Early research suggests that CBD has excellent therapeutic properties. Along with THC, it is being studied under stringent conditions to assess its benefits for those with chronic health conditions.
Managing symptoms like chronic pain that come with long-term health conditions can take a toll on the body. Pharmaceutical drugs are a valuable tool for pain management, but they are accompanied by risks like dependency. Research is beginning to show that CBD and THC present an effective alternative.
1. Management of Chronic Pain Using CBD and THC
Our body’s endocannabinoid system works to regulate functions like pain, appetite, sleep, and immune response. The endocannabinoids (neurotransmitters) are produced to bind to the cannabinoid receptors present in the nervous system. One of the key medical benefits of cannabis is chronic pain management. Research suggests that CBD is effective in influencing endocannabinoid receptor activity, lowering inflammation, and networking with neurotransmitters. Some studies indicate that while using CBD alone seems to be effective for specific types of pain, it is all the more efficient when combined with THC, another compound derived from cannabis.
2. CBD and Epilepsy
In the US, CBD has been approved for use in the treatment of two rare forms of epileptic syndromes – Lennox-Gastaut (LGS) and Dravet. Using CBD as prescribed by a healthcare team has been said to reduce the frequency of seizures. Studies conducted on animals suggest that CBD is working to reduce the excitability of neurons by acting on two specific groups of receptors – TRV1 as well as GPR55. However, this must only be included in your treatment plan if it doesn’t interfere with your current medications. So it is essential for this to be prescribed in specific quantities. And if you choose to discontinue it, doctors will wean you off it gradually.
3. Treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Using CBD Oil
A 2018 study that explored the role of CBD in the treatment of PTSD was published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. In addition to routine treatment for PTSD, 11 participants also received CBD. It was noted later that ten of those participants saw a decrease in their symptoms. There have been other studies that suggest similar results. PTSD is one form of anxiety disorder. A case study was written on using CBD oil to specifically treat insomnia and anxiety in young children suffering from PTSD.
Sometimes, CBD is used along with tetrahydrocannabinol or THC, which produces the euphoric ‘high’ that cannabis is infamous for. But when CBD and THC are brought together in measured quantities, they complement one another. CBD balances the ‘high’ while THC enhances the effect of the CBD.
4. CBD for Managing Anxiety and Depression
Treatment for mental health conditions often includes pharmaceutical drugs that come with their own side effects like headaches and insomnia, and there can be many side effects when starting or finishing use. Benzodiazepines also have the potential to turn from treatment to dependence that, when left unchecked, could lead to substance abuse.
One of CBDs most significant properties is its calming effect. Since it is well tolerated by many people, it is poised to play a key role in the treatment of anxiety disorders. In treatments for depression, balancing serotonin levels is often found to be key. Research indicates that CBD interacts favourably with serotonin receptors in the brain. Serotonin plays an important part in influencing one’s emotions -especially those related to wellbeing. A 2018 review that assessed several studies on the role of CBD indicates that this compound does have an anti-stress and anti-depressant effects. CBD seems to operate without directly
activating the endocannabinoid receptors, and this suggests that it’s less likely to become addictive.
5. Treating Symptoms of Arthritis and Other Pain
Arthritis is a condition that deteriorates the tissues which cushion your joints. This makes any movement stiff and very painful. There are varying kinds of arthritis, and those who suffer from it experience chronic pain, loss of movement and stiffness – especially during the colder months. Pain management is an important part of treatment plans.
A CBD drug that was approved in the UK was used in a study with 58 patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. It was found that CBD not only relieves pain but suggests that it has the potential to reduce disease activity.
Early research is indicative that CBD can play an effective role in helping to manage the symptoms of certain types of cancers and the side effects of subsequent chemotherapy. One of the initial studies in this field explored the effects of CBD on about 177 patients who were not responding to conventional pain medication. A combination of CBD and THC proved to be more effective. The results are mixed, and further investigations are called for before making a definitive statement.
CBD and THC May Help Your Medical Condition
CBD appears to be well-tolerated, but it can interfere with several types of medications. This is why it must be prescribed by a healthcare professional after taking a look at the treatments or medications you are currently on. Today, CBD products are becoming more mainstream. but in order to reap the benefits, it must work well with your current healthcare plan and be of good quality. We recommend that you choose reputed suppliers and consultants, such as The Pain Clinic, who approach CBD in a holistic way that addresses all aspects of a person’s healthcare needs.
