Cannabidiol (CBD), a much less psychoactive substance than THC with no established risk of dependence, is thought to be of interest in the treatment of certain forms of epilepsy, anxiety, inflammation and immune deficiency, mood disorders and even schizophrenia.

It has now been proven that cannabidiol acts directly or indirectly on many of the body's receptors.

CBD, stress and anxiety

CBD does not bind directly to CB1 and CB2 receptors, but can modulate their activity by indirectly influencing their signalling pathways. This interaction helps to regulate various physiological processes, including stress response and mood.

• FAAH inhibition: CBD has been shown to inhibit the enzyme FAAH, which is responsible for breaking down anandamide. By inhibiting FAAH, CBD can increase the levels of anandamide in the body, thus improving the overall functioning of the SEC.
• GABA, or gamma-aminobutyric acid, is a brain neurotransmitter responsible for reducing neuronal excitability. It acts as an inhibitor in the brain. It helps to reduce neuronal activity and is responsible for calming the nervous system, relaxation and reducing anxiety. When GABA binds to its receptors in the brain, it reduces the excitation of neurons, resulting in lower levels of anxiety and stress.

Studies have shown that CBD can indirectly enhance GABA signalling by increasing the availability of GABA in the brain. CBD inhibits the activity of an enzyme called GABA transaminase, which is responsible for the breakdown of GABA. By inhibiting this enzyme, CBD increases levels of GABA in the brain, reinforcing its inhibitory effects and helping to reduce anxiety and stress.

CBD and mood

CBD also interacts with other non-cannabinoid receptors, such as serotonin receptors (5-HT1A) and transient receptors for vanilloid potential type 1 (TRPV1). These interactions may contribute to CBD's potential therapeutic effects, including stress relief, anxiety and mood enhancement.

To find out more, read our article on the links between CBD and stress HERE

Reducing Cannabis Consumption

Unlike THC, CBD is not addictive. A study carried out on 1,500 people showed that 11% of them used CBD to reduce their cannabis consumption, with success in more than half of cases.CBD acts on different receptors to THC, which could help to reduce cannabis use without causing dependence.

Inflammation

Numerous studies attribute undeniable efficacy to CBD as an anti-inflammatory on several levels:

• By blocking the migration of macrophages (digestion of foreign particles and pathogens).
• By regulating the activation of lymphocytes (recognition and destruction of foreign cells).
• By inhibiting the release of pro-inflammatory substances.
• By promoting the release of other anti-inflammatory substances called "cytokines".

CBD improves skin condition

A growing number of studies place CBD and other phytocannabinoids as key ingredients for skin problems. According to the European Commission and their database of cosmetic ingredients (CosIng), CBD lists no fewer than 4 conclusive effects:

• Anti-seborrhoea: Helps control sebum production.
• Moisturiser: Keeps the skin in good condition.
• Protective: Helps prevent the harmful effects of external factors on the skin.
• Antioxidant: Inhibits reactions promoted by oxygen, preventing oxidation and rancidity.