People make CBD oil by extracting it from the hemp plant and diluting it with a carrier oil like coconut oil or hemp seed oil. It is one of over 100 cannabinoid compounds found in the Cannabis sativa plant.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the main psychoactive cannabinoid found in marijuana, which means it causes the high commonly associated with marijuana. However, unlike THC, CBD is not psychoactive.
CBD can be found online and in stores in a variety of products, including dietary supplements, body washes, drinks and foods.
We’ve partnered with Medterra to bring you this article covering six evidence-backed health benefits of CBD.
Can relieve pain
The endocannabinoid system is involved in regulating pain, among other functions. The body produces neurotransmitters called endocannabinoids that bind to cannabinoid receptors.
Research suggests that CBD may help reduce chronic pain by targeting endocannabinoid receptor activity, reducing inflammation, and interacting with neurotransmitters. Preclinical evidence also suggests it may be effective.
Can reduce some cancer-related symptoms
According to research published in 2022, CBD may help reduce some cancer-related symptoms and side effects associated with cancer treatment, such as nausea, vomiting, and pain.
Can reduce symptoms associated with certain mental health disorders
CBD oil has shown promise as a treatment for certain mental health conditions, leading many people suffering from these conditions to become interested in this natural treatment method.
A 2020 literature review on CBD and mood disorders found multiple studies showing CBD has properties that may help reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and even psychosis.
That said, existing research isn’t enough for doctors to recommend CBD as an actual treatment for such conditions.
May have neuroprotective properties
CBD may offer benefits to people with neurological conditions.The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)Trusted Source has approved a CBD product, Epidiolex, for the treatment of several epilepsy disorders and seizures caused by tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). TSC is a rare genetic disorder that causes benign tumors to grow in the brain and other parts of the body.
There is also some limited evidence that CBD may be effective in improving symptoms of other neurological conditions, such as:
- Parkinson’s disease
- Huntington’s disease
- autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
- motor disorders like cerebral palsy
Other potential benefits
In addition to the above issues, CBD has also been studied for its role in treating many health issues.
Although more research is needed, CBD is thought to potentially provide the following health benefits:
- Substance Abuse Treatment:Based on preclinical evidence, CBD may help relieve anxiety and depression in people who are dependent on certain drugs, including heroin.
- May Extend Lives of Glioblastoma Patients: Combining treatments with CBD and THC may help extend the lives of some patients with an aggressive cancer called glioblastoma, but research is limited.
- May Improve Sleep: CBD may help improve sleep in people with certain sleep disorders, although more research is needed.
May be good for heart health
High blood pressure is associated with a higher risk of several health conditions, including stroke, heart disease, and metabolic syndrome.
Research suggests CBD may be beneficial for people with high blood pressure because it affects heart muscle contraction and helps dilate blood vessels.
For example, a 2020 Trusted Source study included 26 healthy men and found that treatment with 600 mg of CBD for 7 days significantly reduced blood pressure in the short term compared to the placebo group. However, the effects disappeared after 7 days.
What are the disadvantages of CBD oil?
CBD is generally considered safe, but it may cause adverse effects such as diarrhea, appetite and weight changes, and fatigue in some people.
Other side effects, including abnormal liver function test results, drowsiness, sedation, and pneumonia, have been reported in epilepsy studies in children.
But these effects may stem from CBD’s interactions with other medications, such as clobazam, since it can interact with a variety of medications. It is always a good idea to discuss the correct dosage for you and the risk of side effects with a qualified health care professional.
