Introduction

​A commonly held belief is CBD will disrupt short-term memory. This false assumption is linked to the thought that CBD and THC act the same in the body. Both substances exhibit different biochemical pathways in the body with only delta-9- tetrahydrocannabinol or THC to have psychoactive properties. When a substance is
labeled as psychoactive it means it can disrupt short-term memory, be disorienting, and decrease executive functioning.

The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) and Memory 

​While scientists are still understanding exactly how the ECS affects memory, it has become increasingly clear it does to some extent. To begin with, cannabinoid receptor 1 are in the brain and are most abundant in the hippocampus. This part of the brain is responsible for memory function, formation, and processing.

​In addition, there are different phases of memory.
• Acquisition – Perceiving and encoding an event, person, fact, or sensation.
• Retention or Consolidation – Storing the memory somewhere in our brain vault.
• Retrieval – Recalling the details of the initial memory later.

​When we struggle to recall short-term memories, this is usually a glitch in the consolidation phase. We perceive the event but our brain neglects to turn this experience into a defined memory. It never gets filed under “Things I did last night.”

​Long-term memory loss, on the other hand, usually happens in the retrieval phase. We were once able to recall the event as it must be transcoded from short-term memory into long-term memory. When long-term memory is impaired, there is a mix up in the file cabinet, either the memory is gone, the details are fuzzy, or this file folder has been tossed together with another. Meaning we think we remember what happened,but the specifics are wrong.

What is Occurring in the Brain with Memory Loss?

Memory loss is a sign of an inflamed brain. Inflammation in the brain is related to oxidative stress. Oxidative stress occurs when volatile cellular byproducts accumulate faster on cell membranes than the body can rid them causing inflammation at the local and sometimes systemic level. Oxidative stress will accelerate premature aging, kill brain cells, and cause memory loss. When oxidative stress takes considerable hold in the brain dementia and Alzheimer’s disease develops.

Evolving Research

Although the picture is not entirely in focus just yet, the developing relationship between CBD and memory function is rather compelling. CBD is an adjunct for brain function as it displays anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties to regenerative nerve cells and turn off the fire in the brain. Authors from a 2013 study analyzed the effects of cannabis use on memory function and found that CBD did not short-circuit short-term memory. Their data also confirmed that CBD is powerful in reversing the cognitive impairment brought on by cannabis use. A 2017 study validated the multiple roles of CBD in the brain from neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and lastly, neurogenesis: a process by which new neurons are formed in the brain.

The Positive Effects of CBD on the Brain

​CBD is believed to have potential benefits for memory formation and retention.By directing the activity of several neurotransmitters (brain hormones), CBD can help enhance our attention spans, focus, and aid short-term memory functions. Intellectual function can degrade with age, yet the addition of CBD can interrupt oxidative stress and eventual brain cell death and memory loss. ​A secondary effect of CBD is a relaxing and calming effect on the brain especially significant when high levels of stress and anxiety are present in one’s life. Stress and anxiety will disrupt memory formation and retrieval and create issues with 
memory consolidation. Calming the emotional storm mentally is critical. 

Conclusion

​It is important to note that the effects of CBD on memory and cognition may depend on several factors including dosage and frequency of usage to maintain the positive benefits. A good starting dose is 30 mg a day of CBD, then monitor its response and increase every fourth day until your desired result. CBD oil taken under the tongue and allowed to absorb through the cheek are the preferred method of delivery as it bypasses the gut.

​CBD is an all-purpose brain booster! Consider adding this nutritional supplement to your anti-aging regimen to maintain brain health, reduce stress and anxiety and promote improved memory. CBD introduces to the Alzheimer’s or dementia patients the possibility of retarding further memory loss and new brain cell production. This natural substance is available to all and maybe for you a game changer, test it out see 
what happens?
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