Cardiovascular disease is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. A key driver is atherosclerosis, a condition in which deposits (plaques) form inside arteries and restrict blood flow.
More recent research suggests that CBD (cannabidiol) and hemp seed oil may help reduce the risk of these vascular changes and support overall heart health.
Note: This article is for general information only and does not replace medical advice. If you have cardiovascular disease or high blood pressure, discuss the use of CBD or hemp seed oil with your physician.
What is atherosclerosis?
Atherosclerosis (also called “hardening of the arteries”) is the process in which fat, cholesterol, and other substances build up in the inner lining of arteries (1). These deposits, or plaques, can:
- narrow blood vessels,
- reduce arterial elasticity,
- and limit blood supply to organs such as the heart and brain.
If an artery becomes fully blocked, it can lead to a heart attack or stroke.
Causes and risk factors
The causes of atherosclerosis are complex, but well-known risk factors include:
- High cholesterol
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Chronic inflammation
- Diabetes mellitus
- Smoking and physical inactivity
- An unhealthy diet and excess body weight
Genetics and stress also play a role (2). While medications such as statins can lower cholesterol, many people look for plant-based support for prevention, such as hemp seed oil or CBD oil.
How CBD may affect the heart and blood vessels
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is part of the nervous system that helps regulate many processes, including blood pressure, inflammatory responses, and vascular function.
Within the cardiovascular system, CB1 and CB2 receptors can be influenced by endocannabinoids produced by the body and by plant-derived cannabinoids.
CBD interacts mainly with CB2 receptors, which may have anti-inflammatory effects and activate protective mechanisms in blood vessels (3).
Potential effects supported by research
- Anti-inflammatory activity: CBD may reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines involved in atherosclerosis.
- Vascular protection: studies suggest CBD may reduce oxidative stress in arteries and support cellular repair in vessel walls.
- Blood pressure regulation: small clinical studies indicate a blood-pressure-lowering effect under stress.
- Protection in ischemia: animal and cell studies suggest protective effects during impaired blood flow, for example after stroke or myocardial infarction.
These mechanisms make CBD of interest within integrative approaches to cardiovascular prevention (4).
Hemp seed oil as natural support for heart health
In addition to CBD extracts, hemp seed oil (without cannabinoids) may also support heart health. It is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, known for their role in:
- cholesterol regulation,
- modulating inflammatory processes,
- and supporting healthy blood pressure (5).
A diet rich in unsaturated fatty acids—such as those found in hemp seed oil—is widely considered in cardiology to be a key pillar of prevention for heart attack and stroke.
CBD, cholesterol, and blood sugar
Research suggests CBD may not only support vascular health but may also indirectly influence cholesterol and blood sugar.
- Cholesterol: animal studies indicate CBD may reduce oxidized LDL (“bad cholesterol”), an important factor in plaque formation (6).
- Blood sugar: early data suggest improved insulin sensitivity and reduced inflammation in diabetes.
- Fat metabolism: via the ECS, fat processing in the liver and muscles may be influenced, which could also contribute to more stable cholesterol levels.
CBD is not a replacement for medical treatment, but it may be considered an additional measure alongside diet, exercise, and prescribed therapy.
Integrative options: hemp seed oil and tea for artery health
In integrative and herbal traditions, hemp seed oil is often combined with herbal teas to support vascular health—for example, our organic CBD tea. Popular options include:
- Hawthorn tea: supports heart muscle function and circulation
- Nettle tea: supports metabolism and has a mild diuretic effect
- Green tea: antioxidant support that may help protect vessel walls
- Ginger tea: promotes circulation and may help reduce inflammation
Combined with a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and healthy lifestyle choices, these plant-based options may help support vascular health (7).
Conclusion: CBD and hemp seed oil as gentle support for heart and blood vessels
CBD and hemp seed oil are not miracle cures. However, research indicates they may contribute to better vascular health, including through anti-inflammatory action, vascular protection, and potential support for cholesterol balance.
A healthy lifestyle—regular movement, a nutritious diet, and not smoking—remains the foundation of heart health.
In some cases, CBD and hemp seed oil may fit as a plant-based addition to that foundation.
Sources
- European Society of Cardiology. Atherosclerosis: Risk factors and pathophysiology. https://www.escardio.org/Education/Patient-Education/Atherosclerosis
- Kannel WB. Risk factors for atherosclerosis. Medical Clinics of North America. 1994;78(3):595-614. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0025-7125(16)30260-X
- Stanley CP, Hind WH, O'Sullivan SE. Is the cardiovascular system a therapeutic target for cannabidiol? Br J Clin Pharmacol. 2013;75(2):313-322. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2125.2012.04351.x
- Rajesh M, et al. Cannabidiol attenuates cardiac dysfunction, oxidative stress, fibrosis, and inflammatory and cell death signaling pathways in diabetic cardiomyopathy. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2010;56(25):2115-2125. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacc.2010.07.033
- Simopoulos AP. Omega-3 fatty acids in inflammation and autoimmune diseases. J Am Coll Nutr. 2002;21(6):495-505. https://doi.org/10.1080/07315724.2002.10719248
- Silvestri C, Di Marzo V. The endocannabinoid system in energy homeostasis and the etiopathology of metabolic syndrome. Cell Metab. 2013;17(4):475-490. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cmet.2013.03.002
- Kennedy DO, Haskell CF, et al. Effects of Hawthorn extract on blood pressure and cardiovascular outcomes: A systematic review. Am J Clin Nutr. 2010;91(1):37-46. https://doi.org/10.3945/ajcn.2009.28109
