Surprising Uses For CBD
CBD oil is a cannabidiol compound extracted from the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, which produces a euphoric high, CBD promotes homeostasis in the human body without inebriating the consumer. CBD oil contains compounds called cannabinoids which bind to receptors in the brain and influence bodily functions. While the study of CBD is still in its infancy, the medical community is finding that is highly effective in treating many various conditions. It has been used successfully to help treat several diseases and here are some other surprising uses for cannabidiol or CBD.
Tobacco Cessation
CBD is the new break out star on the horizon when it comes to addiction. While its uses to combat chemical addictions are still being explored, recent studies show that it can be quite an effective tool for those who want to quit smoking. Researchers at University College London conducted a study and published the results in an article in Addictive Behaviors. Participants were split into two groups and monitored for seven days. One group was given a placebo and the other group was given CBD. The group who received CBD oil smoked an average of 40 percent less during the study.
More Youthful Appearance
Free radicals speed up the aging process by promoting the break-down of collagen in the skin. Fortunately, antioxidants combat free radicals and the damage they cause. The Proceedings of the National Academy of Science released studies in 1998 indicating the CBD contains antioxidants more powerful even than those found in vitamins C and E. CBD also contains strong anti-inflammatory properties. These properties extend to the skin, allowing it to relax for a firmer and more youthful appearance.
Reduce Symptoms of Depression
The Institute of Psychiatry experimented with CBD as a treatment for both anxiety and depression with promising results. The studies demonstrated good interaction showing the neuro-receptors treated CBD as an anti-depressant like compound. The Depression Alliance has found that CBD binds to receptors in the brain that trigger the release of serotonin. It also triggers a series of events which helps to combat the symptoms of depression, improve mood and control stress.
Combat Insomnia
There are many different circumstances which can cause insomnia. For instance, chronic pain or high levels of stress can interrupt the sleep cycle. Even caffeine consumption, some medications and certain neurological disorders can have the same effect. CBD has been shown to promote healthier, more rejuvenating sleep in the proper doses. Modest doses of CBD causes alertness and clarity by activating the adenosine receptors, much like caffeine. However, larger doses of CBD help balance the hormones that facilitate a good night’s sleep.
Focus and Mental Clarity
Some imaging studies involving CBD from the cannabis plant show that CBD has positive effects on attention, cognitive processes and emotional processing. This means that the right doses administered in the proper frequency can boost mental clarity. Studies have also shown that CBD improves focus by allowing the brain to concentrate on a single task. In fact, the results are so strong that the medical community is exploring similar uses. CBD is showing exciting promise in treatments for conditions such as ADD, ADHD, Alzheimer’s and even schizophrenia.
Pain Management
Studies have been conducted in the United States and other countries exploring the use of cannabis derived CBD for pain management. These studies concluded that CBD can be used to effectively treat pain in humans without the harmful side effects of opioid medications. CBD has proven effective in alleviating acute pain and equally as effective in managing chronic pain. CBD has natural anti-inflammatory properties and acts as an analgesic in the body. Studies have shown it to be effective in treating muscle spasms, pain and inflammation. It also supports and speeds muscle recovery while protecting neurological function.
