Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a cannabis compound that has significant health benefits but does not make people feel “high” and can counteract the psychoactivity of THC. The fact that CBD-rich cannabis doesn’t get you high makes it an appealing option for patients looking for relief from inflammation, pain, anxiety, psychosis, seizures, spasms, and other conditions without disconcerting feelings of lethargy or dysphoria.
Here we will dive into what CBD oil is and discuss whether or not it is safe to ingest and its benefits on your overall health.
Contents
- 1 Cannabis overview
- 2 What is CBD Oil?
- 3 What is the proper dosage for safe consumption?
- 4 How should you take or consume it?
- 5 Health benefits of CBD Oil
- 6 Alleviate ALS symptoms
- 7 Parkinson’s Disease
- 8 Cancer Relief
- 9 Alzheimer’s Disease
- 10 Chronic Pain
- 11 Lower High Blood Pressure
- 12 Immune System
- 13 Reduce post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms
- 14 Reduce Arthritis Symptoms
- 15 Offset Anxiety and Depression
- 16 Treat select epilepsy syndromes.
- 17 Treat opioid addiction
- 18 Treats skin conditions
- 19 Protect against other neurological diseases
- 20 Possible side effects
- 21 Conclusion
- 22 F.A.Q
- 23 Is hemp oil the same as CBD Oil?
- 24 Does CBD oil benefit heart health?
- 25 Does CBD Oil help anxiety?
- 26 Is CBD oil legal?
Cannabis overview
Cannabis is an actual plant that can be used in multiple ways.
It often uses many other nicknames, including marijuana, weed, hemp, ganja, and pot.
Cannabinoids are resin that is produced from the Cannabis plant.
Cannabinoids work by interacting with the brain’s receptors in our endocannabinoid system, which helps to maintain homeostasis.
The two main cannabinoids are:
- Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
THC is a psychoactive substance that can alter how your brain works. It changes your mood and the way you feel, which creates a ‘high’ feeling.
- Cannabidiol (CBD)
CBD is a cannabinoid that may relieve pain, lower inflammation, and decrease anxiety without the psychoactive ‘high’ effect of THC. Many health benefits are associated with CBD Oils.
What is CBD Oil?
CBD oil is an extract from the cannabis plant. It contains many compounds found in marijuana (cannabis), but it does not have intoxicating effects. This is the low concentration of THC and is often sold in oil form rather than as an herbal supplement with trace amounts of THC.
What is the proper dosage for safe consumption?
There is no one dosage that everyone should use and no singular way that it should be consumed. It is also important to note that the benefits of CBD oil will vary between each individual. Some people have reported remarkable results, while others see no results at all.
The recommended amount of CBD you should take depends on multiple factors. These include:
- Your body weight
- The purpose of use or consumption
- You individual body chemistry
- The method of consumption
- The concentration of the CBD
Most human studies use dosages anywhere between 20 and 1,500 milligrams (mg) per day.
Because there is still much unknown about CBD, it helps to keep in mind that as the cannabis industry grows, researchers will likely study and learn more about all CBD-related products, including marijuana and hemp oils.
How should you take or consume it?
There are several ways that medical patients take CBD.
Here are some of the most common ways to consume or use CBD Oil:
- Inhalation, commonly through vaping
- Topical Application (Creams/Balms)
- Ingestion (Pills, gummies, etc.)
- Sublingual (Drops on the tongue)
Each method has pros and cons, so ensure you talk to a professional who can then provide medical advice specific to your needs.
Health benefits of CBD Oil
There are various conditions that people report relief from using CBD oil.
However, the research surrounding the use of CBD oil for specific conditions is still in its infancy. Clinical trials are becoming much more common as the claims on the positive impacts of CBD Oil continue to grow.
Much more research needs to be done before knowing how beneficial this product may be with any reasonable certainty.
Here are 14 conditions with possible health benefits from CBD Oil.
Alleviate ALS symptoms
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a disease that causes the neurons in the heart and spine to deteriorate. There are no known cures, but there are only two medications to treat ALS. Studies suggest people with ALS may benefit from the entourage effect provided through a combination of THC and CBD, comparable to people who have PTSD.
Those with mild, moderate, or severe spasticity (muscle stiffness and inflammation) related to ALS reported high satisfaction levels with the treatment, and those with severe to moderate spasticity reported greater satisfaction.
While minimal peer-reviewed studies have been conducted, a recent survey listed these as the possible benefits of Cannabis and ALS:
Here are some of the possible benefits for individuals with Parkinson’s Disease:
- Counter-acts appetite loss
- Pain
- Depression
- Spasticity
- Drooling
It did not, however, appear to be effective for treating speaking and swallowing troubles. The effect on sexual dysfunction is still being studied.
Parkinson’s Disease
CBD Oil has been identified as a possible treatment for Parkinson’s Disease. There has been minimal research on the long-term effects, so it is too early to tell if CBD is a potential treatment for Parkinson’s Disease.
Here are some of the possible benefits for individuals with Parkinson’s Disease:
- Anxiety
- Agitation
- Sleep disorders
- Depression
- Reduce muscle spasms
Cancer Relief
Several studies lead researchers to believe that taking THC and CBD helps individuals who are dealing with cancer and cancer treatment side effects.
CBD is thought to have benefits for individuals with cancer because cancer cells have a higher affinity for CB-receptors, which leads to the destruction of more cancerous cells.
Another study showed that CBD inhibited the spread of aggressive breast cancer cells in mice.
While much research still needs to be done, CBD has been identified as having antiemetic properties and could potentially relieve nausea related to chemotherapy.
Here are some of the possible benefits for individuals with cancer:
- Cause cancer cell death
- Block cancer cell growth
- Stop the development of blood vessels – needed for tumors to grow
- Alleviate cancer-related pain and nausea
- Reduce inflammation
- Reduce the ability of cancers to spread
Alzheimer’s Disease
In recent studies, CBD has been shown to help reduce or remove the impact of inflammation, oxygen buildup, and brain cell decline – which is ideal for people with Alzheimer’s disease.
CBD can also increase levels of proteins that eliminate dead cells and plaques in brains suffering from Alzheimer’s, improving both memory and motor function.
Australian researchers Tim Karl and Carl Group did a study in 2011 that showed that CBD promotes the growth and development of brain cells, reducing the decline of memory and other brain functions.
Possible benefits from CBD on Alzheimer’s Disease:
- Reduce inflammation in the brain
- Increase memory
- Increase motor functions
- Agitation
- Aggression
Chronic Pain
CBD may help to treat pain, anxiety, and inflammation throughout the human body. Further research shows CBD has antioxidant properties and is a non-addictive therapeutic option for treating chronic pain in patients who experience levels of emotional suffering from their ailment.
Here are some of the possible benefits for individuals with chronic pain:
- Reduce inflammation
- Protect the brain cells from free radicals and oxidative stress
- Relieve anxiety associated with chronic pain
- Pain Relief
Lower High Blood Pressure
Studies have shown that a single dose of Cannabidiol can lower blood pressure.
Scientists believe CBD affects blood pressure because it has been shown to activate serotonin receptors and adenosine receptors, which cause the body’s blood vessels to widen.
Possible benefits from CBD for those with high blood pressure:
- Lower Blood Pressure
- Reduce stress
- Improve mood
- Decrease anxiety
- High Cholesterol HDL levels often go up when taking CBD oil as well – The increase in good cholesterol promotes heart health.
- Decreased risk of atherosclerosis (hardening or clogging) caused by fatty deposits on artery walls due to bad dietary habits
Immune System
CBD acts on the endocannabinoid system and may have the ability to maintain a balanced and healthy immune system.
CBD Oil is thought to have benefits on the immune system because it can provide relief for inflammatory conditions. CBD oil has also been shown to improve immune function by activating the body’s T-cells and macrophages, promoting healing responses in cells throughout your entire body.
Here are some of the possible benefits for the immune system:
- Reduce inflammation
- Promote cell growth
- Relieve pain associated with autoimmune diseases, such as arthritis and lupus
- Provide anti-viral effects against various viruses and ailments
Reduce post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms
CBD Oils are known to lower stress and anxiety, which are major contributing factors in PTSD syndrome.
CBD is a mood booster and reduces stress which can help those with PTSD feel more relaxed.
Here are some of the possible benefits for individuals dealing with PTSD:
- Reduce anxiety
- Lower stress levels
- Promote relaxation
Reduce Arthritis Symptoms
There are three varieties of arthritis symptoms, such as arthritis.
Arthritis treatment typically focuses on pain relief and increased joint function.
CBD exhibited a pain-reducing effect as well as the ability to suppress activity in certain diseases.
Researchers administered a synthetic CBD gel to patients with knee pain due to osteoarthritis in a localization study.
Men seemed to benefit from CBD more significantly in this research than women; however, the results were interesting but not wholly conclusive; there were significant differences between the group getting a 250-milligram dose and the placebo group.
Here are some of the possible benefits for individuals with Arthritis:
- Reduce joint swelling
- Relieve pain and stiffness
- Inhibit the progression of arthritis or reduce symptoms associated with other inflammatory diseases such as Crohn’s disease, lupus, psoriasis
- Prevent bone loss in osteoporosis patients
Offset Anxiety and Depression
The ability of CBD to calm is arguably its most popular effect and the reason why its usage is widespread.
CBD is thought to help decrease the effects of anxiety and depression by balancing brain levels of serotonin.
By increasing the levels of serotonin in your brain, CBD has been shown to boost mood and improve social behavior by regulating emotional responses and reducing tension and anxiety.
A prominent study in 2018 from Brazil showed decreased anxiety levels by 57 men in a simulated public speaking test.
Here are some of the possible benefits for individuals with Anxiety or Depression:
- Reduce symptoms associated with mood and thought disorders
- Balance brain activity levels of serotonin
- Reduce anger
- Reduce tension
- Reduce restlessness
Treat select epilepsy syndromes.
In 2018 the Food and Drug Administration approved the use of CBD under the brand name Epidiolex to treat seizures caused by the Dravet syndromes or Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.
Three well-vetted studies demonstrate support for the FDA’s recommendations.
During this test, 516 patients with epilepsy were given either Epidialex Or a placebo.
Several researchers have found that the medication can reduce the risk of seizures among the elderly when taken regularly and without a prescription.
Here are some of the possible benefits for individuals with epilepsy:
- Decrease in frequency
- Decrease in severity
Treat opioid addiction
CBC oil is commonly discussed in substance abuse treatment when dealing with additions and, primarily, opioid addiction.
One of the reasons for this is that CBD oil can treat the withdrawal symptoms of an addiction to opioids without causing a high.
This is because CBD won’t affect your brain’s dopamine levels as THC does, and this makes it safe for use by addicts in treatment programs.
Here are some of the possible benefits for individuals with opioid addiction:
- Paranoia
- Feelings of social withdrawal
- Cognitive impairment
- Sensitivity to drug context and stress
- Impaired impulse control
- Anxiety
Treats skin conditions
The skincare industry now employs CBD injections topicals as it came to legalized medical marijuana.
In the same way, CBD oil has shown tremendous results for the inside of the body. It likewise does the same thing for the skin.
The use of CBD oil has made people start looking for skin products due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
Here are some of the possible benefits for individuals with skin conditions:
- Dryness and itching
- Aging and wrinkles
- Infection
- Acne
- Eczema
Protect against other neurological diseases
CBD can have antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
Preclinical studies suggest that CBD produces beneficial effects against dementia and multiple sclerosis.
Huntington’s disease and cerebral ischemia were also checked, although no substantial positive results were recorded.
Other trials are needed to confirm that CBD is an effective treatment for such diseases.
CBD provides significant neuroprotective or protection against numerous pathological ailments.
Possible side effects
When looking to use CBD oil for any health-related health conditions, be sure to discuss them with your doctor to ensure this is the appropriate option for you.
Since the world health organization stated that CBD Oil is safe for human consumption, the perception and response to CBD oils and safety have considerably shifted.
With that being said, there are still some known side-effects that can occur when taking CBD oil, including:
- Drowsiness
- Lightheadedness
- Stomach discomfort or pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diahrrea
The majority of these adverse effects occur in the form of a mild to moderate increase in your heart rate.
Although most of them will diminish within several minutes after use is discontinued, it’s advised to monitor yourself for any irregularity throughout the day if you’re using this product regularly.
Like other medications out there, it’s not uncommon for individuals to experience an allergic reaction from their usage.
Always be sure to check with your doctor before trying something new so that they know what medication you’ve already been prescribed and can properly advise the safest approach for you.
Conclusion
CBD oil has a lot of potential health benefits for various conditions.
CBD can be treated effectively to help individuals who have ALS, Parkinson’s, cancer, Alzheimer’s, opiate addiction, heart diseases, epilepsy, skin conditions, and much more.
While the benefits appear to be very promising in many individuals, clinical studies and research are still lacking.
However, with the profound testimonies supporting ailment and symptom relief, researchers are conducting more studies to prove that CBD can help people suffering from epilepsy, cancer, and many other diseases.
F.A.Q
Is hemp oil the same as CBD Oil?
CDB and Hemp Oil are technically different. Although some people use the terms synonymously, they may also be referring to hemp seed oil, which is used mainly for cooking, food production, and skincare products. CBD oil is made from the leaves, stems, buds, and flowers of the Cannabis indica or Cannabis sativa plant and should contain less than 0.3% THC. Hemp oil is made from the seeds of Cannabis sativa and contains no TCH.
Does CBD oil benefit heart health?
CBD oil can have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may benefit those with heart disease.
Does CBD Oil help anxiety?
Studies are ongoing as to whether or not there is a correlation between CBD oil and depression. Still, studies have shown that CBD provides an effect on serotonin levels by increasing them significantly.
Is CBD oil legal?
Yes, CBD oil is legal in all 50 states of the United States.
