Alzheimer’s disease, a leading cause of dementia, is linked to harmful proteins in the brain. A recent study in 2023 found that cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound from cannabis, may protect brain cells from this damage. CBD improved cell health and reduced stress and damage in neurons affected by Alzheimer’s-related proteins. This suggests using CBD Oil for Alzheimer’s could be a valuable addition to treatments for Alzheimer’s disease.
What is Alzheimers’s?
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common type of dementia, impacting millions around the globe. It’s a severe condition highlighted by the World Health Organisation (WHO). AD is known for causing memory loss and cognitive decline, but what happens in the brain to cause this? It boils down to the build-up of two proteins: amyloid-β (Aβ) and tau. These proteins form plaques and tangles in the brain, leading to a cascade of problems, including oxidative stress, damaged cell energy centres (mitochondria), and eventually, cell death.
What is CBD and How Could It Help?
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a compound derived from the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, another well-known cannabinoid, CBD doesn’t produce a high. Instead, it’s gaining popularity for its potential health benefits, especially its calming, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.
Recent studies are starting to explore how CBD might help protect brain cells, especially in conditions like Alzheimer’s. While research is still early, some findings are encouraging.
Researchers from China Pharmaceutical University in Nanjing discovered that cannabidiol (CBD), a key cannabis compound without intoxicating effects like THC, might enhance cognitive function and potentially offer protection against Aβ42, a protein derived from the amyloid precursor protein, which is a noteworthy biomarker associated with Alzheimer’s disease onset, mild cognitive impairment, vascular dementia, and other cognitive disorders.
How CBD Works in the Brain
- Protecting Brain Cells: One of the main things researchers found is that CBD can help keep brain cells alive longer. In the context of Alzheimer’s, where cell death is a significant issue, this is a big deal.
- Reducing Harmful Effects: CBD appears to reduce the damaging effects of oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation (a process that damages cell membranes). This means it helps protect the brain’s integrity.
- Interacting with the Endocannabinoid System: CBD works with our body’s endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate various functions, including mood, sleep, and appetite. By balancing this system, CBD might help mitigate some symptoms of Alzheimer’s.
What the Studies Say
- Improved Cell Health: Studies show that CBD can significantly improve the health and survival of neurons (brain cells) exposed to amyloid-β peptides, which are notorious for causing damage in Alzheimer’s.
- Less Oxidative Stress: Oxidative stress leads to cell damage, and CBD’s antioxidant properties help neutralize this, protecting the brain.
- Lipid Peroxidation: By reducing this process, CBD helps maintain cell membrane integrity, crucial for cell survival.
“Our findings suggest CBD’s efficacy in moderating microglial and astrocytic activation, offering anti-inflammatory benefits that protect synaptic function and alleviate AD-associated cognitive deficits. Our data support CBD’s potential therapeutic role in countering AD-related neuroinflammation,” the study reads. This suggests using CBD Oil for Alzheimer’s could be a valuable addition to treatments for Alzheimer’s disease.
While research on CBD’s effects on Alzheimer’s Disease is still developing, early results are promising. In addition a 2021 study showed that high doses of CBD in late-stage Alzheimer’s patients increased proteins that help remove harmful plaques from the brain. Additionally, a 2019 review suggested that CBD might suppress factors contributing to Alzheimer’s, indicating its potential as a beneficial treatment option.
The Promise of CBD in Alzheimer’s Care
While these findings are promising, it’s essential to approach CBD as part of a broader strategy for managing Alzheimer’s. It’s not a cure-all but could be a valuable addition to other treatments and lifestyle changes aimed at protecting brain health. The exact ways CBD can be most effective are still under study, but its potential to aid in neuroprotection is an exciting development in the fight against Alzheimer’s.
What to Keep in Mind
- Consult Healthcare Professionals: Before starting any new treatment, including CBD, it’s vital to talk to a healthcare provider to ensure it’s safe and appropriate for your specific situation.
- Quality Matters: If considering CBD, opt for high-quality products from reputable sources to ensure purity and potency. A 20% gold quality CBD oil from Bristol CBD is recommended.
In conclusion, while research is ongoing, CBD holds promise as a potential aid in protecting brain health and mitigating some of the damaging effects of Alzheimer’s disease. It could become an important part of a comprehensive approach to managing this challenging condition.
For more information on CBD and Alzheimer’s, and to purchase our 20% Gold CBD Oil, visit Bristol CBD.
About Bristol CBD
Bristol CBD is the most trusted CBD brand in the UK with a trust score of 5.0 stars on both Google and Trustpilot. As well as CBD products to help keep the mind and body in balance, Bristol CBD also sell high-spec functional mushrooms including Lion’s Mane, Cordyceps, Shiitake, Chaga, Reishi and Turkey Tail.
We offer unparalleled customer service, support, guidance and advice and a 100% money back guarantee if you are not entirely satisfied with your product.
Please note that Bristol CBD staff are not qualified doctors or nurses and therefore we do not make any medical claims and cannot recommend CBD for specific ailments. Our articles are simply based on our own research and over 12 years experience of working with CBD and other supplements. We always encourage people to talk with their GPs, physicians or nurses before taking food supplements.
If you have any questions about how to buy or use CBD or medicinal mushroom products, please feel free to call us on 07706 031 935 at any time. We are always happy to share our experiences and help people to find the best solution for their own needs.
