It seems like almost every day, scientists confirm the fantastic qualities of the cannabis plant. Amongst its many compounds, THC and CBD are probably the most well known. In this article, we’re going to focus on CBD and delve into some of its proven benefits.
The two main components of the marijuana plant are CBD and THC. CBD is a non-psychotropic cannabinoid, which means it doesn’t contribute to the sense of euphoria associated with weed. This means that CBD can be administered at relatively higher doses with less of the psychological side effects.
If you’ve ever visited a weed dispensary, you’ve probably noticed the many strains of marijuana are noted for their high levels of THC. However, while high-CBD strains are not as common, the medical community has begun to pay more attention to them due to the therapeutic effects of CBD.
From a cannabis business marketing point of view, it’s important to offer both types of strains. They both have essential health benefits: THC is antispasmodic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and can help stimulate the appetite. Meanwhile, CBD can be used as an anticonvulsant, antipsychotic, antioxidant, and a neuroprotective agent. As well, CBD can reduce some of
the effects of THC, such as paranoia and memory impairment.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the proven benefits of CBD.
1) Anxiety Relief
Did you know that reliance on traditional anxiety medications like Xanax and Valium can be harmful? These pharmaceuticals can be highly addictive and have several unwanted side effects.
CBD is a natural alternative that is just as effective and without the harmful side effects. For example, CBD oil has been proven to reduce anxiety in patients with social anxiety disorder. Research suggests that can also be beneficial for treating obsessive-compulsive, panic and post-traumatic stress disorders.
2) Analgesic and Anti Inflammatory
The use of drugs like Tylenol and Advil to treat pain and inflammation carries significant dangers. They can have harsh side effects like ulcers, liver damage, and even internal bleeding. Vicodin and Hydrocodone, which are opiate-based painkillers, are highly addictive.
Inflammation has been linked to diseases like cancer, heart disease, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s. CBD is a viable and natural alternative to the traditional pharmaceuticals used to treat these ailments. Research suggests that CBD can significantly help suppresses chronic inflammatory and neuropathic pain. It is a potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic agent.
Cannabinoids modulate pain by inhibiting the neuronal transmission of the pain pathways. For example, in a recent meta-analysis done in Canada, CBD and THC helped treat neuropathic pain in patients with multiple sclerosis.
3) Diabetes Prevention
Did you know that almost half of the United States population has been diagnosed with diabetes or shows pre-diabetes symptoms? This disease can put you at risk for heart disease, kidney failure, nerve damage, and many other disorders.
Studies have found that CBD can help reduces the risk of diabetes. For example, in 2013, the American Journal of Medicine published a study that highlighted the impact of marijuana on glucose, insulin and insulin resistance. The researchers found that lower fasting insulin levels were associated with marijuana use. It also correlated well with smaller waist circumferences, a factor usually related to the onset of diabetes.
4) Nausea
We’ve all felt a little bit woozy from time to time. However, instead of traditional medications like Pepto Bismol or Tums, there is a more natural alternative. Research has shown that CBD is potent nausea and vomiting reliever. It has natural anti-nausea and antiemetic effects that can help with motion sickness and even the side effects of chemotherapy.
5) Seizure Treatment
Traditional pharmaceuticals can be used to treat seizures and epileptic attacks. However, these medications don’t often work on everybody or can have unwarranted side effects. A 2015 study found that CBD can be used to reduce seizures. It was also found to be especially useful in patients who showed resistance to traditional treatments.
In another study done at Stanford University, CBD was used to help treat children with epilepsy. The majority of the parents involved in the study reported a reduction in their child’s seizure frequency.
Conclusion
We’ve seen the many of the proven benefits that CBD can have. From reducing chronic inflammation to helping deal with nausea, CBD is nothing to be ignored. If you’re considering CBD as a treatment for one of these conditions, be sure to speak with your healthcare provider first. And don’t forget to insist your weed dispensary has products in stock.
Do you have any questions about the benefits of CBD? Have you used CBD in the past and would like to share some of your results?