A new review published in the International Journal of Molecular Science explores how cannabidiol (CBD) and other phytocannabinoids may benefit cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death worldwide.
Researchers from the University Hospital of Split detail how the endocannabinoid system—through CB1 and CB2 receptors—plays a central role in cardiovascular health. Preclinical studies suggest that selectively activating CB2 receptors could reduce atherosclerosis, limit damage from ischemia-reperfusion injury, decrease oxidative stress, and calm chronic inflammation, all without the psychoactive effects tied to CB1.
The review notes that CBD interacts with many targets beyond cannabinoid receptors, influencing redox-sensitive transcription factors, vascular tone, immune responses, and endothelial integrity. Early clinical findings indicate that CBD may lower blood pressure, improve endothelial function, and reduce stress-related peptides like catestatin, while maintaining a strong safety profile.
However, researchers caution that clinical evidence remains limited. Challenges include low bioavailability, small trial sizes, short study durations, and unanswered questions about long-term use.
They conclude that while CBD shows significant promise as an adjunct therapy for cardiovascular disease, larger and more rigorous clinical trials are needed before it can be widely adopted in treatment.
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