CBD is an organic compound that comes in various forms, from oils to extracts and capsules to tinctures and bath bombs. As with any new supplement or medication, it’s important to consult your doctor before taking it.
Evidence is mounting that CBD can effectively relieve pain, reduce anxiety and help with certain seizure disorders. However, more research needs to be done before we can be sure of its efficacy in treating other medical conditions.
1. Relieves pain
CBD has been found to be effective for pain caused by inflammation, arthritis and peripheral neuropathy (neuropathy). According to one study, people with chronic pain found that applying a CBD oil directly onto their affected area significantly reduced their symptoms.
Finding the optimal CBD for pain relief depends on your individual needs. Experiment with different concentrations until you find what works best for you.
CBD reduces pain through several mechanisms, such as by stimulating the endocannabinoid system and interacting with neurotransmitters. It also lessens anxiety levels and inflammation.
2. Reduces anxiety
CBD can reduce anxiety by stimulating your body’s natural serotonin system. This neurotransmitter plays a major role in controlling mood, anxiety and stress levels.
Studies have demonstrated that CBD can help alleviate anxiety symptoms such as social anxiety and panic disorder. Additionally, it may improve symptoms related to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other conditions which cause anxiety.
Research has been done on animals and small groups of people, yet it remains uncertain how CBD actually reduces anxiety levels. If you’re thinking about trying CBD, make sure to speak with your doctor first.
3. Reduces inflammation
CBD has been shown to reduce inflammation, particularly around joints. Studies have demonstrated that it helps ease arthritis-related pain and protects nerve damage when administered via injection.
Before beginning CBD use, it’s best to consult your doctor about the proper dosage. Dosages will differ based on individual health conditions and age.
The most popular way to consume CBD is through tinctures or oils, which are easily absorbed through the tongue and come in various forms. Alternatively, topical CBD products like creams, salves, and patches can be applied directly onto skin for faster pain relief.
4. Reduces seizures
Studies have demonstrated that CBD may reduce seizures in some individuals with rare forms of epilepsy. This occurs by normalizing brain rhythms, which may help to soothe a person’s seizures.
Medical research into CBD is still in its early stages, and it’s essential to remember that products sold in stores may not have been tested or approved by the FDA for purity or safety.
Some doctors are now turning to CBD for patients with seizures who don’t respond well to anti-epileptic drugs, such as those suffering from Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome. According to one study, children suffering from these rare forms of epilepsy who took CBD 20 mg/kg along with their antiepileptic drugs experienced a reduction in drop seizures and an overall decrease in seizure frequency.
5. Reduces appetite
People who struggle to control their appetite can find CBD to be an effective tool in decreasing food consumption. It does so by stimulating CB1 receptors in the brain and CB2 receptors in peripheral tissues, such as the gastrointestinal system.
CBD also induces “fat browning,” or the conversion of white fat cells into brown ones that burn calories. This has been known to aid weight loss and boost lipid metabolism – the process by which the body breaks down fats for energy use.
Studies have indicated that CBD may also aid weight regulation through stimulating appetite. This could be the case if someone is undernourished and experiencing nausea from food due to CBD’s appetite stimulation effects.
