What is CBD?

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is the main therapeutic chemical compound found in the cannabis plant. Research shows that CBD can be beneficial to those suffering from a multitude of health issues, including cancer, seizures, mental health, insomnia, inflammation, and nausea. Because of this, CBD has gained favor as a powerful natural supplement for general health and wellness as well as a specific remedy for a variety of ailments.

What are the Health Benefits of CBD? 

CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not get you “high.” Because of this, countless people have found CBD to be beneficial for both temporary and long-term relief from numerous health and wellness related issues. Although CBD use has only become a popular health remedy in recent years, a significant amount of research indicates that it can benefit users with the following conditions and ailments:

Pain Relief

A 2018 review of studies conducted over a period of 43 years concluded that CBD is an effective natural remedy for pain and does not cause the negative side effects associated with pharmaceuticals and pain management drugs. It is believed that CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which has receptors in the central nervous and immune systems. CBD may activate and generate responses in the receptors that deliver the pain relief noted in the 2018 review.

Inflammation

Pain and inflammation often go hand-in-hand, and studies indicate that CBD’s effect on the endocannabinoid system’s receptors can reduce inflammation. One study on rats found that CBD administered orally significantly reduced inflammation in the test subjects.

Sleep/Insomnia

Research on CBD and sleep still needs to be further explored, but a study suggests it could be a more effective solution than most common sleep aids. CBD shows promise with easing anxiety and pain, which makes sleep easier, and may even interact with brain receptors that help regulate the body’s sleep cycles.

Addiction

With pain relief research showing significant promise, CBD could prove to be a viable substitute to opioids, which could stop addiction before it starts. Additionally, early research shows that CBD has the potential to help reduce dependence on opioids, alcohol, nicotine, and other addictive substances as well.

Mental Health

Research indicates that CBD has a positive interaction with serotonin receptors, which could make it an effective treatment for anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. Additionally, since CBD has no known negative side effects, it is actively being researched as a potential substitute for harmful pharmaceuticals.

Neurodegenerative Diseases

Neurodegenerative diseases often cause iron accumulation, which eventually lead to cell death. A recent studyindicates that CBD can restore the metabolic functions of these cells, potentially slowing the progress of diseases like Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and Multiple Sclerosis.

Cancer

Strong evidence suggests that CBD can help prevent cancer cell growth and even cause cancer cell death. CBD also has the potential to increase the potency of other cancer drugs, while also easing the side effects that come with chemotherapy and radiation.

Epilepsy, Seizures, and Tremor/Spasmodic Disorders

In cases of epilepsy, seizures, and other tremor disorders, CBD has been found to significantly reduce the frequency of convulsive seizures. Many people cite CBD’s effectiveness as a remedy that dramatically reduces or even eliminates seizures for themselves, their children, or their pets.

General Mood

The body’s endocannabinoid system regulates several functions, including general mood. CBD’s impact on the ECS helps reduce stress and improve overall mood.

Diabetes

CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties can be a great help to those with diabetes, as inflammation and nerve pain are common symptoms. Additionally, CBD is said to reduce insulin resistance and moderate blood sugar levels for those with type 2 diabetes.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Several studies indicate that CBD offers tangible benefits to those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, reducing inflammation and reducing pain without negative side effects. CBD has also been found to be beneficial in topical gel form, reducing joint inflammation and pain.

Nausea

CBD is believed to interact with serotonin receptors, helping to alleviate nausea and vomiting. For those who suffer from frequent or chronic nausea, CBD can also help ease the anxiety that comes with the condition.

Psychosis

CBD has shown promise as a treatment for schizophrenia, particularly by decreasing psychotic symptoms and cognitive impairments.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory bowel disease mainly includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, which both commonly cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, fatigue, lack of appetite, and more. One study indicates that CBD can relieve the symptoms of Crohn’s disease, while additional research shows CBD can help reduce inflammationfrequently caused by colitis.

Skin Health

Acne is believed to be caused by a variety of factors, but the overproduction of sebum is a major cause. One study found that CBD reduced inflammation and prevented sebaceous glands from producing excessive amounts of sebum, making it a potential acne treatment.