CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a chemical compound from the Cannabis sativa plant, also known as marijuana. CBD is a naturally occurring substance that’s used in products, such as oils, edibles, and lotions, to deliver a feeling of relaxation and calm. While there is some evidence that suggests that CBD may improve memory function, the precise mechanisms underlying the effects of CBD on memory were very unclear until a recent study conducted in London showed significant findings.
Researchers discover the link between CBD and cerebral blood flow
A group of researchers conducted a study that investigated how CBD influences cerebral blood flow (CBF) in regions involved in memory processing. The secondary aim was to determine if the effects of CBD on cerebral blood flow were associated with differences in working and episodic memory task performance.
In this small study, researchers from University College London recruited 15 randomized, healthy participants with no history of cannabis use. The participants were given 600 mg oral CBD on different occasions for a week and then 600 mg of a placebo. The doses came in identical capsules, so participants were unaware which one they were taking on which occasion.
Researchers measured blood flow to the hippocampus using an MRI brain scanning technique called arterial spin labeling, which measures blood oxygen level changes.
What are the findings of CBD and blood flow?
The results showed that the main non-psychoactive ingredient in marijuana, CBD, ‘significantly’ increased blood flow to the hippocampus, the area of the brain responsible for memories and learning. It also showed that there was an increase in blood flow to the part of the brain responsible for decision-making, also known as the orbitofrontal cortex.
“To our knowledge, this is the first study to find that CBD increases blood flow to key regions involved in memory processing, particularly the hippocampus,” says Dr. Michael Bloomfield, the leading author of the study and a professor of psychiatry at UCL.
The research does not currently conclude CBD as a memory-enhancing resource. However, the study does point to the potential for CBD to help treat neurological conditions related to abnormal or insufficient blood flow in specific regions of the brain. The team believes, “the findings could offer target therapies for those who suffer conditions that affect memory, such as Alzheimer’s disease and post-traumatic stress disorder.”
In recent years, CBD has become one of the most widely researched therapy methods for many everyday health issues. For some patients, CBD is an important factor when choosing their medicine. In fact, high CBD, low THC products are often the best options for many patients due to CBD’s medicinal benefits, such as relieving symptoms caused by arthritis, chronic pain, muscle pain, spinal cord injuries and more. Medical Marijuana Treatment Clinics of Florida maintains a primary focus of supporting patients seeking effective cannabis-based alternative treatments.
At MMTCFL, we can determine if you are eligible for medical marijuana and help you get your medical marijuana registration card. Get started with medical marijuana today by taking our online eligibility survey.
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