5 Benefits of CBD Oil

CBD-rich cannabis has long-been used for its therapeutic benefits. In fact, as far back as 2900 B.C., the compound has been known to treat pain. ^[1] Even Queen Victoria is said to have used cannabis to alleviate menstrual cramps in the 19th century. Some studies have also suggested that CBD lessens the frequency of seizures, inflammation and anxiety.

A wide array of products are hitting the market today in the CBD industry, with many businesses trying to cash in on this trend. Does CBD live up to this sudden hype? Here is what CBD oil can do for you.

How CBD Can Help You

Clinical trials are still underway as the scientific community learns more about the benefits of CBD and the human body, but from studies have been conducted, the results look promising for helping with anxiety, chronic pain and certain types of epilepsy.

Here are some known benefits of CBD oil:

• Anxiety. Studies point that CBD may be a good option for those dealing with anxiety. According to several tests, the National Institute of Drug abuse says that the compound has been shown to reduce stress in animal studies. Benefits include helping symptoms of social anxiety disorder, PTSD and anxiety-induced insomnia. ^[3] Most of the evidence we have is anecdotal, with many users pointing to the fact that it does indeed lessen their anxiety. ^[4]

• Chronic Pain. CBD has been thought to decrease inflammation and pain by interacting with the neurotransmitters in the endocannabinoid system. In a study done on rats, scientists found that CBD injections reduced the pain response to surgical incision. ^[1] CBD has also been shown to help with the pain related to arthritis. If you are someone who suffers from chronic pain caused from inflammation, CBD may be a good option for you.

• Acne. Acne is a common skin condition, affecting more than nine percent of the population. ^[1] If you are someone who struggles with acne, you know how frustrating it can be. It is usually attributed to genetics, bacteria, hormones, inflammation and excessive sebum in glands in the skin. Studies have found in conjunction to CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties, CBD oil prevented sebaceous gland cells from secreting an overproduction of sebum.

• Seizures and Neurological Disorders. While research in this particular area is still new, studies have shown positive results for those who suffer from certain neurological disorders. In those who have multiple sclerosis (MS), evidence has pointed to CBD helping reduce muscle spasticity. ^[5] Another study indicated that CBD oil may be helpful to reduce the frequency of seizures. Out of 214 people with severe epilepsy, those who received a measured dosage of CBD oil reduced their seizures by a median of 36.5 percent. ^[5]

• Alleviate Cancer-Related Symptoms. Studies suggest that CBD may help side effects related to cancer and related treatment, such as pain, nausea and vomiting. Chemotherapy’s most common side effect is vomiting and nausea. Research has pointed to evidence that CBD can help reduce these symptoms caused by chemotherapy.

Types of CBD Oil

With so many forms of CBD oil, it can be difficult to navigate the right one for you. There are CBD products ranging from gummies to chocolate, but a few of the most common include tinctures, capsules, topicals and isolates.

• Tinctures: This form of CBD oil comes in an oil dropper and is administered sublingually. The oil is placed under the tongue for about 30 seconds before swallowing. This is done because there are capillaries under the tongue that absorb the CBD. It usually takes 20 to 30 minutes to begin feeling the effects of this type of CBD oil.

• Capsules: Capsules are taken much like any other dietary supplement. They are a pre-measured dosage of CBD oil. It is one of the more convenient ways to ingest the compound.

• Topicals: This form is not ingested, as it is meant to be applied direct to the skin in the form of a lotion or salve. This is a great option for those who are looking for relief on a problem area on their body.

• Isolate: An isolate is a crystallized CBD-rich powder that is meant to be ingested. It is simply mixed in with a favorite food or beverage.

What to Know Before Purchasing

Business are trying to cash in on the craze where they can, but it’s important to be cautious when purchasing CBD online. Varying terminology can cause marketplace confusion and make purchasing the right CBD product difficult. Since the FDA doesn’t regulate the packaging and labeling of the CBD oil industry, it’s hard to know exactly what is in each product. Thorough research is required to find a reputable vendor. The CBD oil vendor should be willing to provide a lab analysis of their product to test for potency and quality.

While research is still underway for all of the uses of CBD oil, studies look promising as it relates to health. Talk to a doctor before you decide to introduce any dietary supplement into your regimen.

Sources:

1. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/cbd-oil-benefits#section1
2. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/317221.php
3. https://www.healthline.com/health/cbd-for-anxiety#what-the-research-says
4. https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/how-people-use-cbd-for-anxiety#6
5. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/cbd-oil-benefits#section7