CBD or Cannabidiol is one of the primary cannabinoids found in the hemp plant, and has been known for possessing a number of therapeutic properties. Unlike THC, CBD is non-psycho active so it doesn't get you high. CBD works with the body's endocannabinoid system, a system of the body that is responsible for maintaining internal balance. The endocannabiniod system is similar to to the hormone system and relies upon chemical messengers made by the body called cannabinoids. Proper function of the endocannabinoid system is essential for good health. But, from toxins in the food we eat and the air we breathe, as well as from aging, the endocannabinoid system can become damaged over time. Since the endocannbinoid system has receptors in every organ of the body, a reduction in it's function can result in a variety of ailments. CBD mimics the function of cannabinoids we produce naturally, so supplementing with CBD can give the endocannabinoid system the boost it needs and the additional resources it requires to function more optimally. CBD is also a powerful antioxidant and neuroprotectant. While the FDA does not allow us to make health related claims about CBD, a number of recognized scientific authorities have discussed the various benefits of CBD. Here we will summarize some of their descriptions.
What are some of the potential benefits of CBD?
May Reduce Anxiety
According to Dr. Axe, "Studies using animal models of anxiety and involving healthy volunteers clearly suggest an anxiolytic-like effect of CBD. Cannabidiol has been shown to reduce anxiety in patients with social anxiety disorder and researchers suggest that it may also be effective for panic disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, social anxiety disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. (7)
A 2011 study aimed to compare the effects of a simulation public speaking test on healthy control patients and treatment-native patients with social anxiety disorder. A total of 24 never-treated patients with social anxiety disorder were given either CBD or placebo 1.5 hours before the test. Researchers found that pretreatment with CBD significantly reduced anxiety, cognitive impairment and discomfort in their speech performance, and significantly decreased alertness in anticipation of their speech. The placebo group presented higher anxiety, cognitive impairment and discomfort. (8)"
According to Huffington Post, "There have been numerous studies that demonstrate cannabis’ neuroprotective capabilities. Cannabinoids help preserve brain matter in stroke and traumatic brain injury. Studies have shown that cannabidiol (CBD) at a concentration of 10 uM, was neuroprotective against both excitatory transmitter (glutamate) and oxidant (hydroperoxide) induced neurotoxicity. Mechoulam developed a synthetic cannabinoid, dextranabinol, that has been shown in basic science studies to help limit brain tissue death from decreased tissue oxygenation. This can be caused by stroke, traumatic brain injury (TBI), or being placed on a heart-lung machine during cardiac bypass surgery."
Natural pain relief or anti-inflammatory properties
According to Medical News Today, "People commonly use prescription or over-the-counter drugs to relieve pain and stiffness, including chronic pain.
Some people feel that CBD offers a more natural way to lower pain. A study published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine found that CBD significantly reduced chronic inflammation and pain in some mice and rats.
The researchers suggest that the non-psychoactive compounds in marijuana, such as CBD, could be a new treatment for chronic pain.
CBD is already in use for some conditions that cause chronic pain, such as multiple sclerosis and fibromyalgia."
Dr. Axe also states that, "Cannabis has been used for centuries for the suppression of nausea and vomiting. Research has revealed that among more than 80 cannabinoid compounds found in marijuana, both the intoxicant THC and the non-intoxicant CBD helps to get rid of nausea and vomiting in animal studies. A 2012 study published in the British Journal of Pharmacology found that CBD benefits including possessing anti-nausea and antiemetic effects when it was administered to rats. (13) Researchers found that CBD acts in a diphasic manner, meaning that in low doses it suppresses toxin-induced vomiting..."
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Huffinton Post also comments on CBD as it relates to PTSD and states, "Mechoulam has characterized post-traumatic stress disorder, certain phobias and forms of chronic pain as human situations which are conditioned and might be amenable to treatment with CBD"
Miranda Harrison from The Epilepsy Foundation talks about the benefits of CBD when it comes to epilepsy and says, "I work in the CBD research space and thus far we have a rapidly growing number of epileptic patients who have had relief from daily seizures by taking 1-3 servings daily. CBD oil is THC free and does not come with the unwanted psychoactive effects of marijuana.
The reason CBD and other hemp-derived compounds works well for so many conditions, is the endocannabinoid system, a central component of the health and healing of every human and almost every animal.
The Endocannabinoid system is a central regulatory system that affects a wide range of biological processes like our immune system, nervous system, and all of the body’s organs. CBD helps bring your entire body back into balance, not just one single area like most supplements."
This information is for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Individual results may vary. You must be 18 or older to purchase.
National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI)
Lastly, the leading authority on medical literature, NCBI, summarizes the benefits of CBD and states that, "Cannabidiol (CBD) is a phytocannabinoid with therapeutic properties for numerous disorders exerted through molecular mechanisms that are yet to be completely identified. CBD acts in some experimental models as an anti-inflammatory, anticonvulsant, anti-oxidant, anti-emetic, anxiolytic and antipsychotic agent, and is therefore a potential medicine for the treatment of neuroinflammation, epilepsy, oxidative injury, vomiting and nausea, anxiety and schizophrenia, respectively."
The research on CBD is exploding right now as new benefits are constantly being uncovered. Because CBD works naturally with the body, it can be useful for a number of different ailments.