CBD has been receiving an increasing amount of attention recently, but the general public still seems unsure about which benefits it may have. Most people are aware that it can be used to treat specific types of seizures and there are stories of cancer patients using it to ease the side effects of their treatments, but what else could it have a beneficial effect on? Here are seven things that research has shown CBD could potentially benefit.
Skin
There is much research that shows that CBD has positive effects on the skin. Firstly, studies have shown that it can potentially help to fight the signs of aging by promoting the growth of new skin cells, and because of its antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. It is also thought that CBD can help with problem skin, with certain studies showing an improvement in dry, itchy, sensitive, and oily skin – the latter meaning it may be an effective acne treatment.
Sleep
CBD is thought to interact with the serotonin 5-HT1A receptor, meaning that it can help to promote uninterrupted sleep of better quality with lower dream recall. This is partly due to this receptor regulating stress, mood and emotions. Coupled with research, which suggests CBD helps to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and even pain, this is proving to be a positive step towards helping those with insomnia.
Mental Health
As mentioned above, there is much research to suggest that CBD can help with symptoms of mental health conditions such as anxiety. Although more research needs to be done on the long-term effects of CBD on mental health conditions, there is some evidence that suggests it may help with a variety of conditions, including PTSD, psychosis and social anxiety.
Contrary to popular belief, CBD is not addictive or psychoactive. Legal CBD goes through an extraction process that removes the THC, which is the compound associated with addiction and ‘highs’. Therefore, using a regulated product is not believed to cause adverse mental health side effects.
Substance Abuse
By reducing symptoms of stress, anxiety and improving mood, CBD is thought to be a useful tool in helping to reduce the risk of relapse in those with substance abuse disorders. It is important to ensure the CBD purchased is from a reputable retailer whose extraction process removes 100% THC.
Pain
It is no new idea to use CBD for pain relief, with the marijuana plant having been used for centuries for this use. The evidence for using CBD for the relief of chronic pain is mounting, and it is thought that it works by interacting with neurotransmitters to help reduce pain signals, which in turn, allows inflammation in the body to reduce as it is less distressed. This is particularly useful to those with chronic pain conditions, as long-term pain causes the body’s immune and nervous system to be on high alert for extended periods of time. Reducing this pain gives the body a chance to rest. Studies suggest this could be used for conditions such as arthritis.
Neurological Conditions
CBD is already used to treat some rare forms of epilepsy in the UK, but there is increasing research which suggests it might help with other neurological conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis. Clinical trials showed a reduction of spasms and therefore pain in patients with MS, however there were some side-effects noted, which means this treatment requires more research going forward.
Circulatory Conditions
There is a link between CBD use and the reduction of blood pressure, which is a positive sign that it could be used to reduce the risk of heart and circulatory problems such as heart attack and stroke. It may also help with type-2 diabetes, which can be both a cause and symptom of the illness. It is hoped that more research in this area will suggest that CBD could potentially help patients recover after heart attacks, as this has already shown to help in animal studies.
It’s important to remember that research into CBD is still limited, and although it is, so far, being shown to have many potential benefits, it is important to consult your GP before trying any products. If you do decide to try a CBD product, purchase from a reliable and trustworthy source to ensure its legality, quality and safety. CBD products should have proof of being tested by a third-party lab. Regulated products will also contain a list of ingredients and have been produced using proper extraction methods and contain no dangerous additives.
