The recent rise in the popularity and usage of CBD oil has been meteoric, with people from all walks of life exploring its potential benefits for a variety of different ailments, from chronic pain and anxiety to epilepsy and Alzheimer’s. With such promise, it’s no wonder that research into CBD oil is at an all-time high. In this article, we take a look at some of the most recent findings from studies into the potential benefits of CBD oil, exploring the potential this extract may have for improving health and well-being.
What scientific evidence is there to support the health benefits of taking CBD oil?
Studies have shown that CBD oil may be beneficial in reducing anxiety, pain, and inflammation, and may even have neuroprotective effects. Additionally, animal studies have found that CBD may be helpful in reducing seizures in epileptic patients. Research is still ongoing, but the evidence thus far indicates that CBD oil may have potential health benefits.
How has the use of CBD oil been studied for its potential therapeutic properties?
CBD oil has been studied for its potential therapeutic properties in many areas, including anxiety, pain, inflammation, depression, cancer, and other neurological disorders. In particular, CBD oil has been studied for its anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and anti-seizure properties, as well as its potential to be used as a treatment for opioid addiction in humans. Additionally, research has suggested that CBD oil may be beneficial for treating insomnia, menstrual cramps, and skin conditions.
What side effects or risks have been associated with taking CBD oil?
Research into the potential side effects and risks associated with taking CBD oil is still in its early stages. However, some potential side effects that have been observed include fatigue, changes in appetite, diarrhea, and changes in weight. Additionally, there is some evidence that taking CBD oil may interact with certain medications, and it is important to talk to a doctor before taking CBD oil if you are taking any other medications.
Are there any long-term studies available on the use of CBD oil?
Yes, there are several long-term studies available on the use of CBD oil. These studies focus on the safety and efficacy of CBD oil for various conditions, ranging from anxiety and depression to chronic pain and inflammation. For example, a 2019 study published in the journal Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research found that CBD oil was effective in reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality in participants with chronic pain over a period of 4 weeks. Other studies have looked at the long-term use of CBD oil for conditions such as insomnia and Parkinson’s disease.
CBD oil is a popular natural treatment for various physical and mental health conditions. CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a natural cannabinoid compound found in the cannabis plant. CBD oil is CBD extract mixed with a type of carrier oil, like hemp or coconut, and can be applied topically or taken sublingually. Pain is felt when a signal travels through nerves to the brain. The underlying cause of pain can be complex and from many different factors 1. Pain levels can vary from minimal to debilitating and can be short-term or long-lasting. Chronic pain occurs when pain is ongoing and persists for more than six months, even when the cause illness or injury has dissipated. Chronic pain can also have many underlying causes, although it is most commonly due to dysfunctional nerves or inflammation 2. While studies regarding CBD oil benefits are highly limited due to restrictions on cannabis use and research that can be carried out, as the legalisation of cannabis grows, more in-depth and long-term research involving human participants is expected to happen. Most studies on pain have involved numerous cannabinoids, like THC or a combination of several, rather than just CBD alone. There are over different cannabinoids in the cannabis plant, each with slightly different profiles and effects 3. The ECS is responsible for balancing and regulating body processes that control everything from our mood, sleep, immune system function and metabolism. The ECS consists of cannabinoids produced naturally, called endocannabinoids, and cannabinoid receptors spread throughout the brain and nervous system 4. Cannabinoids like CBD can interact with these receptors and activate systems that alter how the brain perceives pain. A study suggested that CBD, in conjunction with other cannabinoids, can influence receptor systems within our body and the ECS. CBD is shown to increase the levels of anandamide in our bodies. This compound has been associated with reducing pain perception and improving mood in individuals 5. A study carried out in early investigated the effects of cannabinoid drugs on pain by safely inducing experimental heat pain before measuring how the nervous system reacts and responds to it. While the results of these studies and many others remain promising, more research is needed to verify the benefits of CBD oil when it comes to pain relief. As the underlying causes and symptoms of pain are complex, individuals can experience different types of pain. Examples of chronic pain include back pain and frequent headaches. Because of the long-term nature of chronic pain, some patients are beginning to seek natural and alternative treatment methods to traditional medication , which are often associated with adverse side effects. CBD oil remains a popular choice as studies have been favourable regarding the effects of CBD and how it can reduce the severity of chronic pain output. The underlying cause of pain can be complex and from many different factors. A report summarised the key findings from various studies and investigated CBD use for general chronic pain. After compiling the results of dozens of trials and reviews, researchers concluded that substantial evidence suggested that cannabis could be a viable treatment option for adults experiencing chronic pain 8. Another study supported these findings, with researchers noting that cannabinoids like CBD could offer a new treatment option for chronic pain patients by reducing pain and inflammation. They also found patients were unlikely to build up a tolerance to the effects of CBD, meaning the dosage did not need to be increased over time 9. Neuropathic pain is caused by nerve irritation due to damage. It is often described as causing shooting or burning sensations, with affected areas being extremely sensitive when touched. Neuropathic pain affects the somatosensory nervous system, so symptoms of this type of pain include pins and needles, excruciating pain levels, and difficulty detecting numbness or changes in temperature The causes and treatment available for neuropathic pain vary case-by-case. Some factors that trigger neuropathic pain include alcoholism, exposure to toxins and nutritional imbalances. Treatment can also vary depending on the severity of the pain. However, many people will require more potent painkillers and will combine natural sources of pain management, like CBD oil, with their traditional medication. Research regarding CBD and neuropathic pain are mixed. A review looked at different trials with over 1, participants that compared selected cannabinoids in their treatment of neuropathic pain. However, researchers in a review concluded that while cannabis-based medicine shows promise, this may be outweighed by its potential harms.