A new study has found that cannabis use may actually be associated with lower blood pressure levels. While marijuana has long been known for its mind-altering effects, this research suggests it could also have an impact on cardiovascular health.
What the Study Found
The study, published in the journal Nature: Scientific Reports, analyzed data from over 91,000 participants in the UK Biobank population study. Researchers found that both lifetime and current cannabis use were linked to decreased systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and pulse pressure in men and women. 1
Interestingly, the effect was more pronounced in women. “Longitudinal studies are needed in general populations and then in hypertensive patients to highlight the potential lowered BP effect of cannabis in a medical use,” the study author concluded. This suggests that cannabis could potentially be explored as a treatment for hypertension in the future.
Another Studies Findings
Another recent study of older adults with hypertension found that cannabis treatment for 3 months was associated with reductions in 24-hour systolic and diastolic blood pressure values, with the lowest point occurring 3 hours after cannabis administration.
Providing further evidence of the blood pressure-lowering potential of cannabis, at least in the short term. 2
How Cannabis Impacts Blood Pressure
The exact mechanisms behind cannabis’ effect on blood pressure are not fully understood. However, some studies suggest that certain compounds in marijuana, like CBD, may have a blood pressure-lowering effect by causing blood vessels to relax and widen. THC, on the other hand, may have the opposite effect in some cases by increasing heart rate and blood pressure.
The endocannabinoid system, which interacts with cannabis compounds in the body, is thought to regulate blood pressure. Cannabinoids may bind to receptors in this system to exert their cardiovascular effects. However, more research is needed to fully elucidate these pathways.
More research is also needed to tease out the specific impacts of different cannabis compounds and to determine whether these effects are primarily short-term or if they persist with chronic use.
The potency of the marijuana used and the route of administration (smoking vs edibles, etc.) likely also play a role in its cardiovascular impact.
Caution Advised
While these findings are intriguing, experts caution against using cannabis as a blood pressure treatment without medical supervision. Marijuana use comes with its own set of risks, including the potential for addiction, impaired driving, and negative impacts on mental health, especially in young people.
Additionally, the blood pressure reductions associated with cannabis use in studies have been modest – not enough to replace traditional hypertension treatments. More clinical trials are needed to establish the safety and efficacy of cannabis-based therapies for blood pressure management.
Smoking marijuana, in particular, may pose risks to cardiovascular and lung health due to exposure to harmful combustion products, similar to cigarette smoking. Vaping THC products has also been linked to serious lung injuries. Non-smoking routes of cannabis administration may be preferable from a harm reduction standpoint.
Individuals with pre-existing heart conditions or risk factors may be more vulnerable to the cardiovascular effects of cannabis and should exercise extra caution. Those with irregular heartbeat, a history of heart attack or stroke, diabetes, or high cholesterol levels may be at increased risk of adverse events.
Future Research Directions
While research into the cardiovascular effects of cannabis has progressed, many questions remain. Future studies should aim to:
- Clarify the mechanisms of action behind cannabis’ effects on blood pressure and the cardiovascular system.
- Determine the long-term impacts of chronic cannabis use on cardiovascular health outcomes.
- Evaluate the safety and efficacy of CBD and other specific cannabis compounds for treating hypertension and other cardiovascular conditions in clinical trials.
- Assess the public health implications of increasing cannabis use, particularly in light of legalization trends.
With the legalization of cannabis progressing in many areas, we must gain a better understanding of both its therapeutic potential and its health risks. Robust research will help guide evidence-based policies and clinical practices around cannabis use going forward.
The Bottom Line
This study adds to a growing body of research suggesting that cannabis use could have effects on cardiovascular health, including blood pressure.
While it’s too early to recommend marijuana for blood pressure control, these findings highlight the importance of continued research into the potential medical applications of cannabis and its compounds.
As more states legalize marijuana, we must gain a better understanding of both its benefits and its risks. In the meantime, if you’re concerned about your blood pressure, stick to proven lifestyle changes like exercising, reducing sodium intake, and following your doctor’s advice.
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Martha A. Lavallie
Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.