Unlocking the Brain’s Defenses – CB2 activation

Does Beta Caryophyllene (BCP) help with Essential Tremors?  This is a question that I was asked recently, which I couldn’t answer, so I promised to do some research.  Here’s what I found:

What are Essential Tremors?

Essential Tremor is a neurological disorder that causes uncontrollable rhythmic shaking, typically in the hands but potentially affecting any part of the body. While it’s not usually considered dangerous or linked to other health issues, it can worsen with time, becoming more severe for some individuals. It’s often mistaken for Parkinson’s Disease, but it’s a separate condition.

So can BCP help?

I found one study titled:The impact of cannabinoid type 2 receptors (CB2s) in neuroprotection against neurological disorders.  So for a quick review for all our newcomers, BCP is a direct binder of the CB2 receptors of our Endocannabinoid System (click links for more info), so obviously this study caught my attention.

Here’s a little of what the study found:  The review shows that receptors called CB2s are found in small amounts in specific parts of the brain in healthy people. However, when someone has a neurodegenerative disorder, these receptors increase significantly in certain support cells in the brain called glial cells. This increase in CB2s can be used as a way to diagnose inflammation in the brain caused by these disorders. They’re not exactly sure why CB2s increase in these conditions, but there are several factors like changes in genetics, how the CB2 genes are controlled, and various substances released in response to brain injury and inflammation that could be involved. Further research is needed to understand this better.  

In simple terms, the studies showed that when CB2 receptors in the brain, are activated, they can help reduce inflammation and protect brain cells from damage. This happened both in lab experiments and in real-life situations. When these receptors are activated, they also change how some channels work in brain cells, making them less likely to become overactive, which further protects them. However, these receptors are also found in other parts of the body, like immune cells in the spleen. So, when we try to activate them in the brain, we also activate them elsewhere. But there are two ideas to tackle this issue:

Firstly, during brain diseases like addiction or inflammation, these receptors naturally increase in number, so by targeting them during these times, we may get more benefits with fewer side effects.

Secondly, activating these receptors in the brain can also indirectly activate them in the body, which might actually be beneficial, as it can help reduce inflammation and boost the immune response, protecting the brain even more.

So, rather than causing side effects, activating these receptors in both the brain and the body might work together to safeguard the brain against damage in various conditions.

To end, I do want to say that I couldn’t find any research specific to Essential Tremors, but personally I do think that the above study sounds very promising!!

Sources: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/essential-tremor/symptoms-causes/syc-20350534; https://www.nature.com/articles/s41401-020-00530-2

Disclaimer:  The information in this post is for reference purposes only and not intended to constitute or replace professional medical advice or personal research. Please consult a qualified medical professional before making any changes to your diet, medications or lifestyle. Effects are provided as a guide only.  Statements have not been evaluated by the TGA.