The effects of CBD

In the form of oil, capsules, flowers, resins, herbal teas… CBD (cannabidiol) is generating increasing interest due to its numerous health benefits. It is flooding physical stores and online retailers.

 

This isn't just a fad: CBD has numerous benefits and can be the source of many positive effects. In this article, we discuss 8 scientifically proven benefits of CBD!

1/ CBD has no psychotropic effect

CBD is short for cannabidiol, one of the many cannabinoids found in Cannabis, which consists of two subspecies: Hemp and Marijuana.

 

CBD is, in terms of concentration, the second most abundant cannabinoid in cannabis, just after THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). Unlike THC, CBD does not produce a psychotropic effect such as euphoria.

 

However, the effects of CBD vary depending on the amount taken: at low doses, CBD can produce a feeling of energy and alertness. Conversely, at higher doses, CBD can also help with relaxation and induce a sense of calm in both body and mind.

 

Finally, the World Health Organization's expert committee, in a report [1], confirms that CBD does not cause addiction. Although it may cause some side effects, these do not pose any health risks. Nevertheless, it is generally advised not to exceed the maximum dose of 1,500 mg per day.

 

For pregnant women, studies do not confirm the absence of risk associated with taking CBD

 

2/ CBD helps relieve pain

Cannabis has been used in pain management in China since 10,000 BC.

 

More recently, scientists have discovered that certain components of cannabis, including CBD, have analgesic effects.

 

Studies [2] have shown that CBD can help reduce chronic pain by acting on the activity of endocannabinoid receptors.

 

In this study [2], 15 of the 18 clinical trials established significant results in terms of pain relief.

 

After two weeks of treatment, patients reported a decrease in pain intensity of approximately 30% on average.

 

In addition, a drug, which is a combination of THC and CBD, called Sativex, has been approved in many countries to treat pain related to multiple sclerosis.

 

CBD is also used as a complementary natural remedy to relieve sports injuries and to alleviate pain related to arthritis, back pain, menopause, etc

 

3/ Anxiolytic effect – CBD reduces anxiety and depression

CBD may also have an effect on mood. The therapeutic properties of this molecule in this regard have been little studied.

 

According to a recent clinical study (2018), although conducted on mice: CBD shows great promise for treating both depression and anxiety.[3]

 

In another Brazilian study, this time conducted on humans, 57 subjects received either oral CBD or a placebo 90 minutes before taking a simulated public speaking test. Researchers found that a 300 mg dose of CBD was effective in significantly reducing anxiety during the test4]

 

4/ CBD reduces sleep problems

If you suffer from sleep discheckouts or insomnia, taking CBD before bedtime could help.

 

According to a 2019 study from the University of Pittsburgh [5], thanks to its anti-anxiety effect, CBD proved effective for 66% of the 72 people in this clinical study. CBD helps people fall asleep faster and improves sleep quality.

 

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5/ CBD has an antiemetic and anti-nausea effect

CBD may also help reduce nausea and vomiting induced by chemotherapy6].

 

A study examined the effects of CBD and THC in 177 people with cancer-related pain that was not relieved by conventional pain medication. Those treated with an extract containing both compounds experienced a significant reduction in pain compared to those who received only THC extract7].

6/ CBD has an antispasmodic/anticonvulsant effect

One study found that with the drug Sativex, which combines THC and CBD, spasms were reduced in 75% of people with multiple sclerosis who had drug-resistant muscle spasticity [8].

 

CBD has an anticonvulsant effect : A study conducted with 214 people suffering from severe epilepsy with doses between 0.9 and 2.3 grams of CBD oil per pound (2-5 g/kg) of body weight. Their epileptic seizures were reduced on average by 36.5% [9].

7/ Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant

Several animal studies have shown that CBD can help reduce inflammation and cell death (necrosis) associated with heart disease due to its powerful antioxidant and anti-stress properties.

 

For example, one study found that CBD treatment reduced oxidative stress and prevented heart damage in diabetic mice with heart disease [10].

 

According to recent scientific studies, CBD oil may help treat acne due to its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to reduce sebum production [11].

 

CBD is believed to have beneficial effects on other skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema.

 

8/ The neuroprotective effects of CBD

In a clinical study published in 1998 [12], it was stated that cannabidiol contained certain antioxidant properties more powerful than vitamins C and E, two powerful antioxidants.

 

Neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's are combated with CBD and other antioxidant-rich diets.

 

Another 2018 study that compiled research from animal and human studies confirms the neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory* effects of CBD and THC for several neurological diseases, including Alzheimer's disease.

 

*modification of the body's immune response without increasing the risk of infection or tumors.