The Top Five Conditions CBD Is Proving to Be Very Helpful With
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound derived from the cannabis plant that is proving to be very helpful. It has anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and calming properties. CBD comes in a variety of forms, such as capsules, tinctures, and oils. If you live in DC, you can easily obtain CBD products by contacting a cannabis delivery service in your area. These services allow people to get their CBD products without having to leave their homes.
Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD isn’t a psychoactive compound. That means it doesn’t alter brain function and produce a high that is associated with marijuana. Instead, it helps patients feel relaxed and calm without developing an addiction to the compound.
In recent years, several studies have been conducted to assess the effectiveness of CBD as a potential treatment for various diseases. From chronic pain and anxiety to ADHD in adults – CBD can help alleviate a wide array of medical conditions.
It is being explored as an alternative to traditional medications with a wide range of harmful side effects.
This article will take a closer look at the possible medical uses of CBD. But let us first understand how the compound works.
Table of Contents
How Does CBD Work?
The human body can produce its own cannabinoids (known as endocannabinoids). These neurotransmitters help regulate various bodily functions, including sleep, movement, heart rate, inflammation, pain, etc.
The endocannabinoid system produces two receptors:
- CB1 receptors (present throughout the body, particularly the brain)
- CB2 receptors (present in the immune system)
While CB1 receptors help with pain management, cognitive function, movement and emotional response, CB2 receptors help control inflammation and pain.
CBD works by stimulating these receptors. That, in turn, helps the body release more endocannabinoids. Also, it improves the functioning of these neurotransmitters.
Medical Uses of CBD
CBD has been explored in recent years as a possible treatment for various physical and mental health conditions. While more research is still needed, CBD has emerged as an effective remedy for pain management and stress relief.
Also, CBD can be used to reduce inflammation in the body. It even controls the way cells reproduce. That’s why medical researchers are evaluating the role of CBD in cancer treatment.
Here are a few conditions that can be effectively treated with CBD:
ADHD
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurological condition characterized by restlessness, poor concentration and impulsive behavior. While ADHD is commonly associated with children and teenagers, it can also affect adults.
ADHD can wreak havoc on a patient’s personal and professional life. Individuals with the condition often struggle to complete projects, stay employed and maintain healthy relationships. Also, they are more likely to exhibit dangerous behavior, such as rash driving and substance abuse.
Typical ADHD treatments include stimulant and non-stimulant medications, such as:
- Adderall
- Focalin
- Lamictin
- Ritalin
- Dexamfetamine
These medications are associated with various side effects, including mood changes, loss of appetite, sleep disturbances, etc. It has prompted patients to seek out alternative treatment options for ADHD.
CBD helps ADHD patients by promoting relaxation and alleviating stress. Also, it improves their quality of sleep, thus impacting cognitive function.
The best part is that it doesn’t cause any side effects associated with ADHD medications. More research is needed to compare the effectiveness of CBD with other ADHD treatments.
Also, it is important to note that coping with ADHD requires patients to embrace a healthy lifestyle and diet. While CBD can alleviate many symptoms, it must be accompanied by lifestyle changes and healthy eating habits.
Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety disorders encompass many mental health conditions – from social anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) to panic disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Each condition takes a toll on an individual’s routine life.
The stress-relieving properties of CBD make it particularly useful for treating anxiety. It is known to alleviate various anxiety symptoms, including increased heart rate and racing thoughts.
Also, CBD helps cope with insomnia and improves a patient’s sleep quality. That put them in a better position to deal with anxiety symptoms.
Epilepsy
A recent study published in The Lancet found that daily doses of up to 5mg of CBD, administered orally, resulted in a 36.5% reduction in seizures per month in epilepsy patients.
Epidiolex, a prescription medication, is used to treat Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome, both of which are severe forms of epilepsy. It is worth noting that Epidiolex is the only CBD product that the FDA has approved for medical use.
Apart from epilepsy, CBD can also help reduce the frequency of seizures associated with rare conditions, such as tuberous sclerosis complex.
The role of CBD in minimizing seizures can be linked to its neuroprotective properties.
Neurodegenerative Disorders
The impact of CBD on CB1 receptors has prompted medical professionals to explore its role in treating neurodegenerative conditions, such as:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Parkinson’s disease
- Ataxia
- Multiple sclerosis
- Neuropathy
CBD works by preventing damage to cells in the brain and nerves. Also, it reduces inflammation, thus preventing these conditions from worsening.
Chronic Pain
Chronic pain can be caused by a wide array of conditions, including:
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Multiple sclerosis
- Fibromyalgia
- Endometriosis
CBD alleviates chronic pain by stimulating the CB1 and CB2 receptors to release more endocannabinoids. It helps the body relax and send fewer pain signals to the brain. The anti-inflammatory effects of CBD further improve its effectiveness for pain management.
The use of CBD eliminates the need for patients to rely on pain medications. It helps them avoid serious side effects associated with prolonged use of these drugs.
Other Conditions
Apart from the disorders mentioned earlier, CBD can be used to treat skin conditions, such as acne and psoriasis. It even helps control blood pressure and circulation. That makes it useful for patients with cardiovascular ailments. Also, scientists are analyzing the use of CBD for treating and managing cancer symptoms.
Closing Remarks
CBD works as a powerful alternative to medication for various conditions, such as ADHD, OCD, Alzheimer’s disease, panic disorder, osteoarthritis and more.
While CBD is considered safe for use in adults, it can cause minor side effects, including dizziness, low blood pressure and withdrawal symptoms.
Patients are advised to consult their primary care physician before using CBD to treat any medical condition. They should thoroughly discuss the benefits and drawbacks of the compound before administering it.