The effects and health benefits of CBD: What do the studies say?

CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of the main components of cannabis. It is a non-psychoactive substance that can bring us health benefits and it is a very popular substance being researched. It is the second most abundant active ingredient in the cannabis plant.

Alternative to traditional medicines

The main effects of CBD are:

  • Pain relief

An analgesic is a substance that is classified as a drug and helps us to relieve pain. CBD is proven to have analgesic effects and can help reduce chronic pain. It works by affecting the endocannabinoid system, which regulates pain. This can be beneficial for people with multiple sclerosis, chronic pain and also for people suffering from migraines.

Scientists have been exploring the potential therapeutic benefits of CBD, and these benefits were confirmed by a study published in Frontiers in Pharmacology in 2018.

  • Reduction of anxiety

CBD can affect stress and anxiety levels, thus lessening the effects. Clinical studies report that it can help with social anxiety and PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder). Thus, with regular use, people suffering from anxiety or stress disorders may find relief in CBD.

This issue of anxiety related to insomnia was researched by scientists back in 2011 and is published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology. The research was conducted by giving participants 400 mg of CBD and a placebo drug. Those who took CBD reported lower levels of anxiety.

  • Against seizures

CBD can reduce the frequency of seizures, especially in patients with severe forms of epilepsy, such as Dravet syndrome. The first approved CBD-based drug was Epidiolex, which is used to treat various types of epilepsy.

These anticonvulsant effects are confirmed by the Trial of Cannabidiol for Drug-Resistant Seizures in the Dravet Syndrome study published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information. It involved 120 children and young adults who suffer from Dravet syndrome and seizures. The researchers assigned them to receive either an oral solution of cannabidiol at a dose of 20 mg per kilogram of body weight per day or a placebo in addition to standard antiepileptic treatment. The result was that CBD was much more effective than placebo in the treatment.

  • Anti-inflammatory effects

It has strong anti-inflammatory effects and can thus help in the treatment of inflammatory diseases. These diseases include, for example, rheumatoid arthritis or Crohn's disease. CBD is applied in various creams and dietary supplements to reduce inflammation.

  • Nerve protection

CBD can have protective effects on the nerves, known as neuroprotective effects, which can help in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's or Alzheimer's disorder. It can slow the progression of these diseases and improve the quality of life of people with these diseases.

  • Antipsychotic

These effects can be especially positive for people suffering from schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. In fact, CBD can help against conditions and psychoses.

Schizophrenia is a serious mental illness that interferes with the ability to function in everyday life. There is a failure of thought processes and a reduced ability to perceive and respond to emotions. Various psychoses are also associated with this illness. Approximately 0.4 % of the world's population is diagnosed with this disease and is treated with so-called antipsychotic drugs, which are not always 100% effective. According to American scientists, CBD can increase the effectiveness of treatment for this disease.

Benefits of CBD

  • Better sleep

It has been proven through experience by many people that after taking CBD, their sleep quality has improved. So this benefit may be of interest to people who suffer from insomnia and CBD could give them better quality sleep than they have been getting. Mostly, CBD is used in products such as various oils and capsules that are taken before bedtime.

Sleepy Jelly CBD

If you are having trouble sleeping, this product is a beneficial aid for your troubles. These jelly candies contain 10 mg of CBD and also 5 mg of CBN. CBN is considered a mildly sedating cannabinoid, making it ideal in combating insomnia, and when combined with CBD, the effects are amplified.

  • Mental health support

As CBD has anxiolytic effects, i.e. it reduces anxiety and stress while improving mood, it can help improve our overall mental health. Studies show that CBD can have potential benefits for people who suffer from various forms of mental imbalance (anxiety disorders, depression, stress). Daily supplements containing CBD can help with this.

However, it is important to note that research on this cannabidiol is still in development and its effects may vary from individual to individual.

  • Immunity support

CBD has the ability to boost the immune system and contribute to overall health. This is primarily due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It is a natural boost to the immune system using CBD. Based on studies, CBD has been shown to positively affect the number of white blood cells, which are crucial for the proper functioning of the immune system.

  • Healthy skin

Cannabidiol is an active ingredient that has both regenerative and antioxidant properties. These properties are used in both medicine and dermatology.

There are various CBD-containing creams and balms on the market that are useful for skin care. Thus, CBD can help in the treatment of acne and other skin problems due to its antibacterial properties. This is because it slows down the division of sebaceous cells, thus reducing the production of sebum.

Conclusion

CBD is still under intense research and has a wide range of potential health benefits. Many benefits are already proven, making CBD a natural alternative to drugs that can help us with many health and medical conditions. Many people are already finding relief, comfort and improved quality of life thanks to CBD. However, if you are considering taking CBD, it is a good idea to consult a doctor, especially if you have more serious health problems.