CBD Could Prevent Acute and Chronic Lung isease

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD is a lung condition caused by the body’s chronic inflammatory response to inhaled gases and particles. Bacterial infections may also contribute. Accumulated T lymphocytes attract inflammatory white blood cells that release proteases that breakdown of the connective tissue of the lungs. High concentrations of free radicals in tobacco and the chemicals released by inflammatory immune cells damage the cells lining small and large bronchial tubes leading to cell death and scaring or hyper secretion of mucus, hence chronic coughing. Usually, one pathology or the other predominates creating primarily emphysema or chronic bronchitis. Once the process gets started it’s difficult to stop even after quitting smoking.

Cannabidiol from organic hemp could stop this process by several mechanisms. First, CBD suppresses the T cells involved and prevents them from recruiting immune cells that damage the lung. Second, it blocks the inflammatory substances these cells secrete, like Tumor Necrosis Factor and Interleukin-6. Third, it inhibits bronchial tube constriction improving airflow. Fourth, it blocks acute lung injury to prevent the initial inflammatory response using adenosine cellular receptors. And Fifth, CBD increases lung function by decreasing airway resistance so exhaling is much easier. “CBD administered therapeutically, i.e. during an ongoing inflammatory process, has a potent anti-inflammatory effect and also improves the lung function.

Case Study: 70 yo retired psychiatrist refinishing his sailboat mixed a stripping and cleaning chemicals that created chlorine gas in the confined space of his galley. He had immediate coughing and shortness of breath, was admitted per ambulance with oxygen support. He immediately started CBD by e-cigarette vaporization. His oxygenation was stable and he was discharged the next day. Cough and chest tightness resolved over the next 3 days with no residual impairment. In this case CBD appears to have halted a potentially serious lung injury and prevented the inflammation that could have lead to extended or chronic disease.
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