Review of the neurological benefits of phytocannabinoids

Abstract

Background:Numerous physical, psychological, and emotional benefits have been attributed to marijuana since its first reported use in 2,600 BC in a Chinese pharmacopoeia. The phytocannabinoids, cannabidiol (CBD), and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) are the most studied extracts from cannabis sativa subspecies hemp and marijuana. CBD and Δ9-THC interact uniquely with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Through direct and indirect actions, intrinsic endocannabinoids and plant-based phytocannabinoids modulate and influence a variety of physiological systems influenced by the ECS.Methods:In 1980, Cunha et al. reported anticonvulsant benefits in 7/8 subjects with medically uncontrolled epilepsy using marijuana extracts in a phase I clinical trial. Since then neurological applications have been the major focus of renewed research using medical marijuana and phytocannabinoid extracts.Results:Recent neurological uses include adjunctive treatment for malignant brain tumors, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, neuropathic pain, and the childhood seizure disorders Lennox-Gastaut and Dravet syndromes. In addition, psychiatric and mood disorders, such as schizophrenia, anxiety, depression, addiction, postconcussion syndrome, and posttraumatic stress disorders are being studied using phytocannabinoids.Conclusions:In this review we will provide animal and human research data on the current clinical neurological uses for CBD individually and in combination with Δ9-THC. We will emphasize the neuroprotective, antiinflammatory, and immunomodulatory benefits of phytocannabinoids and their applications in various clinical syndromes.

A completeCannabischromosome assembly and adaptive admixture for elevated cannabidiol (CBD) content

“…2b) and dN/dS ratios (5). Contrary to the hypotheses of Onofri et al (3), these findings 20 suggest that divergence at CBDAS loci rather than THCAS loci are primarily responsible for the THCA/CBDA ratio. We estimated genome-wide ancestry proportions of CBDRx to be 89% marijuana and 11% hemp.…”

“…When decarboxylated to THC and CBD, these molecules bind to endocannabinoid receptors in the nervous systems of 5 vertebrates and elicit a broad range of neurological effects in humans (1). Cannabinoid receptor types CB1 and CB2 preferentially bind THC and CBD, respectively, with CB1 being among the most abundant post-synaptic neuron receptor in the human brain whereas CB2 is more prevalent in the peripheral nervous system (2)(3)(4)(5)(6)(7). Archeological and forensic evidence suggests that the 10 psychoactivity of THC played a role in early domestication (8)(9) and in selective breeding to increase marijuana potency during the late 20th century (2).…”

Are patients taking pot luck with cannabis?

“…But the cannabis plant contains more than 400 chemicals, including cannabidiol. 8 Cannabidiol, which accounts for up to 40% of the plant extract, does not cause the euphoria induced by THC 8 and is legal in the UK. Indeed, cannabidiol-containing oils, food and drinks are increasing popular.…”

A Review of Cannabis and Interactions With Anticoagulant and Antiplatelet Agents

“…THC elicits psychoactive effects but also has shown medical benefits, particularly for neurologic disorders . In contrast, CBD can help to moderate and subdue the psychosis‐inducing effects of THC .…”

“…6 THC elicits psychoactive effects but also has shown medical benefits, particularly for neurologic disorders. 7,8 In contrast, CBD can help to moderate and subdue the psychosis-inducing effects of THC. 9 Although research is ongoing, combinations of THC and CBD have shown benefit for neurodegenerative diseases such as multiple sclerosis, glaucoma, pain management, food intake disorders, involuntary motor disorders, schizophrenia, and sleep conditions.…”