Does CBD Kill Brain Cells? Exploring the Facts and Myths

CBD and Brain Cells

Let’s begin with some fundamental piece of information. 

Cannabidiol, short for CBD, is one of the primary cannabinoid compounds. It doesn’t cause you “high”, “munchies” or any “psychoactive effects” that are generally associated with THC.  

THC is another primary cannabinoid found in the cannabis sativa plant. But the majority of CBD products including CBD edibles, and topicals only contain a very small amount of THC compared to recreational marijuana. 

In short, though CBD and THC are found in the same plant, most CBD products are formulated by considering the consumer’s health and legal guidelines. So, as consumers, we must not be confused about it. 

Now the question is, is there any impact of CBD on neuronal cells? Or can the brain cells be affected by taking CBD? 

Long story short, just like THC, CBD can have an impact on your brain function. But what we need to consider here is whether it is a negative or a positive one. Let’s find out in more detail. 

Read More: Can CBD Help with Tooth Pain? 

How does CBD Impact the Brain?

CBD works by interacting with our body’s endocannabinoid system. This system controls many of the critical bodily functions including pain perception, memory, learning, sleep, appetite, and inflammatory and immune response. 
 
Note that our body internally produces cannabinoids — known as endocannabinoids. The plant-produced cannabinoids are referred to as phytocannabinoids.  
 
It is theorized that CBD binds endocannabinoid receptors (CB1, CB2). CB1 receptors are mostly found in the brain, and central nervous system (CNS). CB2 receptors are found in the peripheral nervous system. 
 
By influencing these receptors or neurotransmitters that are highly associated with regulating our mood, perception, sleep, and appetite, CBD provides a variety of therapeutic benefits to its users. 
 
However, the impact of CBD on the brain and nerve cells is a complex issue and science is still trying to learn more about it. 
 
So far, the majority of the research indicates the following impact of CBD on the brain:

•    Blood Flow Regulation  
•    Pain Management  
•    Oxidative Stress Reduction  
•    Excitation Level Modulation 
•    Antipsychotic Properties  
•    Neuroprotective Effects  

Blood Flow Regulation

According to research published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology, CBD has been studied for its effects on blood flow in the brain, particularly in individuals with SAD (Social Anxiety Disorder) [2]. It also indicates that cannabidiol can lead to positive changes in brain areas associated with anxiety, as observed in brain scans showing changes in blood flow patterns. 

Pain Management 

CBD interacts with CB2 receptors and modifies the ability to bind endocannabinoid receptors or stimulate the production of natural cannabinoids. This interaction affects how these receptors respond to pain signals. In addition, the antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties of CBD [3] ultimately reduce pain and inflammation. This is also considered one of the positive impacts of CBD on brain cells. 

Oxidative Stress Reduction

Oxidative stress refers to the imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants [4]. It’s a natural cellular process that can lead to damage if the free radicals are not efficiently neutralized by antioxidants. The interaction between CBD and CB2 receptors is thought to decrease oxidative stress damage. 

Excitation Level Modulation 

CBD may play a role in modulating the degree of excitation in brain cells. This phenomenon is known as excitotoxicity. However, this condition is linked to various brain disorders that involve excessive stimulation of brain cells.  

According to the research published in the Neuropsychopharmacology Journal, CBD can influence the neurotransmitters such as Glx, and GABA+ that contribute to the regulation of excitatory and inhibitory processes [5]. 

Antipsychotic Properties

CBD can improve mood and reduce pain sensitivity. CBD’s impact on the brain’s anandamide, a neurotransmitter, is associated with these positive effects. Cannabidiol prolongs the presence of “bliss molecule” (AKA anandamide) in the endocannabinoid system. 

CBD does it by inhibiting FAAH enzymes which are responsible for breaking down anandamide. The good news is higher levels of anandamide have been linked to a decrease in psychotic symptoms. The effects of CBD on the brain reveal the antipsychotic effects of CBD. 

Neuroprotective Effects

Cannabidiol, in essence, has shown neuroprotective effects in various studies. It protects our brain cells by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, altering neurotransmitter release, and displaying anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. 

Does CBD Kill Brain Cells?

Simply put, CBD doesn’t kill brain cells. Instead, research suggests that CBD can protect brain cells. The chemical properties in CBD can provide neuroprotective effects in people with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson's disease. 
 
CBD interacts with CB2 receptors that reduce damage in the brain caused by inflammation. CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties contribute to this positive aspect. Besides, it can help with oxidative stress that contributes to tissue damage. 
 
However, not every CBD product is made equally. In rare cases, taking full-spectrum CBD products in high doses might do some harm. Full-spectrum CBD contains a trace of delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol, which is abundant in recreational marijuana. 
 
It is also worth noting that high concentrations of full-spectrum CBD doses might have neurotoxic effects on neurons but there is a lack of strong evidence. Scientists are still trying to figure out how exactly CBD affects the brain. 
 
Read More: Full-Spectrum Vs Broad Spectrum CBD  

Are There Any Negative Effects of CBD on The Brain?

CBD is generally considered safe and well-tolerated. World Health Organization (WHO) states that “CBD or cannabidiol in its pure state, does not appear to have abuse potential or cause harm” [6]. 
 
Besides, according to the research published in PubMed, “Chronic use and high doses of up to 1500 mg per day have been repeatedly shown to be well tolerated by humans” [7]. 
 
However, if used in higher doses, some people may experience mild adverse effects including dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, diarrhea, and medication interactions. 
 
One study by the University of Ljubljana in Slovenia has found that in higher doses CBD reduces the viability of neurons and astrocytes by triggering various forms of cell death [8]. 
 
Pro Tips: Though CBD is simply safe, it’s always a good idea to consume recommended doses of CBD to avoid any potential side effects and damage to your brain health. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

People who searched for "Does CBD kill brain cells” might be interested to know the answers to the following questions as well. To provide a better understanding, we've answered these questions below. 

Does CBD Kill Brain Cells Like THC?

Ans: THC isn’t the primary cannabinoid found in CBD edibles or topical products. Though full-spectrum CBD contains a small amount of THC, it is not supposed to do any harm to the brain if not taken in high doses. However, the use of recreational marijuana that contains a high concentration of THC can directly affect brain function such as learning, memory, attention, coordination, emotion, and so on. 

What Are the Potential Benefits of CBD to The Brain?

Ans: CBD has some noteworthy benefits to the brain. For instance, reduces neuroinflammation, promotes the growth of new brain cells (neurogenesis), helps with excitotoxicity, and enhances the anandamide signaling (stimulates a sense of happiness). 

Does CBD Regenerate Brain Cells?

Ans: CBD might help with neurogenesis, a process generating new brain cells. However, there is no substantial evidence to support this. A recent study has revealed that a lesser-known cannabinoid called CBC (Cannabichromene) can boost the growth of developing brain cells. 

Wrapping Up

CBD is generally safe and evidently doesn’t do any noticeable harm to the brain cells, and brain functions. Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t induce psychoactive effects. Most research found positive impacts of CBD on brain cells in recommended doses. 

If you consume the suggested doses, CBD may help regulate blood flow, manage pain, and provide neuroprotective effects. Therefore, contrary to concerns, CBD doesn’t kill brain cells; rather it may shield them, especially in individuals with neurodegenerative diseases. 

 

Reference:  

1.    Hall, A. (2023, September 12). CBD Statistics, Data and Use (2023). Forbes Health. https://www.forbes.com/health/cbd/cbd-statistics/

2.    Crippa, et al. (2010). Neural basis of anxiolytic effects of cannabidiol (CBD) in generalized social anxiety disorder: a preliminary report. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 25(1), 121–130. https://doi.org/10.1177/0269881110379283

3.    Atalay, S., Jarocka-Karpowicz, I., & Skrzydlewska, E. (2019). Antioxidative and Anti-Inflammatory properties of cannabidiol. Antioxidants, 9(1), 21. https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox9010021

4.    Dix, M. (2018, September 29). Everything you should know about oxidative stress. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/oxidative-stress

5.    Pretzsch, et al.(2019). Effects of cannabidiol on brain excitation and inhibition systems; a randomised placebo-controlled single dose trial during magnetic resonance spectroscopy in adults with and without autism spectrum disorder. Neuropsychopharmacology, 44(8), 1398–1405. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41386-019-0333-8

6.    Drugs (psychoactive): Cannabidiol (compound of cannabis). (2023, December 13). https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/cannabidiol-(compound-of-cannabis)

7.    Iffland, K., & Grotenhermen, F. (2017). An update on safety and side effects of cannabidiol: a review of clinical data and relevant animal studies. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 2(1), 139–154. https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2016.0034

8.    Jurič, D. M., Rozman, K. B., Lipnik‐Štangelj, M., Šuput, D., & Brvar, M. (2022). Cytotoxic effects of cannabidiol on neonatal rat cortical neurons and astrocytes: Potential danger to brain development. Toxins, 14(10), 720. https://doi.org/10.3390/toxins14100720