CBD and Asthma: Uses and Effects

Asthma is a chronic lung disease that causes difficulty in breathing. It is estimated that around 25 million people in the United States have asthma, and it is the leading cause of hospitalization for children. While there is no cure for asthma, treatments can help improve symptoms.

One potential treatment for asthma is pure CBD oil. CBD is one of the many cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Cannabinoids are known to have anti-inflammatory effects, and this is thought to be one of the ways that CBD may help improve asthma symptoms. This cannabinoid can be taken orally or inhaled, and there are a variety of products available on the market.

In the post, we will discuss how CBD may help improve asthma symptoms and how to use CBD oil for this purpose. We will also provide some information on the safety and side effects of CBD.

What is CBD and how does it work?

CBD is an abbreviation for cannabidiol, a prominent naturally occurring cannabinoid constituent of cannabis. Cannabinoids are known to have anti-inflammatory effects, and this is thought to be one of the ways that CBD may help improve asthma symptoms. Unlike THC, another prevalent cannabinoid, CBD is non-psychotropic and does not cause a high.

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Studies suggest that CBD may help ease symptoms of asthma. Cannabinoids like CBD may help regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation. Understanding how these compounds work helps to know how they interact with a biological network known as the endocannabinoid system or ECS.

The ECS is a system of receptors and molecules that play a role in many physiological processes. Pain and inflammation control, immune response and sleep regular are just a few of the functions this system affects. 

CBD interacts with the ECS by binding to cannabinoid receptors. The interaction helps to modulate the effects of those receptors. In turn, CBD may help reduce inflammation and improve asthma symptoms.

One study showed that administering CBD oil notably improved lung function despite the presence of the condition. Additionally, CBD may help prevent asthma attacks from occurring in the first place. Researchers believe that cannabinoids like CBD may help to modulate airway inflammation, which is a critical factor in experimental allergic asthma.

One of the most common ways CBD is consumed for people with asthma is through CBD oil. When taken orally or sublingually (as we will discuss later on), cannabidiol reduces airway inflammation significantly.

CBD oil is just one way to consume CBD. However, it is not the only way. People with asthma may also benefit from CBD-rich products like tinctures, capsules, gummies, and more. These products are easy to use and can be taken with you on the go.

How can CBD ease asthma symptoms?

Allergic asthma is a condition that affects the lungs and airways when it comes to contact with asthma triggers (e.g., dust, fur, pollen). It is characterized by wheezing, chest tightness, and coughing. Asthma can be a severe condition, and in some cases, it can lead to death.

A great thing about CBD is that it targets multiple areas of concern at once. From treating inflammation in target sites to reducing the occurrence of muscle spasms, cannabidiol has a lot to offer those with asthma. CBD is also a bronchodilator, which can help open up the airways and make breathing easier.

CBD and its anti-inflammatory effects

Full Article: CBD and Inflammation

Asthma as a condition is best characterized by inflammation in and around the lungs. CBD has anti-inflammatory effects, which means it can help relieve asthma symptoms.

That’s because CBD interacts with endocannabinoid receptors in the body. When CBD activates these receptors, it helps to regulate the immune system and keep inflammation in check. In turn, CBD use leads to fewer flare-ups and reduced hyperresponsiveness, particularly in one’s respiratory airways.

In a study published at the European Journal of Pharmacology, researchers discovered that cannabidiol helped reduce inflammation and even fibrosis in the lungs. Fibrosis is the development of excess fibrous tissue, making it difficult to breathe. So, CBD helps reduce inflammation and may also help prevent further damage to the lungs.

The same study highlighted the potential of CBD treatment for allergy-induced asthma. Asthma triggered by allergy can become a serious concern, as it can be challenging to control. Unlike regular asthma, allergic asthma doesn’t respond well to standard treatment and prescription medications. However, CBD may help reduce symptoms and improve the quality of life for those with this type of asthma.

CBD as a bronchodilator

In addition to its anti-inflammatory effects, CBD can also help ease asthma by acting as a bronchodilator. Bronchodilators are medications that help open up the airways and make breathing easier. CBD does this by activating serotonin receptors in the body.

When these receptors are activated, they cause muscles around the lungs to relax. This, in turn, opens up the airways and makes it easier to breathe. A study published in the Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics found that CBD was a potent bronchodilator. The study looked at the effects of CBD on guinea pigs with asthma.

The researchers found that CBD significantly improved airway function in animals. It also helped to reduce inflammation and prevented muscle spasms in the lungs. These findings suggest that CBD may be a helpful treatment for asthma, particularly when traditional medications don’t work.

CBD is thought to help ease symptoms of severe asthma by reducing inflammation in the airways. This may help to improve breathing and reduce the risk of asthma attacks. CBD may also help regulate the immune system, which can play a role in asthma.

CBD decreases lung sensitivity

One of the primary factors affecting chronic asthma’s severity is how responsive or sensitive the lungs/airways are. When the airways are oversensitive, everyday activities like walking or running can trigger an asthma attack. Hyperresponsive lungs can react aggressively even in the presence of trace amounts of a given allergen.

CBD helps decrease lung sensitivity by interacting with ECS found within the central nervous system. In particular, the cannabinoid activates the CB1 and CB2 receptors in both nerve and immune cells, respectively. Though researchers have yet to fully understand the mechanism behind the activation, it’s clear that this response elicits a protective function against hypersensitive lungs.

Scientists know that the expression of CB1 receptors is inversely proportional to lung function among asthma patients. In other words: the more active these cannabinoid receptors are, the less likely one’s airways will get inflamed. By activating CB1 receptors, CBD treatment can significantly improve the breathing of asthmatic patients.

CBD reduces flare-ups and coughing

As mentioned earlier, CBD has an immuno-protective function that helps to reduce inflammation. In addition, it has been shown to help decrease the number and severity of asthma flare-ups. CBD does this by helping to calm an overactive immune system.

When the immune system is functioning properly, it can help protect against harmful pathogens. However, when it’s overactive, as in the case of asthma, it can cause inflammation and damage the lungs. This can lead to more frequent asthma attacks.

CBD may help to suppress coughing. Coughing is a common symptom of asthma and can be very disruptive. CBD has been shown to help decrease the amount of mucus produced in the lungs, leading to less coughing.

Alleviating common asthma symptoms (e.g., coughing, flare-ups) may seem like a band-aid solution to treat asthma. However, from a medical perspective, doing so will help patients feel better daily and improve their quality of life.

CBD is a promising treatment for asthma

There is still much to learn about CBD and its effects on asthma. However, the available evidence suggests that it may be a safe and effective treatment for this condition. Taking CBD for asthma also helps prevent common problems with standard treatment, such as oral fungal infections.

Other benefits of CBD use for asthma

Aside from providing inflammation relief, CBD comes with added benefits that may help to improve the quality of life for asthma patients. For example, CBD is known to be a natural relaxant. CBD can help ease anxiety common among people with chronic health conditions.

CBD may also help to improve sleep quality. A good night’s sleep is vital for everyone, but it’s especially crucial for people with asthma. Sleep helps to rejuvenate and repair the lungs.

CBD is also effective, particularly when it comes to pain reduction. This benefit is important because many asthma medications can cause side effects like dry mouth, headache, and upset stomach. CBD may help alleviate these side effects and improve the overall effectiveness of asthma medication.

How to use CBD for asthma relief

Over the years, cannabidiol (CBD) has gained popularity for its various medicinal and therapeutic uses. If you’re considering using CBD products (e.g., CBD oil, CBD-infused capsules, CBD tincture) for asthma relief, there are a few things to keep in mind. Knowing how to dose this drug properly and understanding the differences among CBD-infused products will help you get the most effective treatment for your condition.

As you might have already guessed, there are different ways to consume cannabis. Right off the bat, smoking is a big no-no for asthmatic patients. The act of smoking can trigger an asthma attack. If you want to use CBD for its therapeutic effects, it’s best to consume it in another way.

Inhaling CBD

Inhaling CBD may be one of the most effective ways to use cannabidiol for asthma. When you inhale CBD, it goes directly to your lungs, where it can start working immediately. You can use a CBD vape pen or a CBD inhaler, or you can add CBD to your regular asthma medication.

Unlike smoking, vaping CBD will not irritate your lungs or trigger an asthma attack. That’s because when you vape, CBD is heated to a temperature that turns it into a vapor, which is then inhaled. This process doesn’t produce any smoke or other byproducts that could potentially harm your lungs.

There’s a growing market for CBD-infused inhalers. These products are designed to help patients get quick relief from their asthmatic symptoms. If you’re interested in trying a CBD inhaler, be sure to do your research and buy a product from a reputable brand.

Ingesting CBD

Another popular way to use CBD for asthma is by ingesting it can. One can ingest CBD in various ways: in oil form, via tinctures, capsules, and even gummies. When you ingest CBD, it’s absorbed into your bloodstream and then circulated throughout your body.

CBD capsules and gummies are a good option for people who don’t like the taste of CBD oil. They’re also easy to take on the go and can be discreetly consumed without drawing too much attention. If you decide to try CBD capsules or gummies, be sure to start with a low dose and increase it gradually as needed.

On the other hand, CBD oil is taken by placing a few drops under your tongue. This method allows CBD to be absorbed directly into your bloodstream, providing faster relief from symptoms. CBD oil can also be added to food or drinks.

No matter how you choose to consume CBD, it’s essential to start with a low dose and work your way up. It may take some time to find the proper dosage for you. Here are a few tips on how to use CBD for asthma relief:

1. Talk to your doctor. Before starting any new treatment, it’s always best to speak with your doctor. They can help you determine if CBD is right for you and advise you on how to use it.
2. Start slowly. Start with a small dose and increase it incrementally as needed when you start using CBD. A slow start will help ensure that you don’t experience any adverse side effects.
3. Find a suitable method for you. There are many different ways to take CBD oil, so find one that works best for you. You can take it orally, apply it topically, or even inhale it using a vaporizer.

Following these tips, you can safely and effectively use CBD oil for asthma relief. Try it today and see for yourself how well it works!

For more information about how to use CBD, please visit our post about how to use CBD.

CBD dosage for asthma

Due to the lack of clinical trials testing CBD for asthma, there isn’t a set amount of how much CBD is “right” for this type of treatment. Worry not, as this cannabinoid is generally safe to use – even at higher dosages. According to studies, up to 1,500 mg of CBD is safe for human consumption per day.

Related: How Much CBD Should I Take?

If you’re unsure and wary of how much you need to consume, your doctor may recommend the correct dose for you. They will most likely start you off with a low dose and increase it gradually over time.

Side effects of using CBD oil for asthma treatment

There are a few potential side effects of using CBD oil for asthma treatment. These include:

• Dry mouth
• Drowsiness
• Digestive issues

Fortunately, these side effects are usually mild and temporary. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, be sure to speak with your doctor. For more information about potential side effects, please read our blog about the potential side effects of CBD.

Is CBD addictive?

No, CBD is not an addictive substance. It’s sometimes prescribed to treat withdrawal symptoms associated with opioid addiction.

CBD is also non-intoxicating, so you won’t feel any “high” when you use it. It’s a safe and effective alternative to other asthma treatments that may cause adverse side effects.

For more information, view our “Is CBD Addictive?” blog.

Interactions with other medications

CBD oil may interact with conventional asthma medications. If you’re taking other drugs, be sure to speak with your doctor before using CBD oil. They can help you determine if CBD is safe for you to take and whether there are any potential interactions.

Final thoughts on the potential benefits of CBD for asthma patients

If you consider using CBD oil for asthma, it is essential to speak with your doctor first. They can help you determine if CBD is the right treatment for you and advise on the proper dosage.

There is limited research on the use of CBD for asthma, so it is important to do your research as well. There are several anecdotal reports from people who have used CBD for asthma, and the consensus is that it can help manage symptoms.

If you want to learn more about this fantastic cannabinoid, we cover a wide range of Common CBD Questions – from the benefits of CBD oil for anxiety to how it can help with chronic pain. Check out all our CBD products here at New Phase Blends to get started with your asthma treatment today!