CBD has proven itself effective at relieving chronic pain. A 2019 study demonstrated this by showing how the CBD/THC spray Sativex significantly reduced chronic neuropathic and nociceptive pain for multiple sclerosis patients.
CBD may interfere with medications such as blood thinners, antiepileptics and immunosuppressants by competing for liver enzymes that metabolise these medications – this condition is known as pharmacodermia and requires medical supervision.
Anxiety
CBD’s anxiety-reducing properties stem from its interaction with receptors of the body’s endocannabinoid system, a network that regulates many essential bodily functions and supports neurotransmitter activity. CBD in particular interacts with 5-HT1a receptors which influence serotonin levels – known to improve mood and lessen symptoms of depression – but this only provides part of an explanation for why CBD may help with anxiety relief.
Research into CBD’s effectiveness for anxiety treatment is ongoing, and one 2020 study demonstrated it as being successful at alleviating ESAS-r emotional symptoms such as anxiety and depression after using it for just one month. Before trying any new medications or supplements – including CBD – consult with your physician first as this could impact dosage adjustments or the addition of additional medications for maximum effectiveness; cognitive therapy might be best used in combination with CBD in treating anxiety symptoms effectively. Also never stop taking any prescribed medication without consulting with a healthcare professional as doing so may result in serious health consequences resulting in serious health consequences affecting other parts of your life as well.
Pain
Pain is a complex experience encompassing physiological and psychological responses to an irritating stimulus, and CBD may provide relief by altering how your body and brain process information about it; including how perceived and measured pain is perceived and evaluated.
CBD can help those living with various medical conditions manage their pain more effectively. Studies have revealed its effectiveness for arthritis pain as well as chronic illnesses like cancer, fibromyalgia, and multiple sclerosis. Furthermore, studies have also demonstrated its success at relieving nerve pain (also known as neuropathy) associated with HIV infection as well as decreasing muscle spasms associated with MS.
CBD may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners and antiepileptic drugs. CBD could increase their levels in your blood by competing for enzymes to breakdown these medicines – this may increase risk of side effects as well as diminish the effectiveness of treatment.
Depression
Depression is a severe mood disorder affecting over 300 million people globally. Antidepressants – medications designed to alter serotonin levels in the brain – are typically prescribed, although sometimes their side effects may prove unpleasant and cause other issues. CBD has shown promise as an alternative solution in both animal studies and clinical trials to alleviate depression symptoms.
A 2022 study on young adults suffering from depression demonstrated that CBD could significantly improve their symptoms. Furthermore, its anti-inflammatory properties may also help alleviate severe depression symptoms.
In a 2018 study, participants suffering from Lennox-Gastaut syndrome or Dravet syndrome were given either CBD or placebo and those receiving CBD experienced significantly fewer seizures compared to those taking placebo; those taking CBD also reported improved quality of life. Researchers believe further investigation needs to take place as to whether CBD could serve as an add-on treatment option for other forms of seizures.
Sleep
Many people struggle with sleeping problems, and existing over-the-counter and prescription sleep aids are either ineffective or dangerous. A recent national representative Consumer Reports survey, however, revealed some people taking CBD for sleep claimed it helped while experts believe there may be an effect.
CBD interacts with receptors within your body’s Endocannabinoid System (ECS), a neurochemical network responsible for managing emotions, pain levels and sleep-wake cycles. CBD has been found to improve sleep by decreasing anxiety – one major cause of insomnia – while simultaneously increasing alertness to combat any fatigue brought on by THC (another cannabis compound).
Studies on CBD and sleep are limited and may rely on self-reported data that is subject to recall bias and other variables, which could impact results. Furthermore, research on doses of CBD taken may alter results, while many products on the market are unregulated; thus when selecting one that boasts a certificate of analysis from an independent laboratory to ensure its potency and absence of pesticides and molds.
