The endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a role in many of the body’s systems and processes. This includes metabolism, immunity, and the central and peripheral nervous systems. The body produces cannabinoids which are received by cannabinoid receptors in order to keep the body functioning normally.
Cannabinoids help regulate the immune system by reducing inflammation in the body. If the body’s cannabinoid system is not functioning correctly, inflammatory or immune-related disorders, such as allergies, occur.
Allergies can greatly impact a person’s life. They occur when the body’s immune system overreacts to a foreign substance that is usually harmless to most people. Common allergens include but are not limited to mold, pollen, food, insect bites or stings, animals, dust, medications, fragrances, or metals. Most allergies are triggered by situations or environmental factors, such as a bee sting, exposure to pet dander, eating certain foods, or pollinating plants. Symptoms include sneezing, coughing, shortness of breath, congestion, rash, and swelling. These symptoms may cause discomfort, interrupt sleep patterns, and lower energy or productivity levels.
CBD May Help
CBD, a cannabinoid, may be helpful in relieving allergy symptoms.
Although research into the effects of CBD on allergies has been limited mainly to small studies and animal studies, there is evidence that CBD can mitigate or eliminate allergic symptoms or reactions.
CBD is derived from the cannabis plant. CBD and THC are the most commonly identified compounds in the cannabis plant, however, the plant contains more than 100 other cannabinoids. Unlike THC, CBD is non-psychoactive.
CBD dosages depend on the selected delivery method and the symptom being treated.
Currently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate the use of CBD, nor do they provide recommendations for dosages
Regardless of the condition you’re treating with the use of CBD, a proper dosage is essential for successful results, and with limited guidance; gauging the dosage size or frequency often creates challenges. Your body chemistry, weight, concentration of the CBD product, and what condition you are treating are a few factors to consider. Another factor is the type of CBD, full-spectrum or broad-spectrum.
Common methods for administering CBD for allergies and inflammation are edibles or topicals. Choosing a method depends on the type of allergy symptoms; for hay fever and other full-body symptoms, a tincture, softgel, or gummy. For rashes, external pain, or skin inflammation, a topical may work best.
Additionally, dividing up your CBD into microdoses can help sustain the effect. It also gives flexibility in the products being used. For example a few drops of a tincture in a cup of coffee during the morning, a gummy at lunch, and a softgel a few hours before bedtime.
Prior to using any cannabis product; consult a physician, do some research, and choose a quality source by examining the product's COA(Certificate of Analysis) to ensure that it has been tested for purity, and is free of THC or harmful contaminants.