Despite the advancement in technology, medical professionals are returning to Mother Nature in hopes of a cure for all human, animal, and plant ailments.
And, proper awareness campaigns play their role in teaching the general population that herbal remedies are far more potent a cure than any synthetic solution created in a lab.
One such herbal therapy that has reached new heights is the use of CBD oils from Hemp plants.
There has been an unexpected wave in the CBD trend in recent years. And, according to a Google Trends analysis, the rise in interest has been more noteworthy in the later months of 2018 till present.
Contrarily, not many people can say they know what they are, their origin and history or even how they help the human body.
If you are keen on knowing what it is you are ingesting, this guide to CBD oils will give you an insight on all there is to know of the essential plant extract.
What is CBD?
Every health-nut out there is eager to try out CBD or CBD oil but do we even know what CBD stands for?
Cannabidiol or CBD is one of the copious cannabinoids naturally found in Cannabis plants. CBD oil is a derivation of the organic plant secretions of the Cannabis sativa species.
Until now THC has been the cannabinoid under the scrutiny of the scientist. But in recent years more study has been devoted to another primary cannabinoid, CBD.
Cannabidiols are found in all members of the Cannabis family, but they are much lower in concentration unless the species are bred for higher densities.
The two primary sources of CBD are the Marijuana and Hemp varieties of the C. sativa species; it is a second principal compound of the Marijuana strains and the top compound in Hemp plants.
CBD is non-psychoactive, with more health benefits, and unlike the THC it does not leave the user intoxicated, making it fit for human consumption as capsules or as CBD oil (discussed below) for a variety of purposes.
What are CBD Oils?
CBD oils in their most basic definition are the oils that contain concentrations of the phytocannabinoids, commonly called CBD, found in the Hemp Plants of the Cannabis genus.
To understand what is CBD oil; we must first learn of its derivation.
As mentioned before, the CBD compound is found in both Hemp and Marijuana strains of C. sativa. The only significant difference is that the Marijuana plant also contains the mixture, THC that is responsible for the intoxicated “high”.
CBD oil is the result of manufacturers mixing the CBD extract with oil solutions that are sold in the market for the general public.
Still, there is much more in their chemical makeup that makes them invaluable.
CBD has a long history and offers numerous health benefits for the human populace including providing relief from chronic pain, anxiety, inflammation, depression, and more.
We`ll discuss the individual effects further in the article, but for now, let`s take a look at the different sources for CBD oils.
Cannabis sativa – Subspecies & Their Distinction
The Cannabis genus also has other species in its group that have their role to play in the CBD timeline.
Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica and Cannabis ruderalis are sub species of Cannabis L. sativa.
Human interference and the natural variation of the Cannabis genus results in these different subspecies that is distinguishable via their CBD to THC ratio versus the fiber in their genes.
There are five variants of the plant based on the level of CBD, THC and fibre they contain:
1. Those with a significantly higher level of THC compounds,
2. Another is more fibrous with a higher concentration of CBD,
3. An intermediate of the two,
4. Higher concentrations of another compound called cannabigerol (CBG)
5. Lastly, a variant without any cannabinoid compound.
The sources of the CBD oil we use today are derived from the Hemp and Marijuana strains of the species Cannabis sativa.
However, Hemp species contain higher concentrations of CBD compound than that which is derived from the Marijuana plant; thus, its use as a medicinal supplement.
Hemp vs. Marijuana Species
To understand the complexities surrounding the use and distribution of the hemp-sourced CBD oils let`s take a closer look at the two strains notorious for their production of the naturally-occurring Cannabidiols.
Scientifically, the two strains are of the same species Cannabis sativa. But where Hemp comes strictly from Cannabis sativa, Marijuana can be a variant of Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica or Cannabis ruderalis.
However, it`s their genetic makeup where the two varieties differ at large. Plus, their method of cultivation and how they are bred also leads to a few significant differences in their phenotype.
Visual Appearance
Industrial hemp varieties are fibrous with long, sturdy stalks with virtually no flowering buds. Whereas, the Marijuana strain of C. sativa is smaller in size, bushier with many flowering buds.
Recently, however, the newer varieties of industrial hemp are being bred to have more flowers and yield higher levels of cannabinoids and terpenes.
Cultivation Environment
The two varieties also have different optimum requirements from their environment.
Marijuana requires a humid climate for its 60-90 day growth cycle. The seeds are planted six feet apart so that the stalks have ample space to grow.
On the other hand, Hemp seeds are planted closer together with four inches of space and have a growth cycle of 108-120 days. They can also survive in virtually every climate on earth.
Chemical Makeup
Of the 400+ cannabinoids found in the Cannabis species, Hemp and Marijuana both contain CBD; but, Hemp varieties have comparatively higher levels of CBD than Marijuana.
Additionally, Hemp plants contain an enzyme responsible for the production of cannabidiols that is absent from the Marijuana strains.
Marijuana also has a higher density of THC or delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol than CBD, which causes the “high”. Hence why, it is grown for recreational and medicinal use, while Hemp has its purpose in the industrial sector.
The abundance of CBD makes hemp-derived products ideal for people looking for the benefits of CBD Oil without feeling intoxicated.
Origin of CBD – The First Discovery
Cannabis L. Sativa is the species where the CBD sources originate.
The species is an annual herbaceous flowering plant found in Eastern Asia. But with the rise in demand for CBD and hemp products, it is widely cultivated around the world for its various uses.
According to archaeological finds, the Cannabis evolution began in the early 8000 BC, but it is not until 1533 that humanity learnt of its medical applications.
Ancient Greeks and Romans were also familiar with the plant`s significance as were the people in the Middle East where it spread through the Islamic empire to North Africa. In 1954, Cannabis found its way to the Northern Hemisphere then Chile, and in North America, it found its use in the paper mill, clothing industries, and rope manufacturing.
In 1940, Dr Roger Adams first isolated the compound but couldn`t identify it. It wasn`t until 1960 that an Israeli scientist by the name of Raphael Mechoulam separated and gave a name to the organic structure we now know as cannabidiol.
A comparison Study – Hemp & Marijuana Derived Cannabinoids
Cannabinoids are derived from both Hemp and Marijuana, but they have distinct properties that make them beneficial with different adverse effects.
Of the 113 known cannabinoids, THC is the most widely researched. It is abundant in the Marijuana strains with psychotropic properties that affect your consciousness. But with its interaction with the human endocannabinoid system, it is useful in treating glaucoma, PTSD, and even asthma.
Hemp-derived cannabinoids have a higher dose of CBD that is non-psychoactive with more health benefits but is known to contain 0.3% of THC.CBD oil from Hemp plants can ease anxiety, relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and much more.
The discovery of CBD, as well as the study of the human endocannabinoid system, is the leading cause of advancements in modern medicine.
The Second Discovery & the Legal Issues Today
Following the discovery and identification in 1960, the progress with research on CBD has only gone uphill.
Although recorded history shows that Cannabis has been the primary catalyst in Man`s innovations, it is recently that its purpose in the medical field has gained importance.
The discovery of the endocannabinoid system coupled with a greater understanding of CBD led to its use in modern medicine; and by mid-1970s, the British Pharmaceutical industries were referring to CBD tinctures as medical remedies.
However, with the increased awareness of the benefits of CBD, it led to a debate on legal concerns.
Back in the 1950s, almost all US states had banned production and distribution of CBD products. And it wasn`t until 2003 that the US government authorized the CBD based patent. Further, in 2017, steps were taken to have the FDA approve of the use of CBD for medical applications.
The presence of THC in the industrial hemp was the cause of the debate when it came to using CBD oil for commercial purposes; which led to 0.2-0.3% percent THC set as the standard that draws a line between legal industrial hemp strains and illegal marijuana.
The 2018 Farm Bill also legalized the cultivation and growth of organically-grown hemp variety of C. sativa to meet the rising demand for CBD oil and other hemp products.
Best Source of CBD – Industrial Hemp or Organically-grown?
As discussed, the best CBD Oil sources are Marijuana and Hemp varieties of the Cannabis sativa; with more preference on the Hemp variants.
An exciting feature of the Cannabis genus is that its method of cultivation also decides its potential uses; meaning environmental conditions the seeds receive leads to separate uses of the adult plants in the industrial or medical sectors.
The best source for pure CBD oil is the organically grown variety of the Cannabis plant that is rich in CBD and high-resin levels. It`s a proportional relationship between the resin-level and CBD levels; the higher the resin-level, the greater the concentration of CBD the plant will have.
That leads to the question, what makes industrial-hemp inapt for CBD production. Here`s why:
Hemp strain is a natural “bio-accumulator,” meaning, it draws in toxins from the soil; it would raise the risk of contamination.
That feat makes it ideal for phyto-remedial application, but not for edible CBD oils.
Another fact is that the farmers sell the residual Hemp biomass to any business looking to extract CBD from the remaining plant specimen, but the resulting CBD would be contaminated with residual pesticides and toxic solvents used in the extraction process.
CBD from the Hemp plants is primarily extracted for a variety of products including CBD oils for pain relief, CBD rubs and cream, and even edibles.
However, the most preferred option to ingest CBD into the lifestyle is CBD oils because of their unique effect on the body`s endocannabinoid system.
There are various extraction methods to get pure CBD from Hemp, and the type of extraction method determines the purity of the CBD extract.
The goal of the extraction processes is to gain a highly concentrated cannabinoid isolate that is fit for human ingestion, so it is crucial to know all the different types if you want to understand what you are taking.
How Do Hemp Oils Differ from Hemp Extracts?
Cannabidiols are not the only extract of the Hemp plant. Each part of the plant can be used in the extraction processes to get one or the other cannabinoids for a variety of uses.
Two primary products obtained from Hemp strains are Hemp oils and Hemp extracts or CBD oil.
With CBD vs. Hemp oil, let`s see what makes the two products of the same plants so unique in their purposes.
Hemp oil is strictly sourced from seeds of the industrial-hemp varieties and can also be called Hemp seed oil; whereas, Hemp extracts or CBD oil are extracted from the whole plant.
The seeds do not contain any cannabinoids; hence the Hemp oil has neither THC nor CBD, as proven by the tests conducted for levels of the two cannabinoids. It is also thought of as a superfood because of the high concentrations of Omega, Vitamins, and other essential nutrients, making it a good source for protein-enriched foods.
You can use hemp oil for pain and stress relief, plus it is excellent for hair care and skin care due to the abundance of Omega-3.
It also has potential use in making paint, varnishes, and much more.
Contrarily, CBD oil contains naturally occurring terpenes, flavinoids, cannabinoids as well as other phytonutrients found in the Hemp plant. The CO2 extraction process utilized results in a pure CBD oil that is free of toxic contaminants.
The presence of cannabinoids makes CBD oil fit to reduce inflammation, decrease anxiety, cure epilepsy, and there are even rumors of it possibly being a cure for cancer.
There are many methods to extract CBD from Hemp plants, and each type differs in the amount of CBD extracted and its purity.
When correctly processed, the resulting CBD extracts are free of THC or contain a minimum amount that is under the legal limit of 0.3%.
The four primary extraction methods are:
1. Liquid Solvent – Ethanol.
2. CO2 Extraction.
3. Olive Oil.
4. Extraction by Molecular Separation.
Liquid Solvent Extraction
The method involves the use of low-grade alcohol like ethanol to separate CBD from other cannabinoids in the plant. Ethanol is run through the container of the plants and carries with the cannabidiol into a collecting container.
Afterward, the ethanol is evaporated, leaving behind CBD extract which is mixed in with other carrier oil like Hemp seed oil or olive oil for practical use.
Though this method is relatively easy and wallet-friendly, the CBD extracted is not pure. Plus, it strips away other chemicals like chlorophyll which makes the resulting CBD oil products taste strong.
It also destroys plant wax that can be used for medical applications.
CO2 Extraction
This method involves the use of CO2 under high pressure and low temperature.
It isolates the cannabidiols from the plant mass, preserving its quality and purity. The machine required for the process converts CO2 gas into a liquid that pushes through the plant matter separating the CBD.
In the third chamber, the liquid CO2 is heated to a gaseous state which then escapes leaving behind CBD oil at the bottom.
Extraction via CO2 is clean, pure, and yields a high concentration of the extracted CBD with terpenes, cannabinoids, and other phyto-compounds.
It is expensive compared to Solvent extraction, but the purity and quality of the product are worth the extra expense.
Olive Oil
The oil extraction method is convenient enough to perform at home, using Olive Oil. It is also inexpensive and safe.
The plant is heated to activate the required chemicals, after which add the oil and heat to 100 degrees.
The resulting concoction is CBD extract infused with Olive oil.
However, despite its convenience and inexpensiveness, the CBD-rich olive oil has a short shelf-life and needs to be stored properly, or it can turn rancid.
Extraction by Molecular Separation
For industrial isolation of CBD, this method is more suitable.
It involves separation of CBD compounds from the plant mass via vacuum distillation without the need for high temperatures.
The result is relatively pure CBD extract, usually in the form of a white powder.
CO2 extraction is preferable as the resulting product is pure, toxin-free, and fit for human consumption.
The Types of CBD Oils
CBD extract can take on a variety of different forms for distribution. The three primary types include oils, wax, and isolates.
Furthermore, each form conforms into different products for consumption such as oils, tinctures, creams, gels, sprays, patches, and even vaping products.
Each of the different types varies in the concentration of CBD, the dosage you need, as well as the health benefits they provide. It is because of the extraction process they underwent and the type of cannabinoids involved (THC or CBD.)
We`ll discuss more on the dosage, but first, take a look at the different forms of CBD in the market to know what makes them unique from the others:
1. CBD Oil
2. CBD Isolate
3. CBD Crystals
4. CBD Wax
5. CBD E-liquids
As mentioned before, CBD Oils are the oils that contain a high concentration of cannabidiols from the Cannabis plant.
These are available on shelves in the stores or online as capsules, tinctures, or infused with other edibles.
You will also find them mixed with balms and lotions, skin care, and hair care products for luxurious spa-quality freshness.
CBD Isolates
CBD isolates are as pure as you can get, with no trace amount of THC.
Available as tinctures, capsules or mixed with edibles, these isolates contain the equal amount of CBD as in the product, for example, 10mg of CBD in 10mg of the product; it makes it easy to monitor dosage.
CBD Crystals
CBD crystals or sheets are CBD isolates. They contain pure cannabidiols and give you the freedom to choose how to take CBD oil.
Make capsules or creams, add into food, and drinks or even sprinkle on to your cigarettes.
CBD Wax
It is an extremely concentrated form of CBD and often referred to as CBD shatter or live resin.
The increased concentration of CBD makes it very potent for instant pain relief.
CBD e-liquids
For vaping pleasure with CBD oil benefits, CBD e-liquids are up for sale in the market.
Where Can You Get It?
CBD oils are readily available online and in stores because of their increased awareness and its use as a wellness option.
But, contrarily, there was a downside to legalizing CBD and Hemp species.
Many pharmaceuticals cut corners and pay little attention to regulatory guidelines for pure CBD oil products. The hemp-derivatives are mislabeled for their THC and cannabidiol content; or purely processed CBD oils may contain toxic residues, pesticides, corn syrup, artificial flavors, and other contaminants.
However, not all hope is lost.
Some distributors provide good quality CBD oils for conscientious consumers. If you live in the United States, we recommend Medterra and if you live in the United Kingdom, we recommend Blessed CBD (recently voted the best CBD oil in the UK).
Besides these two names, there are plenty of other brands to consider for authentic CBD oils:
1. Reef CBD;
2. Green Roads;
3. SavageCBD and;
4. CBD R U Store.
Reef CBD
They are fit for anyone wanting a vaping experience with the wellness benefits of CBD. Plus, CBD-infused gummies are a healthy supplement that you won`t mind taking. They also have Reef CBD Coupons making it possible to get your CBD oils on a bargain.
Green Roads
CBD infused tea and coffee items, CBD terpenes, pain creams, syrups, and even CBD for pets are in their arsenal. Moreover, with their vast assortment, they also offer flexibility on expenses with Green Roads Coupons so that anyone can have their dose of CBD without breaking the bank.
SavageCBD
They too stock up on quality CBD oils that are safe for human consumption. You can find CBD vape oils, edible CBD, tinctures, cartridges, and even CBD sunscreens, and lotions here. They also have special CBD products for pets to ensure their healthy life. Also, if you are short on cash, you can shop with SavageCBD Coupons and manage your savings.
CBD R U Store
CBD Vape oils, CBD tinctures, gummies, and even CBD honey sticks, you can find here; plus, CBD topical and even CBD pet products for your furry friends. Use CBD R U store Coupons, for pocket-friendly rates.
These few brands have all kinds of CBD products in store for those who understand the importance of cannabis and CBD as a health supplement.
How Does It Work?
Before we can understand the ways CBD affects our body, we need to study its target, the endocannabinoid system.
The endocannabinoid system is primarily a cluster of cannabinoid receptors found in your body with a large density in the brain and throughout the central and peripheral nervous system.
These endogenous receptors are further divided based on their location within your nervous system; CB1 types are found in your brain and central nervous system, while CB2 is a cluster in the peripheral nervous system.
The human endocannabinoid system is evidence of the fact that our body also naturally produces cannabinoids termed endocannabinoids. On the other hand, the CBD extracted from a Cannabis plant are phytocannabinoids.
It impacts hundreds of biological conditions and provides protection to the nervous system, stress relief, improves immune response, and regulates the body`s state of equilibrium, which affects your physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing.
And, in a state of mental unease or other pathological conditions, the system is disrupted.
It brings us to the question, what does CBD do?
CBD and THC both interact with the cannabinoid receptors; but where THC has a direct psychoactive influence, CBD oil interacts indirectly affecting the enzyme that breaks down the endogenous cannabinoids. Hence, CBD oil benefits are similar to medical marijuana without intoxication.
The lack of enzymes responsible for the breakdown of endocannabinoids increases their concentration and resuming the regulatory function of the endocannabinoid system.
With control over such a vast range of physiological processes, it stands to reason that CBD has the potential to cure or even stop diseases by modulating the endocannabinoid system.
The same processes occur in our furry friends too, making CBD fit for pets as well!
The Dosage & Usage
CBD oil is gaining more and more recognition as a health & wellness supplement.
With its indirect interaction with the endocannabinoid system, it has a direct influence on all physiological conditions within the body.
It has found numerous applications within the medical field as a possible cure for Parkinson`s, MS, epilepsy, ALS, and even diabetes. Plus, it has anti-inflammatory properties, relieves stress, pain, anxiety, even sleep disorders.
The list is ever-growing!
But, the question still arises, what does CBD oil do? Let`s find out:
CBD Oil Health Benefits
Throughout the article, you`ve come across statements claiming CBD has numerous health benefits. Now, it`s time to observe some of them that have been the subject of scientific study in recent years.
The CBD oil uses suggested by the results of scientific research so far:
1. CBD oil for Pain Relief
Marijuana has been used as a medicinal supplement for many generations. And, in recent years we have learned that CBD is the compound responsible for its pain relief properties.
Cannabidiols act on the endocannabinoid system that influences the nervous system. It`s interactions with the cannabinoid receptors, and endocannabinoids in the human body relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
Studies conducted on rats either injected with CBD or given oral supplements showed a reduction in sciatic nerve pain and chronic inflammation.
Human studies showed the effects of THC and CBD on patients who have Multiple sclerosis or arthritis. They provide evidence to the claim that CBD is effective in elevating chronic pain related to the diseases.
In a study with 47 participants with MS, those given a dose of oral CBD spray reported improvement in pain, ease in walking, and muscle spasms as compared to those in the placebo group.
2. CBD for Anxiety and Depression
Besides physical pain, CBD also helps elevate emotional turmoil from anxiety and depression.
It is pretty standard for people to be diagnosed with two disorders especially after a traumatic experience or when life has been more than a little harsh.
What`s worse is that they have a more disastrous effect on your overall health that can be fatal. Bad health leads you further into depression, like a black hole draining you of the will to live.
Pharmaceutical remedies have adverse effects like drowsiness, insomnia, agitation, sexual dysfunction, and medicine like benzodiazepine may cause addiction.
Thus, CBD oil for anxiety and depression is an alternative treatment.
According to a scientific study, CBD can reduce anxiety-related symptoms in people with the following disorders.
I. Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
II. General anxiety
III. Obsessive-compulsive Disorder (OCD)
IV. Panic Disorder
V. Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD)
3. Possible Cure for Cancer
Although much research is needed, there is evidence to suggest that CBD has the potential to cure cancer; not just reducing the symptoms, but also the adverse effects of cancer treatments.
Animal and test-tube studies show that CBD has the potential to destroy cancer cells and inhibit their growth.
A study of 16 people taking chemotherapy was conducted where they were given a combination of CBD and THC in a 1:1 ratio via oral transmission. The test revealed that their chemotherapy-induced symptoms primarily nausea and vomiting had reduced significantly better than the standard treatment.
Another study showed that a combination of THC and CBD also reduced cancer-related pain in patients who did not find relief with pain medications; contrarily, to the patients who were given only THC doses.
Still, despite these results, more research needs to be done to understand and determine the efficacy and safety of CBD as an alternative treatment to cure cancer before it can be administered globally.
4. Best for Acne-prone skin
Acne is primarily the overworking of sebaceous glands in the skin that produce an oily substance, sebum. Many factors play a role in its outbreak including genetics, bacteria, and inflammation.
Another healing potential of CBD is the treatment of acne.
CBD has anti-inflammatory properties that are thought to fight the underlying inflammation in acne-prone skin as well as reduce sebum production.
One scientific study conducted proved the hypothesis. The test results showed that CBD oil prevents over secretion of sebum, has anti-inflammatory effects, and also inhibits the work of inflammatory cytokines.
Another study reached a similar conclusion, cementing the fact that the anti-inflammatory properties of CBD oil may be efficient and safe to cure acne.
But, before it can be distributed worldwide as a natural remedy for acne, there need to be human studies to ensure the effects are harmless with no adverse effects.
5. Neuroprotective properties
With CBD oil`s direct influence on the nervous system, it is believed that it can be used to cure many of the neurodegenerative diseases.
It is the most widely researched area of study among potential uses of CBD. And, though experiments are still in its infancy, many results show a promising future.
According to one study, similar to its effect of pain relief in patients with multiple sclerosis, CBD and THC in combination have the potential to reduce muscle spasticity related to the disease.
Not just MS, other neurological diseases have also been the test subject in studies for the potential use of CBD as a medicinal treatment.
For Parkinson`s disease, cannabidiol oils have shown improvement in the quality of life and sleep for the patients.
Animal and test-tube studies show proof that CBD can reduce inflammation and slow down the progress of neurodegeneration in those who have Alzheimer`s.
A study found in the Journal of Alzheimer`s Disease says that CBD inhibited the condition from progressing to social recognition deficit. In layman`s terms, it stopped patients from being unable to recognize those they knew.
In one study, mice genetically induced to have Alzheimer`s disease were given a shot of CBD; the results display a significant decline in the progression of the condition.
Though not enough to implement CBD oil as a regular therapy procedure, it is the first ray of hope that may slow down Alzheimer`s progression.
6. Beneficial for the heart
Apart from the nervous system, CBD oil has shown a probability for use in the treatment of heart-related illnesses.
CBD effects include the ability to lower high blood pressure that is associated with many ailments including stroke, heart attack, and metabolic syndrome.
In one experiment, ten healthy men were treated with CBD and results indicated a lower resting blood pressure as well as a small increase than expected after undergoing a series of stress tests.
Scientists believe that the anxiety and stress-relieving properties of CBD are the sources of its aptitude to reduce high blood pressure.
Animal studies conducted show evidence to support the belief; one such research on diabetic mice with heart illness revealed that CBD oil lowered oxidative stress and prohibited heart damage.
7. Anti-psychotic effects
Although there are not as many studies conducted as they are for other potential uses, there is enough proof to suggest that CBD may have application in treating psychotic behaviors in people with mental disorders.
One such study was published in Current Pharmaceutical Design which stated that CBD showed effects similar to antipsychotic drugs. It proposes the ideology that cannabidiol oil may be a safe and effective alternative for people with Schizophrenia.
8. CBD for the person with type-I diabetes
CBD also has the capabilities to treat symptoms of diabetes type 1 that results when the immune system of the organism attacks the pancreatic cells.
Research conducted on diabetic mice suggests that the anti-inflammatory properties of CBD play a role in reducing the accompanying inflammation as well as the incidence of diabetes.
The attack on pancreatic cells causes inflammation, the root cause of Type 1 diabetes, and CBD acts by counteracting this reaction.
A study published in Clinical Hemorheology and Microcirculation supports the hypothesis as does a research paper presented in Lisbon, Portugal. It shows evidence to the statement that CBD helps reduce inflammation and protects or delays symptoms of diabetes type 1.
9. CBD for Addictions
CBD has been tested to suggest its possible use as a remedy to cure withdrawal symptoms and reduce drug addiction.
One study on rats showed results that cannabidiol compounds could alter brain circuits related to addiction to reduce morphine dependency and heroin-seeking behavior.
There is also evidence to hypothesize that CBD may have a use as an alternative to help people quit smoking.
According to one pilot study, published in Addictive Behaviors revealed that smokers using inhalers infused with CBD had fewer cigarettes and decreased nicotine cravings.
Another study on opioid addiction disorder showed similar findings for CBD treatments.
Other findings state that CBD oil has the proficiency to reduce addiction-related symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, mood swings, and pain.
If more research is conducted eliminating any doubt, CBD may find use in curing withdrawal symptoms.
10. Treatment for Epilepsy
After extensive research for the efficacy and safety of CBD, there are two forms of epilepsy for which the FDA has approved the use of CBD oil as a natural therapy.
One study with 214 people who have severe epilepsy was given a dose of CBD oil per their body weight, and the results showed a substantial reduction in their epileptic seizures.
Another review published in 2014 talked about the anti-seizure properties of CBD as well as the possible side effects for people with epilepsy.
These results postulate that CBD may find use as a treatment for complications accompanied by epilepsy including neurodegeneration, neuronal injury, as well as psychiatric disorders.
In the US, doctors can prescribe Epidiolex, a form of CBD for the following kinds of epilepsy:
1. Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome (LGS) is a condition that affects children between the ages of three and five and encompasses different types of seizures.
2. Dravet Syndrome (DS) is a rare genetic disorder that affects children in their first year of life and displays fever-related seizures.
According to one study, for children with Dravet Syndrome, CBD oil had shown a significant reduction in seizure activity in contrast to those in the placebo group.
A point to note, however, is that these studies also revealed the adverse effects of CBD treatments for people with epilepsy (discussed below.)
Still, as the two forms of epilepsy are a menace to control with other pharmaceutical remedies, CBD oil is the silver lining to an otherwise perturbing health condition.
Though Epidiolex has the approval of the FDA, there are certain conditions involved; for one it is not fit for children under the age of 2, and the right dose depends on the body weight of the patient.
But, despite its likely use and potential benefits, more research needs to be done before CBD can be readily prescribed as an alternative to pharmaceutical treatment for many human ailments.
The Best Methods to Consume CBD Oil
You might be used to smoking weed, but CBD oil is different from Marijuana as we`ve already established.
There are diverse methods you can take CBD oil for its healing properties. But, each technique is optimal for its dose and a specific type of ailment.
You can take your daily dose of CBD as capsules or paste or mix it with your edibles. There are CBD oil sprays for administration under the tongue, vapors from the burning wax or as a liquid supplement using pipettes or droppers.
The Effects of CBD Oils on the Human Body – Is it Safe?
The hype is that CBD has many health benefits to offer, but is it all that safe?
Though CBD oil and other hemp-products are non-psychoactive, they can have some adverse effects on the body.
Few side effects of CBD are:
1. Diarrhea
2. Changes in appetite
3. Fatigue
4. Reacts with certain medications that may lead to harmful results
Other than these there is not much evidence to suggest adverse CBD effects on the nervous system, mood swings or vital signs even among those who use CBD oil regularly or intake a high dose.
Furthermore, CBD has the approval of the FDA as a treatment alternative for only two severe forms of epilepsy.
Still, the clinical trials for the two forms of epilepsy brought to light the following adverse effects:
1. Liver problems
2. Gastrointestinal problems
3. Problems related to the CNS including lethargy and irritability
4. Reduced urination
5. Breathing difficulties
6. Infections
7. Rashes and other sensitivity issues
8. Diminished appetite
The patient leaflets also warn users with epilepsy of the potential increase in depression and suicidal thoughts with the use of CBD for treatments.
CBD is also known to increase the concentration of the blood thinner Coumadin and other medications present in the blood vessels.
However, a noteworthy fact about CBD is that it is primarily sold as a health supplement, not as a medical drug. And, as the FDA does not monitor the safety and purity of dietary supplements, there is no guarantee that the components and doses of the products are as stated on the labels.
Final Thoughts
There is a lot of ground to cover with research on CBD as a natural treatment for medical conditions; and, we have yet to understand the precise therapeutic dose for any particular illness or disorder.
But even so, there are 100% safe CBD oil products in the market that are more beneficial than hazardous for the human body and ensure a healthy lifestyle.
If you found this insightful, then pin it to spread the word about CBD oils