Cannabinoids have been scientifically proven to play an active role in maintaining and regulating the processes of neurogenesis and neurodegeneration.

In animal trials, cannabinoids have alleviated symptoms of stroke and traumatic head injuries. This provides an important link between cannabinoids and the immune system.

The immune system is capable of helping the body recover from stroke because of its power to reduce inflammation in the central nervous system. With that in mind, it stands to reason that using cannabinoids to help decrease inflammation while also promoting the construction of new neural pathways (neurogenesis) could go a long way toward supporting the immune system’s natural function and creating quicker stroke recovery periods.

Because the immune system is so complex, it’s not altogether surprising that it sometimes falls out of balance.

Multiple sclerosis, for example, is an autoimmune disease that results from the cell-mediated immune system becoming overly active and targeting the body’s brain and nervous system as if it were a dangerous antigen.

Within M.S., the immune system attacks the myelin (the fatty, protective coating) around nerve fibers, resulting in extensive scar tissue and damage. Over time, the buildup of scar tissue begins to interrupt nerve impulses as they travel to and from the brain. This, in turn, causes a loss of motor function and eventual paralysis in the affected individual.

Research from the targeted use of cannabinoids for the purpose of boosting the immune system is overwhelmingly positive. In addition to mitigating the inflammatory symptoms of arthritis and various neural problems, cannabinoids have been shown to interact with the ECS in a way that helps promote maximum immune function and optimal health through various stages of life.

Although the topic of cannabinoids and the immune system requires further study and evaluation, scientists have already compiled a large body of research, which is starting to reveal how cannabinoid compounds can help the immune system function at optimal levels.