The Proven Benefits of CBD

While marijuana has been legalized in many states including California, allowing for recreational use, the plant is still the center of heated political debate. While there has long been concern about the proposed dangers of marijuana abuse, research has begun to prove otherwise. One particular compound found in the cannabis plant, CBD, or cannabidiol, has been shown to be extremely useful in treating a variety of diseases and effectively alleviating pain. Unlike THC, the psychoactive compound found in cannabis, CBD is non-psychoactive, making it a promising tool for those seeking a natural remedy. Here are some the proven benefits of CBD.

CBD is known for being one of the most effective natural pain relievers, and is a much safer alternative to traditional opioids. A 2012 study published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine found that CBD was effective in suppressing chronic pain without causing a developed tolerance in those that take it. CBD has been shown to reduce chronic pain in individuals with debilitating diseases by about 50-70%.

Studies have shown that CBD is particularly effective in reducing anxiety. CBD has been proven to be effective in treating patients who suffer from social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and obsessive compulsive disorder, and even post-traumatic stress disorder. A 2011 study concluded that patients suffering from generalized social anxiety disorders experienced a reduction in anxiety, cognitive impairment, and speech discomfort when being given a small dose of CBD.

Those who suffer from epilepsy often have to try out a wide range of anti-epileptic drugs before finding an effective one. However, CBD has been seen to be effective in treating seizures and other neurological disorders. While safety data on cannabidiol-enriched cannabis use in children is lacking, parents of treatment-resistant epileptic children are using it as treatment. In a survey conducted by Stanford University, 80% of parents reported a reduction in seizure frequency in their treatment-resistant epileptic child, while 11% reported complete seizure freedom. 

Cannabis has been shown to have promising effects in fighting cancer, by inhibiting the growth of tumors and reducing the potency of cancer cells. Since CBD is a non-toxic compound, it can be used for prolonged treatment, something that is rare among cancer treatment drugs. Studies have shown that it can also be effective in stopping the spread of lung and colon cancer, along with being used to treat leukemia.

While cannabis has been used for centuries as a suppressant for nausea and vomiting, CBD can be used without getting the psychoactive effects of THC to reduce nausea. Low doses of CBD have been effective in treating cancer patients who are undergoing chemotherapy, reducing the common side effects of extreme nausea and vomiting.

Chronic inflammation is a major problem in modern society, which can lead to a variety of non-infectious disease including heart disease and Alzheimer’s. While leading a healthy lifestyle can combat chronic inflammation, CBD has been shown to reduce inflammation, and is an effective alternative for those are not capable of being active and exercise daily.

CBD can be taken in a variety of ways such as oil capsules, topical ointments, spray, or even edible candies. Despite the continued debate of the legality and abuse potential of the chemical compounds in the cannabis plant, the time is now to recognize the many important health benefits that can be utilized from it.