CBD and allergies: how CBD can help with allergies

Allergies can make life unpleasant, and finding effective relief is often difficult. In this article, you will learn what CBD is, how it can affect allergic reactions, and how to safely use its effects to alleviate symptoms. Read on to find out how CBD can help you.

A basic introduction to CBD

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a natural chemical compound obtained mainly from the Cannabis sativa plant (hemp). Unlike the psychoactive substance THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD has no significant euphoric effects. CBD acts in the body primarily through the endocannabinoid system (ECS) – a network of receptors, ligands, and enzymes that regulates various physiological processes, including immune response, inflammation, and homeostasis. Learn more in our article – What is CBD.

How CBD can help with allergies

CBD is being researched for its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. For example, experimental studies by Pharmaceuticals (Basel) have shown that CBD acts on allergies by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in neutrophils or preventing the migration of these cells in asthma models. Furthermore, there are studies from the International Archives of Allergy and Immunology that identify the effects of cannabinoids (including CBD) in the context of allergies, showing that they can affect inflammation in the airways or skin of allergic patients.

Why CBD makes sense for allergies

• Allergies generally involve an excessive immune system response to allergens, leading to inflammation of the mucous membranes, skin, or respiratory tract. CBD helps regulate immune system activity and suppresses certain inflammatory processes. This contributes to better management of allergic symptoms.
• Since ECS is present in cells involved in immune responses (e.g., mast cells, T lymphocytes), modulation of this system using CBD could be a way to influence the course of allergies.
• Furthermore, CBD is generally considered to have a good safety profile (in research), offering the possibility that it could be used as a supplement to conventional treatment.

What is an allergy and what are its symptoms?

An allergy is a condition in which the immune system reacts to substances that do not cause a negative reaction in most people. These substances, known as allergens, can be of various types (pollen, dust, animal fur, food, insects, etc.). When you come into contact with an allergen, your immune system reacts, causing inflammation and the release of histamine and other mediators, which manifest themselves as typical allergy symptoms.

Typical allergy symptoms

Symptoms vary depending on which part of the body is affected. Here are the most common ones:

• Nasal and ocular mucosa: sneezing, runny nose, itching, stuffy or watery nose, watery eyes (e.g., hay fever).
• Respiratory tract: coughing, wheezing, feeling of breathlessness (e.g., in allergic asthma)
• Skin: rashes, hives (urticaria), itching, eczema
• Digestive tract: food allergies may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or cramps.
• In rare cases, serious reactions may occur: anaphylaxis, which includes swelling, drop in blood pressure, and difficulty breathing.

CBD and allergies – treatment

Given the above-described effects of CBD on allergies (anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory), it is logical to consider the use of CBD oil as a complementary remedy for allergy sufferers. Below is an overview of what studies suggest:

Results from experimental/pre-clinical studies

• In the asthma model, CBD treatment for allergies was found to reduce airway hyperresponsiveness, decrease the amount of collagen fibers in the bronchi and alveoli, and also alleviate inflammatory markers in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid.
• Cell studies have shown that an extract with a high CBD content of 60% (“CBD-X”) reduced the production of cytokines IL-8 and IL-6 in human neutrophils and limited neutrophil migration – an important step in the development of inflammation in the airways.

Practical tips for using CBD for allergies

• Start with a lower dose: If you decide to try CBD for allergies, it is advisable to start with a smaller dose and closely monitor your body’s reactions. If you have never used CBD oils before, try CBD drops 5% or CBD 10%.
• Choose a high-quality product: It is recommended to choose products with certification (COA – certificate of analysis) that prove the CBD content, minimize impurities and the content of terpenes or other substances to which you may be sensitive. You can find certified CBD that you can trust at Konopna Farma Liptov.
• Consider the form of application: Hemp oil, capsules, or high-quality hemp cosmetics may have different uses. For skin symptoms, a hemp ointment or cream with CBD may be appropriate.
• Dietary supplements: Allergies can also be alleviated with Siberian chaga, cordyceps, or milk thistle, which support the immune system and overall health.
• Hydration: To supplement CBD drops, people can also use hemp tea, which is a gentle and pleasant way to enhance the effects of CBD.
• Monitor interactions: CBD may interact with certain medications (e.g., affecting liver enzymes, P450 system) – therefore, it is advisable to discuss its use with your doctor.

CBD and allergies – safety and recommendations

In general, CBD is considered to have a good safety profile in available studies. The review states that there is currently no evidence of serious toxicity at normal doses in healthy adults, but there are still things to keep in mind.

Risks and warnings specific to allergy sufferers

• If you are allergic to certain cannabis components or terpenes (e.g., limonene, linalool), it is possible that even a CBD product will contain these substances and cause a reaction.
• In the event of a severe allergic reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis), it is not advisable to rely solely on CBD. Standard treatment and medical attention are required. Healthline explicitly warns that CBD should not be used to treat severe allergic conditions.
• CBD may affect the metabolism of certain medications – if you are taking other medications (e.g., asthma medications, corticosteroids, antihistamines, or medications processed in the liver), consult your doctor about using CBD.

Summary of the effects of CBD on allergies

Overall, the use of CBD for allergies is an interesting prospect. CBD and allergies is an area where there are early signs that CBD could be useful as a supportive treatment. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, it could help alleviate some allergy symptoms or promote a calmer immune response. So if you are considering using CBD for allergies, I recommend taking it as a supplement, communicating with your doctor, and monitoring your health. Also consider safety aspects, product quality, and interactions with other medications.

Sources

• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32526734/
• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9964491/
• https://www.healthline.com/health/cbd-for-allergies
• https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321343
• https://www.thehempers.gr/en/articles/cbd-oil-against-allergic-rhinitis/