CBD, THC and the endocannabinoid system
As interest in natural remedies grows, pet owners are turning to medicinal cannabis products to address various health concerns for their pets, including anxiety, chronic pain and osteoarthritis.
To fully understand how these compounds may help your pet, it's essential to explore the endocannabinoid system and how CBD and THC interact with it.
What is the endocannabinoid system?
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a biological system found in humans and all animals (except insects). It plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis, or balance, in the body.
Functions of the ECS include:
Relieving pain and inflammation
Reducing anxiety
Improving sleep
Modulating neurologic function
Promoting healthy digestion
Supporting reproductive function
The ECS modulates the nervous and immune systems, and other organ systems, through a complex system of receptors and signalling molecules.
The ECS comprises the following:
Endocannabinoids: Naturally occurring compounds in the body that bind to cannabinoid receptors. The two most studied endocannabinoids are anandamide (ANA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG).
Cannabinoid Receptors (CB1 and CB2): These receptors are found throughout the body. CB1 receptors are primarily found in the brain but also occur in the peripheral nervous system and some organs. CB2 receptors are mainly located in the immune system and gastrointestinal system, with limited presence in the brain and nervous system.
Enzymes: These break down endocannabinoids after they’ve performed their function.
When the ECS is activated it interacts with various systems in the body, and plays a role in regulating essential functions like mood, appetite, sleep, immune response, inflammation and pain perception.
What is medicinal cannabis?
Medicinal cannabis refers to the use of cannabis plants or their chemical components for therapeutic purposes.
Key components of both the cannabis plant include:
Phytocannabinoids: Over 100 unique compounds, such as CBD and THC, each with distinct medicinal properties.
Terpenes: More than 150 aromatic compounds believed to have therapeutic effects.
Flavonoids: Plant-based antioxidants that may also contribute to health benefits.
These compounds can be extracted and formulated into various products like oils or topical creams, which are used to treat a range of medical conditions in both humans and animals.
What are CBD and THC?
CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) are the most well-known cannabinoids derived from the cannabis plant. While both interact with the ECS, they do so in different ways.
CBD is a non-intoxicating compound, meaning it doesn't produce a “high.” It is generally considered safe and well-tolerated in pets, with minimal side effects. CBD interacts with various receptors in the body, leading to therapeutic effects such as pain relief, reduced inflammation, improved mood, and anti-seizure benefits.
Learn more in our article on the safety and side effects of CBD in pets.
THC, on the other hand, is the main intoxicating compound in cannabis, responsible for the “high” associated with recreational use. THC also has medicinal benefits, including pain relief, anti-inflammatory properties, appetite stimulation, anti-nausea and anti-vomiting effects (anti-emetic).
How do CBD and THC work together?
While certain amounts of THC are not safe for pets, very low concentrations in combination with CBD may have therapeutic benefits.
“The entourage effect” is the idea that different compounds found in cannabis, such as cannabinoids (like THC and CBD) and terpenes, work together to enhance each other’s effects. Rather than acting in isolation, these compounds interact synergistically to create a more potent overall effect than any single compound would produce on its own. Furthermore, CBD may reduce some of the unwanted side effects of THC.
Pet parent considerations
When considering medicinal cannabis products for your pet, follow these important guidelines:
Opt for high quality products formulated specifically for pets.
Follow your vet’s dosing instructions. Typically, pets start with a low dose that is gradually increased to minimise potential side effects.
Closely monitor your pet for any adverse effects.
Schedule regular follow-up appointments with your vet to ensure your pet’s safety and wellbeing.
Conclusion
Understanding the interplay between CBD, THC, and the endocannabinoid system sheds light on why these cannabinoids can be effective in managing various health conditions in pets.
CBD is widely recognised as safe, offering numerous therapeutic benefits for pets, whereas THC should be administered only in minimal, carefully monitored doses.
Your vet will prescribe the most appropriate formulation and dosage for your pet. At Kindred, we equip vets with a comprehensive toolbox, ensuring they can safely and effectively prescribe medicinal cannabis products for their pet patients.
As research continues to emerge, phytocannabinoids show increasing promise for improving the health and wellness of pets. Stay tuned for future updates as we explore the latest findings and their practical applications in pet care.
