Overview of Parkinson’s Disease (PD)
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disease that is a result of gradual destruction of dopamine neurons in the brain. PD first manifests as a variety of dyskinesia (movement disorder) type symptoms. Some of which include tremors, muscle stiffness, rigidity, and lack of facial expression (dystonia). There is no known cure for Parkinson’s and the severity of the symptoms increase over time. Sadly, the ongoing destruction of dopamine neurons eventually leads to Parkinson’s Disease Dementia (PDD) in nearly 80% of patients. PDD is a condition very similar to Alzheimer’s Disease; and results from an build up of destructive Lewy Body proteins in the brain. Parkinson’s Disease is typically treated with the medication L-Dopa, which is an amino acid precursor to the neurotransmitter Dopamine. Unfortunately, L-Dopa does nothing to lower the overabundance of G-Coupled Proteins (GPR), which are believed to be the main cause of Parkinson’s.
CBD Oil’s Effect on Parkinson’s Disease
Studies have shown that treatment with CBD Oil can not only reduce the symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease, but it may also halt the progression of the disease itself. CBD has positive effects on both abnormalities in the Central Nervous System (CNS) as well as the Enteric Nervous System located in the gut. Within the Central Nervous System CBD acts as an inverse agonist of multiple GPR receptors, most notably GPR6. By binding to the GPR receptors in this way, it leads to a decrease of GPR levels in the brain. Reduction of GPR levels results in an increase of dopamine levels, and thus reduction of Parkinson’s Disease Symptoms.
The human stomach, or gut also contains a large number of Endocannabinoid Receptors These receptors are the natural binding sites for CBD, THC, and all other cannabinoids. Proper levels of endocannabinoids in the gut has been shown to lead to a well balanced microbiome. The microbiome refers to the balance of microorganisms and bacteria in the stomach. Another root cause of Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is an unhealthy microbiome, as the CNS and Enteric Nervous System need to have healthy interaction (Gut-Brain Axis).
Final Notes
There are a couple important things to consider about using CBD to treat Parkinson’s Disease. First of all, a full spectrum CBD product would provide better results than isolate. All cannabinoids have been shown to be beneficial in PD symptom reduction. Please consult a doctor first, but it is thought to be safe to use CBD alongside L-Dopa for PD treatment.