Cannabis, a plant with a rich history of medicinal and recreational use, has been a subject of interest and debate over its effects on the human body. Among its many potential impacts, research has shed light on how cannabis interacts with the immune system, a complex network responsible for defending the body against infections and diseases. In this article, we will dive more into how cannabis affects our immune system.
Cannabis and Our Immune System
Our immune system plays an important roll in the detection of bacteria and viruses and helps ensure that these cells don’t keep growing back. Some studies suggest that cannabinoids like THC and CBD are immunosuppressants (i.e. they suppress our immune system), which can be an explanation for the relief that chronic inflammation sufferers experience when they consume medical cannabis. Other studies have proven that regular cannabis use can increase white cell count in patients with immunodeficiency disorders, which suggests an immune-boosting effect. Research is still being done on the affects of marijuana on the immune system, so there is still more to be discovered in order to make an official claim.
Cannabis and Inflammation
The fact that marijuana can suppress our immune system is one of the reasons why it is great for reducing inflammation and alleviating pain. However, this can be good or bad depending on your situation. Inflammation is the bodys response to help prevent infections. It helps isolate the affected area and prevents viruses and toxins from spreading throughout the body. This means that suppressing the inflammatory immune response may also be counterproductive.
How Cannabis Can Affect Our Immune System
While suppressing the inflammatory immune response is not what we what, other studies suggest that cannabis can help to strengthen our immune system and helping it recover its equilibrium to fight infections. This seems to be what happens with HIV patients: the HIV virus eliminates T cells, which are lymphocytes that destroy harmful pathogens. This can make HIV sufferers more vulnerable to infections that are normally harmless. Several studies have proven that HIV patients that use cannabis have higher T cell counts. Therefore, cannabis seems to help these patients cope with their symptoms and strengthens their body’s response to the disease.
Cannabis can also help in the growth and degeneration of the nervous tissue in the brain. The immune system plays a vital role in pathologies derived from abnormalities in these functions. However, the extent of our understanding regarding the effects of cannabis on the immune system remains limited, primarily due to the scarcity of research dedicated to this specific area of study. There is a lack of comprehensive data available. While some evidence suggests that cannabis can potentially bolster immune function under certain circumstances, its impact can also be harmful in other situations. Thus, the overall effects of cannabis on the immune system remain uncertain, leaving us with more questions than concrete answers. It is recommended that you speak with a doctor prior to looking into cannabis to help with your immune system.
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