Cannabidiol is a natural remedy that’s become very popular in the last two decades. Better known as CBD, it provides a lot of relief for many conditions. This article is focusing on the benefits of CBD, and why CBD oil is right for you.

WHAT IS CBD?

The cannabis sativa plant has over 100 chemical compounds (known as cannabinoids). One compound is Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the main psychoactive cannabinoid that delivers the “high” associated with marijuana. CBD is another cannabinoid found on the plant but is not psychoactive. In fact, CBD has been proven to counteract the psychoactive effects of THC, which many people find eliminates the paranoia that is sometimes experienced while high.

HOW DOES CBD WORK?

The effects CBD has on the brain are still being studied. What we know so far is that it prevents a breakdown of one of the chemicals in our brain that specifically affects mood, pain, and mental function.

Our bodies have an endocannabinoid system (ECS). It regulates bodily functions including appetite, the immune system, sleep and pain. The endocannabinoids our bodies produce are neurotransmitters that bind to cannabinoid receptors in the nervous system.

So far, studies have shown us that CBD can reduce chronic pain by altering endocannabinoid receptor activity. This reduces inflammation and improves interaction with neurotransmitters.

HOW TO USE CBD

CBD can be sold as an extract, a vapourized liquid, and capsule, but its most popular form is oil. The oil is administered, depending on its purpose. Taking it by spoon or syringe is easy and effective, however swallowing oil isn’t the tastiest experience. It can be mixed in or baked into food. Recently CBD infused drinks have hit the market. CBD oil can also be applied topically for relief from pain or skin conditions. Transdermal Patches are a convenient choice for topical CBD. Women can also use a syringe or eyedropper to administer the oil into the vagina for menstrual and sexual intimacy problems.

BENEFITS OF CBD

EPILEPSY

Epilepsy was the first proven and accepted condition that the FDA allowed treatment by CBD. Doctors have seen that CBD prevents seizures, without the sedating side effects that all other epilepsy medications have.

MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

Several human studies have shown that CBD is effective for treating pain from multiple sclerosis. Sativex is an oral spray available in several countries including Canada. It’s proven to be the only adjunctive treatment for relief of neuropathic pain for MS patients.

ARTHRITIS

CBD reduces inflammation by stopping your body from releasing compounds that normally trigger inflammation. This helps reduce the amount of pain felt in rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis patients.

NEUROPROTECTIVE PROPERTIES

Similar to reducing seizures, CBD has shown to be effective in several other neurological diseases. This includes:
– Improving the quality of life and increasing the amount of sleep for Parkinson patients.
– Decreasing cognitive decline in Alzheimer patients.
– Reducing symptoms for people with schizophrenia.

FIGHTING CANCER

When many people think about cannabis helping cancer patients, it’s because of the THC reducing pain and increasing appetites. However, CBD has been shown to prevent the spread of some cancers. It also helps to improve the immune system for patients undergoing chemotherapy and reduce the side effects of chemo.

ARE THERE RISKS OR SIDE EFFECTS?

It’s too early to tell. Many studies are underway, not only to continue proving the benefits and usage of cannabis, but to help us discover any risks. No side effects have been confirmed yet, but there is special interest in, and mild warnings about:
– Possible interactions with other drugs or supplements.
– Potential liver damage.
– Mood changes, including irritability.
– Changes in alertness, particularly while driving.