Cannabis has long been a topic of conversation and study within the medical and scientific communities. It has many health benefit claims which has seen several states in the US legalize it for medical purposes. But to understand the actual effects of cannabis on the human body, researchers and experts are closely examining how it impacts and interacts with the immune system.
The immune system is our body's defense against harmful pathogens and foreign substances. It comprises a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs critical to maintaining health and well-being. By understanding the relationship between cannabis and the immune system, we can determine its potential benefits and risks.
Understanding The Human Immune System
The human immune system is a very sophisticated network that serves several primary functions, which include:
- Acting as a barrier to prevent the entry of harmful pathogens into the body.
- Recognizing and identifying foreign substances and distinguishing them from the body's cells and molecules.
- Initiating an immune response to eliminate pathogens and infected cells from the body.
- Keeping memory of previously encountered pathogens to allow for quicker and more efficient response upon re-exposure.
The immune system has two primary forms: the innate and adaptive immune system. The innate system is your body's natural defensive barrier. Its response is nonspecific, meaning it acts on threats by default and does not leave lasting immunity. It is also worth noting that the most prominent cannabis effect on the immune system is expressed through innate immunity. On the other hand, adaptive immunity is more refined as it attacks specific cells and leaves lasting immunity. It is facilitated through the lymphatic system, which is primarily inhabited by two main cell types, and they encourage cannabis immune system interaction. These are the T-cells and B-cells. The T-lymphocyte cells absorb and destroy foreign invaders, while the B-lymphocytes produce antibodies that fight off pathogens.
How Does Cannabis Interact with The Immune System?
Cannabis consists of various chemical compounds called phytocannabinoids, which interact with the body's endocannabinoid system. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) regulates multiple physiological processes, including immune responses. Endocannabinoids in the ECS are similar in structure to the cannabinoids found in cannabis. This means external cannabinoids such as CBD and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) can potentially bind to ECS receptors and influence enzyme activity by mimicking endocannabinoids. And considering the significant influence of endocannabinoids over our immune system, plant cannabinoids create the possibility of hacking the ECS when it comes to immunity.
Research suggests that cannabis can influence our immune responses in two primary ways: immunosuppression and immunomodulation.
Immunosuppression
THC is thought to have immunosuppressive properties. This means it can reduce the immune system's ability to fight off pathogens, potentially making you more susceptible to infections. While this property may seem like a disadvantage for people with healthy immune systems, it may benefit individuals with autoimmune disorders where the immune system attacks the body's cells.
When the immune system overreacts to a perceived internal threat, it can result in various debilitating symptoms. In the case of autoimmune disorders, the cells that protect us from outside invaders turn against bodily tissues, mistaking joints, skin, and nerve cells for aggressive bacteria and viruses. This rolls out as self-inflicted damage that results in inflammation and cascades to conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, type 1 diabetes, and multiple sclerosis.
Research suggests that cannabinoids are effective against inflammation caused by autoimmune disease progression and help the immune system return to equilibrium. Animal studies also indicate that cannabis exerts an immunosuppressive effect.
Immunomodulation
Cannabis, particularly CBD, also plays a role in immunomodulation, meaning it helps regulate or normalize the immune system's response. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, beneficial for people with conditions characterized by excessive inflammation. Cannabis has also long been used for pain relief, and research indicates that it may help alleviate pain associated with inflammatory conditions. It can also influence the immune responses, making it potentially beneficial in balancing the immune system function in specific conditions. In a 2009 study, researchers were able to identify various ways through which cannabinoids may modulate immune function.
Cannabis Use in Immune-Compromised Individuals
The use of cannabis in immune-compromised individuals such as those undergoing cancer treatment or with HIVAIDS presents unique considerations. Since their immune systems are already weakened, it is vital to understand the potential risks and benefits of cannabis use carefully.
Cannabis has shown the potential to manage symptoms such as chronic pain, nausea, and loss of appetite. This can drastically improve their quality of life and enhance overall well-being. Some studies also suggest that cannabis may interact with antiretroviral drugs used to manage HIV AIDS. It is, therefore, essential to consult with a healthcare provider before using cannabis if you are already taking ART. This will help you determine the potential drug interactions and ensure optimal treatment outcomes.
However, while cannabis may seem promising for immune-compromised individuals, its immunosuppression effects raise some concerns. You must balance the potential benefits of symptom management and the potential risks of immunosuppression.
The Bottom Line
As new research on the effects of cannabis on the immune system continues to roll out, the results so far have shown promising potential for the use of cannabis in improving our general health and wellness. More research is still needed to help us fully understand how cannabis affects the immune system under different conditions and to identify the optimal types and doses of cannabis we can use for various health concerns.
But in the meantime, if you are considering using cannabis for medical reasons, it is best to do so under the guidance of a certified healthcare provider. While the potential benefits can be significant, carefully considering and managing the risks is also essential.
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