CBD & it’s Antioxidant Properties
As humans we convert food into energy in order to survive. When our metabolic processes create this energy, waste products are also created. Some of which contain an unpaired electron, also known as a free radical. They can also be created from stress or toxins and can be inhaled, ingested and absorbed into our skin. How do we stop this from happening? Introduce antioxidants.
CBD is extremely high in antioxidants. These protect us from free radical damage. Free radicals destroy cells by stealing electrons from other proteins, this can even damage the DNA itself. Once this happens they leave cells destabilized which causes a devastating ripple effect in our body. Long term effects of free radical damage include Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer's and chronic inflammation. We can also be exposed to this damage through pollutants like cigarette smoke or emotional stress. Antioxidants are very stable and bind to the free radicals, neutralizing them and stopping the damage to continue.
For a long time Vitamin C and E were considered to be some of the strongest antioxidants around. Now through new research it has been found that Cannabinoids are one of the richest sources of antioxidants known to man, in fact they are 30% - 50% stronger than both Vitamins C and E. This is because the CBD structure contains a free oxygen atom, which helps neutralize free radicals. It also has neuro-protectant properties which protect the body against neurodegenerative diseases. One study published by The British Journal of Pharmacology found that CBD reduces inflammation caused by the injection of amyloid. This is the protein that is associated with the death of cells causing Alzheimer’s. Because of its antioxidant rich make up, CBD also is used in the treatment of:
Diabetes
Cardiovascular diseases
Cancer
Arthritis
Psychosis
Epilepsy
Asthma
CBD also plays a role in promoting melanin production as it stimulates melanogenesis creation. Melanin protects against free radical damage caused by ultraviolet rays and environmental pollution. Introducing a CBD topical cream can address accelerated aging caused by sun damage and environmental pollutants.
CBD is a safe and highly therapeutic addition to treating inflammatory and oxidative stress related disorders. Inflammation, although a natural response to infection and injuries, causes the creation of cytokines which are signalling proteins specifically released in response to infection and injury by immune cells. Cytokines can both initiate inflammation and end it. Cannabinoids have been proven to control inflammation by regulating cytokines production. This is especially important when treating a cardiovascular disease as inflammation is the main cause.
CBD is such a powerful addition to your health regime and its long term effects could literally save your life.