Cannabidiol or CBD has come a long way from being legal in over 30 states in the US to the endorsement of the epidiolex as the first CBD drug for the treatment of seizures associated with epilepsy. Over the years, CBD has been in the front line of fire from lawmakers and professional bodies like WADA and the FDA regarding its safety and the verification of all medical claims on how it can be a useful addition to the long list of drugs in the market. Although these restrictions are still very much active, the recent turn of events may likely bring a definite end to the age-long question; “Can CBD serve as a treatment for diseases?” Until then, we shall keep our fingers crossed and focus on what research has to say about CBD and its potential therapeutic benefits.
In this article, we shall discuss the latest information from research regarding the health benefits of CBD and how it can us obtain relief from a vast array of symptoms. Please note that (unless stated otherwise) all medical claims in this article are from research and not an official statement from the FDA or any corresponding regulatory body.
Does CBD have health benefits?
Information gathered from research has shown how CBD can play active roles in serving as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, anti-tumor, anxiolytic, analgesic and antimicrobial agents. These vast array of benefits are possible due to the interaction between CBD and the cannabinoid receptors that play important roles in the overall health of the body. The endocannabinoid system and its receptors are actively involved in controlling pain sensation, can promote digestive health, keep the body and mind relaxed, elicit beneficial roles in the control of internal balance and many more activities. When CBD interacts with these receptors (CB1 and CB2), it triggers their ability to affect these systems hence contributing to their health benefits. It is pertinent to note that CBD does not interact directly with these receptors, therefore, eliminating psychoactive effects like those experienced in THC. Read more about the differencies between THC and CBD here
Commonly encountered health benefits of CBD
CBD for pain relief
It is quite impossible to discuss the potential health benefits of CBD without making reference to the role of the ECS receptors in the pain circuit. The ECS can regulate neuronal activities, attenuate synaptic transmission and offers some anti-inflammatory properties which can serve important purposes in pain relief. These levels of activity can be enhanced by the presence of CBD to promote pain control. Most users have attested to this activity by reporting relief from chronic pain after taking CBD. Read more about CBD pain relief here
CBD for anxiety and depression
Neurotransmitters like serotonin play important roles in controlling our mood and activity. Once they are released, they keep the body relaxed. CBD can interact with serotonin receptors to alleviate stress and anxiety. This comes in handy in improving focus. There is a growing body of research indicating how CBD can serve to provide relief from anxiety-related disorders, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder when administered acutely. CBD can also trigger the release of feel-good hormones and promote the production of new brain cells via neurogenesis.
CBD for cancer
CBD is highly antioxidant in nature. It can neutralize the harmful effects of free radicals, thus promoting internal balance and limiting the spread of cancerous cells. This has served an important purpose in providing cancer patients with relief from pain, nausea and stimulation of appetite. The antitumor activity of CBD in numerous cell culture and animal studies have been reported in different cancer types. There are many studies about CBD and it’s effects on cancer treatment, for example:
The current state and future perspectives of cannabinoids in cancer biology
Cannabidiol as potential anticancer drug
The endocannabinoid system and cancer: therapeutic implication
CBD for joint pain and arthritis
The expression of CB2 receptors in the immune system can play active roles in providing relief from different forms of arthritis. CBD is also a potent remedy in proffering solutions to the symptoms of arthritis like insomnia, pain relief and anxiety. The antioxidant activity of CBD can also prevent muscle spasm in seniors.
CBD for insomnia
Sleep is very important for growth and development. It aids in reducing the pressure exerted on the brain and other vital organs. The inability to sleep can serve as a breeding ground for different diseases. CBD is highly sedative and can promote sleep. Its sedative activity has been reported as side effects. The time of administration and the dosage administered determines how CBD can serve to either promote focus or activate the sleep cycle. Using CBD before sleep time tends to promote sleep while using CBD during the day can improve focus and reduces anxiety.
CBD for skincare
There is a general increase in the use of CBD in skincare. The antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of CBD can assist in delaying the signs of aging while preventing the appearance of skin defects like psoriasis, acne and dark spots. Read more about CBD skin protection here.
CBD for seizures
The use of CBD is legal for providing relief from chronic forms of epilepsy in children. The FDA approved the use of Epidiolex for the treatment of seizures caused by Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. It contains CBD and is administered by mouth.
Apart from the above mentioned potential health benefits, CBD has been reported to assist in the following ways:
- Reduction in blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Pet health
- Relief from neurological disorders and many others.
Bottom line
CBD was recently removed from the list of banned substances by WADA, thus making its use in sporting activities legal. It is safe for consumption regardless of the health status and the age of the user.
Please note that the concomitant administration of CBD and prescription medicine like warfarin, aspirin and clobazam can lead to overdosing since CBD can inhibit the ability of cytochrome P450 to metabolize such drugs. Make sure you contact your physician or CBD expert before using CBD and any prescription medicine.
Contact us if you have questions on the potential health benefits of CBD, our team of experts will love to hear from you soon. Don’t forget to share this article with friends
