CBD, or cannabidiol, is the non-psychoactive compound derived from marijuana, and it has shown promise as a treatment for a variety of health conditions. It can help relieve pain, reduce stress, and improve sleep quality.
CBD binds to the cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2, which are responsible for controlling many aspects of our body’s internal and external functions. This includes controlling sleep, appetite, memory, mood, and anxiety.
It also binds to the receptors that control our immune system, helping it function more effectively. This is helpful in treating diseases like lupus and psoriasis, as well as preventing and reversing inflammation caused by allergies or infections.
In addition, CBD can help reduce anxiety and depression by affecting serotonin, a brain chemical that helps regulate our moods. This can be especially useful for PTSD and chronic anxiety disorders.
This is because a lack of serotonin can cause a wide range of problems, including panic attacks, insomnia, and irritability. The serotonin in CBD mimics this chemical to treat these conditions naturally, without the side effects of antidepressants.
While CBD is a safe, natural option for mental health conditions, it should be used with caution. It is known to interact with certain medications, such as opioid painkillers, benzodiazepine sedatives, and immune-suppressants. These interactions can lead to potentially serious side effects, so it is important to discuss these risks and benefits with your healthcare provider before starting a new regimen of CBD.
Although there are a few studies showing that CBD can improve blood pressure, the results haven’t been rigorous enough to say that it can help lower your risk for heart disease or stroke. However, it may be worth a try for people with high blood pressure who haven’t had any other treatment options.
It is also important to talk with your doctor before using CBD if you have any medical conditions, CBD such as cancer or diabetes. Some of these conditions can increase the risks of CBD’s side effects, such as drowsiness or dizziness.
A small study suggests that CBD may help treat chronic pain, though more research is needed to confirm this claim. Some studies show that it may improve pain due to rheumatoid arthritis, while other research indicates it may reduce pain from other conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
This is because CBD can inhibit the production of cytokines, which are chemicals that play a role in the immune system. Taking a low dose of CBD can help keep the body’s immune system working at its best, which can reduce the risk of many diseases, such as cancer and diabetes.
CBD can also increase the activity of a protein called nitric oxide, which is known to have an anti-inflammatory effect on the body. This can also prevent the buildup of plaque, which can cause cardiovascular problems.
While some research suggests that CBD can help fight obesity, more evidence is needed to prove this. It has been linked to reducing cravings for sugar and other foods, which can contribute to weight gain.