Cannabidiol or its short version CBD is a natural plant derivative Cannabis Sativa. When extracted into consumable products the THC which the psychoactive compound found inside it, is removed in most variations. There are three kinds of CBD varieties for human consumption namely, Isolates, Full-Spectrum and Broad Spectrum. The differences of which can be found here.
Cannabidiol on its own has no psychoactive properties from the Tetrahydrocannabinol, which means you won’t get “stoned” after taking it. As the famous actor, Woody Allen once said – CBD is the part without the fun! This naturally occurring compound has a myriad of benefits for both humans and animals, and tons of ethical case studies and research has been done on both humans and animals, the results of which have been no less than astounding.
The plant itself, has two species namely, Hemp and Marijuana, however, when extracted for consumer products, by law the THC amount in it needs to be less than 0.3% for it not do give the high-effect. So, the question remains, why have we seen such positive results in dogs? We look into the science behind this.
Why CBD Oil Works for Our Pets
Any living organism with a spine has what’s called an ECS or Endocannabinoid System. And what this means is, we already have cannabidiol inside of us and inside of our canines. This is because ECS is responsible for taking care of the process of homeostasis within all our bodies and the “job” that the ECS does, is the same as the job that CBD does. Are you with us?
Conditions such as stress, anxiety, epilepsy, arthritis, cancer, for example, are all “treated” or symptoms of which are alleviated, in the same way by CBD as the ECS normally would the only difference is sometimes the ECS needs a bit of a push especially when it is not working properly, or is damaged or dysfunctional due to the bad cells attacking it.
In other words, CBD is the “Superman” that comes to save the day from the evil villains in our bodies. And the ECS is his entourage.
The ECS in Pets (and Humans)
As mentioned above there have been many studies accomplished on this marvelous compound. And one such was done back in 2012 by the University of Pisa. Their study resulted in a conclusion that 2 types of Cannabidiol receptors are found on the surface of the skin of our strong canines as well as the ones with a condition such as atopic dermatitis. It concluded that the ECS is without a doubt involved in the control of inflammatory and immunomodulation processes in them.
Another recent study of medicinal products containing CBD, published in the UK by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) stated that it is of medicinal use and should be treated as such. Interested in reading the statement?.
Suffice to say that even though scientist knew about this fascinating ECS system back in the 90s, it has never been more researched and probed before than it is now. And concerning both humans and animals’ bodies. Regardless of the kind of species it is, dogs, cats, or horses,
The endocannabinoid system has 3 vital mechanisms:
- Cannabinoid receptors – these lie in the membranes of all the cells available throughout the body. The two receptors that have been identified to date are the CB1 and CB2. That influence the central nervous system are found in the brain and spinal cord. They have a major impact on the immune system, inflammatory responses and the digestive system.
- Endocannabinoids – the fat-like molecules that our body produces and that interacts with CBD receptors to trigger them to get working in fixing any inconsistencies.
- Metabolic enzymes – which are the Fatty acids and Lipase that are responsible for fast-tracking the synthesis of CBD once familiarized itself in the body. And once they have been used by it, it breaks it down so we can get rid of it in a proper way as nature intended.
Having put all this information together, when CBD is introduced to out pets via direct ingestion using tinctures and oils or the many CBD varieties of pet products. It’s easy to see how, the coming together of this system coupled with the “little helpers” of the plant derived extract. Can do wonders for these four-legged friends. As with anything new you introduce to your animals, seek the advice of your veterinarian first
