Cannabinoids: Adaptogens or Not?

Abstract

Since ancient times, humanity has been exploring natural substances with the aim of increasing stress resistance, enhancing biochemical homeostasis, and treating different diseases. In this way, the objective of the present review is to compare the biological effects of cannabinoids (CNBs) with adaptogens, this exploration allows us to consider the controversy if they can be classified together considering the effects on the body. First, the work revises different features of adaptogens such as their chemical structure, ligand-receptors properties, and homeostasis-stress capabilities. Also, this review includes an overview of preclinical and clinical studies of the effect of adaptogens considering a broad spectrum of adverse biological, chemical, and physical factors. Then, the work does a review of the CNBs effects on the body including the principal uses for the treatment of several diseases as neurodegenerative disorders, arthritis, cancer, cardiovascular affections, diabetes, anxiety, chronic pain, among others. In addition, the different characteristics of the specific endocannabinoid system are described explaining the wide CNBs body effects. Finally, this review presents a comparative analysis between CNBs and adaptogens properties, expecting to contribute to understanding if CNBs can be classified as adaptogens.