CBD, short for Cannabidiol, has captured the healthcare industry by storm for its profound influence on physical, emotional, and psychological health. As one of over 100 chemical compounds known as cannabinoids found in the Cannabis sativa plant, CBD provides remarkable health benefits without the psychoactive effects often attributed to ‘getting high’. Healthline explains this in more detail. But did you know that there is another potentially life-changing benefit of CBD that is gaining considerable attention – its relationship with blood pressure?
Understanding Blood Pressure
Before unravelling the intricate connection between Cannabidiol and blood pressure, it’s important to understand what blood pressure is. It is the measurement of the force applied by your blood on your blood vessel walls as it flows through your body. In a nutshell, your health can be at risk if your blood pressure is too high (hypertension) or too low (hypotension). The NHS presents a comprehensive guide to understanding high and low blood pressure.
The Connection: CBD and Blood Pressure
Anticipating the question on your lips; Does CBD affect blood pressure? The answer is yes, and here’s a brief on how:
• Vasodilatory effect: CBD potentially dilates the blood vessels allowing for easier blood flow, resulting in lower blood pressure.
• Stress and anxiety reduction: Cannabidiol aka CBD might also work on a psychological level by reducing stress and anxiety, conditions that can spike blood pressure levels.
• Anti-inflammatory property: The anti-inflammatory property of CBD can prevent inflammation and stiffening of arteries, ensuring smooth blood flow.
Clinical Studies Backing this Relationship
A research study published in The Journal of Clinical Investigation found that a single dose of CBD resulted in lower resting blood pressure levels in healthy volunteers. The test subjects also experienced a lower increase in blood pressure in response to stress.
Another study from Free Radical Biology & Medicine showed that CBD could reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which are risk factors for developing high blood pressure.
Further confirmative research studies might be essential to solidify the exact influence of CBD on blood pressure, but these early studies show positive signs.
How to Use CBD for Blood Pressure Management?
As it is with any health supplement, dosing and administration methods are crucial for optimal results and safety.
• Dosing: The amount of CBD you take can impact its effectiveness. Experts recommend starting with a low dose and gradually increasing until you experience the desired effect.
• Administration method: CBD can be ingested via gummies, tinctures, or capsules, applied topically as creams, or inhaled as vapour. Each method has a different absorption rate and effectiveness level.
For pets, there are specially designed CBD products, and they can be incredibly beneficial. It is, however, crucial to consult with a vet before administering any CBD product to your pet. We have a separate blog on CBD for pets. CBD for Pets: Is It Safe and Effective? fulfills this purpose.
Precautions and Side Effects
Although the use of CBD for blood pressure control shows promise, it is essential to remember that CBD shouldn’t replace your prescribed hypertension medication without consultation with a healthcare professional.
While CBD is generally safe and well-tolerated, some potential side effects include fatigue, diarrhoea, and changes in appetite. Also, CBD might interact with blood pressure medication or other drugs. Always discuss it with your Dr before starting any CBD regime.
Extra Tip: Boosting the Benefits of CBD
Many people aim to boost the healing effect of CBD with lifestyle changes. For example regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management techniques.
In conclusion, the link between CBD and blood pressure is an exciting area for ongoing research. While early results are promising, we look forward to more studies to provide a deeper insight into this relationship.