As the legalization of cannabis becomes more widespread, research into its various components and effects on the human body, including anxiety, is gaining momentum.
A recent study led by a research team at Johns Hopkins University has revealed the potential of a naturally occurring chemical in cannabis called d-limonene.
D-limonene, cannabis, anxiety
The study was conducted by Tory Spindle, Ph.D., associate professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Johns Hopkins University. Faculty of Medicine.
He and his team aimed to investigate the anxiety-reducing effects of d-limonene in humans when combined with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis.
ryan vandrya professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, is the study’s lead author.
“People use cannabis to reduce anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder, but THC levels vary widely, so if you exceed your tolerance to THC, cannabis may not help you with anxiety,” he said. , which can be anxiety-provoking.
Vandry continued, “Our research shows that d-limonene modulates the effects of THC in a meaningful way, increasing tolerance in people who use THC for both therapeutic and non-therapeutic purposes.” It shows what can be done.”
Increased THC levels in cannabis
In recent years, selective breeding of cannabis plants has produced strains containing 20% to over 30% THC, compared to an average of 12% 10 years ago.
This increased THC level can make it difficult for users to consistently consume the same amount of THC each time.
THC interacts with receptors in the brain to create a feeling of relaxation and euphoria. However, the drug can also cause anxiety, fear, and panic if the user is exposed to higher than normal doses of his THC.
Expected role of D-limonene
D-limonene, one of the most abundant terpenes or essential oils in the cannabis plant, has shown promise in reducing anxiety behaviors in rodent studies. Terpenes affect the taste, aroma, and color of plants.
In this study, 20 healthy adults participated in up to 10 outpatient sessions during which they inhaled vaporized d-limonene alone, vaporized THC only, vaporized THC and d-limonene together, or vaporized d-limonene together. Water (as a placebo) was inhaled.
The study was double-blind, meaning neither the researchers nor the participants knew who was receiving which mixture.
Effects of cannabis-derived D-limonene on anxiety
The research team concluded that combining d-limonene with THC significantly reduced participants’ subjective indicators/reports of THC-induced anxiety. These reductions became larger as the dose of d-limonene increased.
Additionally, no interference with the subjective, cognitive, or physiological effects of THC was observed when coadministered with d-limonene, nor were any effects with d-limonene alone distinct from the placebo trials.
Dr. Spindle, lead author of the study, said: “This study is a first step in identifying how we can reduce the risks of THC when used medically, and also make cannabis safer for non-therapeutic consumers. The purpose is to
Researchers will continue to experiment with other terpenes alone and in combination with THC to see how they interact, as well as study d-limonene in larger and more diverse clinical populations. We plan to reproduce it. They also plan to test alternative methods of administration, such as oral ingestion.
Exploring the therapeutic effects of cannabis
As mentioned above, cannabis is gaining recognition for its potential therapeutic benefits. As research continues to uncover the medicinal properties of this versatile plant, more and more people are turning to cannabis as a natural alternative to conventional medicine.
pain and inflammation management
One of the most well-known therapeutic uses of cannabis is for pain management. The cannabinoids found in cannabis, specifically THC and CBD, interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to reduce the perception of pain.
Many patients suffering from chronic pain conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and neuropathic pain find relief from their symptoms by using cannabis-based products.
Cannabis also has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is a common underlying factor in many chronic diseases, including autoimmune diseases and neurodegenerative conditions.
By targeting inflammation, cannabis may help reduce symptoms and slow the progression of diseases such as multiple sclerosis, Crohn’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease.
Cannabis and D-limonene reduce anxiety and depression
Cannabinoids in cannabis have been shown to interact with receptors in the brain that regulate mood and emotions.
For people suffering from anxiety and depression, cannabis can be a natural alternative to traditional antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications.
However, high doses of THC can worsen anxiety for some people, so finding the right balance is important.
Cancer treatment and sleep quality
Cannabis holds promise for supporting cancer treatment by reducing chemotherapy side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.
Additionally, some research suggests that certain cannabinoids have anti-tumor properties and may slow the growth and spread of cancer cells.
Many people suffer from sleep disorders such as insomnia, which can have a major impact on their overall health and well-being.
Cannabis, especially strains high in CBD, can promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. By addressing sleep issues, cannabis may indirectly contribute to mental health, pain management, and improved immune function.
Implications and future D-limonene research
In summary, D-limonene, a natural chemical found in cannabis, has shown great promise in reducing the anxiety-inducing effects of THC.
A Johns Hopkins School of Medicine-led study provides evidence that combining d-limonene and THC makes cannabis use safer and more tolerable for both medical and recreational consumers.
This important discovery paves the way for more effective and personalized cannabis-based treatments as researchers continue to investigate the interaction between terpenes and THC and test alternative methods of administration. .
By unlocking the potential of d-limonene, we take an important step towards harnessing the benefits of cannabis while minimizing risk.
The entire research is Journal of Drug and Alcohol Dependence.
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