What conditions can be treated with CBD
Cannabinoids are found in cannabis and hemp plants and their natural compounds interact with the body’s cannabinoid receptors, also called CB1 receptors. These compounds have been shown to calm anxiety, reduce inflammation, treat PTSD symptoms, reduce seizures in epileptic patients as well as pain relief.
CBD has been found to be safe for children, with no serious side effects. CBD oil can also be ingested by swallowing a capsule or inhaling as an oral spray. For those that have had nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy treatments, an inhaled CBD cannabis oil has been found to reduce the occurrence of nausea and vomiting and help with weight loss.
Certain conditions have proven to be effectively treated with CBD. It has been prescribed to have positive effects on cancer, epilepsy, chronic pain, stress, and inflammation.
The History of CBD:
CBD was discovered in the 1940s and its pharmacological properties were identified within the next two decades. CB1 receptors were identified by 1980 and the discovery of endogenous substances that bind to these receptors is also by this time. It wasn’t until 1963 that CBD was identified in the plant species Cannabis sativa and is today the most commonly occurring cannabinoid.
CBD as Cancer treatment:
CBD has been found to have anti-tumor properties and can stop cancer cells from spreading. CBD has been used in humans for treating skin cancers, glioma, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, prostate cancer and it can heal multiple types of cancer. CBD has also been used for treating various inflammatory diseases like Crohn’s disease and rheumatoid arthritis. Pain relief from CBD has even been approved by the FDA as a legitimate neuropathic pain medication and result.
CBD also helps increase appetite, reduces vomiting and nausea, relaxes muscles and soothes anxiety in cancer patients.
CBD as Epilepsy treatment:
CBD has shown to be useful in treating seizure disorders. CBD has been a successful treatment for epilepsy that is often characterized by uncontrollable seizures. It is also used to treat other types of seizures, such as Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome (LGS), Dravet syndrome, and infantile spasms.
CBD does not cause euphoria or get users high like THC does but it can help reduce pain and anxiety. CBD can be used in addition to other anti-epileptic drugs or as an alternative treatment for patients who are unresponsive to other treatments.
CBD as a Neuroprotectant:
CBD is used to treat neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and even brain injury. CBD has been shown to have both neuroprotective and cell-protective properties and protects neuronal cells from damage that would occur otherwise.
CBD can protect the brain from toxins, can slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, it also stops liver cells from becoming toxic. In mice with induced liver damage, CBD prevented the buildup of amyloid plaque in their brains and stimulated inflammation. The biggest problem with CBD is that it takes time for effects to be felt so it helps to give daily doses for a longer period of time.
CBD in Schizophrenia:
CBD is also used to treat schizophrenia and other related disorders. CBD has a low affinity for CB1 and CB2 receptors but it has a high affinity for the serotonin receptors. It is thought that CBD works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, this is why it can reduce anxiety and induce calmness.
CBD causes a decrease in blood pressure, which can help relieve symptoms caused by anxiety and stress.
What medical conditions should not use CBD?
CBD should not be used in patients with severe liver damage or autoimmune diseases as it can lower their blood sugar. CBD has toxic effects on the liver and if they have a liver disease, it is important not to use CBD.
CBD can also interact with medications such as warfarin, clozapine, and carbamazepine so further advice or consultation with a doctor is needed. It is also not recommended for pregnant women as it can cause birth defects or low birth weights in unborn babies.
What are the side effects of CBD?
CBD does not cause many side effects. In clinical trials, most patients did not experience side effects. CBD recorded the least number of side effects compared to other medications being tested. The most common side effect is tiredness but CBD can also cause diarrhea, fatigue, and changes in appetite.
How to make the most of CBD:
CBD can be used in a number of ways. It can be used as an oil, gummies, lozenges, as a tincture or baked goods. When using CBD oil, you should make sure that it contains at least 15mg of CBD per serving and should not exceed more than 25mg of CBD per serving. You will have to experiment with the dosage to see which one works best for you but make sure it is within the recommended range.
Conclusion:
The history of CBD is short but its impact on modern medicine has been immense and it will continue to have an impact on the future of pain relief with no reported side effects. It is a safe alternative to use for pain relief.
CBD is also useful in treating anxiety and depression as well as being used for other medical conditions which cannot be clearly defined. As research continues into CBD, we will soon learn more about its medicinal properties and its benefits.
One of the biggest benefits of CBD is that it doesn’t cause drowsiness like most painkillers, however, you should always consult with your doctor before using CBD or other drugs or medication to help treat your condition or illness.
