Better known as CBD, Cannabidiol is one of more than 100 chemical compounds found in marijuana. It’s often associated with getting ‘high,’ but CBD is actually not psychoactive. It’s THC, or Tetrahydrocannabinol, that has this effect.
CBD is actually used as a natural remedy for several health issues and is increasing in popularity as research into its benefits continues. These reported benefits make it a potentially good option for people looking for pain relief, treatment for anxiety, or other ailments. Many people choose to use CBD oils, made by extracting CBD from a cannabis plant, and diluting it with‘carrier’ oil, often hemp.
Though CBD is generally considered safe, for some, it may cause adverse side effects including diarrhea, fatigue, and changes in appetite.
You can find out more about these oils at Zach Attack Supplements. Here are seven health benefits of using CBD that are supported by science.
Pain relief
The best-known benefit of CBD is that it can be used to treat pain. In fact, people have been using marijuana as pain relief since 2900 BC! But then, how does it work?
Human bodies have a system called the endocannabinoid system, which regulates functions including the immune system, sleep, appetite, and pain. CBD reduces pain by impacting receptor activity in this system, reducing inflammation. CBD has also been proven to be effective in the treatment of pain related to arthritis and multiple sclerosis. It’s especially effective when used in combination with its psychoactive partner compound, THC.
Treatment of anxiety and depression
Depression and anxiety disorders are widespread in all corners of society and are usually treated with pharmaceuticals. These can have debilitating side effects and can even be addictive.
CBD oil is a natural alternative to these drugs, and many more people are looking into it as a treatment. It has even been used to treat children with PTSD. It works by working on serotonin receptors, which regulate mood.
Acne treatment
Acne affects nearly 10% of the population, and is caused by factors including bacteria, overproduction of sebum, genetics, and inflammation. For people who have acne, it can be challenging to deal with and stubbornly resistant to treatment.
Recent studies show that CBD can prevent sebaceous glands from producing too much sebum, can act as an anti-inflammatory agent, and even prevent the activation of inflammatory cytokines that can cause acne. No human studies have yet been conducted, but things look promising.
Protects the brain
Scientists believe that CBD may have benefits for people with several different neurological disorders. This usage is among the most studied and has shown good results so far. CBD (or CBD / THC blends) have proven successful in treating muscle spasticity in MS patients, reduced seizure activity in children with Dravet syndrome (a form of childhood epilepsy), and reduced seizures in adult epileptics as well. Some people did, however, experience side effects including fever and diarrhea.
Newer research has shown that CBD also works to improve sleep and overall quality of life for people with Parkinson’s disease, and could prevent the neurodegeneration present in Alzheimer’s disease.
