CBD or cannabidiol is one of over 120 cannabinoids. Although many plants carry these cannabinoids, they are mostly associated with the cannabis plant. Again, not all those compounds are as popular as cannabinoid. Another popular compound is THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol). This is the compound which is responsible for the ‘high’ or psychoactive effects associated with smoking cannabis/marijuana.
CBD, on the other hand, is ’the good cannabinoid’ which offers several therapeutic benefits. industrial hemp farms process hemp biomass to extract CBD oil.
How does CBD affect the body?
The Endocannabinoid or ECS System of the body interacts with cannabinoids thus producing the effects that different cannabinoids are supposed to have. This system produces some cannabinoids of its own, better known by the medical professionals as endocannabinoids. The ones coming from a plant are called phytocannabinoids. ECS regulates sleeping patterns, pain perception, and also takes care of the immune system.
The thing is that ECS receptors are found all across the body including digestive, nervous, reproductive, and immune system. Unlike THC which only interacts at the brain level, CBD interacts with almost every bodily organ, thus offering wholesome health benefits. CBD, upon interaction with the endocannabinoid system regulates neurotransmitter and mitochondrial functioning, improves metabolism, and also controls inflammation.
Who Is A Good Candidate For Trying CBD oil?
According to a report shared by the WHO (World Health Organisation), CBD or cannabidiol is supposed to be safe for consumption by almost everyone. However, it’s suggested to consult with a physician first before using CBD as a natural/alternative treatment for any of the medical conditions. Extra care should be exercised by pregnant women and people on any kind of medication.
Health Benefits of CBD Oil
Over the years, a lot of clinical studies have gone into establishing the health benefits of CBD. As per research, CBD oil can offer a host of benefits ranging from mood disorders to other physical ailments such as rheumatoid arthritis. It even carries the potential for treating cancer-related symptoms. Below are some health benefits of CBD oil described in detail as backed by several clinical studies –
It can help with mood disorders
It does the job by interacting with GABA receptors which is an inhibitory neurotransmitter thereby reducing depression and anxiety. Not just that, it appears CBD is capable of helping with a range of mood disorders including generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and panic disorder. Check out this medical journal describing CBD’s potential as an anxiolytic drug.
It Can Help With Arthritis Pain
According to the findings of a study published by the European Journal of Pain, which performed a study on animals, CBD was found to be helpful in the management of arthritis pain. The study involved topical application of CBD oil on rats that had arthritis for four days.
Upon observation, they found a significant reduction in signs of pain and inflammation without exhibiting any kind of side-effects.
It goes without saying that while CBD may not be regulated by the FDA, it sure has immense potential in pain management. Therefore, arthritis patients are likely to find immense relief from their pain. But, again, we do need human research and trials to confirm these findings.
It Can Help With Multiple Sclerosis
It’s an auto-immune disease which impacts the body by attacking nerve cells and brain. One of the most common symptoms of this medical condition is muscle spasms. Unfortunately, the spasm can be grave and almost intolerable at times. The pain is often constant which adds to the discomfort.
Check out this report which talks about how topical application of CBD oil can significantly lower the spasticity of multiple sclerosis. These findings go on to show CBD’s potential in the management of auto-immune disorders including MS.
Final thoughts on CBD
These are just a handful of physical and mental conditions that CBD oil can help with. It’s a good thing that new and interesting studies are emerging every day trying to establish cannabidiol’s true health potential, but it’s important to stress that studies so far are limited. However, there are anecdotal reports shared by patients and doctors from all over the world where patients saw significant improvement in their condition with the help of CBD oil.
All and all, CBD can be used as a holistic treatment option provided you know about the possible side-effects, exercise complete control, and also seek medical opinion.
