Inflammation lies at the root of most chronic diseases. Though acute inflammation is a normal immune system function, uncontrolled chronic inflammation can slowly damage nearly every tissue and organ in the body. Persistent inflammation has been conclusively linked to heart disease, diabetes, cancer, autoimmune disorders, and more.
Finding natural ways to reduce inflammation is crucial for overall health and well-being. One promising compound research shows can powerfully combat inflammation is cannabidiol (CBD).
What is CBD?
CBD is one of over 100 active compounds called cannabinoids in cannabis plants. However, unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD will not cause any feeling of being “high.” While THC elicits a high by binding to CB1 receptors concentrated in the brain and central nervous system, CBD does not bind directly to these receptors. CBD can curb inflammation and exert other therapeutic benefits without psychoactive effects.
CBD has become increasingly popular as a health supplement due to its wide range of potential applications. CBD shows promise in alleviating various inflammation-related ailments, from anxiety and pain relief to supporting heart health and digestive function.
We have to look at the endocannabinoid system (ECS) to understand how CBD can quell inflammation. This refers to naturally occurring cannabinoid receptors found on cell membranes throughout the body and the endocannabinoids produced in our bodies that bind to them. The ECS regulates vital functions like immune response, sleep cycles, hunger signals, temperature, etc. It maintains homeostasis, or stability within the body’s internal environment. Imbalances within the ECS can manifest as chronic inflammation and disease. When we supplement with plant-based cannabinoids like CBD, they mimic the behavior of our natural endocannabinoids. This helps restore balance to the ECS and various physiological systems under control.
Specifically, CBD interacts with endocannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2. Activating these receptors triggers anti-inflammatory cascades throughout the body. While CB1 receptors are concentrated in the brain, CB2 receptors are found primarily on immune cells, giving CBD strong immunomodulating properties.
By stimulating CB2, CBD dials down inflammation and calms an overactive immune response. This helps the body return to a state of homeostasis.
The Anti-Inflammatory Properties of CBD
Through its interaction with CB2 receptors, CBD has been found in studies to reduce inflammatory signaling proteins called cytokines. Elevated levels of certain cytokines like interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) are associated with autoimmune conditions, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, cancer progression, and more. CBD may help alleviate the painful and damaging effects of uncontrolled inflammation by decreasing the production and release of these and other pro-inflammatory cytokines. This can provide noticeable relief from inflammatory conditions and may even improve long-term outcomes.
For example, CBD has proven particularly effective against joint inflammation and inflammatory pain in arthritis. Animal studies using models of arthritis found that CBD administration reduced inflammatory cell infiltration into affected joints, inhibited cytokine production, and mitigated overall joint swelling.
Human clinical research also indicates CBD possesses anti-arthritic properties. A study found that the application of CBD topical reduced inflammation and overall pain in arthritic patients without any reported adverse effects.
Beyond arthritis, CBD’s anti-inflammatory actions likely contribute to its efficacy against other inflammatory conditions:
- Digestive disorders like IBD and IBS involve gut inflammation. CBD can alleviate intestinal inflammation and related symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and nausea.
- Neuroinflammation plays a role in neurodegenerative disease. CBD may protect neurons through anti-inflammatory mechanisms.
- Cardiovascular disease stems from vascular inflammation. By decreasing vascular inflammation, CBD benefits heart health.
The Enhanced Anti-Inflammatory Synergy of CBD and ACV
While CBD clearly has independent anti-inflammatory effects, we’ve found that combining it with apple cider vinegar (ACV) magnifies these benefits exponentially. Raw, unfiltered ACV contains beneficial compounds like acetic acid, polyphenols, probiotics, and enzymes that equip it with its own set of anti-inflammatory powers. Acetic acid has been shown to inhibit the release of inflammatory cytokines. ACV also exhibits antibacterial properties that indirectly reduce inflammation.
Together, CBD and ACV supply a robust one-two punch against inflammation. Our gummies ingeniously fuse therapeutic levels of CBD isolate with the maximum potency of raw ACV containing the intact “mother”—the strand-like acetobacter that gives ACV its cloudy appearance.
Our proprietary blend incorporates other anti-inflammatory ingredients like Spermidine, a compound found naturally in our bodies, which according to a 2012 study in Autophagy, can suppress pro-inflammatory responses. Fisetin, a plant flavonoid, showcases antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties per a 2020 review in Antioxidants. Apigenin, another flavonoid, has been demonstrated to regulate inflammatory markers, as outlined in a 2019 review in Pharmacological Research. These work synergistically with CBD and ACV to target inflammation from every angle.
Research on CBD’s Safety and Side Effects
According to the World Health Organization, CBD is considered to have a favorable safety profile and exhibits little potential for abuse or dependence. Most human trials have found CBD exceptionally well tolerated at doses up to 1,500 mg daily.
Mild side effects reported include:
- Digestive issues like diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal pain
- Drowsiness and fatigue, especially at high doses
- Changes in appetite and weight
- Interactions with certain medications
These effects appear to be transient and resolve with continued use. More severe side effects are extremely rare. However, it’s important to use care when taking any supplement. Discontinue CBD if any concerning reactions occur and notify your doctor immediately.
Our CBD gummies are produced from pure CBD isolate and rigorously tested by independent labs to validate their safety, potency, and purity. This includes confirming the total absence of THC, pesticides, heavy metals, and other contaminants.
Proper Dosage for Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Since CBD is metabolized differently by each individual, there is no universal dosage appropriate for all. The most effective dosage can depend on factors like:
- Body weight and composition
- Condition severity
- CBD delivery method and timing
- Individual biology and prior CBD use
For managing inflammation, doses in the range of 25-50 mg taken twice per day are commonly recommended. However, starting low and incrementally increasing the dosage is wise until you find noticeable relief.
Consult an experienced practitioner for personalized dosage guidance. Adhering to the “start low, go slow” method allows you to dial the optimal dosage for sustained anti-inflammatory benefits.
Routes of Administration for CBD
The delivery method impacts CBD’s onset and duration of effects. Different options provide their own pros and cons:
- Sublingual oils: Fast-acting but shorter duration
- Vaping: Quick onset but respiratory risks
- Topicals: Direct application to affected areas
- Edibles/capsules: Delayed effects but longer lasting
For ongoing inflammation relief, ingestible CBD edibles or capsules are an excellent choice for extended coverage. Our CBD gummies are specially formulated for this extended anti-inflammatory relief in a delicious, convenient format.
Ways to Enhance CBD’s Anti-Inflammatory Effects
While CBD holds tremendous potential to combat chronic inflammation, maximal benefits will be achieved by adopting a holistic approach.
Certain lifestyle measures can enhance CBD’s anti-inflammatory powers:
- Following an anti-inflammatory diet high in omega-3s, antioxidants, whole foods, and prebiotics/probiotics.
- Engaging in regular exercise while avoiding overtraining.
- Incorporating stress-relieving practices like meditation, yoga, or nature.
- Prioritizing restorative sleep for 7-9 hours per night.
- Staying well-hydrated and avoiding toxins like cigarette smoke.
- Using other anti-inflammatory supplements like curcumin, boswellia, and fish oil.
Combining these strategies with a daily CBD regimen amplifies CBD’s natural anti-inflammatory properties for full-body effects.
CBD: A Powerful Weapon Against Inflammation and Disease
While research is evolving, CBD has already exhibited great promise in treating inflammation-related conditions. By interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system to curb inflammatory cytokines and encourage homeostasis, CBD may help quell chronic inflammation and change disease trajectories.
However, not all CBD products on the market are created equal. It’s critical to vet any CBD source for safety and efficacy. Our CBD inflammation gummies deliver the potent anti-inflammatory one-two combo of broad-spectrum CBD, raw apple cider vinegar, and targeted ingredients proven to mitigate inflammation. Harness the natural power of CBD and give your body the tools to fight chronic inflammation from the inside out. Combating inflammation with CBD early on may help prevent progressive inflammatory damage and improve quality of life.