Cannabidiol, also known as CBD, is a natural remedy that is growing in popularity. CBD is used for several common health issues and is found in the cannabis plant.
While tetrahydrocannabinol or THC is the main component in cannabis, THC is not in CBD. This comes as a relief to people who don’t want to experience the “high” feeling that comes from smoking marijuana. CBD is not psychoactive, but it does have positive effects on the body. If you’re interested in trying CBD oil and need more information on how it works, here are some health benefits that may appeal to you.
1. Relieving Pain
People have been using marijuana for pain relief since 2900 B.C. In recent years, scientists have found that components of marijuana like CBD are responsible for eliminating pain.
The human body has a system called the endocannabinoid system or ECS. This system is involved in balancing human functions like sleep, the response of the immune system, appetite, and pain. The body naturally produces endocannabinoid; these are neurotransmitters that connect to cannabinoid receptors in the nervous system.
A study involving 47 individuals with multiple sclerosis examined the benefits of taking Sativex for a month. Those who participated in the study experienced less pain, muscle spasms, or pain while walking. Another study revealed that Sativex works to reduce pain during movement, improve sleep quality, and reducing pain while resting. The substance proved effective in 58 people in the study with rheumatoid arthritis.
2. Reducing Anxiety and Depression
Unfortunately, depression and anxiety are common mental health issues that can have negative effects on a person’s overall health.
The World Health Organization asserts that depression is the largest contributor to disability around the world, and anxiety ranked sixth in this category.
Pharmaceutical drugs are often prescribed to treat anxiety and depression. These medications can cause several side effects such as headaches, insomnia, drowsiness, sexual dysfunction, and agitation. Certain medications for depression and anxiety, such as benzodiazepines, can lead to substance abuse since the medication may be addictive for some.
Studies are showing that CBD oil can be a promising treatment for depression and anxiety. A study conducted in Brazil involved 57 men who receive oral CBD or a placebo 90 minutes before taking a simulated public speaking test. Researchers discovered that 300mg of CBD was most effective at reducing anxiety during testing.
3. Alleviating Symptoms from Cancer
CBD could help reduce cancer-related symptoms and side effects such as pain, vomiting, and nausea.
One study explored the effects of CBD and THC in 177 individuals who had cancer-related pain who weren’t getting relief from pain medicines. The people who were treated with an extra that contained both THD and CBD had a noted reduction in pain compared to those who only received THC.
CBD can also reduce nausea and vomiting brought on by chemotherapy; these are some of the most common side effects for people with cancer. There are medications that help with these symptoms. However, these medicines aren’t always effective, which is why many people are looking for alternative methods for pain relief.
A study involving 16 people undergoing chemotherapy revealed that a one-to-one preparation of THC and CBD in a mouth spray reduced vomiting and nausea from chemotherapy better than conventional treatment alone.
4. Treating Acne
More than 9% of the popular is affected by acne, a skin condition that varies in severity.
Doctors believe acne is caused by several factors such as inflammation, sebum overproduction, genetics, and bacteria. Recent studies have shown that CBD can treat acne because of its anti-inflammatory properties. CBD also helps the body to produce less sebum, which is essential for treating and getting rid of acne.
A test-tube study found that CBD kept the sebaceous gland cells from producing excess sebum, showed anti-inflammatory actions, and prevention of the activation of inflammatory cytokines which cause acne.
5. Protecting the Nervous System
Finally, researchers assert that CBD may have the ability to affect the endocannabinoid system and other systems that send signals to the brain. This is why CBD may have a positive effect on individuals with neurological disorders. Medical professionals and scientists have studies CBD extensively to determine its effectiveness in treating multiple sclerosis and epilepsy. The results are promising.
Sativex, an oral spray that contains THC and CBD has been verified as an effective and safe way to reduce muscle spasms in people with multiple sclerosis. One study has even found that Sativa reduced spasms in 75% of the 276 individuals with multiple sclerosis who were having muscle spasms and weren’t getting results from taking medications.
These are just some of the ways CBD oil can benefit your health and well-being. Be sure to talk to your doctor about taking CBD oil to ensure its safety for you, especially if you are currently taking prescription medications or have underlying health conditions. Individuals who are looking to better their well-being can find a CBD tincture for sale at most health food stores or a retail location dedicated to selling CBD products.