December 17, 2022

CBD and its growing list of uses

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a chemical compound found in the cannabis plant. It is one of many compounds known as cannabinoids, which are present in the highest concentrations in the cannabis plant. Unlike the psychoactive compound tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD does not produce a psychoactive effect and does not cause a person to feel "high."

There is some evidence to suggest that CBD may have potential as a treatment for a number of medical conditions, including anxiety, pain, and inflammation. However, more research is needed to fully understand the safety and effectiveness of CBD and to determine appropriate dosages.

Here are some potential medicinal uses of CBD that have been studied in clinical trials:

  • Anxiety: Some studies have found that CBD may be effective in reducing anxiety and improving sleep in people with anxiety disorders.

  • Epilepsy: CBD has been studied as a potential treatment for epilepsy and has been shown to reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in some people. A prescription form of CBD is used for seizure disorders such as epilepsy. CBD is also used for anxiety, pain, a muscle disorder called dystonia, Parkinson disease, Crohn disease, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

  • Pain: CBD may be helpful in reducing chronic pain, such as that associated with arthritis or multiple sclerosis.

  • Inflammation: CBD has anti-inflammatory properties and may be helpful in reducing inflammation and swelling.

It's important to note that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved CBD as a medical treatment for any condition. More research is needed to fully understand the safety and effectiveness of CBD and to determine appropriate dosages. It is also important to note that CBD products are not regulated by the FDA, so the quality and purity of these products can vary widely.

Potential side effects

When taken by mouth: CBD is possibly safe to take in appropriate doses. Doses of up to 200 mg daily have been used safely for up to 13 weeks. With the guidance of a healthcare provider, a specific prescription CBD product (Epidiolex) has been used at higher doses and for longer durations.

CBD can cause some side effects, such as dry mouth, low blood pressure, light headedness, and drowsiness. Signs of liver injury have also been reported with high doses of the prescription form of CBD, called Epidiolex.

When applied to the skin: There isn't enough reliable information to know if CBD is safe or what the side effects might be.

CBD uses to treat medical conditions is an extremely promising field of study, one we will continue to watch and report on as clinical trial results become available.  

 

(Note: this article is intended as informational only and does not intend to substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always consult with your healthcare professional or family doctor before consuming cannabis).