Select Page

Cannabidiol, also known as CBD, is a chemical compound found in the cannabis plant. It can treat various conditions, such as anxiety and depression. When ingested or applied topically, CBD interacts with the neuroreceptors in your body to help regulate your mood and immune system.

Most commonly, CBD is extracted from the cannabis plant. It is then mixed with a carrier oil such as hemp seed oil. A survey conducted by Forbes Health revealed that over 60% of Americans had used CBD products before. Around 55% of those who have used CBD also use CBD in tinctures and oils. Here are some of the top medical uses for CBD.

Helps Effects of Alzheimer’s

Some studies have shown that medical marijuana can help patients with Alzheimer’s gain weight. It can also help decrease the signs of agitation that they experience. In a cell study, researchers discovered that the use of marijuana slowed down the progression of protein deposits in the brain. Although scientists do not know why people with Alzheimer’s are prone to developing this condition, they believe these deposits are related to its cause.

Reduces Anxiety and Depression

One of the most popular uses of CBD is its ability to promote calmness. In a 2017 study, participants were asked to perform a public speaking test under stress. Half of the group received a placebo, while the others received either a 300 or 150-milligram dose of CBD before their speech. The study’s results revealed that those who took 300 milligrams of CBD experienced a significantly lower anxiety level during the test. However, those who took a more significant amount of CBD experienced more anxiety. A similar study on mice also revealed that CBD could trigger the same antidepressant response in animals as imipramine. More studies are needed to confirm if this compound can affect the body’s response to depression.

Could Treat Some Cancers

Studies on animals have shown that certain types of cancer cells can be killed by marijuana. Other studies also suggest that the drug can help decrease the effects of radiation on cancer cells. It can additionally help prevent nausea during chemotherapy treatment.

Reduce Epileptic Seizures

In some instances, CBD can also be used to treat seizures. In 2018, the FDA approved using CBD to treat two rare forms of epilepsy known as Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. These conditions affect children under two years old. The approval was based on three well-designed studies. In these studies, about 500 patients with these conditions were given either a placebo or Epidiolex, combined with other medications. These studies showed that the use of CBD significantly decreased the frequency of seizures.

Treats Chronic Pain

Small human studies and animal studies have also shown that marijuana can have a significant analgesic effect. In the 1800s, people used marijuana for pain relief. Some drugs currently being tested for cancer pain and multiple sclerosis include Sativex, which has been approved in Canada and some European countries. In a study, scientists saw a 30% reduction in the pain experienced by those who smoked marijuana.

Counteracts Some Diabetic Complications

In studies on human cells, researchers discovered that cannabidiol (CBD) could help lower the effects of high glucose levels on specific cells in the body, potentially leading to diabetes and other complications. With more studies, it’s believed that this substance could be beneficial for people with diabetes and other conditions. In a small study, 13 people with type 2 diabetes were given either CBD or a placebo, an alternative to insulin. After the researchers analyzed their data, they discovered that CBD helped decrease the levels of a protein known to cause insulin resistance. It also increases the levels of a hormone that helps release insulin from food. The study results support the idea that CBD could be used as a natural treatment for diabetes. It could help the body regulate the levels of hormones that are involved in the regulation of insulin.

 

 

Scott Gelbard Bio Card