CBD, also known as cannabidiol, is one of the main cannabinoids extracted from the cannabis sativa plant. It’s available in many forms, such as capsules, gummies, creams, and, perhaps most famously, tinctures. More than half the Americans who use cannabis say that they prefer it in its tincture form. With growing interest in CBD, more research is being done on this compound to reveal its medicinal properties. Here, we will look at the science-backed benefits of CBD tinctures and how it might be used for several health conditions.
For Pain
CBD is proving to be an effective treatment for chronic pain. Research shows that it may alleviate pain by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system and reducing inflammation. Other studies suggest it may help reduce certain types of pain, such as MS-related neuropathic pain. There is even an oral spray for MS patients called Sativex, which is equal parts CBD and THC. The UK and Canada have approved this medication. The US is also embracing CBD for its pain-relieving potential. Just recently, Rhode Island became the 19th state to legalize cannabis.
For Epilepsy
CBD is famous in the medical world for its anti-seizure properties. Epidiolex is a CBD-based medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for rare types of epilepsy, such as Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, in patients older than two years old. Research shows this drug’s efficiency in reducing the frequency and severity of epileptic seizures compared to a placebo. Current studies focus on the best dosage of CBD for this group of patients.
For Anxiety
Some studies suggest that CBD tinctures may also help with anxiety and depression. The calming effect of CBD is related to its ability to change your brain’s response to serotonin. A 2017 study evaluated the effects of different concentrations of CBD on a group of people who were about to give public speeches. The study showed that those receiving 300 milligrams of CBD were significantly less anxious than other groups. CBD may also relieve anxiety by reducing its physiological effects and improving sleep quality.
For PTSD
CBD tinctures may also be a natural remedy alongside therapy for those with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Scientists tested this in a study on PTSD patients. The results showed a decrease in the severity of symptoms without any side effects. Other studies also point to CBD’s potential in alleviating PTSD. However, those studies used THC and its benefits in combination with CBD to create the entourage effect and maximize the efficiency of the cannabinoids.
For Neurological Diseases
The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of CBD tinctures may provide a neuroprotective effect. Multiple studies have examined the effects of CBD on neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Huntington’s, and cerebral ischemia. They all showed promising results with excellent safety and tolerability among patients. With further clinical studies, CBD can be a powerful pharmacological tool against these diseases.
For Cancer
CBD has also shown promise for cancer treatment and management. A number of studies suggest that it can stop some tumor cells from reproducing while lowering the inflammation that leads to cancer. Not only that, but CBD tinctures can help manage the side effects of chemotherapy in cancer patients. Numerous people have reported less nausea and vomiting upon using CBD, and scientific research backs these claims up.
For Arthritis
CBD may also be able to reduce the symptoms of arthritis. This condition involves pain and stiffness around the joints and loss of motion. A controlled study in 2006 tested the effects of Sativex on arthritic patients. It found that the CBD-based medication reduced pain and improved sleep quality compared to a placebo. More recent studies found promising results of CBD’s efficiency in relieving pain in people with osteoarthritis.
For Addiction Recovery
Studies show that CBD tinctures extracted from different strains of cannabis have the potential to help those recovering from opioid addictions. One theory for this, is that CBD may affect the areas of the brain involved in addiction. One study examined the effects of CBD on heroin addicts and found that after one week, participants had significantly fewer cue-induced cravings. Other studies show that CBD can help alleviate withdrawal symptoms in recovering addicts, such as anxiety, pain, and sleep disorders. With more conclusive research and clinical trials, CBD may soon become a helpful tool in battling substance abuse.
For Diabetes
Research suggests that CBD could be a natural remedy for diabetes by regulating the body’s insulin-related hormone levels. One study found that CBD can help prevent type 2 diabetes by lowering the effects of high glucose levels on other cells. In another study, scientists administered CBD to diabetic patients who weren’t receiving insulin treatments. They found that CBD helped balance the levels of resistin and glucose-dependent insulinotropic hormones. These hormones contribute to the regular release of insulin and normal blood sugar levels.
For Cardiac Health
Studies link CBD tinctures with improved heart health due to the compound’s ability to lower high blood pressure. One study tested CBD tinctures on several healthy participants and found a reduction in resting blood pressure compared to the placebo group. Another study found that after one week of CBD treatment, participants experienced a significant lowering of blood pressure and maintained it in response to stress. These results might improve cardiac health since high blood pressure can lead to heart attacks and strokes.
For Skin Conditions
Lastly, CBD may be able to improve several skin conditions, such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and itchy skin. CBD tincture’s strong anti-inflammatory properties also make it effective against acne. Some studies also point to CBD’s other anti-acne characteristics, like its ability to restrict activity in subcutaneous glands that can cause pimples. With further research, CBD might be beneficial for more skin conditions.
Embrace CBD Tinctures for Their Benefits
CBD tinctures have so much potential to help you with different health problems. However, the FDA has not yet approved them for all of these medical conditions. Until it does, you should practice caution when using cannabis products. Consult your doctor if you want to try CBD tinctures for specific illnesses and buy from reputable brands. Stay safe and up your wellness game with CBD tinctures!
