CBD Benefits
Research on CBD is relatively new, as its benefits have just recently started to gain recognition. Preclinical and clinical trials, however, have already suggested that the CBD found in cannabis has “broad therapeutic value” without evidence of dependence or abuse. The explosion in the available CBD products over the last few years speaks to the wide range of benefits that it can offer for both mental and physical well-being.
The most common conditions that draw people to CBD are pain, anxiety, depression and sleep issues. While efficacy varies from person to person and depends on the products used, people are finding relief for chronic conditions both big and small.
ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION RELIEF
The body’s natural endocannabinoid system also has receptors in the brain. CBD works to create balance with whatever bodily system it interacts with and studies are showing that it has significant potential to treat a broad range of anxiety related disorders. It supports the increase of “feel-good” neurochemicals while mitigating the impact of stress hormones on the body. It also increases Anandamide, a naturally occurring chemical in the brain often called the “bliss molecule” (from the Sanskrit word “Ananda”) which leads to feelings of calm. While many people find antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications to produce unwanted side effects, CBD is generally well tolerated and without side effects or interactions. If you are experiencing anxiety or depression please reach out to a mental healthcare provider, there is no shame in the game!
PAIN MANAGEMENT
CBD relieves pain through the endocannabinoid receptors, inflammatory system and nociceptive (pain-sensing) system. By reducing inflammation, correcting imbalances across the body and telling your pain receptors when they are overreacting, CBD, along with the hundreds of other cannabinoids found in cannabis, is proving to be an effective treatment for pain. CBD users commonly treat issues like joint pain, arthritis, muscle pain and tension. Physicians are also seeking out newer treatments like CBD for conditions like multiple sclerosis, cancer pain and rheumatoid arthritis as these issues are often inadequately treated with available opiates, antidepressants and anticonvulsant drugs. Both topical and ingestible products can be supportive for pain management.
MEMORY AND FOCUS
Let’s face it, we live fast paced lives with a number of stimulating input coming at us from all directions. This contributes to the imbalance of neurotransmitters, or the chemical messengers in our body. CBD, and other cannabinoids found in hemp, help to regulate neurotransmitters, thus creating healthier mood, appetite, stress response, sleep cycles, digestion, heart rate, breathing, and concentration. Since nothing sustainable is achieved in a vacuum, it’s the marriage of all of these more balanced responses that helps our brains to function at their optimal level. When we are feeling rested, nourished, balanced and strong, our brains can better process and store information.
SLEEP
Healthy sleep cycles are often a result of a calm and nourished nervous system. So often, our lives at work, home, and online, teach our bodies that it is time to wake up and be “on.” The nervous system is sensitive to the widespread stimulation that is promoted by our lives and societal pressures, and it can have trouble snapping back into a state of “rest and digest” after being encouraged towards “fight or flight” for so long. This is where studies are showing that CBD comes in as it helps to support the nervous system and healthy stress response. Keep in mind that there is no magic cure for sleeplessness, the most effective treatments often come in in conjunction with therapy which helps get to the root causes of what’s keeping us awake, but it’s undeniable that a large number of people who use CBD take it for sleep-related issues and find it to be very successful.
NEUROPROTECTIVE PROPERTIES
CBD exhibits neuroprotective effects due to its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Whether due to Alzheimer’s, traumatic brain injury, PTSD or other neurodegenerative diseases, CBD has been shown to support neuroplasticity. It can also help to rewire synaptic connections in the brain that have been impacted or altered by stress or traumatic events. CBD has been found to be anticonvulsant and an effective treatment for epilepsy. It’s crucial to work with your doctor when using CBD to support these conditions, but the research and results are exciting.
CANCER AND CANCER RELATED SIDE EFFECTS
THC and CBD are well researched when it comes to supporting certain cancers and cancer related pain. Both of these compounds have been shown to reduce tumor growth and inhibit the migration of cancer cells within the body. While CBD is less researched than THC, cannabinoids in general have been shown to be highly effective in decreasing nausea and easing neuropathic pain, anxiety, and inflammation.