Cannabidiol (CBD) and gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) are two compounds found in cannabis plants that have been gaining attention for their potential therapeutic benefits. CBD is the main non-intoxicating component of cannabis, and it has been studied for its potential to treat mental health and neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that helps regulate brain activity, and it has been studied for its potential to reduce stress, pain, and improve physical and mental performance. In addition to their individual benefits, research suggests that combining CBD and GABA may have a synergistic effect, creating an “entourage effect” that amplifies the effects of both compounds.
This combination has been studied for its potential to reduce stress, improve sleep, and even treat epilepsy in children. In this article, we will explore the potential benefits of combining CBD and GABA, as well as how to safely use them.Preclinical evidence suggests that one aspect of CBD polypharmacy is that it modulates brain excitatory glutamate and inhibitory levels of GABA, including in ASD-related brain regions such as the basal ganglia (BG) and the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex (DMPFC). To test if CBD “changes” the levels of glutamate and GABA; and to examine the possible differences in this response in ASDs, researchers used magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) to measure the levels of glutamate (Glx%3D of glutamate + glutamine) and GABA+ (GABA + macromolecules) in 34 healthy men. The results showed that CBD increased Glx in subcortical regions but decreased Glx in cortical regions.
In all regions, CBD increased GABA+ in controls, but GABA+ decreased in ASD; the group difference in the change in GABA+ in DMPFC was significant.When CBD binds to GABAA receptor subtypes, it can promote neurological, anticonvulsant and anxiolytic action. It does not competitively bind to the benzodiazepine receptor2 and, since it does not have the same receptor location, it could be effective in people who are resistant to benzodiazepines. This mechanism also allows CBD to be adapted to specific GABA receptors.When combined with GABA, CBD creates an entourage effect that amplifies their individual effects. Natural CBD extracts can increase GABA levels by reducing signals the brain receives, relieving mental activity in the brain and making you feel calmer.
This allows CBD to increase tryptophan levels in unstimulated areas of the brain, creating a passive baseline increase.CBD does not show tolerance or normalization with its use, which is essential for the GABA pathway to work in a healthy way again. CBD is affecting the natural endocannabinoid system, which has multiple means of balancing the GABA and glutamate systems (electrical, chemical, etc.).When you're looking for an enriched GABA supplement, be sure to do your research and choose one combined with pure CBD. It's essential to research the type of CBD you're taking and the available extraction methods. This type of CBD is also an excellent choice for anyone who needs to be drug-tested, such as professional athletes.The Food and Drug Administration panel unanimously voted to approve a CBD drug used to treat epilepsy in children.
This suggests that combining CBD with GABA may have potential therapeutic benefits for treating epilepsy.In conclusion, combining CBD with GABA may have potential therapeutic benefits for reducing stress, improving sleep quality, and even treating epilepsy. However, more research is needed before any definitive conclusions can be made about their efficacy. When using these compounds together or separately, it's important to do your research and choose a product from a reputable source.
