With numerous pieces of research coming out and various pharmaceutical companies manufacturing cannabis products, people are curious about the benefits of cannabis.
Cannabis or marijuana is a well-known plant. It has been around for years, and its use in traditional medicine or recreational purposes is not new. Recently scientists are focusing on the medicinal benefits cannabis can offer.
Cannabis sativa contains cannabinoids like CBD and THC. Both of these compounds hold significant pharmacological importance. CBD shows anti-inflammatory, anti-emetic, and analgesic properties by acting on CB1 and CB2 receptors of the endocannabinoid system. Unlike THC, CBD is not psychoactive and does not cause euphoria or addiction. FDA had approved two formulations of CBD.
However, numerous topical, oral and nasal dosage forms are available online.
Here are the top six benefits of CBD oil that can help you understand if cannabis is worth using or not.
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Provides pain relief:
Persisting pain is troublesome and annoying. Not only does it drain the body’s energy but also negatively impacts the brain. Chronic pain interferes with routine life and alters a person’s lifestyle. Often, such pain becomes unmanageable and is hard to treat with available medications. Therefore, there is a need for newer, better pain relievers.
CBD oil shows promising results in the management of chronic pain. Numerous worldwide studies prove the efficacy of CBD and THC in treating pain. According to research, CBD relieves pain by acting on CB 1 and CB 2 receptors. Additionally, CBD has anti-inflammatory properties that help lessen pain and reduce the perception of pain in the body.
Topical applications offer localized pain relief without any systemic side effects. Cream, body salve, and CBD rollerball for pain relief are some options you can choose from. On the other hand, capsules, gummies, or tablets are also available for alleviating pain.
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Treats epileptic seizures:
Epilepsy is a common yet complicated brain disorder. It affects the electrical circuits of the brain, resulting in abnormal signaling. Epilepsy manifests as random, unprovoked seizures that disturb the normal functioning of life. According to CDC, 3.4 million people in the United States have epilepsy.
Even though numerous medications are available for seizure control, some patients still suffer from chronic seizures. CBD oil may benefit patients who no longer respond to conventional treatments. FDA has approved Epidiolex, a CBD preparation, for managing chronic convulsions. Studies on Lennox- Gastaut and Darvet syndrome patients show that seizures reduce by 50% with CBD oil, and it has no serious adverse effects.
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Maintains youthful skin:
Skin is the largest body organ and has significant importance. Skin plays a chief role in maintaining body harmony as it regulates body temperature and protects our insides from the harsh environment. However, skin diseases are fairly common due to constant exposure to the external environment. In the United States, one in four people suffers from a skin disease.
The use of CBD for skin diseases is increasing day by day. A 2020 study explores the benefits of CBD for eczema and pruritis. Experimental models prove that CBD may reduce itching, sebum production, and inflammation through its action on cannabinoid and non-cannabinoid receptors present in the skin. Similarly, studies done in 2014 and 2016 provide scientific data on the efficacy of CBD in treating acne by preventing sebum production in sebaceous glands. Additionally, scientists are exploring CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties for reducing wrinkles and maintaining healthy skin.
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Fights cancer:
Nowadays, cancer is on the rise. Every year the number of cases increases, and so do cancer deaths. American Cancer Society estimates 1.9 million new cancer cases in 2022 and six hundred thousand cancer deaths. With such a high rate, scientists are looking for ways to fight and prevent cancer.
Lab studies and animal models reveal the anti-cancer properties of CBD. Due to the overexpression of CBD receptors in tumor cells and its effect on the endocannabinoid system, CBD can induce apoptosis in cancerous cells. Additionally, CBD inhibits cancer cells’ ability to metastasize, grow, and gain nutrients, resulting in cell death. Thus, it has great potential in preventing and treating best CBD oil for cancer.
Some CBD formulations, Nabilone and Sativex, relieve cancer symptoms as well. These medicinal products lessen chemo-induced nausea, vomiting, and pain. Another study reveals that patients receiving CBD lived a year longer than those on placebo. Thus, cannabinoids may also increase life expectancy and quality of life.
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Protects the nervous system:
The brain is the most vital organ of the body. It controls our thoughts, emotions, movements, and other bodily functions. Being a part of the nervous system, it coordinates with other organs and helps maintain homeostasis. Any abnormality or decline in brain function can alter the body’s physiology, resulting in neurological disease.
CBD may be able to keep the brain healthy. Not only does it protect neuronal cells, but it also prevents cell death. Additionally, it has the potential to rescue and help regenerate neuronal structure and function. A 2018 study reveals that CBD lessens brain damage by reducing neuroinflammation and increasing adenosine levels. Research on CBD in treating various neurological disorders is also increasing. CBD use in Parkinson’s Disease shows an increase in dopamine levels, which increases life expectancy in such patients. For Alzheimer’s patients, CBD helps strengthen memory and may suppress the symptoms or causative factors. Similarly, patients with Huntington’s Disease or cerebral ischemia may also benefit from CBD use.
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Relieves anxiety:
Anxiety is an overwhelming feeling of fear and nervousness in performing everyday tasks. People with anxiety often stress over normal things and are always on high alert for potential danger. Consequently, anxiety affects their lifestyle and quality of life. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental issue. The National Institute of Mental Health states that 19.1 % of the US population suffers from anxiety. In light of this increasing prevalence, CBD can be a potential treatment.
CBD is famous for its effect on the brain. Unlike THC, CBD calms the mind and helps increase focus. According to a 2020 study, CBD relieves anxiety in patients suffering from GAD, PTSD, and SAD. Another study in 2017 shows that men receiving 300 mg of CBD before a public speaking test have less anxiety and stress; compared to those on placebo. A 2019 study reveals that CBD may also improve sleep patterns in insomniac patients.
Conclusion:
Cannabinoids hold significant potential in treating numerous diseases. Scientists are trying to find ways to use CBD’s effect on the brain, heart, skin, and other body organs for medicinal benefits. However, further research is necessary to fully understand the adverse effects, risks, and perks of cannabinoids.
