The basics of CBD and its effects
What is CBD?
CBD is one of the primary naturally-occurring chemical components found in cannabis. Collectively, these are known as cannabinoids. CBD, also known as cannabidiol, is surging in popularity for its ability to help ease chronic pain, aches and pains, insomnia, anxiety and a host of other common ailments. Some of the first and most notable research into CBD involved its use to address symptoms of epilepsy and seizures.
CBD products found in Washington state dispensaries is derived from cannabis, and also contains several other active compounds like THC that contribute to relief.
Is CBD Intoxicating?
CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid produced by the cannabis plant. In an isolated form or at high CBD to THC ratios, it does not cause intoxicating effects, or a ‘high’ that is associated with other high THC cannabis.
What are the effects of CBD?
Chronic Pain Relief
Many people who use CBD cannabis products are looking for a powerful alternative to over the counter painkillers. Several studies have pointed to CBD’s powerful anti-inflammatory properties, and it’s commonly used as a part of a chronic pain relief regimen.
CBD may offer an option for treating different types of chronic pain. A study from the European Journal of Pain showed, using an animal model, CBD applied on the skin could help lower pain and inflammation due to arthritis. Another study demonstrated the mechanism by which CBD inhibits inflammatory and neuropathic pain, two of the most difficult types of chronic pain to treat. - Harvard Health Publishing
Anxiety and Stress Relief
CBD also demonstrates a number of anxiety and stress-relieving effects, and is used to ease symptoms of conditions as serious as post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD.
Overall, existing preclinical evidence strongly supports the potential of CBD as a treatment for anxiety disorders. CBD exhibits a broad range of actions, relevant to multiple symptom domains, including anxiolytic, panicolytic, and anticompulsive actions, as well as a decrease in autonomic arousal, a decrease in conditioned fear expression, enhancement of fear extinction, reconsolidation blockade, and prevention of the long-term anxiogenic effects of stress. - Cannabidiol as a Potential Treatment for Anxiety Disorders
Insomnia and Sleep Difficulty Relief
With it’s powerful potential for anxiety, stress and pain relief, it’s a natural conclusion to draw that CBD may contribute to improved quality of sleep. Though few studies focus on CBD and sleep, there is promising evidence for its efficacy both in scientific review and in personal testimonials.
Overall, there is scientific research that supports the theory that there are CBD health benefits. While more research needs to be done, the use of CBD can potentially decrease your symptoms of insomnia and help you get more quality sleep. - Sleep Assocation
Use For Epileptic Disorders
CBD is increasingly used by individuals suffering from epileptic seizures. In an large body of evidence has demonstrated potentially life changing benefits in managing symptoms, decreasing seizure instances and severity.
CBD possesses affinity for multiple targets, across a range of target classes, resulting in functional modulation of neuronal excitability, relevant to the pathophysiology of many disease types, including epilepsy. - The Proposed Mechanisms of Action of CBD in Epilepsy
Use for Parkinson’s Symptoms
People experiencing difficult and painful symptoms related to Parkinson’s disease have found that cannabis and CBD can offer some much needed relief. Compelling anecdotal evidence and early scientific studies both demonstrate CBD’s potential benefits.
There was also significant improvement of sleep and pain scores. No significant adverse effects of the drug were observed. The study suggests that cannabis might have a place in the therapeutic armamentarium of PD. Larger, controlled studies are needed to verify the results. - Cannabis (medical marijuana) treatment for motor and non-motor symptoms of Parkinson disease: an open-label observational study
Where do I get CBD?
You can find cannabis-derived CBD products in licensed cannabis dispensaries like The Novel Tree Medical in Bellevue, WA. A staff of state-certified medical cannabis consultants can assist you with identifying an appropriate product, discuss dosing and frequency, and any other topics related to your unique needs.