All living organisms have an immune system, and it is the function of this system to protect the body from any form of infection. Rather than being situated in a single place, the immune system operates throughout the body via the bloodstream as part of a complex network of cells.
As soon as an infection is detected in the body – whether it’s a virus, bacteria or toxin – the immune system will automatically send special cells known as lymphocytes, including T-cells, B-cells and NK cells, to target, attack and attempt to remove the infection. After an infection has been defeated by these cells, the immune system will keep a record of the specific microbe and how it was eradicated to remove it instantly if it enters the body again in the future.
Whether you have a weak immune system or simply want to enhance your ability to fight off infections, CBD could be one way to boost your immune system to help prevent future illnesses.
What does CBD do to your immune system?
When you take a CBD product, it will attach to receptors throughout your body, and this in turn will have an effect on processes related to these receptors. CB1 and CB2 are the human body’s two receptors for cannabinoids, and while many of the CB1 receptors are located in the brain for emotion, pain, thinking, memory, appetite and bodily functions, many of the CB2 receptors are part of the immune system for dealing with pain and inflammation.
Due to the connection between CB2 receptors and the immune system, it is thought that CBD products can have positive effects on pain and inflammation. This function is one of the reasons why CBD has become popular as an anti-inflammatory and pain relief solution.
The human body also produces its own cannabinoids, but research has suggested that CBD has a stronger effect on the immune system. Experts previously believed that CBD directly attached to CB2 as it does with other receptors, but it’s now believed that it has a stronger impact on encouraging cannabinoids already in the human body to increase the effect on processes such as the immune system.
Does CBD oil boost your immune system?
It is the job of the immune system to check that everything is functioning properly and act fast if it identifies an infection or something unpleasant in the body. As CBD is capable of enhancing the performance of the CB2 receptors that moderate the immune system – or encouraging cannabinoids in the body to work more effectively – some experts believe that it’s capable of pushing the immune system to function at a higher standard.
However, there are other ways that you can boost your immune system, such as:
- reducing stress levels
- eating more fruit, vegetables, nuts and seeds
- moderating smoking and alcohol consumption
- spending time in the sun
- getting more sleep
- taking probiotics.
