2025year

~Why do dogs react more easily to CBD? Deciphering from the Brain and Physiology~

Dogs are said to be more prone to "epilepsy" and "seizure-like symptoms" than humans.
The background is not only genetic characteristics, but also the structure of the brain and the body's coordinating function, the ECS (endogenous cannabinoid system).

In this article, we will explain why dogs have more seizures and why dogs are more likely to respond to CBD from an academic perspective.

1. Why dogs are often said to have "epilepsy"

(1) Strong genetic background

Dogs have been bred by humans throughout their long history.
Therefore, it is easy to inherit not only a specific temperament and constitution, but also genetic traits that predispose to seizures.

Especially

beagle
corgi
Shelti
Jack Russell Terrier
Golden retriever

etc. are known to be breeds that are prone to seizures.



(2) The brain is sensitive to stimuli

The dog's brain is sensitive to external stimuli such as sound, light, and smell.
Emotional changes (excitement, anxiety, fear, etc.) also fluctuate more than others.

This "ease of transmission of brain excitement" can trigger seizures.

(3) Susceptible to metabolic fluctuations

Dogs may have seizures with physiological changes, such as:

hypoglycemia
Decreased liver function
Sodium-calcium imbalance
Strong stress
Lack of sleep

Especially in small and elderly dogs, it is said that these factors tend to overlap.

2. Why dogs' brains are more susceptible to CBD

From here, we will scientifically decipher the relationship between dogs and CBD.

(1) CB1 receptors are abundant in the brain

The brain has a mechanism called CB1 receptors that regulate nerve excitation.
Dogs have this CB1 receptor,

cerebellum
hippocampus
brain stem

It is especially abundant in the
This means that it is denser than humans and is more susceptible to the function of regulating excessive nervous excitation.



(2) ECS (endocannabinoid system) is sensitive

The ECS is an important system that balances our body.
It spreads throughout the body, including the brain, immune, nerves, and digestive organs.

Dogs are aware that this ECS
Sensitive to changes in the environment and physical condition
It has the characteristic of.

In other words, dogs are more likely to see changes when their ECS is in place.
On the other hand, it can be said that it is an animal that is easily affected by its physical condition if it is disturbed.

3. Why CBD is said to be easily experienced by dogs

CBD (cannabidiol) supports the body's coordination by working on the ECS.
The reasons why dogs are more likely to change are as follows.
(1) High affinity with brain receptors

Because dogs are rich in CB1 receptors,
Changes in the direction of regulating nerve function are likely to appear.
It is thought that

(2) Nerve inflammation is easily relieved

For "subclinical inflammation" caused by aging, stress, and environmental changes,
CBD is said to work in the direction of gentle adjustment.
(3) Changes are more clear in senior dogs

In older dogs,

Decreased walking speed
Slowing down of reactions
Increased anxiety

etc. are often seen.
These may be related to poor ECS function,
When adjustments are made, it may be easier to see changes in behavior.



4. Dogs are animals that are "prone to changes in their bodies as they are in their behavior"

Dogs are very clear about changes in body balance as behavior.

For example

Walk often on days when you are in good health
On bad days, your appetite decreases
Get close to what you need

You can honestly see changes such as this.

This is because the dog's ECS works sensitively,
It is thought that this is because the changes that occur in the body are easily observed as external actions.

Dogs are biologically and behaviorally,
When the balance of the body is balanced, it is easy for it to appear as a "visible change".

5. Summary
The reasons why dogs have many seizures include:

Genetic predisposition
Brain structure
Metabolic fluctuations
Emotional fluctuation


Multiple factors are involved.

Furthermore, dogs
It is an animal with a high reactivity of the ECS (endocannabinoid system),
Sometimes the changes caused by CBD are easier to see than others.

This knowledge helps you understand your dog's health,
It is very important for reading changes in behavior and physical condition.

By knowing the relationship between ECS and dogs,
You can see the depth of the animal called a dog even more.


[References]

Berendt M, Gram L. J Vet Intern Med. 1999.
Heske L, et al. J Vet Intern Med. 2014.
Tsou K, et al. J Comp Neurol. 1998.
McGrath S, et al. Front Vet Sci. 2018.
McGrath S, et al. JAVMA. 2019.
Bartner LR, et al. Can J Vet Res. 2018.
Vezzani A, et al. Nat Rev Neurol. 2011.
McPartland JM, et al. Eur J Pharmacol. 2006.

Dementia and CBD: A New Perspective on Finding Hope in Progression Inhibition and BPSD


1. It's not just "forgetfulness", the real pain of dementia

When many people think of dementia, they first think of "forgetfulness".
However, in reality, what patients, families, and caregivers suffer the most is "behavioral and psychological symptoms (BPSD)".

For example, wandering, verbal abuse, hallucinations, anxiety, day-night reversal, refusal behavior, etc.
These are major problems that make daily life and nursing care more difficult than memory loss.
BPSD is painful for the person himself and at the same time is a factor that increases the burden on those around him, so it is essential to understand and respond to it from an early stage.



2. Even though the number of new drugs increases, the reality is that they are not meeting expectations

Donepezil, memantine, and more recently, aducanumab, and other therapeutic drugs that aim to "intervene in the disease itself" are appearing one after another.
These are intended to slow down the progression of cognitive function and are not originally expected to have an effect on BPSD (behavioral and psychological symptoms).

On the contrary, there are cases where BPSD is exacerbated by the side effects of these drugs without the person or family noticing it.
For example, changes such as "restlessness", "insomnia", and "hallucinations" were thought to be the progression of the disease, but in fact they were the effects of medication.

3. That's where CBD is attracting attention

Against this backdrop, CBD (cannabidiol) has been attracting attention in recent years.
CBD has no psychoactive effects or addiction and is highly safe, which is why research is being conducted for medical applications around the world.

In particular, clinical reports have shown improvements in symptoms such as "anxiety," "anxiety," and "hallucinations" for BPSD, suggesting that it may reduce stress among caregivers.
Randomized controlled trials are also underway overseas, and further evidence is expected to increase in the future.

4. It may also suppress the progression of dementia itself.

CBD is not only suppressing BPSD, but also has the potential to slow the progression of dementia itself.
Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain are believed to cause neuronal degeneration and death, and CBD has been reported to help suppress these reactions.

Animal studies have also confirmed that CBD inhibits the accumulation of amyloid β and maintains neuroplasticity in the brain, which is involved in memory.
Human research is still limited, but it is expected to have the potential to be used as a "dementia progression inhibitor" in the future.

5. Is CBD safe? Can it be used in Japan?

Studies to date have reported that CBD is relatively safe and has fewer side effects in older adults.
However, it is not approved as a drug in Japan, and depending on the product,THC (psychoactive component)There are cases where it is contaminated, so be careful.

It is important to choose a reliable product, that the content is clearly determined, and that you consult with your doctor when using it.

6. Conclusion: As a new option to support "that person's personality"

A treatment that completely stops the progression of dementia has not yet been established.
However, there is great hope that options like CBD are emerging that have fewer side effects and may reduce the suffering of the person and their family.

While we hope that further research will progress in the future and new perspectives on dementia care will expand, it is important to first know the correct information and explore what we can do.

7. How does CBD reduce inflammation in the brain? ──Relationship with microglia

In recent years, not only amyloid β have been the cause of Alzheimer's disease, but also chronic inflammation in the brain (neuroinflammation).
Immune cells in the brain called "microglia" play a central role in this inflammation.

Normally, microglia are responsible for monitoring the brain's environment and processing foreign substances.
However, when amyloid β, tau protein abnormalities, and oxidative stress accumulate, microglia become overactive and release inflammatory substances (such as IL-1β and TNF-α), which in turn damage nerve cells.

Several basic studies have reported that CBD can reduce the excessive activation of these microglia and keep the brain's inflammatory response calm.
It has also been suggested that it may realign microglia from "excessive aggressors" to "repair agents" by promoting the production of cytokines (e.g., IL-10) that induce inflammation in a calming direction.

In this way, CBD also has the potential to be an "immunomodulator that calms the brain", and future research is expected to be not limited to just a countermeasure against BPSD, but also as a means of suppressing the progression of dementia itself.

It's not just CBD!　What is the function of the endogenous cannabinoid system (ECS) supported by "water"?

1. Moisture is the basic environment for ECS function

The ECS (endocannabinoid system) is responsible for maintaining homeostasis in the body. It is involved in body temperature regulation, appetite, pain, inflammation, mood, sleep, immunity, etc.

When water is insufficient, metabolism, neurotransmission, and enzymatic reactions at the cellular level do not work well, and the ECS slows down.



2.Dehydration triggers a stress response

When you are dehydrated, cortisol (stress hormone) is secreted, and the ECS works to suppress it.

However, chronic water deprivation can also limit the ability of the ECS to regulate, which can worsen inflammation, mood disorders, and insomnia.


3. Water is also required for the synthesis of endocannabinoids

Endogenous cannabinoids (anandamide and 2-AG) are molecules derived from lipids, but enzymes are involved in their synthesis and degradation, and the water environment affects enzyme activity.

Since enzymatic reactions basically work optimally in a water-soluble environment, dehydration poses a risk of causing metabolic disorders.

4. Hydration and nervous system health

The ECS is also widely distributed in the central nervous system, and water balance also affects signaling in the brain.

Especially in the elderly, it is difficult to feel thirsty, so the regulatory mechanism involved in the ECS is likely to decline, which can cause symptoms such as constipation, insomnia, and depression.

5.Water as an environmental factor that supports the work of CBD and cannabinoids

Phytocannabinoids such as CBD support the ECS, but water is essential for absorption, transport, and action in the body.

Water-soluble CBD is especially essential for moisture to be effective. In the dehydrated state, it is not well dispersed and absorbed, making it difficult to exert its effectiveness.

Summary

Water is like the "soil" of the ECS. In a state of lack of fluids, the ECS cannot function well. In addition to diet and CBD intake to regulate the ECS, "drinking water frequently" is the basis for maintaining fundamental health.

Every summer"I can't eat because I'm tired in the summer" "I can't sleep without air conditioning"I often hear voices saying.
On the other hand, there are people who can live well in the same environment. Where does this difference come from?

The keyword is "heat acclimatization".
This time, we will talk about the mechanism by which the body gets used to heat, the relationship with the endocannabinoid system (ECS),
And we will explain how to use CBD to support you.



1. What is heat acclimatization?

Heat acclimatization is an adaptive response in which the human body changes to cope with rising temperatures.
Specifically, the following changes occur:
1.Increased sweating and easier to regulate body temperature
2.Reduced salt content in sweat and reduced mineral loss
3.Reduces the increase in heart rate and body temperature
4.Reduces the risk of heat stroke

This acclimatization occurs gradually over a few days ~ 2 weeks, and is triggered by moderately sweaty activities during the day. On the other hand, if you are only in air-conditioned rooms, heat acclimatization is less likely to occur.


2.Relationship between ECS and heat tolerance
The ECS (endogenous cannabinoid system) is a regulatory mechanism that maintains homeostasis in body temperature, stress, immunity, energy metabolism, etc.
If this ECS is working well, the following adjustments will go smoothly:
1.initiation and suppression of sweating
2.Balance adjustment of the autonomic nervous system (sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves)
3.Suppression of inflammatory response
4.Improve the quality of sleep and recovery

In a hot environment, the body is more susceptible to stress, but if the ECS is working well, it may be able to suppress overreactions and acclimatize smoothly.

3.The importance of diet, hydration, and exercise

#食事
1. In summer, the stomach tends to weaken. Choose not only cold foods, but warm and easy to digest.
2. Minerals such as magnesium, potassium, sodium, and zinc are easily lost with sweat, and miso soup, natto, vegetables, seaweed, and pickled plums are useful.

#moisture
1.Frequent replenishment before feeling thirsty is the iron rule. Mineral water, reduced water, barley tea, etc. are recommended.
2.Sweet soft drinks are counterproductive. It can cause blood sugar spikes, dehydration, and sluggishness.

#exercise
1.Walking and light muscle training to encourage light sweating during the day is a shortcut to heat acclimatization.
2.If you get too used to the air conditioning environment, your sweating function will decline. Be conscious of exercising during the cool hours of the morning and evening.

4.How can CBD be used?

CBD is very effective against insomnia, stress, and autonomic nervous system disturbances associated with heat.

Utilization points
1.Take before sleep at night: Reduces sympathetic overactivity and supports deep sleep
2.Used when you feel excessive tension or irritability during the day
3.Helps recover from fatigue after exercise: CBD can also help restore muscles and reduce inflammation

In particular, water-soluble CBD is absorbed quickly and has good absorption efficiency when sweating and circulation are increased. In summer, water metabolism in the body is also intense, so water-soluble types are suitable.




Summary: How to build a body that can withstand summer

1.Heat acclimatization is the same as training. Resistance becomes more resistant by getting used to it little by little
2.If the ECS is functioning properly, it will be easier to acclimatize and the body will be less likely to get tired.
3.Balance of diet, water, and exercise is the basic
4.CBD is also an effective support for preventing summer fatigue as a regulator of the ECS

When disparate disorders are connected by a single line

― Fibromyalgia, migraine, IBS and the perspective of "cannabinoid deficiency" ―


This blog is based on what we talked about in the Amazing Power of the Endocannabinoid System Series Episode 6 Deep Dive "Self-Care and ECS".
This is a supplementary article that delves further with my own changes and observations in my body.
Whether you have watched the video or not, please read it as a hint to face your body

? Watch the video: "The moment when fibromyalgia, migraine, and IBS connect as one"

Hello.
If you have reached this page, you may be:
**You may be suffering from fibromyalgia, migraines, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)**, or more.

Even when I went to the hospital, I was told that there was nothing abnormal or that it might be due to stress.
But there are certainly symptoms.
Pain, nausea, abdominal pain, anxiety, fatigue, inability to sleep...
The disparate discomfort may actually lead to a common cause.

The moment I realized this,
My experience as a doctor and my own experience finally became a "single line".
On this page, we will tell you about this new perspective, "cannabinoid deficiency," and the "endogenous cannabinoid system (ECS)" that supports it in an easy-to-understand manner.

What is cannabinoid deficiency?

Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency (CECD) = Cannabinoid Deficiency
This concept was coined by the American neurologist Dr.. It was proposed by Ethan Russo.

According to his theory, when the function of the "endocannabinoid system (ECS)" in our body decreases,
It is believed that various disorders such as pain, inflammation, indigestion, anxiety, insomnia, and immune disorders can occur.

In particular, the following three diseases are thought to be closely related to ECS dysfunction.
*Fibromyalgia
*migraine
*Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

In other words, these things, which were thought to be "separate diseases", are actually the same roots. That's the way of thinking.

What is the Endocannabinoid System (ECS)?


The ECS is the "balance system" that our body is inherently inherent.
It works all over the body to maintain homeostasis.
* Cranial nervous system: emotions, memory, pain perception
* Immune system: control of inflammatory response
*Gastrointestinal tract: intestinal movement and inflammatory reactions in the intestines
*Autonomic nervous system: Balance of sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems

If this ECS is working properly, even if there is some stress, pain and anxiety will be supported by the "ability to recover on its own".
However, if the ECS does not work well due to chronic stress or disturbances in the living environment,
Your body begins to show signs of discomfort.


Reasons for overlapping symptoms ~It may be a disturbance in the ECS~

■ Fibromyalgia
The main symptoms include chronic pain throughout the body, fatigue, and sleep disturbances.
In addition to nerve hypersensitivity, called central sensitization, it is thought that a decrease in the function of the ECS (endocannabinoid system) is involved.



■ Migraine
In addition to throbbing headaches, it is characterized by nausea and sensitivity to light and sound.
Here, the interaction between the serotonin system and the ECS is important, and disturbances in the coordination of the ECS may be involved in the development of migraine.



■ Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain and repeated diarrhea and constipation are observed.
In addition to abnormal ECS in the intestinal tract, the imbalance with intestinal bacteria is also thought to be behind this symptom.


All of them seem to be disjointed at first glance,
In fact, it has been found that "the brain, gut, immunity, and emotions are connected."
At the heart of this is a coordination system called ECS.

How does CBD support the ECS?

CBD (cannabidiol) is a natural cannabinoid found in plants,
It is a supporting ingredient that indirectly regulates the function of the ECS.
1.Inhibits the breakdown of endogenous cannabinoids (anandamide)
2.relieves inflammation and pain signals
3.Suppresses nervous excitement caused by anxiety and stress
4.Supports the balance of the autonomic nervous system

Some people feel that incorporating CBD has reduced their pain, allowed them to sleep, and stabilized their mood.
This may not be just a symptomatic treatment, but an opportunity to regain your original balance.

But sometimes CBD alone isn't enough

In fact, you may not see immediate improvement with CBD.
The reasons for this can vary, but the following may be at play.
*Severe ECS dysfunction and long recovery
*Inadequate CBD intake or quality (e.g., fat-soluble or water-soluble)*?Lack of sleep and excessive stress keep up with ECS recovery
* Other factors such as nutrition, gut health, and exercise habits remain unadjusted

That's why it's so important to take a look at your entire life while incorporating CBD.

5 self-care to regulate the ECS

1.Consume omega-3 fatty acids (blue fish, sesame oil, etc.)
2.Keep doing light exercise (walking, stretching, yoga, etc.)
3.Sleep well (review your sleep environment, refrain from using your smartphone before bed, etc.)
4.Letting go of stress (deep breathing, meditation, spending time in nature)
5.Improve the intestinal environment (be aware of fermented foods and dietary fiber)

Because ECS is a network that spreads throughout the body,
Small daily choices and habits have a big impact on your future physical condition.

◆ Postscript: As my own feeling

Actually, I myself have migraines.
And I have been suffering from strong tension and stiffness from my back to my shoulders for many years, as if the same mechanism as fibromyalgia is suspected.

Even if you think you have medical knowledge,
Before I took CBD, I myself may have been a classic example of an imbalance in my ECS.

And when I encountered CBD,
Little by little, I began to listen to my body's voice,
Right now, I'm in the process of reviewing not only CBD, but also my lifestyle itself.
* Moderate exercise
*Ideas for sleeping well
* Balanced diet
*How to let go of stress

All of them are "I knew but couldn't do it".
However, by incorporating them little by little, I feel that my body is definitely changing.

Poor health is not "my fault".
However, the ability to adjust is "within me".
I am now experiencing this firsthand.

For those who are thinking of using CBD on their pets~~ The effects of THC in dogs and the risk of cannabis poisoning

In recent years, with the legalization of cannabis (marijuana) globally and the expansion of medical use, more and more people want to use CBD products (products containing cannabidiol) on their pets. However, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), an ingredient derived from the same cannabis, is strictly regulated in Japan and requires special attention for pets.

Although hemp-derived CBD products remove THC as much as possible within Japan's law, it is technically difficult to completely eliminate them. In humans, very small amounts of THC within legal limits are not usually considered to be affected, but dogs can be affected by even small amounts depending on the individual, and caution should be taken against accidental ingestion or overdose.

Therefore, it is important to choose a product that minimizes the risk of THC when using CBD on pets. In this article, we will delve into the effects of THC in dogs, the risks of cannabis addiction, and explore the options for CBD products with completely zero THC.

1. 2024December 12 Law Amendment and THC Standards for CBD Products in Japan

2024On December 12,Part of the Cannabis Control Act has been revisedThe THC content is also strictly regulated for CBD products sold in Japan.This regulation is aimed at ensuring consumer safety, and CBD products distributed in the Japan market have extremely low THC concentrations compared to overseas productsIt is characterized by.

howeverHemp-derived CBD products are difficult to completely zero THCAre. Products that have been removed from THC as much as possible are distributed to comply with Japan's regulations, but they are still not "completely zero".Very trace amounts of THC residueYou need to understand that.

For people, trace amounts of THC within the regulation are usually not affected。 howeverDogs have different metabolic pathways and nervous systems than humans, so some individuals are likely to be affected even in small amountsIt is. Therefore, it cannot be said that it is safe because it is a small amount, and careful product selection is required when feeding CBD to pets.

2. Risks of THC for dogs

THCComponents that act on the central nervous systemis,It is known to affect perception and cognitive function。 In JapanSeverely restricted use of products containing THCIt is also necessary to fully understand its impact.

Dogs are more susceptible to THC than humans, and even small amounts can cause severe symptoms.The reasons for this include the following physiological differences:

Slow metabolism of THCTherefore, it is easy to accumulate in the body for a long time
CB1 receptors in the brain are densely distributedEven a small amount of THC can have a strong effect
Therefore,If a dog accidentally ingests CBD products for humans or edibles derived from cannabis, there is a high risk of causing addiction symptoms.It is thought that

3. Cannabis poisoning symptoms in dogs

When dogs ingest THC, they may experience addictive symptoms, including:
Main symptoms
ataxia(Swaying when walking, falling)
Changes in activity(Becoming unusually excited or extremely sleepy)
Decreased cognitive abilities(Shows confusion and anxiety)
Digestive symptoms(increased vomiting, drooling)
Other symptoms(dilated pupils, tremors, seizures, coma, changes in blood pressure and breathing)
In severe cases, it can lead to coma, and extremely rare fatal cases have been reported.



Revealing the secrets of CBD products to save your dog's health YouTube video

4. The Completely THC-Free CBD Option: Kriya Hops CBD

With hemp-derived CBD products, it is technically difficult to completely eliminate THCTherefore, the possibility of containing trace amounts of THC cannot be ruled out. When giving CBD to your pet, if you want to prioritize completely zero THC,Plant-based CBD products that do not produce THC in the first placeThere is a way to select
Kriya Hops CBD is CBD extracted from hops (US botanical patented) that do not have an enzyme to synthesize THCIt has the following characteristics.
Since there is no pathway to make THC, the extracted CBD does not contain any THC
Extracted only from inflorescences (hop flower parts) with high biological activityIt has been
By choosing such a zero-THC product, you can completely eliminate the risk to your dog and use CBD more safely.

5. Summary
CBD products in Japan are strictly regulated for THC content due to legal changes in 2024, but they cannot be completely zero
In humans, THC within the regulated limits is usually unaffected, but dogs are different from humans and can be affected by even small amounts in some individuals
When giving CBD to your dog, it's important to choose a reliable product and stick to the dosage
If you're looking for a CBD product with completely zero THC, CBD derived from Kriya Hops is an option

While CBD may help support your pet's health, it's important to understand the risks of THC and prioritize safety. We recommend understanding the difference between hemp-derived CBD products that may contain THC and Kriya Hops CBD, which is completely THC-free, and choosing the right product for your pet.

bibliography
1.Binagia EM, Gregory EA. (2024). Clinical examination findings and electrolyte abnormalities of dogs with marijuana/tetrahydrocannabinol toxicity: 223 cases (January 2017?July 2021). Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association.

2.VCA Animal Hospitals: Cannabis (Marijuana) Intoxication in Cats and Dogs

3.Fattore L & Fratta W. (2010). Sex, THC, and hormones: Effects on density and sensitivity of CB1 receptors. Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, 35(1), 127-135.?PubMed

4.Arzi B, Weiss DS, Bouhana KS, et al. (2017). Spatial distribution of cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) in normal canine cervical spinal cord segments C1-C5 and C6-C8. Research in Veterinary Science, 114, 362-367.?PMC

5.Legislation to partially amend the Cannabis Control Act and the Narcotics and Antipsychotic Substances Control Act
https://www.mhlw.go.jp/content/11121000/001206962.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com