The interaction between the immune system and cannabis provides serious benefits
Scientists have long known that the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) is responsible for regulating the nervous system, as well as the immune system. As studies on the medical benefits of cannabis continue to develop, it has also been determined that compounds in the plant can interact with the ECS and help it perform its duties properly and efficiently, especially when it begins to falter. That discovery has become the basis for the realization that cannabis can easily combat and reverse liver disease, creating yet another example of the positive impact cannabis can have on the body.
14 years ago, Hebrew University Medical School researchers determined that tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a cannabis cannabinoid, is able to bind with receptors in the ECS. As this occurs, THC is able to “jump start” the ECS and give it a boost, much the same way adding Vitamin A and C to a diet can boost the body’s ability to heal itself.
That study led to a second study conducted in 2011. In that project, cannabidiol (CBD) was shown to have an effect on infected liver cells and led to those cells participating in what’s known as apoptosis, or cell suicide. At the same time, however, CBD didn’t impact the healthy or non-malignant cells.
Another study, conducted two years later, conclusively supported the earlier research. That study involved 690 liver disease patients, of which 53% had acknowledged that they had consumed cannabis in the six months prior to the research and 40% admitted to being daily users. The researchers concluded, “There was no evidence that marijuana smoking accelerates progression to significant liver fibrosis.”
