Neuroprotective potential of cannabidiol: Molecular mechanisms and clinical implications

J Integr Med. 2023 May;21(3):236-244. doi: 10.1016/j.joim.2023.03.004. Epub 2023 Mar 18.

Abstract

Cannabidiol (CBD), a nonpsychotropic phytocannabinoid that was once largely disregarded, is currently the subject of significant medicinal study. CBD is found in Cannabis sativa, and has a myriad of neuropharmacological impacts on the central nervous system, including the capacity to reduce neuroinflammation, protein misfolding and oxidative stress. On the other hand, it is well established that CBD generates its biological effects without exerting a large amount of intrinsic activity upon cannabinoid receptors. Because of this, CBD does not produce undesirable psychotropic effects that are typical of marijuana derivatives. Nonetheless, CBD displays the exceptional potential to become a supplementary medicine in various neurological diseases. Currently, many clinical trials are being conducted to investigate this possibility. This review focuses on the therapeutic effects of CBD in managing neurological disorders like Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and epilepsy. Overall, this review aims to build a stronger understanding of CBD and provide guidance for future fundamental scientific and clinical investigations, opening a new therapeutic window for neuroprotection. Please cite this article as: Tambe SM, Mali S, Amin PD, Oliveira M. Neuroprotective potential of Cannabidiol: Molecular mechanisms and clinical implications. J Integr Med. 2023; 21(3): 236-244.

Keywords: Anti-neurodegenerative diseases; Bioactive compounds; Cannabidiol; Cannabis sativa; Natural products.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cannabidiol* / pharmacology
  • Cannabidiol* / therapeutic use
  • Cannabinoids* / pharmacology
  • Cannabinoids* / therapeutic use
  • Cannabis*
  • Epilepsy* / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Neuroprotection
  • Neuroprotective Agents* / pharmacology
  • Neuroprotective Agents* / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Cannabidiol
  • Cannabinoids
  • Neuroprotective Agents