Introduction
CBD (cannabidiol) is a natural compound that has been the subject of extensive research around the world. In recent decades, studies have been conducted to explore the benefits of cannabis and CBD products in different areas of health. However, it is important to keep in mind that not all studies are designed the same and that there are different levels of research.
Research in cell cultures
One of the most basic levels of research is the study in cell cultures. In this type of research, living cells are used in test tubes and petri dishes to study how CBD interacts with cells. These studies provide information about the effects of CBD at the molecular level and may help better understand its mechanism of action.
Example of study in cell cultures
A study conducted by Mechoulam et al. in 1963 he investigated the structure of cannabidiol and its separation from other cannabinoids [[1]]. Another study conducted by Lerner in the same year focused on the identification of CBD subgroups [[2]]. These studies laid the foundation for subsequent research on CBD.
Animal research
The next level of research is the study in live animals. These studies allow scientists to obtain more precise information about the effectiveness, safety and toxicity of CBD. By using animals such as rats, monkeys, and other mammals, researchers can test how CBD affects the body and compare the results between different species.
Example of animal study
A study conducted by Hind et al. in 2016 investigated the effects of CBD on cerebral vascular disease in mice [[3]]. Another study by Harvey et al. in 2014 focused on the use of CBD for irritable bowel syndrome in rats [[4]]. These studies provided important information about the effects of CBD on different health conditions.
Clinical investigations in humans
The highest level of experimental research is the human clinical study. These studies are conducted directly on human volunteers and are used to evaluate the efficacy and safety of CBD in different health conditions. Clinical trials can provide information on the proper dosage, side effects, and interaction of CBD with other medications.
Example of a clinical study
A study conducted by Naftali et al. in 2017 investigated the use of CBD for Crohn’s disease in human patients [[5]]. Another study by Shannon et al. in 2019 focused on the use of CBD for anxiety and insomnia in humans [[6]]. These studies provided valuable information about the effects of CBD in specific conditions.
Meta-analysis
A meta-analysis is a type of systematic review in which data from multiple studies on a particular aspect of CBD is collected and evaluated. These analyzes can include preclinical and clinical studies, and provide an overview of the available evidence on a specific topic.
Example of meta-analysis
A meta-analysis conducted by de Carvalho Reis et al. in 2019 evaluated the effects of CBD on epilepsy using data from multiple studies [[7]]. Another meta-analysis conducted by England et al. in 2015 investigated the effects of CBD on cerebral vascular disease [[8]]. These meta-analyses provided an overview of the available evidence on the effects of CBD on different health conditions.
Conclusions
Research on CBD spans different levels, from cell culture studies to human clinical trials. Each level of research provides valuable information about the effects of CBD on different health conditions. Animal studies and meta-analyses also contribute to our understanding of CBD. As research continues, it is expected that more information will be obtained about the benefits and risks of CBD.
