Our immune system is our shield against constant threats from bacteria, fungi, and viruses, all vying to infiltrate our cells. Comprising various organs, cell types, and proteins, it offers multiple layers of defense. Yet, infections sometimes take hold. As humans, we all succumb to occasional illnesses like colds and flu. But thanks to an amazing immune system, our bodies become better at fighting them off as time passes.
Many seek ways to enhance their immune system through nutrition, exercise, lifestyle adjustments, and supplements. While science validates some methods, others remain in doubt. But where does cannabis fit into this equation? Can this herb strengthen our cellular defenses, preventing or minimizing infections? Or does it have adverse effects? In the following discussion, we explore these inquiries and more.
Research suggests that cannabis may have the potential to alleviate various health conditions. In order to legally access medical cannabis in Oxnard, residents must possess a medical card specific to the city. This card is essential for individuals seeking relief from their health issues through medical cannabis.
The Mechanics of the Immune System: A Comprehensive Overview
To understand how cannabis could potentially influence immunity, it’s vital that we first gain an understanding of our immune system’s workings. The two primary forms of protection within our defense mechanisms are known as innate and adaptive immunity respectively.
Innate immunity is the initial line of defense we are born with, providing protection against invading pathogens. It comprises physical barriers such as the skin and mucous membranes (lining the nose, mouth, lungs, and other organs). These barriers physically obstruct the entry of harmful microbes. Additionally, they employ enzymes, acids, and mucus to deter the proliferation of bacteria and viruses. Within the innate immune system, specialized scavenger cells known as phagocytes play a pivotal role. Derived from the Greek word “phagein,” which means “to consume,” phagocytes aptly engulf and digest invading pathogens.
Conversely, adaptive immunity operates with greater specificity. It is summoned when innate defenses falter. This system identifies the pathogen and generates specialized antibodies tailored to neutralize it. Here are the key components involved in this intricate process:
- T Lymphocytes:
T lymphocytes play a pivotal role in orchestrating the immune response. They act as activators of other immune cells, identify and eliminate virus-affected cells, and create a memory of pathogens for future immunity.
- B Lymphocytes:
Derived from the bone marrow, B lymphocytes undergo transformation into plasma cells. These specialized cells are responsible for producing copious quantities of antibodies—complex compounds composed of sugars and proteins. Antibodies are uniquely crafted to bind to and neutralize specific antigens, essential to the immune system’s defense mechanism.
Cannabis’s Influence on the Immune System
The complex interactions between cannabis, our Endocannabinoid System (ECS), and immune function suggest it could serve as a regulatory mechanism of our physiological defense mechanisms. Notably, both natural endocannabinoids from within us as well as phytocannabinoids found in plants like cannabis share structural similarities that suggest its possible use as such a regulator of defense mechanisms.
External cannabinoids like THC and CBD possess structural similarities with our endogenous cannabinoids, suggesting they could potentially bind ECS receptors, affect enzyme activity and mimic their actions to mimic that of natural cannabinoids in terms of immune functioning. Plant-derived cannabinoids could potentially provide us with an avenue of “hacking” the ECS for greater immunity by manipulating ECS receptors directly or via interference mechanisms.
- Autoimmune Disorders
In the realm of autoimmune diseases, the immune system can take a troublesome turn. Instead of safeguarding us from external threats, it targets our own bodily tissues, misidentifying joints, skin, and nerve cells as hostile invaders. An attack from within can trigger inflammation in response, creating symptoms including fatigue, muscle pain, fever, hair loss, and skin rashes – among them are notable autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and multiple sclerosis.
Early research into cannabinoids’ potential in managing inflammation associated with autoimmune diseases has yielded positive findings; animal and cell studies indicate cannabis’ immunosuppressive potential.
- Cannabis and Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple Sclerosis (MS), often classified as an autoimmune condition, often manifests itself with fatigue, pain, and muscle spasms as immune cells launch attacks against brain and nerve tissue. While its exact causes remain enigmatic, experts suspect genetic and environmental influences as potential triggers.
Researchers are actively exploring whether cannabinoids could offer benefits in managing the condition, ranging from neuroprotection to the reduction of immune activation. Medical advisors from the MS Society also posit that medical cannabis may provide relief for approximately 1 in 10 patients dealing with muscle spasticity.
MS-related spasticity can extend to an overactive bladder, leading to heightened frequency and urgency of urination. Ongoing studies aim to assess the potential of cannabinoids in addressing this issue. However, current findings are somewhat mixed.
- Risk of Viral Infection and Immunosuppression
Cannabis’s potential to suppress immunity raises concerns about its impact on susceptibility to viruses and infectious pathogens; long-term, heavy cannabis use could increase susceptibility, increasing both infection risk and diminishing overall immunity function.
Alarmingly, preliminary research demonstrates the possibility that long-term cannabis consumption could stimulate myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), which can hinder immune functioning and potentially increase cancer susceptibility.
- Cannabis and HIV
Human Immundeficiency Virus (HIV) primarily spreads via unprotected sexual contact and acts like a parasitic invader to weaken immunity in its victims. Initial symptoms may include influenza-like illness with significant decrease in CD4+ T cells that play an essential role in immune defense mechanisms against infections.
Following this initial phase, the virus continues to replicate but may remain asymptomatic for several years. Nonetheless, it persists beneath the surface, progressively compromising and undermining the immune system, ultimately leading to immunodeficiency.
- Neurodegenerative Conditions
Multiple Sclerosis, an autoimmune condition, is marked by progressive neurodegeneration. Immune cells launch an attack against the central nervous system with particular focus on myelin–an insulating sheath surrounding nerve cells–that acts like insulation against damage.
This relentless attack over time results in myelin damage and harm to the nerves themselves, disrupting the proper functioning of the nervous system. Current research endeavors are investigating the potential neuroprotective properties associated with the CB1 receptor and compounds that interact with this site.
If you’re an individual looking to utilize medical cannabis as a treatment for your migraine condition while residing in Oxnard, obtaining an MMJ card is a crucial step. You can conveniently apply for your medical card through online channels and complete your 420 online evaluations with a certified marijuana physician. If you meet any of the qualifying medical conditions required for the card, the doctor will grant you legal access to use medical cannabis within your state.
