CBD, also known as cannabidiol, derives from the hemp plant. Although CBD can also be found in marijuana, it’s not the key ingredient that gets you “high”. Currently, the oil is growing in popularity, but what exactly does CBD do? Below we separate the fact from fiction on this wonder supplement and discuss what CBD can do for you.
CBD and anxiety
Many people swear by CBD Oil to help with their anxiety. One study even suggests that CBD can change the way your receptors in the brain respond to serotonin, which is a chemical that boosts your mood and mental health. If this is the case, then in theory CBD oil could have an effect on stress and anxiety levels. However, no official study has claimed that this is correct.
CBD and seizures
There have been reports that CBD can be used as treatment for those who suffer from epilepsy. A study conducted in 2016 found that from over 200 people who had 10mg of CBD oil a day, nearly 40% reported that they had fewer seizures per month. Although nearly half reported that the oil helped their condition, 60% of participants noted no change to their epilepsy seizures from taking CBD oil. No official study has concluded that CBD will work for those who suffer from seizures, so always consult your doctor before trying CBD oil as a supplement.
CBD and neurodegenerative disorders
Neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease, MS, and Parkinson’s disease, cause brain function to decrease over time. Depending on their severity, the amount of time degeneration takes can be between months and years. There are studies taking place in the UK and the US to report on the effectiveness of CBD on brain function.
CBD and pain relief
There are current studies being conducted by the National Institutes of Health to confirm whether CBD can be used medically for the likes of pain relating to arthritis, muscle aches and other afflictions. For the time being, however, we’re still very much in the dark on this.
CBD can help with heart health
A 2017 study has shown that CBD can aid in lowering blood pressure and alleviating hypertension in certain people. However, you should consult your doctor before using CBD as a supplement alongside your current treatment plan, as this isn’t confirmed by the NHS or other leading health facilities.
So, what does CBD Oil do?
As CBD oil is still relatively new to the UK market, there are studies being conducted on its role within our bodies when we take it as a supplement. CBD interacts with the receptors in our body and is non-intoxicating unlike THC, another chemical compound found in marijuana. Until we have an official answer from conclusive studies, we can only trial and error on a personal basis what CBD oil can do for us.