Since Congress passed the 2018 Agricultural Act, legalizing hemp and hemp-derived products, CBD has become a household word. People all over the country have begun using CBD oil for various reasons. Perhaps you’re CBD-curious but aren’t sure if the compound can help in your case. This article will give you a brief rundown of CBD oil benefits so you can decide if you want to include CBD products in your healthy lifestyle.
CBD Oil Benefits for Mental Health
Before discussing CBD oil’s mental health benefits, we should clarify that CBD products aren’t a substitute for professional medical treatment. However, CBD can be a helpful addition to conventional psychotherapy.
CBD May Help Reduce Stress
Even before the pandemic and Ukraine war came on the scene, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimated that over 301 million people around the world live with a diagnosed anxiety disorder and another 280 million struggle with depression. Fortunately, research has shown that cannabidiol (CBD) has tremendous potential for promoting a positive mental outlook.
CBD Has Proven Anxiolytic Properties
As early as 2010, a study published in the peer-reviewed Journal of Psychopharmacology concluded that CBD significantly reduced anxiety in a double-blind study. CBD works in several ways to induce calming effects. First, CBD interacts with 5-HT1A receptors, stimulating the body to produce more serotonin. CBD also calms the amygdala, a part of the brain involved in the release of cortisol during fear-inducing situations. Additionally, CBD increases anandamide levels. Anandamide is an endocannabinoid that plays a key role in the euphoric feelings athletes get after vigorous exercise.
CBD Protects Neurons
Despite outdated propaganda, CBD and other cannabinoids actually help protect brain cells. CBD is a potent antioxidant that’s 30-50% more powerful than vitamin C, and the compound reduces the inflammatory cytokines involved in neurodegenerative disorders. CBD is so effective at reducing inflammation and oxidative stress that researchers are considering CBD as a potential treatment for a host of neurological conditions, such as ALS, Multiple Sclerosis, Alzheimer’s, Huntington’s, and Parkinson’s diseases.
CBD Oil Benefits for Physical Fitness
CBD Can Reduce Aches and Pains
Pain relief is the number one reason people seek medical cannabis and CBD products. CBD interacts with endocannabinoid receptors in the immune system, producing a profound reduction of inflammation. Since inflammation is at the root of most diseases, CBD may provide a safer alternative than opioids for chronic pain management.
CBD Alleviates Occasional Insomnia
Getting sufficient rest is essential for optimum health. Since many people have trouble sleeping due to anxiety or pain, it’s obvious how CBD can help with insomnia.
CBD Helps Maintain Healthy Skin
CBD not only promotes a healthy glow, but the compound has shown promise in treating acne and inflammatory skin disorders. CBD interacts with endocannabinoid receptors in the skin’s immune cells, nerve endings, hair follicles, and sweat glands.
While CBD may offer these benefits and many more, we recommend speaking with a trusted physician before adding CBD oil to your daily routine. CBD interacts with some prescription drugs and isn’t suitable for people with certain conditions. This article is meant for educational purposes only.