Can CBD Lower Heart Rate?
Heart rate refers to the number of times your heart beats per minute. A normal resting heart rate ranges between 60 to 100 beats per minute (BPM). However, several factors can influence heart rate, including stress, anxiety, exercise, medication, and underlying heart conditions. In some cases, a consistently high or elevated resting heart rate can impact overall health, even leading to serious conditions such as hypertension, heart disease, or stroke. In this article, we explore how CBD may have potential benefits for heart health and heart rate control.
The Science behind CBD and Heart Rate
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a non-psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is a network of receptors, enzymes, and endocannabinoids that helps regulate several physiological functions, including mood, appetite, pain, sleep, and immune response. The ECS also plays a crucial role in maintaining cardiovascular health by regulating heart rate, blood pressure, and heart rhythm.
Several scientific studies have explored the potential benefits of CBD for cardiovascular health, primarily by assessing the compound’s impact on blood pressure and heart rate variability. In a 2017 study published in JCI Insight, researchers investigated the acute effects of CBD on blood pressure and heart rate responses to stress in healthy adults. The study found that CBD reduced resting systolic blood pressure and stroke volume, and also blunted the blood pressure response to stress.
Is CBD the Key to a Healthier Heart?
Beyond its impact on heart rate control, CBD may have several benefits for overall cardiovascular health. One of the primary ways CBD may support cardiovascular health is by reducing inflammation. Inflammation can contribute to several heart-related conditions, including atherosclerosis, or the buildup of plaque in the arteries. According to a 2014 study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, CBD has potent anti-inflammatory effects in human coronary artery cells.
CBD may also help manage cardiovascular conditions such as arrhythmias, or irregular heartbeats. According to a 2019 review published in the Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology, CBD has been shown to have anti-arrhythmic effects by reducing oxidative stress and improving mitochondrial function.
Breaking Down the Benefits of CBD for Cardiovascular Health and Heart Rate Control
So how exactly does CBD help regulate heart rate and support cardiovascular health? One of the primary mechanisms by which CBD exerts its effects is by interacting with receptors in the ECS. Specifically, CBD binds to the CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are found throughout the body, including in the brain, central nervous system, and cardiovascular system.
CBD may help regulate heart rate by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. Inflammation and oxidation can put stress on the cardiovascular system, leading to increased heart rate and other symptoms. By reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, CBD may help maintain a healthy heart rate and prevent cardiovascular conditions from developing.
CBD and Heart Rate
Studies have also explored the potential for CBD specifically to lower resting heart rate. In a 2018 study published in JCI Insight, researchers investigated the effects of CBD on resting cardiovascular parameters in healthy volunteers. The study found that CBD reduced resting systolic blood pressure and stroke volume, and also blunted the blood pressure response to stress.
Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology explored the impact of CBD on heart rate and subjective anxiety in individuals with social anxiety disorder. The study found that acute administration of CBD reduced resting heart rate and subjective anxiety levels.
The Link Between CBD and Heart Health
In addition to its effects on heart rate, CBD may have numerous potential benefits for cardiovascular health. One of the primary ways in which CBD exerts its effects is by reducing blood pressure, which is a critical risk factor for heart disease and stroke. According to a 2017 review published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, CBD has been shown to have vasodilatory effects, or the ability to widen blood vessels, which can help lower blood pressure.
CBD may also help improve overall circulation by promoting the health of blood vessels and promoting vasodilation. In a 2018 study published in the journal Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, researchers investigated the impact of cannabis on cardiovascular health. The study found that cannabis use, which contains varying levels of both THC and CBD, was associated with improved circulation in healthy adults.
Natural Ways to Lower Your Heart Rate
While CBD may have potential benefits for heart health and heart rate control, there are also numerous other lifestyle changes individuals can make to support cardiovascular health. For example, regular exercise has been shown to have numerous benefits for heart health, including improving heart rate variability and reducing the risk of heart disease.
Dietary changes, such as reducing salt intake and increasing consumption of fruits and vegetables, may also help improve cardiovascular health and support a healthy heart rate. Additionally, managing stress and anxiety is critical for maintaining a healthy heart rate. CBD may be a potential tool in managing stress and anxiety, which can contribute to elevated heart rate and other symptoms.
Conclusion
While more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of CBD for heart health and heart rate control, early evidence suggests that CBD may be a promising tool in maintaining cardiovascular health and reducing the risk of heart-related conditions. By reducing inflammation, regulating heart rate, and improving overall circulation, CBD may be a valuable addition to a comprehensive heart health routine. If you’re interested in incorporating CBD into your healthcare routine, speak with your doctor to determine the best course of action for your individual needs and circumstances.