CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound found in the cannabis plant that is gaining popularity as a natural remedy for a variety of health issues. Unlike its cousin THC, CBD does not produce the “high” associated with marijuana use, making it a more appealing option for those looking to alleviate pain, anxiety, and other symptoms without the psychoactive effects.
One of the most promising areas of research for CBD is in the treatment of anxiety disorders. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology Review found that CBD can help reduce symptoms of conditions such as PTSD, social anxiety disorder, and OCD. In a small study of patients with social anxiety disorder published in the Brazilian Journal of Psychiatry, CBD oil was found to significantly reduce anxiety and improve overall quality of life.
CBD has also been found to be effective in treating pain, especially chronic pain. A study published in the European Journal of Pain found that CBD was able to reduce chronic pain in patients with conditions such as fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis. Another study published in the Journal of Pain found that CBD gel applied to the skin was effective in reducing pain and inflammation in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee.
CBD may also have potential as a treatment for addiction. A study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry found that CBD helped reduce cravings and anxiety in people trying to quit smoking cigarettes. Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology found that CBD may be helpful in treating addiction to opioids and other drugs.
Despite its growing popularity, more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of CBD. As with any supplement, it’s important to talk to your doctor before starting to use CBD, especially if you’re taking other medications or have pre-existing health conditions.
In conclusion, CBD is becoming a popular natural remedy for a variety of health issues, particularly anxiety, pain and addiction. Studies have shown that CBD can help reduce symptoms of conditions such as PTSD, social anxiety disorder, fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, and addiction. However, more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of using CBD. It’s important to talk to your doctor before starting to use CBD, especially if you’re taking other medications or have pre-existing health conditions.
References:
- Bergamaschi, M. M., Queiroz, R. H., Chagas, M. H., de Oliveira, D. C., De Martinis, B. S., Kapczinski, F., . . . Crippa, J. A. (2011). Safety and side effects of cannabidiol, a Cannabis sativa constituent. Current Drug Safety, 6(4), 237-249.
- Crippa, J. A., Derenusson, G. N., Ferrari, T. B., Wichert-Ana, L., Duran, F. L., Martin-Santos, R., … & Silva, A. C. (2011). Neural basis of anxiolytic effects of cannabidiol (CBD) in generalized social anxiety disorder: a preliminary report. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 72(6), 1079-1083.
- ElBatsh, M. M., Assaf, M. H., Elsohly, M. A., & Ross, S. A. (2018). Cannabidiol as a potential treatment for anxiety disorders. Neurotherapeutics, 15(4), 757-771.
- Kozela, E., Lev, N., Kaushansky, N., Eilam, R., Rimmerman, N., Levy, R., . . . Vogel