CBD (Cannabidiol) is the oil that is derived from the cannabis plant. Today I will be sharing the uses, benefits and side effects of CBD oil. The FDA approved prescription of Epidiolex in June 2018. Epidiolex is a purified form of CBD oil and is used for treatment of two types of epilepsy.
The Cannabis plant contains various components with different effects. Some are used for treatment while others are not legal in certain states. In this post, we will be shining a light on CBD and how it can be beneficial to one’s health. We will also be looking at how it is used and possible side effects.
Uses Benefits and Side Effects of CBD Oil
What is Cannabidiol Oil?
CBD oil might help with managing chronic pain symptoms and is one of the compounds found in the cannabis plant. Researchers have been reviewing the potential therapeutic uses of cannabidiol. The most commonplace compounds in marijuana are CBD and delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Both have different effects on a person.
Until a few years back, THC was the most well-known compound found in marijuana, and had a psychological effect. It is also the most active constituent which causes a mind-changing “high” when used in cooking or when smoked. This is due to THC breaking down once heat is applied and being introduced into the body. In contrast, CBD is not psychoactive, therefore it doesn’t alter an individual’s state of mind when used. It does, however, have substantial health benefits on the body.
Where Does CBD Originate From?
CBD is derived from the cannabis plant which is also called marijuana or hemp, contingent on how much THC the plant contains. Hemp is legal under the Farm Bill, given that it contains less than 0.3 percent THC. CBD oil is derived from legalised hemp plants.
Health Benefits of CBD Oil
CBD oil could be used for the following health conditions:
- Cluster or other headaches
- Joint pain or arthritis
- Sleeping disorders
- Chronic pain
- Migraines
- PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder)
- Asthma or allergies
- Lung conditions
- Cancer
- Nausea
- Parkinson’s disease
- Epilepsy or other seizure-related disorders
- MS (multiple sclerosis)
- Alzheimer’s disease
Some evidence exists that supports some of these health uses.
Anti-inflammatory and Natural Pain Relief Effects of CBD Oil
Standard medication can assist with providing relief for pain and stiffness, however, some people prefer to use CBD as a natural remedy. There is growing evidence that supports the theory of using non-psychoactive compounds from the cannabis plant, like CBD, to be an effective remedy for chronic pain. CBD oil applied topically to the skin as an ointment could substantially lower scarring and inflammatory skin disease.
For Drug Withdrawal and Quitting Smoking
During a 2013 study, it was found that smokers who made use of inhalers that contained CBD smoked less cigarettes than normal and they didn’t crave nicotine. This suggests that CBD could be effective for people who want to quit smoking. During a 2015 study, evidence revealed that particular cannabinoids like CBD might assist individuals with opioid addiction disorders.
Epilepsy
The FDA has approved prescription of Epidiolex after years of research. Epidiolex is a refined form of CBD which is approved for treating individuals aged three years and older.
The treatment is approved for rare forms of epilepsy, Dravet Syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome that involve seizures which are problematic to control with alternative types of medication. There are currently no synthetic drugs available that can equally target the endocannabinoid system the way that CBD can.
Alzheimer’s Disease
Various studies show that CBD can assist people with retaining the ability to recognize acquainted faces. People who suffer from Alzheimer’s usually lose this ability. CBD can decelerate the onset and progression of Alzheimer’s disease.
Other Neurological Disorders and Symptoms
Research shows that CBD might be useful for treating complications associated with epilepsy, like neuronal injury, neurodegeneration, and psychiatric diseases. During a 2012 study, it was found that CBD might generate effects that are equal to certain antipsychotic drugs and that the compound might offer an effective and safe treatment for those with schizophrenia. But, further research on the subject is necessary.
Combatting Cancer
Some evidence from a 2012 study shows that CBD can help with prevention of the spreading of certain cancer types. The compound seems to subdue the growth of cancer cells as well as destroying them. Researchers revealed that CBD has low toxicity levels and a 2020 review article conferred adding CBD to chemotherapy meds to boost the immune system’s response to the cancer treatment.
More research suggests that CBD might:
- Avert the growth of cancer cells
- Enhance the activity of chemotherapy
- Lower anxiety
- Lower side effects of traditional chemotherapy
Anxiety Disorders
THC can amplify or trigger feelings of paranoia and anxiousness, therefore physicians have advised those with chronic anxiety to steer clear from cannabis. CBD, however, might help with lowering anxiety.
A 2015 study has previously advocated that CBD may help with lowering anxiety-related behaviors in individuals who suffer from:
- GAD (general anxiety disorder)
- PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder)
- Obsessive compulsive disorder
- Panic disorder
- Social anxiety disorder
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 Diabetes happens when your immune system attacks cells in your pancreas, which leads to inflammation. CBD might ease inflammation and subsequently offer protection against or slow down the onset of type 1 diabetes.
Acne
Another encouraging use for CBD is treatment for acne. This condition is caused partially by overworked sebaceous glands and inflammation in the body. According to a 2014 study, CBD might assist with lowering the production of sebum that results in acne, due to its anti-inflammatory effect. Applying CBD directly to the skin can also lower inflammation in psoriasis or other inflammatory-related skin diseases. CBD has gained popularity as an ingredient in various ointments and skin creams due to its anti-inflammatory effects.
How to Use CBD Oil
You can use CBD oil in different ways, including:
- Blending it into drink or food
- Swallowing capsules
- Taking it with a dropper or pipette
- Spraying it under your tongue
- Massaging it topically as a paste into your skin
The Recommended dosages of CBD oil vary among individuals and is contingent on factors like:
- Body weight
- The reason behind using CBD
- The product concentration level
Side Effects and Risks of CBD Oil
As the case is with most natural remedies, CBD might pose certain risks. It can interact with medications or supplements. Most CBD products are not regulated by the FDA which means they did not undergo thorough testing.
- It is not always possible to know if the product:
- Is an effective and safe remedy for everyone to use
- Contains the ingredient or properties that is listed on the packaging
Always consult with your doctor before taking any natural remedies, whether as a prescription drug or in any alternative forms.
Potential adverse side effects may include:
- Damage to your liver
- Changes in responsiveness that might make driving dangerous
- Interactions with alcohol or other medications
- Gastrointestinal issues with a loss of appetite
- Reduction in fertility in men
- Mood fluctuations, including irritability
The FDA urges people not to rely on CBD as a substitute to traditional medical care.
Using CBD Oil During Pregnancy
Using any form of marijuana might influence fetal development of neurons. Frequent use among teenagers is linked to memory issues, intelligence, and behaviour. The FDA does not approve using CBD during pregnancy or while nursing.
Conclusion
I hope that you have found this article about the uses, benefits and side effects of CBD oil useful and that you will take everything into consideration before using the product. Always consult with your doctor prior to using any natural remedy if you have pre-existing health conditions.
Sending you much love, light, and natural healing vibes
Anthea