CBD for Cats, Dogs and All Mammals
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a non-psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant. CBD has been gaining popularity as a natural remedy for a variety of health issues, including pain, anxiety, and inflammation. But did you know that CBD can also benefit mammals, including dogs, cats, and even horses? In this blog, we will explore how CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system in mammals.
The Endocannabinoid System
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex network of receptors, enzymes, and endocannabinoids that are present in all mammals, including humans. The ECS plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes, including pain, inflammation, mood, and appetite.
The ECS has two main types of receptors: CB1 and CB2 receptors. CB1 receptors are primarily located in the central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are found in the immune system and peripheral tissues. Endocannabinoids, such as anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), are naturally produced by the body and bind to these receptors to regulate various functions.
CBD and the Endocannabinoid System
CBD interacts with the ECS by indirectly stimulating CB1 and CB2 receptors. Unlike THC, another compound found in the cannabis plant, CBD does not bind directly to these receptors. Instead, CBD works by inhibiting the breakdown of endocannabinoids, such as anandamide, which allows them to bind to CB1 and CB2 receptors more effectively.
CBD also has other mechanisms of action that contribute to its therapeutic effects. For example, CBD can interact with serotonin receptors, which are involved in regulating mood, anxiety, and stress.
CBD for Mammals
CBD has been shown to have a wide range of potential benefits for mammals. For example, studies have suggested that CBD may be effective in reducing pain and inflammation in dogs with osteoarthritis. CBD has also been studied for its potential anti-anxiety and anti-seizure effects in dogs and cats.
One of the most promising areas of research for CBD in mammals is its potential anti-cancer effects. Studies have shown that CBD can inhibit the growth of certain types of cancer cells in vitro and in animal models. While more research is needed in this area, CBD may one day be used as an adjunct therapy for cancer in mammals.
Conclusion
CBD is a natural compound that interacts with the endocannabinoid system in mammals, including dogs, cats, and horses. By indirectly stimulating CB1 and CB2 receptors and other mechanisms of action, CBD has the potential to provide a wide range of therapeutic benefits, including pain relief, anti-anxiety effects, and anti-cancer effects. As with any new supplement or medication, it is important to consult with a veterinarian before giving CBD to your pet.
Sources:
"The Endocannabinoid System: An Overview" by Ethan B. Russo, MD in The Cannabis Health Index, pp. 21-24. (https://www.amazon.com/Cannabis-Health-Index-Combination-Therapy/dp/1583949623)
"Cannabinoids as novel anti-inflammatory drugs" by Prakash Nagarkatti, Rupal Pandey, Sadiye Amcaoglu Rieder, and Mitzi Nagarkatti in Future Medicinal Chemistry, Vol. 1, No. 7, pp. 1333-1349, September 2009. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2828614/)
"Cannabidiol in inflammatory bowel diseases: a brief overview" by Fabiana Piscitelli, Angelo A. Izzo, and Luca Steardo in Phytotherapy Research, Vol. 27, No. 5, pp. 633-636, May 2013. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22815234)
"Pharmacokinetics, Safety, and Clinical Efficacy of Cannabidiol Treatment in Osteoarthritic Dogs" by Lauri-Jo Gamble, Jordyn Boesch, Christopher W. Frye, Wayne S. Schwark, Sabine Mann, Lisa Wolfe, Holly Brown, Erin S. Berthelsen, Joseph J. Wakshlag, in Frontiers in Veterinary Science, Vol. 5, pp. 165, July 2018. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6065210/)
"Cannabidiol in Anxiety and Sleep: A Large Case Series" by Scott Shannon, MD, Nicole Lewis, ND, Heather Lee, PA-C, and Shannon Hughes, PhD, in The Permanente Journal, Vol. 23, pp. 18-041, 2019. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6326553/)
"Cannabis in cancer care" by Mara Gordon, RN in Clinician's Guide to Medical and Surgical Management of Cancer Pain, pp. 169-177. (https://www.springer.com/gp/book/9783319239547)
Disclaimers:
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy of this product has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. All information presented here is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from health care practitioners. Please consult your health care professional about potential interactions or other possible complications before using any product. The Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act requires this notice.