In the rapidly evolving field of cannabis research, Laura Stewart, Ph.D., a professor at the University of Northern Colorado, has made significant strides in understanding the relationship between cannabidiol (CBD) and immune function. With a background in exploring the impact of exercise on the immune system, Stewart shifted her focus to CBD research in 2014, coinciding with Colorado's legalization of recreational marijuana use.
Bridging the Gap Between Perception and Science
Stewart's research highlights a significant discrepancy between public perception and scientific evidence regarding the health benefits of cannabis and CBD. While companies selling cannabis-related products should support their claims with research, a considerable amount of information shared by the general public on social media lacks scientific backing.
To better understand this gap, let's take a closer look at the current state of CBD research and its implications for public health.
The Promising Potential of CBD
CBD has shown promising results in treating childhood epilepsy syndromes, such as Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. Peter Grinspoon, MD, a cannabis specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital, notes that animal studies and self-reports suggest CBD may help alleviate anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain, and neuropathic pain.
However, claims about CBD's impact on general health often lack scientific support. Stewart emphasizes that most marketing claims surrounding the benefits of cannabis consumption are not backed by science, and regulations on presenting these claims are minimal.
The Spread of Misinformation
Stewart identifies two primary factors contributing to the exaggerated perception of cannabis consumption benefits: unregulated public opinion and anecdotal evidence shared on social media. People from various backgrounds recommend CBD for a wide range of reasons on social media platforms, and these opinions remain largely unchecked due to the right to free speech.
The problem arises when users share information that is not scientifically proven, relying on anecdotal responses to promote products or treatments lacking research support. This misinformation can lead people to invest in products or treatments that may not deliver the promised benefits.
Examining CBD's Impact on the Immune System
Stewart's research delves into the impact of both cannabis and CBD on the immune system. Her initial studies from 2016 to 2019 compared cannabis users and non-users, focusing on exercise performance. Although the results were not statistically significant due to the small sample size, Stewart discovered that some cannabis users could not maintain as much power as non-users during power tests, suggesting that cannabis use may negatively affect power output.
In a 2021 clinical trial involving daily CBD consumption for eight weeks, Stewart observed potential enhancements in natural killer cells' ability to kill cancer cells and interesting differences in participants' ability to feel awake after sleeping. Most recently, a global beverage company commissioned Stewart to examine the potential effect of CBD on healthy individuals as they considered launching a CBD-infused drink. The research found that daily CBD use for eight weeks in healthy individuals did not affect any of the measured physical and mental health indicators.
Advancing Cannabis Research at UNC
Stewart's work has not only yielded new findings but also fostered collaborations within the university and with external partners. In 2021, with the support of Kamel Haddad, dean of the College of Natural and Health Sciences, UNC established the Complementary Health and Integrative Physiology Center (CHIPC) on campus. This center aims to further research the impact of cannabis and other natural substances on health and create partnerships between academia and private companies.
An upcoming study from CHIPC will collaborate with a pharmaceutical-grade CBD company to evaluate the impact of CBD on veterans, showcasing the center's commitment to advancing cannabis research and its potential applications.
The Future of CBD Research
As Stewart continues to investigate the complexities surrounding cannabis and its potential to influence mental and physical health, her dedication to sharing accurate information with the public remains steadfast. Cannabis is a fascinating plant with much yet to be discovered about its potential impact on human health.
Stewart's research serves as a reminder that while anecdotal evidence and public opinion may suggest certain benefits, it is crucial to rely on scientific evidence when making claims about the health effects of cannabis and CBD. As more research is conducted, we can expect to gain a clearer understanding of the true potential and limitations of these substances.
By bridging the gap between public perception and scientific evidence, researchers like Stewart play a vital role in educating the public and guiding the conversation surrounding cannabis and CBD. As the field of cannabis research continues to evolve, it is essential to approach claims with a critical eye and rely on evidence-based information to make informed decisions about personal health and well-being.
