CBD Effects on the Heart

While cannabidiol has primarily been studied in relation to anxiety, chronic pain, and epilepsy, recent years have seen research begin to examine its impact on the heart and cardiovascular system. In this article, we'll explore the available scientific evidence regarding CBD's effect on the heart, examining both preclinical and clinical studies, and discuss the implications of these findings for heart health.

Heart, Endocannabinoid System, and CBD

Before delving into the specific effects of CBD products on the heart, it's crucial to understand the role of the endocannabinoid system in relation to cardiovascular health.

The endocannabinoid system is a complex signaling network present in the human body. It regulates a wide range of physiological functions, including blood pressure regulation, inflammatory response, and vascular tone. This system consists of cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2), endocannabinoids (cannabinoids produced by the body), and enzymes capable of synthesizing and breaking down endocannabinoids.

A study on the effects of cannabis on cardiovascular functions highlighted that the endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role in regulating cardiovascular functions, including maintaining vascular homeostasis and protecting against oxidative stress and inflammation.

Consequently, exogenous cannabinoids like CBD can influence the cardiovascular system through interaction with the endocannabinoid system.

CBD can be highly beneficial in helping to reduce elevated heart rates, such as those associated with tachycardia, a cardiovascular disorder affecting millions of people. Tachycardia manifests as an increase in heart rate, which should normally be between 60 and 100 beats per minute at rest. This condition causes a malfunction in the transmission of electrical impulses sent to the heart, which can be triggered by various factors including:

• smoking
• alcohol abuse
• excessive consumption of stimulants like caffeine and tea
• high blood pressure
• anxiety
• anemia
• mineral deficiency or excess
• heart abnormalities (often completely normal variations)

Thanks to its interaction with the endocannabinoid system and its calming effect, CBD helps regulate receptors and reduce tachycardia.

Several studies highlight the importance of quality sleep for maintaining a healthy heart. This isn't surprising. While we sleep, our bodies perform crucial repair and recovery processes, including stress reduction and regulation of cortisol levels, which is the stress hormone. Insufficient sleep or poor sleep quality can lead to an imbalance in the hormones that control blood pressure, increasing the risk of hypertension and other cardiovascular diseases.

As this study on the use of cannabidiol in managing insomnia points out, CBD helps combat insomnia. It contributes to promoting deeper and more restful sleep, helping to stabilize stress and cortisol levels in the body throughout the night. Maintaining stable blood pressure, reducing stress, and getting adequate rest are fundamental rules for heart health and for helping to prevent the onset of cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis, stroke, and coronary heart disease.

Before incorporating CBD into your cardiovascular wellness routine, it's important to consider some factors regarding safety and consumption. CBD is considered safe even by the World Health Organization, but it's crucial to know that it can interact with certain medications. Therefore, if you're on any heart medication or treatment for other conditions, it's essential to consult your doctor before you start using it.