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Does CBD lower heart rate? Exploring the scientific evidence
Learn about whether or not CBD can lower heart rate, including how it impacts the cardiovascular system and what you should know.
Cardiovascular health is a key part of overall well-being, and heart rate is a critical indicator of heart function. In recent years, cannabidiol (CBD) has gained significant attention for its potential therapeutic benefits, ranging from discomfort relief to tension reduction.
Among the various claims surrounding CBD, one question stands out: Does CBD lower heart rate? This article dives into whether CBD can effectively reduce heart rate, exploring its mechanisms, benefits, and considerations for use.
What to know about heart rate
Heart rate, measured in beats per minute (BPM), reflects how many times your heart beats within a minute. It’s influenced by various factors, including physical activity, emotional state, hormones, and overall health.
A normal resting heart rate for adults typically ranges between 60 and 100 BPM. Lower heart rates are often seen as a sign of good cardiovascular fitness, while elevated heart rates, or tachycardia, may indicate stress, anxiety, or medical conditions that require attention.
Maintaining a healthy heart rate is essential for efficient blood circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to tissues, and removing waste products. Therefore, understanding how substances like CBD influence heart rate is crucial for those considering its use for health and wellness.
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of over a hundred cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, particularly in Cannabis sativa varieties.
Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not produce the "high" associated with cannabis use. CBD has garnered attention for its potential therapeutic properties, including soothing, discomfort-relieving, and general supportive effects.
CBD interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network of receptors, enzymes, and endocannabinoids that regulate various physiological processes such as mood, pain sensation, and immune function.
Specifically, CBD influences the ECS by interacting with cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) and other receptor systems, including serotonin receptors, which play a significant role in mood regulation.*
How can CBD affect heart rate?
The relationship between CBD and heart rate is an area of active research. Several mechanisms have been proposed to explain how CBD might influence heart rate:
- Tension-Relieving Effects: Tension and feelings of stress can lead to an increased heart rate. By working to help ease feelings of tension, CBD may indirectly contribute to a lower heart rate.*
- Vasodilation: CBD has been shown to support proper dilation of blood vessels, which can support healthy blood pressure.* This can, in turn, result in a lower heart rate as the heart does not need to work as hard to pump blood.
- Direct Cardiac Effects: Some studies suggest that CBD may have direct effects on the heart's electrical system, potentially influencing heart rate and rhythm.*
Understanding these mechanisms helps in evaluating the potential of CBD as a means to manage heart rate effectively.
What are some best practices for using CBD?
To maximize the benefits of CBD for heart rate management while minimizing risks, consider the following best practices:
1. Consult a healthcare provider
Before starting any CBD routine, especially in high amounts, consult a healthcare professional. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your health history and current medications, ensuring safe and effective use.
2. Choose high-quality products
Select CBD products from reputable brands — like Sunmed — that offer third-party lab testing. This ensures that the products are free from contaminants and accurately labeled with cannabinoid concentrations, providing consistency and safety.
3. Start with a small amount
Begin with a small serving size of CBD and gradually increase it until you achieve the desired effects. This approach helps identify the optimal amount for your needs and reduces the risk of side effects.
4. Monitor your health
Keep track of your heart rate, tension levels, and any side effects while using CBD. Adjust your dosage as necessary and stay in communication with your healthcare provider to ensure that CBD use remains beneficial and safe.
5. Maintain consistency
For optimal results, use CBD consistently. Establishing a regular schedule helps maintain steady CBD levels in your system, enhancing its therapeutic effects on heart rate and anxiety management.
The bottom line
Cannabidiol (CBD) presents a promising natural option for managing feelings of overwhelm and potentially supporting a healthy heart rate. Studies indicate that CBD may be able to help with tension, thus indirectly contributing to overall cardiovascular health.
While the evidence supporting CBD's benefits is encouraging, particularly in acute anxiety scenarios, more research is needed to fully understand its long-term effects and optimal dosages for heart rate management.
As the body of research on CBD continues to expand, it’s likely that more definitive guidelines and recommendations will emerge, clarifying CBD's role in promoting heart health and overall well-being. If you’re on the hunt for a natural way to ease tension and support overall feelings of wellness, explore our hemp products at Sunmed.
*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Sources:
Target Heart Rates Chart | Heart
Cannabis and Cannabinoids | National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH)
Effects of Cannabis on Cardiovascular System: The Good, the Bad, and the Many Unknowns | PMC