Because we all struggle with something, we’re always on the lookout for a cure-all, magical solution. Unfortunately, those don’t exist. Yet, considering the immense health benefits of CBD, it seems that this particular natural remedy comes really close.
CBD is one of many active compounds of the Cannabis Sativa plant. It doesn’t produce the ever-so-popular high that THC does. Still, it does help boost our natural endocannabinoid system, thus providing relief for many ailments.
Pain Relief
One of the main health benefits of CBD is pain relief and management. This can potentially be beneficial to everyone. We can use CBD oil for migraines & headaches, muscle soreness or as an after-workout pick-me-up.
Because CBD interacts and boosts our body’s natural endocannabinoid system (ECS), it provides pain relief. ECS is a neural network that is in charge of specific receptors that bind or release cannabinoids. These cannabinoids, along with the rest of our endocrine system, manage our higher cortical functions, regulate our bodies, manage pain, inflammation, mood, etc.
Consider the implications of this. People with severe conditions and diseases that come with chronic, life-changing pain often seek alternative pain relief options. Opioids work great, but they are addictive, and people quickly develop a tolerance.
Unlike those, CBD is an entirely natural, side-effect-free remedy that can help manage pain.
Although CBD will manage all types of pain, it’s most beneficial for people with chronic pain due to:
- arthritis (and rheumatoid arthritis)
- severe muscle or spinal cord injuries
- autoimmune diseases and motor diseases (MS, lupus, ALS)
Inflammation
If our bodies are harmed in any way (or our brains perceive them as such), the body’s natural response is inflammation. Our immune systems release immune cells to whatever area is harmed in order to protect it. Due to this, the area in question becomes red and swollen.
Inflammation usually means our body is doing its job. But when it’s chronic, it becomes a problem. Also, if the inflammation is prolonged without any need, it can damage our tissues.
CBD has anti-inflammatory properties. That means it can boost the ECS and make our bodies reduce the immune system’s response, thus effectively diminishing inflammation of tissue and nerves.
Depression and Anxiety
Another of the fantastic health benefits of CBD is that it can affect our mood. We’re talking both short-term and long. That’s why CBD is an effective remedy for mood disorders.
CBD interacts with specific receptors in our brains. These receptors (CB1 and CB2) are vital parts of both our central and peripheral nervous systems. CBD interacts with them, thus influencing serotonin levels (among other things).
Serotonin, the hormone of happiness, is responsible for reducing anxiety and depression. Most mood disorders go hand in hand with low serotonin levels, which is why their treatment is often focused on getting and keeping those levels up.
CBD boosts the production and release of this and other neurotransmitters. So, it effectively deals with stress, depression, and all forms of anxiety (PTSD, general anxiety, panic attacks, etc.).
Cancer Treatment Relief
Although the jury is still out on whether CBD can alleviate cancer symptoms, it can definitely help with the side-effects of treatment. Pain and inflammation, which we already mentioned, as well as low energy and nausea that are common side-effects of chemotherapy and other forms of cancer treatments, aren’t as pronounced when a person uses CBD.
There are also some studies that are trying to figure out if CBD can contribute to cell death of cancerous cells. Although the studies haven’t reached human-trial proportions yet, the preliminary results look promising.
Neuroprotective Properties
Similarly to the studies about cancer cell death, the ones that are researching neuroprotective properties of CBD are still in their infancy.
Because CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, it might lend a helping hand with treating specific neurological disorders. Its benefits for patients with epilepsy have already been proven and documented, but researchers believe that CBD can also help with:
- Alzheimer’s
- Parkinson’s
- MS
Studies done so far show that CBD can potentially diminish specific symptoms such as seizures, spasms, and neurodegeneration.
Read more: Best CBD Brands for Autism
A Few Parting Words
Overall, there are plenty of health benefits of CBD. This natural remedy is a low-risk, high-reward substance. It doesn’t have any toxic or addictive properties. That’s precisely why many people turn to it while seeking relief. There’s veeary little harm in trying, and the potential benefits are substantial.