Considering the Effects of Cannabinoids and Exercise on the Brain: A Narrative Review

Recently, there has been a rising interest in the use of cannabis and its derivates as therapeutic tools to support brain health. Cannabis-based substances interact with the endogenous cannabinoid (i.e., endocannabinoid) system, comprised of an intricate network of cellular receptors, signaling proteins, and essential enzymes. The endocannabinoid system is involved in widespread physiological functions, including inflammation, vascular response, and neuronal transmission that influences brain function, positioning it as a prime target for brain health interventions. In other work, the benefits of exercise for brain health have been prominently noted. Such benefits are similarly attributed to influences on the immune, vascular, and nervous systems that promote overall brain health. Despite large bodies of work on both cannabinoid and exercise influences on brain function, there appears to be an understudied overlap in their physiological effects. Indirect and direct interactions between these two therapeutic avenues have potential to introduce additive, synergistic, or opposing effects that may need to be considered in applied work. In this narrative review, we describe the mechanisms and actors involved in the aforementioned physiological systems, with consideration of common and contrasting influences of cannabinoids and exercise on the brain.