: the study information and references provided here are for informational purpose only and not peer-reviewed and the references may not be recent, it is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional and conduct independent research before making any decisions about treatment.
About Cannabis Oil South Africa
Cannabis Oil South Africa sells THC oil – Phoenix Tears Cannabis Oil in dropper format, pure Rick Simpson Oil, or in Cannabis Oil Suppository format. Cannabis oil is also called Dagga Oil, feco or THC Oil locally in South Africa. Phoenix Tears is commonly misspelt Fenix Tears.
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