Biochemistry behind CBD’s anti-inflammatory effects points to new ways to treat inflammation

The molecular basis for the anti-inflammatory properties of cannabidiol (CBD) has been discovered that suggests that the compound not only inhibits inflammation but also helps to resolve it. The researchers say the insights gained could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating inflammatory diseases.

Cannabis and cannabinoids, especially CBD, are well-recognised anti-inflammatory agents that are increasingly popular for treating inflammation-related disorders such as inflammatory bowel diseases and skin disorders. However, although several potential modes of action and molecular targets have been proposed, the exact mechanism by which they work is yet to be confirmed.

The researchers studied how eight different cannabinoids, including CBD and the psychoactive tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), act on human immune cells. All had anti-inflammatory effects and were found to inhibit the formation of pro-inflammatory messenger substances in cells while enhancing the formation of inflammation-resolving substances.