As CBD and hemp are legalized in different countries around the world, CBD oil is gaining popularity among consumers. CBD, or cannabidiol, is an extract of the hemp Sativa (Industrial Hemp) plant that does not contain THC like the hemp plant and therefore does not have the psychoactive properties of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). CBD does not “get people high”.
CBD oil contains CBD mixed with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or hemp seed oil. The oil in 10ml bottles is usually sold in various concentrations. Currently CBD cosmetics, CBD capsules, CBD gummies and sublingual CBD sprays are also sold. Depending on the country, the law allows some brands to contain traces of THC.
More and more studies and evidence are emerging that CBD oil treats pain, reduces anxiety and stimulates appetite. It has also been shown to be effective in treating certain types of seizures.
In 2018, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (FDA) approved the drug Epidiolex, an oral CBD solution used for the treatment of certain forms of epilepsy in children.
USES AND BENEFITS OF CBD OIL
CBD interacts with other receptors, such as serotonin and opioid receptors. It may also increase levels of natural endocannabinoids, which may explain its seemingly wide range of uses.
- Epilepsy
The first CBD-based drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) was Epidiolex. Doctors prescribe Epidiolex to those experiencing seizures due to Lennox-Gastrault or Dravet syndrome, which are rare types of epilepsy. Epidiolex underwent rigorous human studies before the FDA approved it as a treatment for these two conditions.
According to a multitude of articles and studies they do not know precisely how CBD helps control seizures. One theory suggests that CBD influences a receptor (TRPV-1) involved in transient receptor potential seizure activity.
A review of completed and ongoing clinical trials indicated that adding CBD to common antiepileptic medicine may be appropriate in treatment-resistant epilepsy in infants, children, and adolescents.
- Pain and inflammation
Researchers have investigated the analgesic effects of CBD. One in which participants with peripheral neuropathy received 250 milligrams (mg) of total CBD dissolved in 3 ounces of oil) or a placebo.
After 4 weeks, the researchers noted a statistically significant reduction in severe pain, sharp pain, cold sensation and itching in those using CBD oil. Participants reported no side effects.
Although the results of this small trial are positive, it only involved 29 participants, so researchers need to conduct further research to confirm the results.
Another study review showed that a 1:1 combination of THC and CBD sprayed in the back of the mouth may be effective for chronic non-cancer pain. However, the researchers do not know which of the two compounds had the more significant effect. In addition, the follow-up period for this study was 15 weeks. Scientists need to conduct further research to confirm whether long-term pain control is possible.
This spray containing both THC and CBD may also have anti-inflammatory properties. An earlier study in people living with rheumatoid arthritis showed that Sativex reduced the disease activity index-28, demonstrating a decrease in inflammation. These studies show the potential efficacy of CBD on pain and inflammation.
- Depression and anxiety
Many animal studies on the effects of CBD on mood disorders showed promising results. An earlier article in Neuropsychopharmacology described a human study where researchers demonstrated that CBD could reduce anxiety caused by public speaking.
Participants took a CBD preparation before a public speaking event. They claimed to feel less anxiety and discomfort. The researchers suggest that CBD may help alleviate anxiety associated with the anticipation of a frightening event.
Participants also had a lower negative self-evaluation of public speaking. The researchers suggest that serotonin receptors may influence CBD’s effects on anxiety.
Currently, human studies on the effectiveness of CBD on depression are lacking. More research is needed before using it for this purpose.
- Addiction management and treatment
Some experts suggest that CBD oil may help people with addiction by reducing activation of the amygdala, an area of the brain involved in addiction.
Drug addiction usually occurs from exposure to a particular signal. Therefore, reducing cravings during cues may help people refrain from heroin use.
A study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry explored the effect of CBD on craving in people with heroin use disorder. The researchers showed that, compared to placebo, those taking CBD had less anxiety. These results are promising and require further research.
If you want to find quality CBD oil, they suggest that you head to Ecowatch for further information.