CBD Oil- an Upcoming Natural Remedy in the Medicine Field

Updated on November 25th, 2019
CBD Oil

With an increase in research and scientific advancements, natural oils and substances have gained heightened significance. In fact, continuous studies and investigations have contributed tremendously in helping experts know the medicinal and allied benefits of such natural substances. In view of the same, one such oil that is seeing a sharp rise in its sale and usage is the CBD Oil.

CBD oil, often used as an abbreviated form of Cannabidiol oil, is actually a product that is derived from cannabis or marijuana plants. CBD is a phytocannabinoid and was discovered long back in the year 1940. It is, in fact, one of some 113 cannabinoids that are found in cannabis plants and surprisingly constitutes of a total of 40 percent of the plant’s extract.

Studies(1) that are as recent as 2019 reveal that CBD is helpful in relieving body pains in addition to helping get rid of anxiety, as well as movement disorders.

The CBD oil is manufactured by extracting the CBD substance from the marijuana plant and then mixing or diluting it with a carrier oil such as hemp seed oil, coconut oil, or olive oil.

Since using CBD is natural, there are fewer side effects as compared to drugs that are available over the counter. It may also be iterated here that natural remedies offer an integrated approach towards healing and recovery and do not harm the body in the long run.

Common problems such as indigestion, skin allergies, etc. that may be caused by consuming medicines that are not naturally made are significantly reduced and recovery is quite quick.

While additional research is doing the rounds, CBD is known to help relieve a variety of diseases such as arthritis, acute pain in the joints, head trauma, headaches, etc.

Constitution of CBD Oil

CBD oil
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The main psychoactive element found in CBD oil is Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) which is primarily responsible for an elevated sensation of the mind, commonly referred to as being ‘high’. It is the same feeling that is associated with the consumption of marijuana that gives a euphoric feeling to an individual. However, CBD is not psychoactive in nature unlike Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

In fact, it is this quality of CBD that makes this substance a viable option for those who wish to relieve various kinds of pain from the body and alleviate related symptoms without actually causing any mind-altering effects which may be adverse for the body functioning, as well as the nervous system.

Here, we delve deeper into the several amazing uses of the CBD oil, as well as how it can be used to cure a variety of bodily discomfort and aches. We also tell you about the associated side effects of the CBD oil and go a step further to distinguish between two types of oil used interchangeably, hemp seed oil and CBD oil.

[Also Read: Castor Oil Health Benefits]

Legal Status of CBD

CBD does not have any psychotropic effects that could have detrimental effects on the body. However, it does have anti-anxiety effects. As the legal world concerning the use and application of CBD unfolds, experts delve deeper into distinguishing CBD from marijuana and are trying to give CBD recognition in the field of medicine.

As far as the status with respect to the United Nations is concerned, Cannabidiol or CBD is not yet scheduled under the Convention on Psychotropic Substances or any other drug treaty of the United Nations. In fact, the World Health Organisation in the year 2018 suggested that CBD remain unscheduled for the present before further research is done in this regard.

CBD Oil Uses

Before reading about the various uses of CBD oil, it is better to know about how this oil works. All cannabinoids, including the one we are talking about, i.e. CBD produce certain types of effects in our body by being associated with several receptors present therein.

The human body is itself capable of producing certain cannabinoids. There are two receptors to deal with such cannabinoids, CB1 and CB2. While the former deals with coordination, pain, emotions, movement, appetite, thinking, memories, and other functions, the latter deals with the immune system and affects how we experience pain.

Apparently, the consumption of CBD oil directs our body to use more of its own cannabinoids, most of which are present in the brain. It is the reaction of the CBD oil with such receptors in our body that results in alleviation of pain and other such soreness.

It may not be wrong to suggest that CBD oil is soon becoming one of the most preferred oils to be used by people from all over the world who are looking to get rid of bodily pains.

Here are some of the recognized CBD oil benefits

1. CBD Oil for Pain Relief

Pain Relief
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You may be surprised to know that marijuana has been used for relieving pain and inflammation since as old as 2900 BC. It is well established that CBD has properties that induce a pain relieving effect without adversely affecting the mind.

Our human body contains a special system known as the endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system is associated with the regulation of several functions such as immune system response, sleep, pain, appetite, etc. Studies(2) reveal that CBD oil impacts the endocannabinoid receptor performance and instantly helps in the reduction of inflammation by reacting with neurotransmitters present in the body.

It is interesting to mention here that a study(3) revealed that when rats were injected with CBD, their response to pain when incised surgically was significantly less.

Several researches(4) have confirmed that those suffering from sclerosis and arthritis treated with CBD for a month showed a considerable improvement in pain. In addition, they were able to walk for long distances in addition to suffering reduced muscle spasms.

Conclusively, using CBD oil is far better as a natural alternative compared to using over-the-counter drugs and other prescribed tablets to relieve pain and stiffness in the body.

2. CBD Oil for Depression and Anxiety

depression
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It is well known that depression and stress is one of the most common mental ailments today. Improper lifestyle and increased workload have only contributed to the growth of these ailments. Even according to the World Health Organisation, depression is, in fact, the biggest contributor to disability all over the world while on the other hand, anxiety related ailments stand 6th in the list.

Usually, such ailments are often cured with pharmaceutical drugs, which unfortunately have the potential of causing a large number of side effects such as agitation, sexual dysfunction, drowsiness, headache, and several other reactions.

In fact, studies(5) reveal that the usage of certain drugs may also lead to addiction of the same and might drag a person to substance abuse.

On the contrary, CBD oil has proven to be a promising natural alternative to cure both depressions as well as anxiety and contribute positively to the lives of those affected by such diseases.

In a certain study(6), around 24 people suffering from social anxiety were made to consume 600 mg of CBD before a public speaking test. It was observed that such people were less anxious before and during their speech. In addition, their cognitive impairment, as well as discomfort, was also at a reduced level in comparison to people who hadn’t consumed the oil.

Even several animal studies(7) show that CBD oil has antidepressant effects that help relieve the body from mental disorders.

You may be astonished to know that people suffering from insomnia too can treat themselves with CDB oil. This is because CBD oil has the ability to act upon the receptors present in the brain that are majorly responsible for regulating mood and the social behavior of a person.

[Also Read: Cure Depression with Natural Remedies]

3. CBD Oil for Cancer

Here is another beneficial use of CBD oil. Consumption and application of CBD oil can help reduce cancer-related symptoms, as well as side effects of cancer treatment, such as nausea, pain, and even vomiting.

Even though there are several drugs available in the market that help relieve distressing symptoms related to cancer, CBD oil still remains a far better and much effective natural alternative to other drugs.

Research(8) reveals that when those undergoing chemotherapy were given to consume CBD oil, they showed reduced signs of nausea and related side effects. You may also find it hard to believe that a study(9) showed that CBD helped kill cells that expedited the growth of breast cancer.

Since CBD has low levels of toxicity, further researches are going on to find out how it can be used as an accompaniment to regular cancer treatments.

4. CBD Oil for Acne

cure acne
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Acne, a common skin ailment, affects more than 9 percent of the total world population. The same is known to be caused by several factors that include genetic defect, inflammation of the skin, dietary habits, bacteria, overproduction of the element sebum which is an oily secretion emanating from the sebaceous glands in the skin, etc.

Doctors suggest that CBD oil may go a long way to help treat acne since it possesses anti-inflammatory properties. Moreover, it serves as a great natural technique to get rid of skin ailments instead of opting for over-the-counter medications. CBD oil is also known to reduce the production of sebum in the skin.

In a certain study(10), it was proven that CBD oil’s consumption ensured that the pro acne agents such as inflammatory cytokines did not get activated and the skin remained comparatively less oily. In fact, it would not at all be surprising to know that CBD oil could become the future treatment for acne vulgaris, given the oil’s medicinal properties.

Although these studies seem quite promising, it might only be advantageous if more studies and research are carried out in this regard to find out how effective can CBD oil can be in curing related skin ailments.

[Also Read: Supplements That Work For Acne]

5. CBD Oil for Neurological Disorders

Researchers are of the view that CBD might have the potential to cure neurological disorders. CBD oil’s power to act on the endocannabinoid system can go a long way in curing diseases such as multiple sclerosis, as well as epilepsy. Even though researches in this area are relatively new and ongoing, the results have been quite promising so far.

A particular study(11) reveals that Sativex, an oral spray containing a mixture of CBD, as well as THC, proved as an effective measure to reduce muscle spasms in people who suffered from multiple sclerosis.

Another remarkable study(12) reveals that over 200 people suffering from severe epilepsy were made to consume 0.9 to 2.3 grams of CBD oil per pound of their body weight. It was found out that their seizures came down by a median of 36.5 percent.

However, it may not be out of place to mention here that certain people in such studies also experienced some adverse reactions, as well resulting from CBD consumption. These included diarrhea, fever, and even convulsions.

Reference may also be made to another startling study(13) that was published in the Current Pharmaceutical Design, wherein it was found out that CBD produces an effect which is quite similar to that produced by antipsychotic drugs. It was also said that the compound may provide quite an effective and safe treatment for persons suffering from schizophrenia.

Researchers have also gone a step ahead in order to find out the effectiveness of the CBD oil while treating other neurological diseases. They found that a great benefit of CBD oil was that it helped improve the quality of sleep of people suffering from anxiety or even a disease as serious as Parkinson’s.

6. CBD as Appetite Stimulant

As per reports of the National Cancer Institute, consumption of CBD oil does stimulate appetite, as it is quite vital to a healthy body, more so when the body is recovering from a serious ailment. For patients who do not feel hungry or find it difficult to digest food items easily, CBD oil can be quite helpful by increasing and improving the digestive system of the body.

7. CBD Oil for Heart Health

Heart Health benefits
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Consumption of CBD oil helps reduce the blood pressure rate in addition to benefiting the circulatory system, as well as the heart. Great use of CBD oil is that it helps prevent fatal conditions such as heart attacks and even metabolic syndrome.

Highlighting the effect of CBD oil, a certain study(14) found out that persons who were given a certain dosage of CBD oil showed a reduced blood pressure in comparison to those who were fed with placebo. Since CBD oil is known for reducing stress levels in the body, they also control the blood pressure, consequently.

Even tests on animals show that CBD oil prevents inflammation, as well as cell death that is directly associated with heart disease owing to its amazing stress reducing, as well as antioxidant properties.

8. CBD Oil for Diabetes

diabetes type 2

Millions of people all across the globe either suffer from diabetes or know at least someone who is suffering from the disease. Speaking specifically about type 1 diabetes, it is a form of the disease that can happen to any person irrespective of age, race, size, and shape.

In this type of diabetes, the body stops producing insulin and carbohydrates consumed are broken down into blood sugar which is used for energy.

Type 1 diabetes results from the inflammation that is caused when the immune system directly invades and attacks the cells located in the pancreas of the body.

Interestingly and quite fortunately, CBD oil can be extremely helpful in giving relief from diabetes.

Research(15) as recent as 2016 conducted by the Clinical Hemorheology and Microcirculation show that CBD eases the inflammation that occurs in the pancreas, which is crucial for the treatment of Type 1 diabetes. In fact, another research paper presented in Portugal back in 2016 states that CBD oil can delay the onset of diabetes in the body.

9. Helps Delay the Introduction of Alzheimer’s

Studies published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease show that consumption of CBD oil has the ability to delay the introduction of Alzheimer’s disease in the body by continuing to help people recognize faces of those that they already know.

Even though it would be dubious to suggest any conformity in this regard, an initial set of evidence do provide meaningful insight into how beneficial CBD oil could be for such patients.

10. Reduces the Rate of Smoking and Induces Drug Withdrawal

quit smoking
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There is promising and detailed evidence that goes on to show that CBD oil may help people to reduce and subsequently quit smoking.

A study(16) that was published in Addictive Behaviors showed that smokers who took CBD dosage in the form of inhalers containing the component smoked a fewer number of cigarettes as compared to usual and even had to a future craving for nicotine.

As of today, it is quite well known that CBD helps reduce symptoms that are related to disorders arising from substance abuse. Ranging from anxiety to pain to even mood-related symptoms, CBD can help control all of them. CBD modified the circuits located in the brain and prevents addiction of drugs.

11. Aids in Preventing Epilepsy

It is to be noted that the FDA has finally approved the use of CBD(Epidiolex) as a treatment for two of the rare conditions occurring by epileptic seizures in 2018.

Today, a doctor in the USA can prescribe Epidiolex to treat the following kinds of epilepsies:

  • Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS), a disorder that occurs to persons ranging between the age of 3-5 years and includes various kinds of seizures.
  • Dravet syndrome (DS), a condition that is genetic and rare and appears in the very first year of a person’s life. It involves frequent and fever-related seizures.

The dosage is determined by the physician or pharmacist according to the body weight of the person.

CBD Oil Side Effects

More often than not, there is usually a lack of evidence with respect to the safety of any new alternative option of treatment. Even in the case of CBD oil, there are no confirmed side effects of the substance when consumed in the form of oil or otherwise.

Anyone who is planning to make use of CBD should definitely visit a certified healthcare professional and inquire about the possibilities of consumption with respect to the ailment suffered.

The most common side effects of CBD oil that appear prima facie are dizziness, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, anxiety, changes in mood, and dry mouth. The use of CBD oil may also restrict the body’s ability to metabolize particular drugs making them stay longer in the body than they usually do.

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding are especially advised to restrict the use of CBD oil so as to avoid any chances of harm. As it goes, it is better to err on the side of caution than to invite danger.

For instance, in a certain study(17), it was seen that children who suffered from refractory epilepsy treated with CBD showed signs of an increased occurrence of seizures, indigestion, drowsiness, as well as irritability.

CBD Oil Dosage

Side Effects of CBD oil
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Well, knowing the correct dosage of the oil is of prime importance. Since CBD oil products are mostly unregulated, there is hardly any guarantee about the given product with respect to its levels of safety and the quantum of CBD involved therein.

It would be best if the person using CBD confirmed the credibility of the product with certified medical departments/physicians before use to prevent any potential harm and danger.

There are several important factors that need to be considered while determining the correct dosage of CBD oil. These include:

  • The concentration of CBD oil mixed with the carrier oil such as coconut oil, etc.
  • The body weight of the person who is to consume the CBD oil.
  • The body chemistry of the person, depending on the facts and circumstances of each case.
  • The severity or seriousness of the condition that is sought to be treated with the CBD oil.

It is to be understood that there is no ‘one size fits all’ dosage when it comes to consuming CBD oil.

Follow the below-mentioned rules while you go ahead and decide the dosage of CBD oil.

  • A good rule of thumb is to consume around 1-6 mg of CBD oil for every 10 pounds of body weight, as well as depending on the pain experienced by the individual.
  • Start with small dosages of the substance and increase gradually. Since each body reacts to different substances differently, it is important that you do not follow suit and consume the same dosage as your peers without weighing its pros and cons.
  • In case you feel that you are experiencing some sort of trouble or side effects such as nausea, etc. after consuming the CBD oil, rush to your nearest doctor and seek medical help. Do not try to treat yourself at home for it may only worsen the situation.

Types of CBD Oil Products

As the CBD oil market continues to flourish and serve people a type of natural remedy to alleviate different kinds of bodily pains, more and more products containing the substance continue to flood the medical markets and health stores.

These days, CBD oils are available in a variety of forms; some of the most common ones of which are given below:

Oils

CBD oils are truly the most unprocessed and potent form of the substance. CBD oil is extracted from the flowers, seeds, and the stalks of the plant and thus contains all compounds that are found naturally in the plant itself.

You can purchase CBD oil from the nearest health store. The same is available along with a dropper for easy consumption. Just use the dropper to ingest the CBD oil by simply placing the substance under the tongue and swallowing it after you let it sit for around 15 seconds on it.

Tinctures

Tinctures are yet another common way to consume CBD since they help you gauge the exact amount of cannabidiol you are consuming. A tincture is most commonly extracted with solvents such as alcohol. It is quite possible that manufacturers use carrier oils and natural flavors or even certain types of fatty oils to prepare the tincture.

Capsules

CBD Oil Capsules
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Just like you consume any other type of capsule, even CBD capsule can be consumed with water. Even though it is a convenient and conventional way to consume medicine, it contains only a small amount of dose. Usually, a capsule of CBD contains around 10-25 mg of the substance.

Concentrates

CBD concentrates are consumed sublingually that is by placing the drops under your tongue and swallowing it thereafter, just like it is done in the case of tinctures. However, it is relevant to mention here that the concentration of CBD in such doses is quite strong as compared to other forms.

Such high potency can be quite a risk for beginners. In case you have just started to consume CBD, it is highly recommended that you consume a smaller portion of the oil and see how your body reacts to the substance before jumping to high dosage.

Edibles

The CBD oil market is trying every possible way to make the oil accessible to the masses by mixing them in a variety of food items. These days, edibles such as coffees, baked goods, confectionaries, chocolates, candies, and even chewing gums containing CBD are becoming popular.

Although these edibles are simple to consume, it may be quite difficult to determine the exact dosage of CBD which a person is ingesting by consuming these edibles.

Topical Solutions

For those who are looking to reduce their body pain and also the discomfort associated with it without orally consuming CBD oil, you can try topical solutions that are included in products such as lotions, lip balms, and salves.

These topical solutions are meant to help nourish the skin and improve joint and muscle health by getting absorbed in the skin through the dermal layers on the body. You can also avail CBD patches that allow the substance to directly enter your bloodstream.

Powders

CBD oil can also be found in powders which can further be mixed with water, juice, tea, or other beverages such as smoothies and juices. Make sure to buy the highest quality CBD powder so that you can extract the maximum benefit from your drink.

CBD Sprays

CBD concentration in sprays is quite low when compared to the options mentioned above. You can read the label for the exact dosage. However, generally, spraying the substance 2-3 times in your mouth can be a decent dose.

Vape Oil

Using the vape oil requires a vape pen or an e-cigarette that can, of course, have side effects when heated till the oil reaches high temperatures. You can also purchase CBD waxes which require less heating as compared to vape oil. However, beginners are recommended to stick to the above-mentioned modes of consuming CBD oil since vape oil and wax are usually highly concentrated with CBD.

Precautions

Since the CBD market is fairly new, we thought it would be just and proper to mention a few tips that you might utilize while purchasing CBD oil from the market.

  • While making a purchase, make sure that you read the label to find out the total quantity of the CBD oil that every bottle contains. Since CBD products largely vary in terms of potency, it is a must that you find out how much CBD is available in a single drop so as to consume the right dosage.
  • You can also inquire about the method of extraction of the CBD oil, i.e., whether it is solvent based or not and which solvent has been used to prepare the oil.
  • Independent or third-party testing may be a good idea as well. It helps you form a strong opinion about the quality, as well as the safety of the oil that you are consuming.
  • While buying CBD oil in the form of edibles, make sure that you check the quantum of oil that is included in such food items so as to be sure of the dosage that you are consuming.
  • Ask the seller if the CBD oil is isolated or whether it is full spectrum oil. It may be mentioned here that full spectrum oil has more nutrients and is more potent as compared to the isolate form.
  • Ensure that you check the ratio of CBD and THC present in the product. In case you are looking for a product that produces no mind-altering or euphoric effects, purchase the one that strictly thc free cbd oil.
  • Individuals must realize that certain people are way more sensitive to cannabis compounds as compared to the rest. It is, therefore, in your best interest that you start by consuming a small dosage and work your way up the ladder very gradually.
  • Buy CBD oil that has a certificate of analysis attached to the product. This means that the manufacturer has tested the product and has ensured that the oil meets lab standards before it is sold in the market.

Hemp Oil vs CBD Oil: Is There a Difference?

You may sometimes notice that certain CBD products are manufactured using hemp oil and wonder if there is a difference between CBD oil as well as hemp oil?

Well, both hemp and cannabis come from the species of Cannabis sativa. However, what differentiates the two is the amount of THC present in the plant.

Before we delve deeper to distinguish hemp oil from CBD oil, it would be relevant to mention a few details about hemp oil and its uses.

Hemp oil, also commonly known as hemp seed oil is extracted from hemp seeds that come from the hemp plant. The method of extraction is somewhat identical to how coconut or olive oil is obtained. It contains an extremely low amount or even negligible amount of THC that ranges from 5-35 percent. You can use hemp oil owing to its low THC levels that ensure that you do not experience any euphoric effect after its consumption.

Hemp oil contains a variety of vitamins such as vitamin E, B, B1, as well as B2. Apart from vitamins, elements such as magnesium, potassium, fatty acids like omega 6 and omega 3 are also included in it in addition to being quite rich in antioxidants and even protein.

It is because of this reason that hemp oil is usually added to various food items. It is also added in cosmetics and products of daily use such as soaps, lotions, shampoos, and other cosmetic products. Hemp oil can also be found in other industrial products such as plastics, paint, lubrication, dressings, and even biodiesel fuel.

Uses of Hemp Oil:

  • According to studies(18), hemp oil improves heart health, as well as reduces signs of aging.
  • Hemp oil also improves the quality of the skin by increasing the elasticity of the skin and increasing its water retention capacity.
  • Hemp oil also goes a long way in ensuring that your skin, nails, and your hair remain hydrated, thus helping them become stronger and healthier.
  • Hemp oil also reduces cholesterol levels and increases the rate of metabolism that helps you burn fat at a faster rate than usual rather than being deposited on the walls of the arteries present in your body.
  • You might be surprised to know that hemp oil is also beneficial for your neurological health and assists in keeping your nerves and bones strong.
  • A special element called gamma linoleic acid that is found in this oil helps to fight psoriasis that affects millions of people around the world.

Now that you have ample information about hemp oil and its astonishing uses, let us know about the difference between hemp oil and CBD oil from the table below:

Basis Hemp oil CBD oil
Origin Hemp oil is produced from the seeds of the plant called hemp plant; just like how almond oil or olive oil is produced. CBD oil is produced from the leaves, stalks, and flowers of the cannabis plant.
THC count Hemp oil contains THC in extremely small portions or even negligible amounts. CBD oil does contain THC, however, the quantum of the same is quite small so as to not produce any harmful effect.
Uses Hemp oil is generally used as an ingredient in food items and also as an industrial product. CBD oil is primarily used as a medicine that is used to relieve bodily pains and solve neurological disorders in the body in addition to curing other serious ailments.

Researches with respect to the potential health benefits of the CBD oil are soon gaining momentum in the field of health and wellness. Each year, several studies are published with regards to the potential scope of CBD and its available forms.

So far, the results that have been obtained from the numerous studies already conducted and published by reputed journals all across the worlds reveal that CBD is the future of natural medicine. The amazing qualities that the element possesses can go a long way in ensuring the health of individuals if used in a controlled and regulated manner.

Even though there is much to be learned about the safety, as well as the efficacy of the substance, it may be safely and quite convincingly concluded that CBD has far-reaching benefits as a natural remedy that has the ability to cure several serious diseases affecting the human body.

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