Cannabidiol is a well-known natural treatment for various common ailments.
Also known as CBD It is one of over 100 chemical compounds known as cannabinoids which are present within the plant Cannabis Sativa ( 1Trusted Source).
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is known as the primary psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis. That is why it triggers the feeling of being high, which is often linked with cannabis. But in contrast to THC, CBD is not psychoactive.
This is what makes CBD an attractive option for those searching at relief from discomfort and other ailments without the mind-altering effects that cannabis can bring or any other side effects linked to pharmaceutical medications.
CBD oil is created through the extraction of CBD in the marijuana plant, and diluting it using the carrier oil, such as hemp seed oil or coconut oil. CBD is available in a wide range of items on the internet and in shops that include diet supplements, bath soaks drinks, food items, and bath soaks.
It is continuing to gain traction in the wellness and health world, with a few scientific studies indicating that it can alleviate symptoms of ailments like chronic pain and anxiety. It is, however, not the best option for you?
This article discusses 6 scientifically-substantiated health benefits that can be attributed to CBD and also possible negative side effects and safety issues in relation to CBD products. Share on Pinterest Vane Nunes/Shutterstock
Attention What do you think? Is CBD legal?
CBD-derived hemp products (with lower than 0.3 percent THC) are legal at the federal scale, but are still prohibited under certain states’ laws..
CBD-based CBD products are not legal on the federal level , however they are legal under certain states’ laws.
Make sure you are aware of the laws in your state and the laws of wherever you travel. Be aware that CBD products sold without a prescription aren’t FDA-approved trusted sources and could be incorrectly described.
1. Can ease the pain
Cannabis is used to treat pain the 2900th year of B.C. (2Trusted Source).
In the last few years, researchers have found that specific components of cannabis, such as CBD is responsible for the effects it has on pain relief.
The human body is home to an extremely specialized system known as the endocannabinoid system. It regulates various functions, such as sleep appetite, hunger, pain and immune system response ( 3Trusted Source).
In the human body, endocannabinoids can be produced which are neurotransmitters which bind to receptors of cannabinoid within the nervous system.
Research has demonstrated that CBD can help to reduce chronic pain by altering the activity of the endocannabinoid receptor, reducing inflammation and interacting via the neurotransmitters ( 4Trusted Source).
A few studies suggest that CBD could be beneficial for specific types of pain, such as back pain and nerve pain, when utilized by itself. It appears, however, that it is most efficient when paired in conjunction with cannabis ( 5Trusted Source, 6Trusted Source).
A number of human studies have demonstrated that a mixture that consists of CBD and THC can be effective in treating inflammation caused by MS (MS) as well as arthritis.
An oral spray known as Sativex (nabiximols) is a product that is a 1:1 blend made up of THC and CBD It is recognized in a number of nations to treat pain related to MS.
A study that involved 47 individuals suffering from MS studied what the effect of Sativex was after they took it over 1 month. Participants saw improvements in walking, pain as well as muscles spasms ( 7Trusted Source).
The study didn’t have a control group, therefore the possibility of placebo effects cannot be excluded ( 7Trusted Source).
In one study researchers discovered that Sativex can be beneficial for people suffering from MS-related neuropathic pain or chronic intense neuropathy. The study also revealed that Sativex could aid in helping reduce stress as well as tension, both of which are the main causes in the chronic discomfort ( 8Trusted Source).
Furthermore, research suggests that CBD could help relieve symptoms of rheumatic disorders like fibromyalgia.
A study that utilized surveys from 2701 individuals with fibromyalgia reported that patients who utilized CBD for pain relief typically saw a minor to significant improvement in their symptoms ( 9Trusted Source).
Based on preclinical evidence from rodent studies CBD could have positive effects on inflammation and pain associated with arthritis However, human research is lacking ( 10Trusted Source).
While researchers are cautiously optimistic about the possibility that CBD could be beneficial in the treatment of certain types of pain, specifically when it is combined with THC More high-quality research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of CBD in managing pain.
Summary
CBD, particularly when combined with THC is a potential solution in reducing the severity of pain associated with diseases like MS or fibromyalgia. However, further research is required to determine the possibility of its use in the treatment of pain
2. Can help alleviate symptoms related to some mental health disorders.
Anxiety disorders as well as other mental health problems can have devastating consequences on health overall and well-being.
Mental health problems are usually managed with prescription drugs that can trigger several adverse consequences, such as drowsiness anxiety, insomnia sexual dysfunction, as well as migraines ( 11Trusted Source).
Additionally, drugs similar to benzodiazepines are prone to dependence, which could lead to addiction disorders.
CBD oil has demonstrated promise as a remedy for certain mental health issues including anxiety disorders. It has also led many individuals suffering from these disorders to be interested in this method of natural healing.
In an Brazilian research study, 57 participants were given either CBD pills or a placebo for 90 mins before they took a simulated oral test. Researchers discovered that a dose of 300 mg of CBD is the one that was most efficient in decreasing anxieties during the testing ( 12Trusted Source).
There was no or little effect observed in people who consumed the placebo, which is a 150 mg CBD dose or a 600-mg dosage of CBD ( 12Trusted Source).
CBD oil has been utilized to reduce anxiety and insomnia in children suffering from Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) which is a form of disorder that causes anxiety ( 13Trusted Source).
A tiny 2019 study concluded that CBD proved effective in alleviating PTSD-related symptoms, such as nightmares, among people over the age of ( 14Trusted Source).
Numerous other studies have also found that CBD could be beneficial for people with anxiety-related social and anxiety-related disorder ( 15Trusted Source).
Although some individuals have reported that CBD can help alleviate symptoms of depression, the evidence for CBD’s potential antidepressant effects is in the moment limited ( 15Trusted Source).
However, the results of several research studies indicate that cannabis can aid in helping alleviate depression symptoms in people suffering from marijuana-related problems ( 15Trusted Source).
The study of how CBD affects CBD on anxiety-related symptoms and depression is continuing.
In actual fact, a research study that examines the potential efficacy of 150-300 mg CBD daily for 12 weeks to treat depression and anxiety symptoms in those who suffer from bipolar disorder is anticipated to be completed by the month of April in 2022. ( 15Trusted Source).
A SUMMARY
CBD utilization has been demonstrated to alleviate some of the symptoms linked to anxiety disorders. Researchers are currently studying the ways CBD could be utilized to treat other mental health issues.
3. Can help relieve certain cancer-related symptoms.
CBD can help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with cancer and also negative side effects that are associated with chemotherapy, including nausea vomiting, nausea, and pain.
A study from the past looked at what the effect of CBD and THC on 177 patients suffering from cancer-related pain. They were not able to get relief from pain medications.
Patients treated with extracts that contained both substances had a significant decrease in pain, compared to those who were treated with only the THC extraction ( 16Trusted Source).
Five studies reviewed in a review discovered some evidence that Sativex can help ease the pain caused by cancer in some patients ( 17Trusted Source).
However, results from studies that examined how cannabis affects cannabinoids such as CBD on nausea related to cancer, reduced appetite, and pain have not been conclusive ( 18Trusted Source).
Although CBD might be beneficial to those suffering from cancer More research is required to determine if CBD is a good option to use more often to manage cancer-related symptoms.
If you’re suffering from cancer and are considering making use of CBD or other products derived from cannabis It is important to talk with your physician. The products might not be appropriate, safe or beneficial for everyone suffering from cancer.
A SUMMARY
While CBD can help improve certain cancer-related symptoms for some individuals, the studies are still mixed and further studies are required to evaluate its effectiveness and security.
4. It may have neuroprotective effects.
Research suggests that CBD’s capability to affect the endocannabinoid system as well as other brain-signaling mechanisms could offer benefits to people suffering from neurological diseases..
One of the most extensively researched uses of CBD is to treat neurological disorders , such as seizures and MS. While research in this area is still in its early stages however, several studies have revealed promising results.
Sativex has been found to be a secure and effective method to decrease spasticity in muscles of people suffering from MS.
It helped reduce spasms for 75% of the 276 individuals suffering from MS who suffered from muscular spasticity which was not responding to medication ( 19Trusted Source).
In a separate study the researchers gave 214 individuals suffering from epilepsy severe 0.9-2.3 grams CBD oil per 1 pound (2-5 grams per kilogram) in body mass. The seizures were reduced by an average of 36.5 percent ( 20Trusted Source).
Another study showed it was CBD oil significantly decreased seizures in children suffering from Dravet syndrome, which is a complicated epilepsy in children, when in comparison to the substitute ( 21Trusted Source).
However, some individuals who participated in both studies had adverse reactions in CBD treatment, including convulsions and fever as well as fatigue.
CBD has also been studied for its possible effectiveness in treating a variety of other neurological disorders.
For instance, a number of studies have proven that the treatment of CBD can improve the quality of life and quality of sleep in patients with Parkinson’s disease. ( 22Trusted Source).
Researchers have noted that currently there’s a shortage of reliable information. There’s no evidence to justify the use of CBD for the treatment of the disease Parkinson’s ( 22Trusted Source).
However, one CBD product has been recognized by the FDA to be used to treat a variety of seizure disorders.
Epidiolex is a prescribed cannabidiol drug is approved in 2018 by FDA in the year 2018 for treatment of seizures that are associated with two epilepsy types that are severe Lennox-Gastaut and Dravet syndrome.
In the year 2020, Epidiolex received FDA approval for treating seizures caused by tuberculous sclerosis complex, an uncommon genetic condition that can cause benign tumors to form in the brain as well as other parts in the organs ( 23Trusted Source).
A SUMMARY
CBD could be beneficial in treating seizures related to a variety of health illnesses. The prescribed CBD product Epidiolex is now available with FDA approval to treat seizures resulting from rareseizures-related conditions like Dravet Syndrome.
5. May benefit heart health
A few studies have been linked CBD with numerous benefits for the heart as well as the circulatory system, such as the ability to lower blood pressure..
The high blood pressure of a person is related to a higher risk of developing various health issues such as heart attack as well as metabolic syndrome ( 24Trusted Source).
Studies suggest that CBD could be beneficial to those with high blood pressure.
In a tiny study in which 9 healthy males were given the CBD dosage of 600 milligrams. The CBD treatment decreased blood pressure at rest compared to the control ( 25Trusted Source).
The same research the participants also participated in tests for stress that typically elevate blood pressure. It was interesting to note that the single dose of CBD resulted in the men to experience a less blood pressure rise than usual when they took these tests ( 25Trusted Source).
Another study that involved 26 healthy men discovered that the treatment of 600 mg of CBD over 7 days resulted in significant blood pressure reductions in the short-term compared with the placebo group. However, the effects were diminished after 7 months ( 26Trusted Source).
The CBD group had low blood pressure when subjected to stress than the placebo group, despite repeated doses over the course of time.
The study also revealed it was found CBD group showed less arterial stiffness and increased circulation of blood through the arteries upon repeated CBD doses compared to the control study ( 26Trusted Source).
Overall, the findings are positive, however, there is a need for more studies on the potential advantages of CBD treatment for cardiovascular health.
A SUMMARY
Although more human research is required, CBD may benefit heart health in many ways, such as by lowering blood pressure as well as improving the function of arteries.
6. Other benefits that could be encapsulated
CBD is being studied for its potential role in treating various health issues that are not mentioned in the previous paragraph.
While more research is required, CBD is thought to offer these health advantages:
- Effects of psychotropic medications. Studies suggest that CBD could help those suffering from schizophrenia or other mental health disorders by reducing the symptoms that are associated with schizophrenia ( 27Trusted Source).
- Treatment for substance abuse. CBD may be beneficial in relieving anxiety and depression among people with an addiction to certain substances such as heroin ( 28Trusted Source, 29Trusted Source).
- The possibility of extending the life span of those with Glioblastoma. Recent studies suggest that treatment with a mix with CBD and THC can help prolong the lifespan of those suffering from an aggressive type of cancer known as glioblastoma but research is not yet complete ( 30Trusted Source).
- Potential improvements in sleeping. Some studies suggest CBD could improve sleep in those suffering from sleep disorders, however more research is required ( 31Trusted Source, 32Trusted Source).
Summary
Certain studies indicate that CBD could help treat problems with substance abuse and mental health issues as well as certain kinds of cancers. However, we’ll need to conduct more studies on humans to understand more about the potential benefits of CBD.
Potentially harmful side effects of CBD products
Although CBD is generally tolerated and considered safe however, it can trigger adverse reactions in some individuals.
The studies that have reported side effects can include ( 33Trusted Source, 34Trusted Source):
- diarrhea
- Changes in eating habits and weight gain
- fatigue
Other side effects, like abnormal liver function tests and drowsiness as well as sedation or pneumonia. These have all been documented in studies of epilepsy in children. However, these side effects could result from CBD interaction with other medicines like Clobazam ( 34Trusted Source).
In actual fact, CBD interacts with several drugs, such as painkillers such as antidepressants, seizure medicines and diabetes medicines. Before you begin using CBD oil, talk about the topic with a doctor to ensure safety and avoid potential negative reactions ( 35Trusted Source, 36Trusted Source).
It is also important to keep in mind there is overflowing with CBD-based products Many of them are not of high quality.
CBD is added to food, beverages, nutritional supplements, and products for body care and the products are often advertised as a solution to reduce anxiety, pain, or sleep problems.
This does not mean that you must include these foods in your wellness or diet routine.
While some research suggests that CBD could be beneficial for specific aspects of the health system, the dosage is not the same in research studies. It’s hard to know what dosage is the most suitable to treat specific health issues.
Additionally, many of the products are made up of a mix of components, not just CBD. For instance, supplements that have CBD together with other herbal ingredients might not be appropriate for everyone because many herbs can interfere with prescription medications that are commonly used.
Before using the CBD product, consult an expert in healthcare to discuss the appropriate dosage as well as any other questions you might have.
If you choose to go with CBD, you should choose a CBD product, select one that is third-party evaluated for purity and quality.
NuLeaf Naturals and Bluebird Botanicals sell CBD products that are tested by accredited third-party laboratories . They also offer reports on batches through their website.
A SUMMARY
While CBD is generally thought to be to be safe, it could produce adverse effects, such as fatigue and diarrhea in certain individuals. It can also interact with certain drugs and cause side negative effects that can cause harm.
Bottom line
CBD oil has been researched to determine its effect on relieving symptoms of a variety of common health issues, such as neurologic disorders and anxiety. It can also improve heart health and relieve some types of pain.
Remember that certain of these health benefits are due to CBD in conjunction with THC but not by itself.
The research into how CBD affects CBD on specific conditions is ongoing, and there’s still a lot to be discovered about the possible uses of CBD.
If you’re thinking of exploring CBD to treat a health issue or to improve overall health, talk to the healthcare professional first. They can assist you in deciding whether including the use of a CBD item to your daily routine is appropriate and assist you to select the right product.