The pulmonary (respiratory) system executes the process of respiration by which oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged with external air to facilitate respiration. Respiration is executed by the lungs, trachea, bronchi and diaphragm. 

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The endocannabinoid system is linked to respiration, as cannabinoid (CB) receptors are located throughout this intricate bodily system. Ultimately, cannabidiol (CBD) has demonstrated promising benefits in the adjunctive management of several pulmonary diseases, including asthma, emphysema, lung cancer, pneumonia and pulmonary hypertension.

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• Asthma is an inflammatory disease of the respiratory system that causes shortness of breath which causes shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness and coughing. Asthma is a chronic disorder with flare ups known as asthma attacks that can become severe or even fatal without intervention. The endocannabinoid system is involved in managing the inflammatory response in asthma. CB receptors activate the relaxation of smooth muscle thereby easing respiratory distress and help to control the immunological responses that can contribute to the development of asthma attacks. Research is underway on how phytocannabinoids, such as CBD and THC, may help to reduce the symptoms associated with asthma by modulating the body's inflammatory responses. 

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• Emphysema is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) that involves progressive damage to the lungs caused by the restriction of oxygen to the body. Emphysema causes shortness of breath, coughing and trouble breathing during exercise. In addition to the pulmonary system, emphysema can affect the cardiovascular and neurological systems as well. Research indicates that CB receptors in the respiratory tract respond favorably to CBD; also the anti-inflammatory potential of CBD may help to reduce chronic inflammation of the lungs and help to induce bronchodilation or opening of the airways, which subsequently could increase oxygenation.  

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• Pneumonia, which is associated with bacterial or viral infections, causes respiratory dysfunction and distress, and often occurs in individuals with underlying autoimmune disease, such as multiple sclerosis (MS). Research suggests that CBD possesses mild antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties which may augment the benefit of antibiotics and steroids used in the management of pneumonia. Therefore, in combination with preventative health practices, CBD may help to reduce the incidence and/or severity of bacterial and/or viral infections associated with pneumonia. 

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• Pulmonary hypertension is a chronic and potentially life threatening disorder that increases pressure in the pulmonary arteries, which are the arteries that carry blood from the heart to the lungs. Symptoms of pulmonary hypertension can include shortness of breath, chest pain, abdominal pain and fatigue. Research suggests CBD could help to induce relaxation of blood vessel walls, which lowers blood vessels, in combination with standard treatments. 

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