CBD oil comes from the cannabis plant but doesn’t make you high. This is because it has no THC. Instead, CBD has been promising for health issues.1 Research suggests it helps with pain, anxiety, depression, cancer symptoms, and heart health.
The FDA only approves Epidiolex, a CBD-based drug, for severe epilepsy types. But, more research is ongoing on CBD’s wide health uses. Yet, safety and effects of CBD vary per person. Talking to a doctor before using CBD is wise, especially if taking other meds.
Key Takeaways
- CBD is a non-psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant that has been studied for its potential health benefits.
- Research suggests CBD may help alleviate pain, reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, and provide relief for certain cancer-related symptoms.
- The FDA has approved one CBD-based medication for the treatment of rare and severe forms of epilepsy, but the broader use of CBD is still being investigated.
- CBD products can vary in quality and purity, so it’s important to buy from reputable, third-party tested brands.
- Consulting a healthcare professional is recommended before using CBD, as it can interact with some medications and may cause side effects.
What is CBD Oil?
1 CBD oil comes from the cannabis plant. It’s one of many compounds in the Cannabis sativa plant.1 It’s not like THC, the compound that makes you feel high when using marijuana.
CBD: A Non-Psychoactive Cannabinoid
1 CBD doesn’t change your mind like THC does. This makes it a good choice for people who want health benefits from cannabis without the high.
Sources and Extraction Methods
To make CBD oil, CBD is taken from the plant and mixed with a carrier oil.2 Extraction can be done with CO2 or solvents. The plant’s source and how it’s extracted influences the quality of the oil.
| Key Data Points | Findings |
|---|---|
| 2 More than a quarter of the CBD products bought online contained less CBD than labeled. | This shows how important it is to pick CBD products from trusted brands. They should be tested by a third party to ensure they’re good. |
| 2 THC was found in 18 out of the 84 CBD products tested. | Sometimes, THC is found in CBD products that were supposed to be THC-free. This shows the need for stricter rules and more tests. |
| 2 Epidiolex is the only FDA-approved CBD product, specifically for treating two types of epilepsy. | Even though CBD is widely used, studies are still looking into how it helps with different health problems. We need to know more about how safe and effective it is. |
| 2 CBD is being studied as a treatment for various conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease, schizophrenia, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and anxiety. | Scientists are very interested in studying how CBD can help with different illnesses. But, we need more research to know for sure. |
May Relieve Pain
CBD shows promise in easing certain pains by working with our body’s endocannabinoid system. This system contains receptors and molecules that help control many functions, like feeling pain.1 Since 2900 B.C., people have turned to cannabis for pain relief.1
The Endocannabinoid System and Pain Regulation
Studies suggest CBD might help in managing pain linked to conditions like fibromyalgia. It acts by lowering inflammation and tapping into certain receptors.3 CBD products with THC, CBC, and CBG can lessen pain signals in the brain.34 In 2015, a study in Neurotherapeutics showed CBD’s varied effects on the body’s receiver systems.4
Potential for Rheumatic Disease Management
3 In 2017, research revealed that CBD lessened pain and stopped nerve issues in people with arthritis.34 A 2016 European Journal of Pain study also found that CBD oil cut down inflammation and pain signs in arthritis in tests on animals.4 But, we still need more studies to grasp CBD’s full pain-relief abilities for long-term conditions.
Could Reduce Symptoms Related to Mental Health Disorders
Studies suggest CBD might help with issues like anxiety, depression, and PTSD. In 2020, a review noted its possible good effects on mood disorders15. A small study from 2019 found CBD could lessen PTSD symptoms in adults, such as nightmares1.
Anxiety and Depression
Between 14% and 33% of American adults have tried CBD for health problems, including anxiety and depression6. CBD shows promise as an antidepressant6. A 2022 study showed it might lower anxiety symptoms in 4 weeks6. And in the same year, a study found it helped young people with hard-to-treat anxiety get better6.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
CBD may also help people with PTSD, according to research. A 2019 study demonstrated its ability to reduce PTSD symptoms like nightmares in adults1. Yet, more research is necessary to confirm CBD’s effects and safety in treating mental health conditions.
May Alleviate Certain Cancer-Related Symptoms
Some studies say CBD oil cancer might lessen cbd oil cancer symptoms like sickness, throwing up, and pain from treatments. A 2022 research found CBD plus THC could cut down on cancer symptoms.7
Still, the results are not all the same. We need more research to see if CBD can really help manage cancer signs.8
| Potential Benefits of CBD for Cancer Symptoms | Limitations and Considerations |
|---|---|
While research hints at the power of cbd oil cancer in fighting symptoms, we need more data. More comprehensive studies are vital to know for sure.7
Anyone thinking about using CBD for cancer signs should talk to their doctor first. It’s important to understand the risks and benefits.8
May Have Neuroprotective Properties
New studies show CBD might be good for people with nerve issues. In 2022, a study on Sativex, a spray with CBD and THC, found it could help lessen pain and muscle issues in MS patients.9 Another research from 2017 shows CBD oil decreases seizures in kids with Dravet syndrome. This is a serious form of epilepsy.9 Also, the FDA allowed a CBD drug, Epidiolex, for certain seizure conditions and tuberous sclerosis complex.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Muscle Spasticity
The 2022 study found Sativex, a spray with CBD and THC, reduces MS pain and muscle tightness.9 This is important because muscle tightness is common for MS patients and it can really affect their life.
Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders
Study from 2017 suggests CBD oil is good for lessening seizures in Dravet syndrome kids. It’s also good for epilepsy.9 The FDA has okayed Epidiolex for some seizure conditions and tuberous sclerosis complex. This shows CBD can be a help for those with epilepsy.
Parkinson’s Disease and Other Neurological Conditions
There’s a little evidence CBD might help with other nerve conditions like Parkinson’s disease and cerebral palsy.9 But, we need more studies to know how helpful CBD really is for these conditions.
May Benefit Heart Health
Studies show that might be good for heart health. Researchers found that it can help control blood pressure and boost the way arteries work. It also improves the heart’s ability to pump. In a 2020 report, 26 healthy men took 600 milligrams of CBD for a week. This led to lower blood pressure. However, the effect did not last after they stopped.1
Blood Pressure Regulation
This study found that using 600 milligrams of CBD for 7 days could lower blood pressure in 26 men. But, this benefit went away after the treatment stopped.1 In England in 2017, a small study showed that CBD can make resting blood pressure better. It also helped lower blood pressure spikes from stress in healthy people.10
Artery Function and Heart Muscle Contractions
Research indicates that might help with heart muscle contractions and make blood vessels expand. This is according to a study from 2020.1 Among over 161,000 people, those who had used marijuana had a lower risk of death and shorter stays in the hospital. But, be careful. CBD oil could interfere with heart failure medications like warfarin and some statins. It could also affect drugs like calcium channel blockers, beta-blockers, and nitrates. More research, especially big randomized trials, is needed to confirm CBD oil’s safety and effects on heart failure.10
What are the benefits of cbd oil
Research shows CBD might help with anxiety, depression, and substance use. It could be useful for those with opioid addiction.1 Also, mixing CBD and THC might slow down glioblastoma, a serious brain cancer, for some people.1 CBD might even make sleep better for those who struggle with sleep disorders. But, we need more studies to be sure.1
Substance Misuse Treatment
For anxiety and depression in substance misuse, CBD could be a solution.1
Potential Life Extension in Glioblastoma
The combo of CBD and THC seems to offer hope for those battling glioblastoma. It might help them live longer.1
Improved Sleep Quality
More and better sleep could be the result of using CBD. However, we need more studies to confirm this.1
Safety and Side Effects
CBD oil is mostly safe, but some may have bad reactions. It might lead to diarrhea, changes in eating, feeling tired, and harm to the liver.2 Also, it could mix badly with certain medicines. This might cause risky side effects.2
Potential Side Effects of CBD
Aside from common side effects, studies show more effects. These include liver test changes, feeling sleepy, and a risk of pneumonia in some children.1 Always talk to a doctor before trying CBD oil. They can guide you on how much to take and check for problems.
Quality and Purity Concerns
The quality and purity of CBD products might worry you. Why? The FDA doesn’t oversee the market. Some CBD items have less CBD than they say or even have THC when claiming to be THC-free.2 To be safe, buy CBD products from well-known, third-party tested brands. This helps ensure what you get is safe.2
On top of that, the legal status of CBD varies in the U.S. This means laws differ from state to state.1 Know the rules in your state and any you might visit. This understanding is crucial when buying or using CBD oil.
Legal Status and Regulations
The legal status of is complex and varies across the United States. Products from hemp (less than 0.3% THC) are legal under the 2018 Farm Bill at the federal level.11 But, they could still be illegal according to some state laws. Items from cannabis are illegal nationally, but some states allow them.12
It’s important to look into local laws before using or traveling with .12 Also, items you don’t need a prescription for aren’t checked by the FDA. This means their safety and quality might not be guaranteed.12
In Virginia, only a few companies are allowed to make and sell marijuana-based products. One company can operate in each part of the state that takes care of health needs.11 People in Virginia caught with these products might not get in trouble if they have the right paperwork.11 Laws including HB 1720/SB 1632 let school staff give special oils to students who need them, if they have the okay from a doctor.11
Other laws in Virginia stop doctors from advertising marijuana unless it’s for fighting addiction or helping with drug abuse. There are also regulations that make sure Virginia’s rules for hemp match the federal law from 2018. These rules include how much THC hemp can have, and what happens if someone breaks the laws.11
It’s crucial to know the difference between and THC oil.12 Products with too much THC can get you into legal trouble. The law allows items with very low THC, but THC oil is still against the law federally.12
Be careful when you buy products, especially if they might have too much THC.12 Confusion about what’s in CBD and the risks from THC can cause legal issues. The FDA doesn’t oversee most CBD products, so they might not be as safe or as good as they say.12
Dosage and Administration
Finding the right cbd oil dosage is not the same for everyone. Doses in studies have ranged from 100 to 800 milligrams per day.13 Talking to a doctor is key before you begin. They’ll consider your age, weight, and other meds you take to suggest the best dose.13
Consultation with Healthcare Professionals
Getting advice from a healthcare pro on how to take cbd oil matters a lot. They’ll help you choose the best amount and type of CBD, like oil or capsules. This guidance is vital because how your body takes in CBD can change depending on how you use it.13
Factors Affecting Dosage
Your age and weight matter, but that’s not all. Your health condition, the meds you take, and how much you drink are also important.13 You should start with a small dose, then increase slowly while keeping an eye out for side effects.1
Only one cannabis product, Epidiolex, is FDA-approved for certain seizures. Doctors usually start patients at 2.5 mg/kg twice a day, up to 10 mg/kg twice daily.13 For other conditions, studies suggest doses from under 100 mg to 900 mg a day are alright.13
CBD can be addictive and might make breathing hard for some.13 Watch out for drowsiness, stomach issues, mood swings, or issues with your liver when taking CBD. It could also mix badly with other drugs.13 The safety and benefits of CBD need more study to be fully clear.13
Ongoing Research and Future Prospects
Researchers are constantly learning more about the benefits of CBD oil. They’ve found that it can help treat certain rare types of epilepsy with a drug called Epidiolex. Now, they’re looking into how else CBD might be helpful, like easing pain, managing mental health issues, helping with brain conditions, and improving heart health.14,15,16
By conducting more clinical trials and studies, we might learn more about how well CBD works. This knowledge could open the door to new medicines and therapies.15,16
| Research Area | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Pain Management |
– CBD might cut down on certain types of pain by working with the body’s endocannabinoid system14 – Initial findings suggest CBD might be good for soothing pain from diseases like rheumatism14 |
| Mental Health Disorders |
– Studies point to CBD possibly easing anxiety, depression, and PTSD symptoms14,16 – But we need more research to be sure CBD is safe and effective against these mental health issues14 |
| Neurological Conditions |
– CBD could be helpful for illnesses such as multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, and Parkinson’s14,16 – For some seizures, the FDA has okayed a CBD drug called Epidiolex14 |
| Heart Health |
– It’s possible that CBD might help keep blood pressure in check and make the heart work better14 – But more studies from this arena are needed to understand CBD’s full effects on the heart14 |
Continuing with the CBD research could reveal even more ways to use it. Scientists are hopeful they can find new ways for CBD to help with various health issues.15,16
Conclusion
CBD oil may help with pain relief and lower anxiety and depression symptoms. It can also make cancer effects like nausea and pain less severe. Besides, it seems to protect the brain and might help the heart1. By 2024, the CBD market could be worth over 20 billion17. Yet, we need more research to know if CBD is truly safe and how well it works all around.
Always talk to a doctor before trying CBD, especially if you take other medicines. It’s important since CBD can affect drugs and cause side effects. The rules about CBD are tricky, so make sure you buy from trusted brands. The FDA has given the green light to a specific CBD product, Epidiolex, for severe seizures in young children17.
As more studies get done, we might learn even more about CBD’s uses. It could help with addiction, cancer patients, and sleeping better. With everyone talking about CBD, make sure to get advice from medical experts. They can help you make the best choices about using CBD oil1.
FAQ
What is CBD oil?
What are the potential benefits of CBD oil?
How does CBD work in the body?
Can CBD oil help with pain management?
Can CBD oil help with mental health disorders?
Does CBD oil have any benefits for cancer patients?
Can CBD oil help with neurological conditions?
Does CBD oil have any cardiovascular benefits?
What are the other potential benefits of CBD oil?
Are there any side effects or safety concerns with CBD oil?
What is the legal status of CBD oil?
What is the recommended dosage for CBD oil?
Source Links
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/cbd-oil-benefits
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/consumer-health/expert-answers/is-cbd-safe-and-effective/faq-20446700
- https://www.northeastspineandsports.com/blog/7-benefits-of-cbd-for-pain-management/
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319475
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7331870/
- https://www.webmd.com/cannabinoids/cbd-depression-anxiety
- https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/treatment/complementary-alternative-therapies/individual-therapies/cannabis
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324745
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3579248/
- https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/heart-failure/features/cbd-oil-heart-failure
- https://dls.virginia.gov/pubs/briefs/brief62.pdf
- https://www.seattlemet.com/discover/cbd/is-cbd-oil-legal/
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327518
- https://www.nm.org/healthbeat/medical-advances/science-and-research/what-research-says-about-cbd-oil
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10572536/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10586905/
- https://www.drugs.com/lifestyle/health-benefits-cbd-3516616/