Last updated on 24 May 2022
Can CBD Work for Heart Disease?
- The heart disease can be described as a form of heart disease (CVD) which refers to any heart-related disorder. A decrease in blood flow could trigger an attack on the heart (1).
- CBD is analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that could help with heart issues (2).
- In a study that was conducted in rats CBD decreased the size of myocardial infarct’s size, or the damage that occurs due to heart attacks within a few days of the event (3). Infarction refers to the destruction of the cardiac tissue due to reduced blood flow, often referred to as an attack on the heart.
- CBD’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties reduce the oxidative stress caused by excessive free radicals (4). CBD inhibits the growth of the reactive oxygen species (ROS) and also activates receptors that trigger an anti-inflammatory response.
- Certain heart disease medicines can cause adverse negative side effects, like bleeding, gangrene in the skin, and itchy skin (5). CBD’s adverse effects include nausea and diarrhea, fatigue and a decreased appetite (6).
How to Choose the Right CBD Oil for Heart Disease
Vasorelaxation reduces tension within blood vessels’ walls.
Natural substances that have vasorelaxant properties are believed to be beneficial to heart conditions (31).
A study on rabbits has revealed the possibility that tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) could be vasorelaxant (32).
But, THC may cause a feeling of euphoria in users since THC is the psychoactive component that is found in cannabis. Cannabis Sativaplant.
Full-spectrum CBD products are made up of THC however, they contain only tiny amounts, as allowed by federal law.
In full spectrum CBD products The THC amount isn’t enough to induce users into a high however, it can be detected by certain drug tests.
Full-spectrum CBD products include all of the cannabinoids found within the plant, including THC. It is believed that the active ingredients work together to provide maximum benefits for the user. This mechanism is called the entourage effect.
Broad-spectrum CBD oils are generally preferred over other CBD varieties, like wide-spectrum CBD as well as CBD isolates.
CBD isolates are made up of pure CBD that is derived from hemp. They contain a 99 percent amount of CBD, a compound.
The broad-spectrum variety includes CBD as well as other compounds that are that are found in cannabis plants, but not THC.
A consultation with a physician prior to making use of CBD is advised since the full spectrum of CBD products may contain trace amounts of THC which can trigger psychoactive effects.
CBD Dosage for Heart Disease
There isn’t a prescribed dosage for CBD. However, research has shown that there aren’t any severe adverse effects that exceed 1500 mg CBD daily (33). CBD oil is well-tolerated, even when taken in large doses.
It is highly recommended to start with a small amount of CBD to begin the process. Gradually increase the dosage until the desired effects are achieved.
How to Take CBD Oil for Heart Disease
CBD can be ingested in the following forms such as oils, tinctures Gummies, vapes, and creams.
CBD oil, tinctures, and gummies are suggested to be consumed. These products are able to work with the digestive system to ensure that the substance is readily absorbable.
Tinctures may also be administered under the tongue (under the tongue) to allow direct absorption into the blood.
CBD vapes are now available to those who wish to experience the immediate benefits of CBD.
A study from 2018 has revealed that CBD inhaled contains 31 percent bioavailability (34).
Bioavailability refers to the speed at which a substance is absorbed by the body.
Patients with heart disease should exercise care when using vapes as it could have adverse consequences for their health (35).
Other CBD forms include topicals like balms, salves, and creams. But, these products that focus on the skin might have less efficacy when combating cardiovascular disease.
Heart Disease vs. Cardiovascular Disease
Heart disease refers to ailments that directly affect the heart. It can also refer to problems with blood vessels and arteries, birth-related (present when you are born) heart conditions, and heart rhythm issues (36).
In addition, cardiovascular disorders are those that cause the blockage or narrowing of blood vessels. This can cause the chest feeling pain (angina) or stroke or heart attacks.
Different Types and Causes of Heart Diseases
Congenital Heart Disease
The term “congenital heart disorder” is used as a broad term used to describe congenital problems of the heart that could alter the way it performs. The reasons behind this disorder are not yet known. But, the risk could increase due to genetics and chromosome mutations or the combination of both.
Diet or medications as well as existing health issues can affect the baby’s health.
Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Dilated cardiomyopathy is a condition that affects the muscle of your heart. The chambers of the heart that pump blood (the left ventricle) dilates, which results in decreased pumps.
The growth of left ventricle could be caused by chemotherapy or abuse of substances arrhythmias, as well as medical conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and hypertension.
Heart Valve Disease
The disease is caused in the event that one of or several of the heart valves are not functioning properly. There are four valves in the heart which are blood vessels. They help keep flow of blood in correct direction. Each valve is equipped with flaps of tissue which open and close to synchronize with every heartbeat. If one flap is not able to open or close correctly, blood flow gets affected.
Other heart problems such as old age, heart disease, and infections can increase the risk of developing this condition.
Heart Failure
The heart failure condition is recurring condition that affects the muscle of your heart. It occurs when the heart is unable to provide enough blood flow to meet the body’s demands.
A mix of different heart diseases, such as congenital heart disease, can weaken or harm the heart, leading to failure.
The Legality of CBD
In April 2020, 33 states have allowed medical marijuana use. In contrast, 17 states have only allowed CBD usage (37).
The laws of the state regulate the quantity that is CBD and THC that are used in the product. It is recommended that the amount of CBD in each product must be between 10% and 15 percent. THC shouldn’t be greater than 0.5 percent per volume of product.
Conclusion
The heart is an essential organ of the system of cardiovascular health. If it’s damaged the cardiovascular health of a person is affected, and the whole body is affected.
Heart disease is among the top causes of deaths in the US and account for one out of four death (38). If left untreated, heart conditions could lead to stroke or heart attack, and even death.
In addition to the more invasive procedures such as surgery, the majority of treatments for heart issues are associated with long-term adverse negative effects. Due to these risks many people look for alternative alternatives, such as CBD oil.
CBD’s health advantages CBD include its antioxidant, cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. These could have beneficial effects on the heart.
Although CBD could be a promising treatment for heart disease however, it is recommended to talk with a cardiologist prior to taking CBD. CBD could interact with certain prescribed medications.
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Author
Nicole Davis is a integrative medicine specialist who focuses on sleep and fatigue. She has extensively explored the therapeutic properties of cannabis, and provides specialized treatment plans according to personal symptoms. Dr. Davis is passionate about helping people feel their best, and believes that everyone deserves access to quality healthcare.