CBD has quickly become one of the most sought-after dietary supplements, available as gummies, oils, lotions and vape pens. Proponents claim it can aid with anxiety, depression, pain and other related conditions.
Though evidence for CBD’s effectiveness for more severe disorders remains limited, some studies show it can alleviate symptoms like neuropathy pain and reduce anxiety.
Cannabidiol
CBD is an impressive fitocannabinoid that has shown great promise in treating various disorders and conditions, from anxiety reduction and alleviating pain to helping treat rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia as well as acne treatment by decreasing sebum production. Furthermore, its anti-inflammatory properties may even help alleviate symptoms associated with psoriasis.
CBD may cause mild side effects that subside after several days of regular use, though they may interfere with certain medications, particularly SSRIs and NSAIDs. Furthermore, it could increase liver damage risk in those predisposed to liver diseases or taking other medicines with effects on liver enzymes.
When purchasing CBD products, look for certification from an authoritative third-party such as NSF International to identify those which meet quality standards in pharmaceuticals and dietary supplements. Furthermore, purchasing an item made domestically using ingredients grown within its borders would also be preferable.
Cannabinoids
CBD has long been recognized for its potential to treat various medical conditions, from chronic pain to nausea. The endocannabinoid system – composed of organs expressing cannabinoid receptors in various organs that express them – plays an essential role in controlling various functions like pain, appetite, movement memory and mood regulation. FDA has approved several drugs containing specific cannabinoids; one such product being Nabilone; it features a 1:1 ratio between THC and CBD that has proven its ability to help patients suffering from cancer, multiple sclerosis or other conditions.
Epidiolex contains CBD as a treatment for Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome and Dravet Syndrome, two severe forms of epilepsy. Studies indicate that CBD may reduce seizures among these children and even lead to their complete remission.
Studies show that CBD and THC can produce psychoactive effects, including changes to perception and mood, motivation, memory, cognitive performance and fatigue; they may even reduce appetite. Therefore, it is crucial that consumers consume these products responsibly in a controlled environment without driving while under the influence of these substances.
Cannabinoid receptors
Mammalian tissues contain two G protein coupled cannabinoid receptors known as CB1 and CB2, known as cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2, that interact with natural chemicals released by cells known as endocannabinoids to bind with receptors and influence their activity. Anandamide, one such ligand found primarily in nerve cells that inhibit transmitter release was the first discovered. CB1 receptors also exist within immune cells where they help regulate cytokine release.
CBD shows promise as a treatment for epilepsy, which is characterized by seizures due to abnormal brain activity. CBD may help prevent seizures in some individuals; however, further research must be completed on its use as therapy. It should be noted that most products purporting to contain CBD are unapproved by the FDA for therapeutic use.
Furthermore, many of these products contain other ingredients, like menthol and capsaicin that may counteract the beneficial properties of CBD to ease pain. Furthermore, inhalation through vaping devices poses risks like pulmonary disease as well as toxic byproducts that could compromise its effects.
THC
THC, the psychoactive constituent found in cannabis, binds to specific cannabinoid receptors to produce the high associated with using marijuana. THC may also stimulate appetite, decrease nausea and vomiting during chemotherapy treatments and boost sperm production for men who have low sperm counts.
CBD has been demonstrated to ease anxiety, alleviate pain, and reduce seizures in some epilepsy patients. Additionally, it may help treat arthritis symptoms. CBD can be consumed orally or topically; oral products include capsules, tinctures and sprays; capsules work best once an effective daily dosage has been determined while edibles should be avoided as their dose can be difficult to ascertain and could contain unhealthy additives.
CBD is considered a safe medication with few known side effects; however, interactions between it and certain medications should be discussed with your physician to avoid potential drug interactions. Smoking cannabis or CBD could affect lung health and increase your risk for bronchitis.
