Unlocking Nature's Secret: The Comprehensive Guide to CBD's Healing Powers and Health Benefits
Published by Redneck Ramblings in Educational Articles · Wednesday 10 Apr 2024
Tags: CBD, Healing, Powers, Health, Benefits, Nature, Guide, Comprehensive
Tags: CBD, Healing, Powers, Health, Benefits, Nature, Guide, Comprehensive
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CBD, short for Cannabidiol, is a naturally occurring compound found in the resinous flower of cannabis, a plant with a rich history as a medicine going back thousands of years. Today, the therapeutic properties of CBD are being tested and confirmed by scientists and doctors around the world. A safe, non-addictive substance, CBD is one of more than a hundred “phytocannabinoids,” which are unique to cannabis and endow the plant with its robust therapeutic profile.
CBD is closely related to another important medicinally active phytocannabinoid: tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the compound that causes the high that cannabis is famous for. These are the two components of cannabis that have been most studied by scientists.
Both CBD and THC have significant therapeutic attributes. But unlike THC, CBD does not make a person feel “stoned” or intoxicated. That’s because CBD and THC act in different ways on different receptors in the brain and body.
CBD can actually lessen or neutralize the psychoactive effects of THC, depending on how much of each compound is consumed. Many people want the health benefits of cannabis without the high – or with less of a high. The fact that CBD is therapeutically potent as well as non-intoxicating, and easy to take as a CBD oil, makes it an appealing treatment option for those who are cautious about trying cannabis for the first time.
Healing and Health Benefits of CBD
1. Anxiety Relief
CBD may be able to help you manage anxiety. Researchers think it may change the way your brain's receptors respond to serotonin, a chemical linked to mental health. Receptors are tiny proteins attached to your cells that receive chemical messages and help your cells respond to different stimuli.
One study found that a 600mg dose of CBD helped people with social anxiety give a speech. Other early studies done with animals have shown that CBD may help relieve anxiety by:
- Reducing stress
- Decreasing physiological effects of anxiety, such as an increased heart rate
- Improving symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Inducing sleep in cases of insomnia
2. Anti-seizure
CBD has been in the news before, as a possible treatment for epilepsy. Researchers are testing how much CBD is able to reduce the number of seizures in people with epilepsy, as well as how safe it is. The American Epilepsy Society states that cannabidiol research offers hope for seizure disorders, and that research is currently being conducted to better understand safe use.
3. Neuroprotective
Researchers are looking at a receptor located in the brain to learn about the ways that CBD could help people with neurodegenerative disorders, which are diseases that cause the brain and nerves to deteriorate over time. This receptor is known as CB1.
Studies are looking into the use of CBD for:
- Alzheimer's disease
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Parkinson's disease
- Stroke
CBD oil may also reduce the inflammation that can make neurodegenerative symptoms worse. More research is needed to fully understand the effects of CBD oil for neurodegenerative diseases.
4. Pain Relief
The effects of CBD oil on your brain’s receptors may also help you manage pain. Studies have shown that cannabis can offer some benefits when taken after chemotherapy treatments. Other pre-clinical studies sponsored by the National Institutes of Health are also looking at the role of cannabis in relieving symptoms caused by:
- Arthritis
- Chronic pain
- MS pain
- Muscle pain
- Spinal cord injuries
CBD may also help to reduce inflammation, which is often a significant part of pain management.
5. Anti-acne
The effects of CBD on receptors in the immune system may help reduce overall inflammation in the body. In turn, CBD oil may offer benefits for acne management. A human study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation found that the oil prevented activity in sebaceous glands. These glands are responsible for producing sebum, a natural oily substance that hydrates the skin. Too much sebum, however, can lead to acne.
6. Cancer Treatment
Some studies have investigated the role of CBD in preventing cancer cell growth, but research is still in its early stages. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) says that CBD may help alleviate cancer symptoms and cancer treatment side effects. However, the NCI doesn’t fully endorse any form of cannabis as a cancer treatment. The action of CBD that’s promising for cancer treatment is its ability to moderate inflammation and change how cell reproduce. CBD has the effect of reducing the ability of some types of tumor cells to reproduce.
CBD Options Available
The CBD market has exploded, offering a plethora of products to meet different needs and preferences. Here's a rundown of the most common CBD options available:
1. CBD Oil and Tinctures
CBD oils and tinctures are liquid forms of CBD that are taken orally. They are typically made by blending CBD extract with a carrier oil like coconut or hemp seed oil. Tinctures can also include additional ingredients for flavor or added benefits, such as herbs and essential oils.
2. CBD Edibles
CBD edibles, including gummies, chocolates, and beverages, are a tasty and discreet way to consume CBD. They offer the convenience of precise dosing and long-lasting effects.
3. CBD Topicals
Topicals are CBD-infused creams, lotions, and balms applied directly to the skin for localized relief of pain, soreness, and inflammation. They're particularly popular among athletes and those with skin conditions or arthritis.
4. CBD Capsules and Pills
For those who prefer a more traditional form of supplementation, CBD capsules and pills offer convenience and dosing accuracy. They're often used for systemic treatment of disorders like digestive issues or chronic pain.
5. CBD Vapes
Vaping CBD oil is a quick way to experience its effects, as inhalation provides fast absorption into the bloodstream. However, there are concerns about the safety of vaping, so it's important to choose high-quality products and understand the risks.
How to Choose the Right CBD Product
When selecting a CBD product, consider the following factors:
- Purpose: Determine what you're using CBD for, as this will guide your choice of product. For example, topicals are best for localized pain, while oils or capsules might be better for systemic issues.
- Quality: Look for products that have been third-party tested and are made from organically grown hemp. Check for a certificate of analysis (COA) to verify the product's CBD and THC content.
- Dosage: Start with a low dose and gradually increase it until you find what works best for you. Dosage can vary widely depending on the form of CBD and the individual's body weight, metabolism, and the condition being treated.
CBD oil has been studied for its potential role in easing symptoms of many common health issues, including anxiety, depression, acne, and heart disease. For those with cancer, it may even provide a natural alternative for pain and symptom relief. Research on the potential health benefits of CBD oil is ongoing, so new therapeutic uses for this natural remedy are sure to be discovered. Though there is much to be learned about the efficacy and safety of CBD, results from recent studies suggest that CBD may provide a safe, powerful natural treatment for many health issues. As laws around the world change to reflect the new understanding of cannabis and its components, it’s likely that the number of people turning to CBD for its health benefits will continue to grow.
