Shocking effects of CBD that do to your brain
CBD is derived directly from the hemp plant, a cousin of marijuana, or manufactured in a laboratory, also a chemical found in marijuana that doesn’t contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive ingredient found in marijuana that produces a high. The usual CBD formulation is oil, but CBD is also sold as an extract, a vaporized liquid and an oil-based capsule. In simple terms, it is the second most prevalent active ingredient in cannabis (marijuana).
A prescription form of CBD is used for seizure disorder (epilepsy). CBD is also used for anxiety, pain, a muscle disorder called dystonia, Parkinson disease, Crohn disease, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.
Possibly Effective for
- Multiple sclerosis (MS). A prescription-only nasal spray product (Sativex, GW Pharmaceuticals) containing both 9-delta-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol has been shown to be effective for improving pain, muscle-tightness, and urination frequency in people with MS. But there is inconsistent evidence on the effectiveness of cannabidiol for symptoms of multiple sclerosis when it is used alone. Some early research suggests that using a cannabidiol spray under the tongue might improve pain and muscle tightness, but not muscle spasms, tiredness, bladder control, mobility, or well-being and quality of life in patients with MS.
- May relieve pain – Cannabis has been used to treat pain since as far back as 2900 B.C.
- May alleviate certain cancer related symptoms -CBD may help reduce some cancer-related symptoms and side effects related to cancer treatment, such as nausea, vomiting, and pain. An older study looked at the effects of CBD and THC in 177 people with cancer-related pain who did not experience relief from pain medication.
- May have neuroprotective properties -Researchers believe that CBD’s ability to act on the endocannabinoid system and other brain-signaling systems may provide benefits for those with neurological disorders.
- May benefit heart health-Some research has linked CBD with several benefits for the heart and circulatory system, including the ability to lower high blood pressure. High blood pressure is linked to higher risks of a number of health conditions, including stroke, heart attack, and metabolic syndrome. Studies indicate that CBD may be beneficial for people with high blood pressure.
Side effects are:
- Parkinson disease: Some early research suggests that taking high doses of CBD might make muscle movement and tremors worse in some people with Parkinson disease.
- Pregnancy and breast-feeding: It may be unsafe to take CBD if you are pregnant or breast feeding. CBD products can be contaminated with other ingredients that may be harmful to the fetus or infant. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
Side effects noted in studies include:
- diarrhoea
- changes in appetite and weight
- fatigue
Other side effects, including abnormal liver function test results, drowsiness, sedation, and pneumonia, have been reported in childhood epilepsy studies. But these effects could stem from CBD interacting with other medications, such as clobazam.
CBD has been studied for its role in treating a number of health issues other than those outlined above.
Though more studies are needed, CBD is thought to provide the following health benefits:
- Antipsychotic effects. Studies suggest that CBD may help people with schizophrenia and other mental health conditions by reducing symptoms of psychosis.
- Substance abuse treatment. CBD may be helpful for relieving anxiety and depression in people who have a dependence on certain drugs, including heroin.
- Possible extension of life in those with glioblastoma. Recent studies suggest that treatment with a combination of CBD and THC may help extend the life of some people with an aggressive form of cancer called glioblastoma, yet research is limited.
- Possible improvement in sleep. Some studies suggest that CBD might help improve sleep in people with certain sleep disorders, though more research is needed.
