Cannabidiol is a popular natural remedy used for many common ailments.
Better known as CBD, it is one of over 100 chemical compounds known as cannabinoids found in the cannabis or marijuana plant, Cannabis sativa.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the main psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis and causes the “getting high” feeling often associated with marijuana. However, unlike THC, CBD is not psychoactive.
This quality makes CBD an attractive option for those seeking relief from pain and other symptoms without the mind-altering effects of marijuana or certain pharmaceutical drugs.
CBD oil is made by extracting CBD from the cannabis plant and then diluting it with a carrier oil, such as coconut or hemp seed oil.
It’s gaining traction in the health and wellness world, with some scientific studies confirming that it can relieve symptoms of conditions such as chronic pain and anxiety.
Here are seven health benefits of CBD oil that are supported by scientific evidence.
CBD oil can relieve pain
More recently, scientists have discovered that certain components of marijuana, including CBD, are responsible for its pain-relieving effects.
The human body contains a specialized system called the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is involved in regulating a variety of functions, including sleep, appetite, pain, and immune system response.
The body produces endocannabinoids, which are neurotransmitters that bind to cannabinoid receptors in your nervous system.
Studies have shown that CBD can help reduce chronic pain by impacting endocannabinoid receptor activity, reducing inflammation, and interacting with neurotransmitters.
For example, one study in rats found that CBD injections reduced the pain response to surgical incision, while another study in mice found that oral CBD treatment significantly reduced sciatic nerve pain and inflammation.
Several human studies have found that a combination of CBD and THC is effective in treating pain related to multiple sclerosis and arthritis.
An oral spray called Sativex, which is a combination of THC and CBD, is approved in several countries to treat pain related to multiple sclerosis.
CBD oil can reduce anxiety and depression
Anxiety and depression are common mental disorders that can have devastating impacts on health and well-being.
According to the World Health Organization, depression is the largest single contributor to disability worldwide, while anxiety disorders rank sixth.
Anxiety and depression are usually treated with medications, which can cause various side effects, including drowsiness, restlessness, insomnia, sexual dysfunction, and headache.
CBD oil can relieve cancer-related symptoms
CBD may help reduce cancer-related symptoms and side effects related to cancer treatment, such as nausea, vomiting, and pain.
One study evaluated the effects of CBD and THC on 177 people with cancer-related pain who experienced no relief with painkillers.
Those treated with an extract containing both compounds experienced a significant reduction in pain compared to those who received only THC extract.
CBD may also help reduce chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, which are among the most common chemotherapy-related side effects for people with cancer.
CBD oil can reduce acne
Acne is a common skin disease that affects more than 9% of the population.
It is believed to be caused by several factors, including genetics, bacteria, underlying inflammation, and the overproduction of sebum, an oily secretion produced by the sebaceous glands in the skin.
Based on recent scientific studies, CBD oil may help treat acne due to its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to reduce sebum production.
One test tube study found that CBD oil prevented sebaceous gland cells from secreting excessive sebum, exerted anti-inflammatory actions, and prevented the activation of “pro-acne” agents such as inflammatory cytokines.
Another study had similar results, concluding that CBD may be an effective and safe way to treat acne, thanks in part to its remarkable anti-inflammatory qualities.
While these results are promising, human studies exploring the effects of the best 10% cbd on acne are needed.
