CBD Oil
CBD oil is on the rise – but what is it? And what can it do for you?
CBD oil is a natural remedy that is growing in popularity, entering the mainstream in a big way over the past few years. Recommended for a wide range of ailments, there is some confusion as to the nature of this cannabis extract – particularly whether its effects are in any way psychoactive. The short answer is no. The health and wellness benefits of CBD oil are derived from cannabidiol – just one of the many chemical compounds or cannabinoids found in the marijuana plant. Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the cannabinoid behind the mind-altering ‘high’ of marijuana use. Its absence from CBD oil makes it non-psychoactive – and legal for sale in the UK.
Pain relief
Pain relief is the most commonly cited benefit of CBD oil. Marajuana products have been used to alleviate pain for millennia, although the technology required to remove the psychoactive element is new. CBD has been found to minimise inflammation and to interfere with neurotransmitters to the point where it can relieve sciatic pain, arthritic pain and even provide an anaesthetising effect. When combined with THC, CBD has been used to relieve serious arthritis-related pain and some of the symptoms of multiple sclerosis. Pain levels, mobility and muscle spasms all improved in one MS treatment study, although further research is required. The legality of THC, however, even in trace amounts, is a complication when it comes to cannabinoid pain relief.
Anxiety and depression
Did you know depression has been ranked the single most debilitating condition worldwide? The WHO (World Health Organisation) has cited depression as the biggest factor in worldwide disability – an extraordinary statistic. Alongside medical treatment, complementary holistic therapies are rapidly growing in popularity and CBD oil is among the most effective. Studies involving both animals and humans have indicated CBD can reduce depression (and anxiety) symptoms by acting on the brain’s serotonin receptors. A potential improvement in mood regulation can be achieved naturally with CBD with no nausea, insomnia or sexual-dysfunction, and – importantly – it can be given to young people and children. CBD has even been used (particularly in young people) to ease the symptoms of PTSD – but research is ongoing.
Anti-acne?
Unexpectedly, CBD oil could be a powerful anti-acne treatment. Researchers are increasingly convinced the anti-inflammatory properties of CBD could not only help to reduce symptomatic acne, but minimise sebum production. Acne is caused when sebaceous glands in the skin are over-active, resulting in clogged pores and follicles which become inflamed. Once this cycle is underway it can be difficult to bring it under control without antibiotics or powerful, often contentious, medication. CBD oil – naturally derived and side-effect free – has been shown to exert some control over sebaceous glands and to prevent the production of inflammatory agents like cytokines. Again, while studies have yielded positive results, more research is required to properly harness the anti-inflammatory properties of CBD oil.