We all hear that CBD is a new miracle supplement that can cure anything – but what does the actual science say behind CBD’s medical uses and how it can help people?
CBD is now one of the most studied medicinal supplements. It has been actively studied for well over 50 years, and researchers are still finding new uses and benefits behind using CBD. Some of the most well-known uses for CBD oils and gummies are as anti-depressants, anti-anxiety, and inflammation relief. But scientists are now finding that there is a plethora of new medicinal applications for CBD.
CBD of course is derived from the cannabis plant, but it is not hallucinogenic. CBD and THC are the two most popular derivatives of the cannabis plant – CBD (Cannabidiol) does not create a “high” for people, it simply interacts with a cannabinoid system in our body and provides health benefits. THC on the other hand is the derivative that is a hallucinogenic which can get people high.
As researchers continue to look into the medical uses for CBD, they are finding that there are quite a few diseases that CBD can help to treat. Below we’ve listed several of these medical applications for CBD.
Epilepsy Syndromes
A more recent study published in 2018 found a positive correlation between the use of CBD and the reduction of seizures in those with epilepsy. The FDA actually approved the use of CBD in epilepsy patients, branded as Epidiolex, to treat patients with two specific forms of epilepsy – Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome.
Treat Opioid Addiction
Researchers have been heavily studying the effects that CBD can have on opioid users to help curb their craving and help them quite without having to experience severe withdrawals. One study tried administering CBD during the first week of a heroin user being without heroin. In this study, they found that the use of CBD helped to reduce the user’s cue-induced cravings, regulate cortisol levels, reduce heart rate, and withdraw anxiety.
Relief for ALS Patients
While this topic does need to be researched further, there have been studies done so far that have shown that CBD, when used with THC, can help to relieve the muscle stiffness and soreness experienced by those with ALS. These studies have not resulted in any FDA approved treatment, but so far, the results have been positive.
Prevent Arthritis
Arthritis is a joint-related ailment that involves the degeneration of tissue, results in a constant ache in the joint. A study from 2006 found that CBD use resulted in a decrease in the disease itself, and also provided adequate pain relief for those suffering from arthritis. CBD is now prescribed for this use under the brand name Sativex. In addition to this, a further study in 2018 found that topical CBD usage can have added benefits for those suffering from Osteoarthritis. In this study, there was significant difference in pain levels week over week between the group of patients who took the CBD compared to those who had the placebo.
CBD continues to be studied for any and all potential health benefits that it may provide. While there is still a lot of research that needs to be completed, we can say definitively that the daily use of CBD as a health supplement can provide numerous benefits, in both treating ailments and preventing disease as well. As studies into CBD continue, we can expect to see more confirmation on current hypotheses, and new application found as well.