CBD oil, or to use its full name “cannabidiol oil”, is increasingly used by those suffering from a variety of issues. This rise in popularity is due to an increase in awareness of the fantastic benefits of CBD products. Indeed, the UK has seen a 99% surge in CBD sales for 2019 since its legalisation. But what are the reported advantages of taking CBD oil, and are these proven?
How does CBD benefit your health?
Improves your skin
Conditions such as acne have been said to be markedly improved by consumption of CBD. Skin issues often result in cutaneous inflammations (inflammation of the skin), and studies have revealed that CBD has an advantage in treating such conditions thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. Moreover, cannabidiol has been proven to help acne sufferers, by reducing excessive sebum production. Break free from breakouts!
Provides relief from chronic pain
Those suffering from painful conditions such as arthritis and fibromyalgia can mitigate their symptoms with CBD oil. This may come as no surprise as cannabis has often been used to help those suffering from chronic pain across the globe. CBD oil benefits for pain include: reduced pain, minimised inflammation and better mobility. An advantage of taking CBD for pain over medication is that cannabidiol is naturally derived. The treatment of pain using CBD has been explored in several studies, including one on MS sufferers, and another on those with arthritis.
Good for your mental health
An important health benefit of CBD is the fact that is can reduce anxiety and depression. Traditionally, depression has been treated with a wide range of pharmaceuticals, and their side effects have been widely publicised (including a low sex drive and insomnia). For those looking for a more natural treatment for depression or anxiety, CBD may be a great choice. Cannabidiol interacts with the serotonin receptors in the brain, responsible for a person’s emotional state and sensation of well-being. And unlike anti-depressants, another health benefit of CBD oil is that it is said to aid a good night’s sleep.
Alleviates cancer symptoms
CBD can be very effective in the treatment of symptoms caused by cancer. In particular, it could help with the nausea and vomiting that can be induced by chemotherapy. Indeed, the only cases in which CBD oil may be prescribed in the UK are for rare forms of epilepsy and for those dealing with nausea brought on by their cancer treatment, as stated by the NHS.
Helps to treat epilepsy
This is perhaps the most studied health benefit of CBD. At least three trials of pure CBD in children have revealed a big reduction in monthly seizures. It has been proven to be particularly effective for two rare types of epilepsy, namelyDravet and Lennox Gastaut syndromes. In October 2018, the British Paediatric Neurology Association (BPNA) released guidance on the use of cannabis-based products for treating epilepsy in children and young people.
What are the side effects of CBD?
Everyone is different, so while you may not experience any side effects from taking CBD oil, here are a few symptoms that may be triggered by CBD consumption:
- Increased anxiousness
- Changes in appetite
- Mood swings
- Dizziness
- Tiredness
- Diarrhoea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dry mouth
It is important to note that you will not experience any psychoactive effects with CBD oil – otherwise referred to as feeling “high”. This is because manufacturers have been able to remove the chemical THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis.
