The cannabidiol industry has been gaining ground in recent years. In the past, the focus was on tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the chemical in cannabis (marijuana) that gives users a euphoric experience. But now, the other essential component, cannabidiol (CBD), is getting more attention. CBD companies are churning out products that address some medical challenges. If you are curious about therapeutic cannabidiol, here’s what you need to know.
CBD Versus THC
THC is responsible for triggering the cannabinoid receptors in the body. Once triggered, cannabis users feel euphoria-like symptoms. CBD, on the other hand, targets different receptors unleashing therapeutic effects, minus the feeling of being high. There are studies on how CBD and THC can be combined together efficiently for medicinal use. The cannabidiol industry is now engaged in developing CBD-rich products for therapeutic purposes.
CBD Benefits for Healthcare
- Antipsychotic properties
Cannabidiol produces antipsychotic effects. Studies in patients exhibiting schizophrenia reported that CBD can reduce psychotic manifestations. It seems that CBD stops a chemical within the brain that affects pain, mood, and mental function from breaking down. As a result of this, there is a reduction in psychotic symptoms.
- Anxiety reduction
According to studies referred to by the cannabidiol industry, CBD lessens anxiety in those who exhibit social anxiety disorder (SAD). Researchers discovered that patients who were given CBD before a public speaking test performed better. In this 2011 study, there was a reduction in anxiety, discomfort in public speaking, and cognitive impairment.
CBD can prove to be effective to those who have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). People exhibiting obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and who have panic disorder can also benefit from CBD. The role of cannabidiol in psychiatry needs further testing, but there is hope.
- Natural pain relief
The cannabidiol industry produces products that help people manage their pain. A study done in 2012 showed positive results in rodents. The research revealed that CBD could suppress neuropathic and chronic inflammatory pain. CBD may be helpful in modulating pain by preventing neuronal transmission along pain pathways.
- Improved multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms
An early study in 2007 showed that a THC and CBD buccal spray was effective in addressing neuropathic pain. The spray was for patients with multiple sclerosis. The prescription-only item is said to improve muscle tightness, pain, and frequency of urination for MS patients. For this particular therapeutic product, cannabidiol and THC act in unison to reduce MS symptoms.
- Nausea alleviation
Nausea and vomiting are part of the body’s defense mechanism. However, when these are prolonged or chronic, it can affect a person’s quality of life. For hundreds of years, cannabis has been used to relieve nausea as well as vomiting. Medical research has been done for some time now on the efficacy of cannabidiol in alleviating nausea. One 2012 study on rodents reported that cannabidiol has antiemetic and anti-nausea characteristics.
Interactions between non-intoxicating CBD and the brain receptors that release serotonin can help ease vomiting and nausea. However, it is important to say that only a low dose of CBD achieves this effect. Otherwise, high doses of CBD may either not affect or increase nausea. With the right dosage, cannabidiol can prove to be the salvation of nausea sufferers.
- Cancer-fighting
According to some studies, CBD inhibits the migration of cancer cells. Cannabidiol possesses antiproliferative properties that can address cell adhesion as well as invasion. A study focused on breast cancer reported in 2006 yielded this result. Another breast cancer study in 2011 showed that cannabidiol could cause cancer cells to die. CBD is not damaging to mammary cells that are non-tumorigenic.
For long-term treatment, employment of non-toxic CBD is possible. The effectiveness of CBD is not solely for people with breast cancer. Some data has also suggested its efficacy in aiding the fight against leukemia, colon cancer, and lung cancer. Cannabidiol is said to have anti-tumor characteristics in gliomas.
- Seizure management
Early studies do suggest seizure reduction in epileptic patients who have taken CBD. Aside from seizure management, CBD may increase mental alertness, improve moods, and enhance sleep. It is important to mention that possible CBD side effects are fatigue and drowsiness. More in-depth studies are needed to improve the quality of life of seizure sufferers. Likewise, the cannabidiol industry will gain from further studies of CBD benefits for epileptic patients.
Cannabidiol: New Perspective
It is no longer about getting a buzz or getting high from cannabis. Cannabidiol, a component of marijuana, has medicinal properties. Much research still needs to be done to understand and employ the benefits of cannabidiol fully.
The future is bright for companies looking to harness the power of CBD for patients suffering from various illnesses. For more accurate details on what the cannabidiol industry has on its sleeves for healthcare, you can consult the experts on the matter.