Longevity, or the art of living a long and healthy life, is a subject that has fascinated mankind since time immemorial. With the advancement of science and medicine, our understanding of what factors contribute to a long and healthy life has expanded. Among these, research into the role that natural compounds such as CBD may play in the ageing process is especially promising.
Cannabidiol (CBD) has captured the attention of the wellness world for its multiple properties. Unlike THC, the main component of marijuana, CBD has no psychotropic effects, which makes it attractive for a wide range of applications.
This article delves into the intersection between CBD and longevity, exploring how this natural compound might influence ageing. Through a review of current research and the antioxidant potential of CBD, we seek to offer a comprehensive view of its possible role in promoting a longer and healthier life.
What is longevity and how is it measured?
Longevity is a concept that goes beyond the mere extension of the time we spend in the world; it implies living longer while maintaining an optimal quality of life. This idea encompasses not only length of existence, but also health and well-being during the years of old age.
Measuring longevity can be complex, as it involves considering a range of biological, environmental and genetic factors. Traditionally, it has been measured using simple indicators such as life expectancy at birth, which provides an average estimate of how long a person is expected to live. However, this method does not take quality of life into account.
In the quest to better understand longevity, scientists have begun to focus on more detailed measures, such as ‘healthy life expectancy’ or ‘disability-free life expectancy’, which estimate the number of years a person can expect to live without serious illness or disability.
Another approach to measuring longevity is the study of biomarkers of ageing, which can provide a deeper insight into an individual’s cellular and molecular health. These include, but are not limited to, telomere length, systemic inflammation, oxidative stress and gene expression profiles.
By monitoring them over time, researchers can gain a more detailed understanding of how the body ages and what factors may contribute to a longer, healthier life.
Measuring longevity, therefore, is a multidimensional task that goes beyond years lived, encompassing the complexity of living those years well. In exploring the interaction between CBD and longevity, it is critical to consider these various measurement methods to capture the full picture of how this compound may influence healthy ageing.
Scientific research on CBD and longevity
As we age, our immune system moves inexorably towards a decline in its biological functions, becoming more susceptible to disease. Cannabinoids have immunomodulatory and antioxidant properties¹, and some of them have been investigated in relation to longevity.
A number of preclinical models, resulting from animal testing, show that CBD may be associated with longevity. A study published in 2020 showed that CBD reduces markers of senescence and inflammation in zebrafish².
Another study published in 2022 also found a positive impact on neuronal health and longevity in C. elegans, a nematode that shares several genes with humans³.
CBD has also been found to reduce lipid peroxidation in rats exposed to UV radiation, highlighting its protective potential against UV⁴-induced oxidative damage. In other words, it helps prevent ageing caused by sun exposure.
It is worth mentioning that, with regard to metabolic health, although direct research on CBD and longevity is limited, the understanding of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects offers clues as to how it might influence metabolism and, by extension, longevity.
Finally, The Tree CBD reminds you that CBD products are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. It is recommended to consult a doctor for each specific case, as well as to follow the recommendations of your medical specialist.
References
- Tanasescu, R., & Constantinescu, C. S. (2010). Cannabinoids and the immune system: an overview. Immunobiology, 215(8), 588-597.
- Pandelides, Z., Thornton, C., Faruque, A. S., Whitehead, A. P., Willett, K. L., & Ashpole, N. M. (2020). Developmental exposure to cannabidiol (CBD) alters longevity and health span of zebrafish (Danio rerio). Geroscience, 42, 785-800.
- Wang, Z., Zheng, P., Chen, X., Xie, Y., Weston-Green, K., Solowij, N., … & Huang, X. F. (2022). Cannabidiol induces autophagy and improves neuronal health associated with SIRT1 mediated longevity. Geroscience, 44(3), 1505-1524.
- Jastrząb, A., Jarocka-Karpowicz, I., Markowska, A., Wroński, A., Gęgotek, A., & Skrzydlewska, E. (2021). Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect of cannabidiol contributes to the decreased lipid peroxidation of keratinocytes of rat skin exposed to UV radiation. Oxidative medicine and cellular longevity, 2021, 1-13.
