Many health claims about CBD are made and sold, but little rigorous scientific evidence backs them up. Because CBD is a natural compound and not pharmaceutically produced, it’s not subject to regulation by the FDA and subsequent rigorous testing that would otherwise be required of drugs.
CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which controls many bodily functions including digestion and sleep. Studies in humans have demonstrated its effects to improve quality of sleep for those suffering insomnia; as well as ease nausea or vomiting associated with chemotherapy or cancer treatments; it’s also been shown to reduce anxiety; one such study discovered people taking CBD capsules daily reported less stress and more calm feelings.
Studies have been performed but…
Studies conducted with animals and self-reported by people demonstrate the efficacy of CBD as a pain reliever in conditions like arthritis, chronic pain and neuropathic pain. Further human trials will need to take place before making definitive statements regarding CBD’s efficacy as an analgesic. It has also shown promise in terms of supporting digestive issues like IBS through decreasing anxiety levels and mitigating inflammation levels within the gut lining.
CBD has also demonstrated powerful antioxidant properties, making it an effective tool in the prevention and treatment of diseases linked to redox imbalance and inflammation.
Including:
- diabetes,
- cardiomyopathy related to diabetes,
- cardiovascular diseases,
- arthritis,
- depression psychosis
- epilepsy
- neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s
Studies indicate that CBD may be an effective remedy for a range of mental health disorders, including anxiety and depression. According to one small trial published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, researchers gave CBD to 11 people living with posttraumatic stress disorder and discovered it reduced symptoms significantly – although more research must be completed before CBD can be recommended as an antidepressant or PTSD therapy treatment option.
CBD appears safe for most adults; however, certain blood-thinners and heart medications could interact with it; therefore it’s wise to discuss any potential interactions with your healthcare provider prior to adding it to your treatment plan. As CBD is natural compound derived from willow bark rather than synthetic pharmaceutical drugs that produce similar side effects (for instance aspirin is made with willow bark too but still provides great results with few or no serious side effects in most patients).