CBD oil for pets – benefits and uses
CBD has a wide range of therapeutic benefits and is effective in reducing inflammation (which is present in most, if not all, chronic diseases). Awareness of this herbal remedy is growing worldwide, and it is now available in almost all veterinary clinics. Studies on dogs have shown that CBD improves clinical signs associated with osteoarthritis, allergies, neurological disorders, and epilepsy.
How does CBD work?
Endocannabinoid System (ECS)
The ECS is a regulatory system present in most animals, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish. It has been evolutionarily conserved for at least 600 million years. The ECS plays a strong role in maintaining overall homeostasis and healthy immunity. It is also involved in regulating inflammatory processes, memory, neurogenesis, appetite, and the energy balance of overall metabolism. It plays a role in the body’s response to stress, anxiety, regulation of the autonomic nervous system, reproduction, analgesia, thermoregulation, sleep, bone health, skin health, arterial and respiratory health, emotional regulation, and trauma response. Research shows that it is possible to influence the ECS by applying exogenous cannabinoids such as CBD oil. The ECS has a wide spectrum of influence on the entire body and can be thought of as a ‘master regulator.’ It is particularly influential on the neurological, immune, and endocrine systems.
Mechanism of ECS action
The ECS consists of numerous receptors in a wide range of cells, tissues, and organs throughout the body and is regulated by cannabinoids. A cannabinoid can be defined as a chemical compound that acts on
an endocannabinoid receptor.
• Endogenous cannabinoids (endo-cannabinoids) act briefly and are enzymatically degraded in a relatively short time
• Exogenous cannabinoids have a much longer life, which increases their potential and effectiveness
There are two known types of endocannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2 (discovered so far). These two receptor types differ in function and distribution throughout the body. CB1 receptors are found in higher concentrations in nervous tissues – particularly the brain and spinal cord. CB2 receptors are found in higher concentrations in immune tissues (intestines, spleen, etc.).
However, both receptor types are widely distributed in many tissues and cell types throughout the body in lower concentrations. For example, CB1 receptors have been found in the liver, where activation has been shown to increase lipogenesis. Cannabinoids also interact with and affect the body through mechanisms other than the aforementioned receptors, but these mechanisms are not yet fully understood.
Research shows that it is possible to influence the ECS by applying exogenous cannabinoids.
CBD oil is already well-documented as a powerful anti-inflammatory agent.
It is used for pain relief and as an anti-inflammatory medicine for various ailments, both internal and musculoskeletal, and muscle pain.
Research shows it is helpful in treating epilepsy, pain, anxiety, and as a support in the treatment of cancer and other serious diagnoses.
Ask your veterinarian about CBD oil
CBD – a natural remedy with a very broad therapeutic spectrum
Most, if not all, chronic diseases have associated inflammation as a cause or as a secondary problem, manifesting as a disruption of healthy homeostasis. Due to cannabinoids having strong anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and homeostatic effects, along with a high protective index and broad therapeutic spectrum, CBD oil shows enormous potential as a safe and effective remedy for inclusion in holistic protocols for treating chronic diseases in animals.
Depending on the percentage, you can start with a minimal dose and increase it over several days until you see symptom improvement.
