Cannabis is a controversial subject. There’s a lot of debate about whether it should be legalized in certain states. That’s a topic for another day. However, CBD oil is legal and widely available online because it doesn’t contain THC, the psychoactive component of the plant. Here are 10 ways to use CBD oil.
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CBD And Hemp Oil
Because of the controversy surrounding cannabis, many people don’t even consider using CBD hemp oil, and miss out on the amazing health benefits it offers. Our bodies contain cannabinoid receptors that allow us to take advantage of the powerful medicinal properties of CBD.
These receptors are part of the Endocannabinoid system, involving many physiological processes, among which, are appetite and mood regulation, pain reduction, and memory enhancement. Any plant that has been around for more than 3,000 years is worth considering using therapeutically. In this post, I want to clear up some misconceptions about this healing oil, which was discovered in 1980.
From here on out, I’ll refer to CBD oil and hemp oil interchangeably. And please don’t confuse hemp oil with hemp seed oil, which is obtained by pressing hemp seeds.
CBD Versus THC
There are two main cannabinoids in the cannabis plant. THC is the main psychoactive component, whereas, CBD will not produce a “high,” being a non-psychoactive compound. CBD oil is made from either hemp or cannabis. The difference being that oil made from cannabis is extracted from the marijuana flower, which is high in THC.
Hemp oil is derived from the extraction of the stalks of industrial hemp plants, and doesn’t contain any of the psychoactive THC, but has a diverse cannabinoid content. Both hemp and cannabis oils contain high concentrations of the cannabinoid CBD or Cannabidiol. CBD hemp oil is legal in all 50 states.
Now that you’re not worried about legal issues or getting high from CBD hemp oil, let’s get to its many benefits.
Health Benefits of CBD Oil
The great thing about CBD oil is it can be used for a variety of conditions. Due to the Endocannabinoid system, or ECS, there are no side effects associated with CBD oil as our bodies contain naturally-occurring receptors that CBD interacts with. Interestingly, we make our own cannabinoids endogenously, meaning within our own bodies. The ECS is responsible for homeostasis, or balance, in the body.
It is suspected that many people suffer from cannabinoid imbalance, known as Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency. It is surmised this is why many individuals respond so favorably to supplementation with Cannabidiol, one of the main cannabinoids responsible for the many therapeutic benefits the oil purports. Scientists are just scratching the surface of what this amazing oil can do.
Ways To Use CBD Oil
1. Hemp Oil And Cancer
CBD is believed to inhibit cancer growth, while controlling metastasis or spread of cancer cells. It exhibits anti-tumor activity, inhibiting the development of various types of tumors, and decreasing the invasiveness of cancer cells. The research is proving to be quite promising when it comes to CBD and cancer. The medicinal molecules within hemp oil help to regulate the Endocannabinoid system. As stated above, this system plays many vital roles within the human body, and is responsible for homeostasis. Cannabinoids supports healthy immunity, which is essential for those suffering from cancer.
CBD can alleviate pain in cancer patients, while stimulating appetite, which can be particularly problematic in those opting for conventional cancer treatment like chemotherapy and radiation. This leads to weight loss, muscle wasting and malnutrition. The body requires nutrients to heal so having a healthy appetite is significant. Nausea is a miserable symptom of chemotherapy, and CBD can ease the discomfort associated with nausea and vomiting.
[Read More: 5 Ways Cannabis Kills Cancer Cells]
2. Benefits Of CBD Oil For Anxiety
Millions of people in the United States alone have an anxiety disorder. Both anxiety and depression are on the rise in today’s society. Studies have shown that CBD can significantly reduce anxiety, along with impairments in cognitive function. CBD is fast acting and causes no side effects other than positive ones.
There’s also no need to worry about uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms because it is non-addictive. This is in stark contrast to the anti-depressants on the market today, and their associated side effects. CBD is also showing promise as an anti-psychotic in mental health disorders, such as, schizophrenia.
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3. Natural Immune Support
CBD has a powerful effect on the immune system. Remember the Endocannabinoid system? This complex signaling network is comprised of receptors, residing in the brain, endocrine system, connective tissue, and the immune system, exerting widespread effects throughout the body. In fact, this relationship between the ECS, and immune system is so significant, it is referred to as the Immuno-Cannabinoid Modulation.
The cannabinoids in CBD oil promote optimal functioning of the ECS. When this vital system is balanced, positive effects are seen throughout the entire body; better blood sugar regulation, reduction in pain, increased metabolic health, energy regulation, and enhanced mood and memory.
Cannibinoids are potent neuromodulators of many bodily systems, including immune function. A healthy immune system is necessary to prevent the onset of disease, and halt the progression once it has occurred.
4. Autoimmune Disorders
Autoimmunity arises from an abnormal immune response where the body attacks itself. When the immune system becomes hyperactive it can attack healthy tissue, resulting in tissue destruction, inflammation, and chronic pain. The prevalence of autoimmunity is on the rise with nearly 80 different types of autoimmune diseases.
CBD modulates the immune system aiding those with multiple sclerosis, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis, just to name a few. Autoimmunity may arise from a misdirected inflammatory response, causing the body to turn on itself. An overproduction of cytokines, and other signaling molecules, trigger inflammation caused by oxidative stress. This stress is caused by environmental pollutants and chemicals, along with free-radical production.
CBD is a potent antioxidant, effective at combating free radicals and environmental stress. This is important because excessive oxidative stress is implicated in the development of autoimmunity and inflammation. CBD is an anti-inflammatory agent, decreasing the chances of developing autoimmunity in the first place, and quelling the discomfort associated with these diseases.
5. Diabetic Management
CBD can help in the management of diabetes, improving insulin resistance, lowering blood sugar, and preventing diabetic complications. This is important as the complications from diabetes are devastating. Neuropathy, blindness, cardiovascular disease, and kidney failure are just some of the horrible repercussions of type II diabetes.
Common medications used to treat this disease only compound the problem. The anti-inflammatory properties of CBD reduce arterial inflammation, serving as a vasodilator, improving circulation, and keeping blood vessels open.
It also reduces blood pressure, preventing cardiovascular events, and easing the painful numbness and tingling of diabetic neuropathy. Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness, affecting millions of people worldwide.
A complication of type II diabetes, retinopathy is caused by decreased blood flow to the eye, neurotoxicity, inflammation, oxidative stress, blood-retinal barrier breakdown, and neurodegeneration of the retina.
The therapeutic properties inherent in CBD inhibit both inflammation and oxidative stress, are neuroprotective, and prevent the breakdown of the blood-retinal barrier.
6. Natural Remedy For Pain And Inflammation
If you’ve experienced chronic pain, you know how debilitating it can be. CDB can greatly benefit those suffering from chronic pain conditions, such as, arthritis, fibromylagia, and irritable bowel diseases like Crohn’s and colitis. The cannabinoids in CBD bind to CB1 receptors, relieving pain, while reducing swelling due to its anti-inflammatory effect.
There are two types of cannibinoid receptors CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are found in the brain and nervous system. CB2 receptors are found in the cardiovascular and muscular systems, as well as, in the organs. Pain reduction is relevant to virtually all disease states, making CBD applicable for almost any condition where pain and inflammation are present.
An all-natural therapy like Cannabidiol is a much safer option than prescription painkillers with their harmful side effects, and addictive properties. It is generally well-tolerated, is safe, and alleviates pain by manipulating ECS receptors throughout the body, including the immune and hormonal systems, and the systems in the body responsible for pain.
7. Treatment For HIV And AIDS
At least a million people in the US have HIV, a deadly virus that suppresses the immune system. Those with faulty immune function are at risk of infectious disease and early death. T-cells are an integral part of the immune system, and are responsible for destroying disease-causing pathogens. They are vital for healthy immune function.
Studies have shown that CBD increases the number of T-cells, while decreasing viral load. HIV can progress to AIDS due to prolonged plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDC) activity. Cannabinoid supplementation may halt this progression by pDC suppression.
AIDS patient use CBD to reduce nausea and improve appetite, while decreasing anxiety and pain. It also promotes better sleep, which is essential for healing. CBD is known for its analgesic and anti-emetic properties, making it useful for those with HIV, AIDS, and other immune-related diseases.
8. Cannabidiol And Seizures
This is a big one, and is an issue that has brought CBD oil widespread media attention due to its favorable and miraculous effects on epilepsy. Hemp oil is well tolerated by children suffering from seizures. If you’ve never seen someone having a seizure, be glad. They are absolutely terrifying and you’re sure the person is dying, although, they are not.
A seizure is brought on by uncontrolled electrical activity in the brain. This produces physical convulsions, causing the person to shake uncontrollably. While seizures are not life-threatening most of the time, they are very disruptive to one’s well-being as they interfere with the person’s ability to lead a normal life.
Epilepsy, head injuries and brain tumors may be responsible for causing seizures, though most are brought on my unknown causes, and are therefore, idiopathic. Seizures happen most frequently in children, who can seize multiple times a day, stunting their neurological development, wiping out the family’s finances, and causing enormous emotional stress.
Clinical trials have demonstrated that the use of CBD can stop, or greatly reduce, seizure activity, and is useful in treating Lennox-Gastaut and Dravet syndromes. These syndromes are two rare forms of epilepsy that can be intractable. Although, CBD may not totally eliminate seizures, children are able to recover more quickly from their effects, making them less disruptive.
While the exact mechanism behind the efficacy of CBD hemp oil and seizures is not known, it seems that CBD may prevent neuron damage, which can trigger seizures. CBD is an anti-convulsant and anti-epileptic, reducing not only seizure frequency, but the intensity as well, and is a viable alternative to anti-seizure medications, which are known for their deleterious side effects.
9. Brain Injuries And Concussions
The beneficial effects of CBD are important for those with brain injuries and concussions as it reduces both inflammation and pain. Many people with these types of conditions turn to opioids and alcohol for short-term relief, resulting in long-term consequences. Those in chronic pain don’t sleep well, adding insult to injury, and preventing healing.
Because of its ability to mitigate pain, CBD is an effective sleep aid. When cannibinoids attach to receptors within the ECS, they disrupt the transmission of chemical signals that cause pain and inflammation. This is also how they reduce seizures. CBD quells inflammation by binding to TRPV1 cells throughout the body, preventing the transmission of signals that cause pain and inflammation.
Cannabidiol also reduces swelling and the neuropathic pain associated with concussions and brain injuries. Reducing inflammation is imperative because inflammation decreases blood supply and life-giving oxygen to tissues in the brain. This can cause even more damage than the original injury, and is responsible for many of the complications associated with brain injuries.
[Read More: Is A Concussion A Traumatic Brain Injury?]
10. Benefits Of CBD Oil For Dogs
One of the roles of the ECS is to regulate the functions of the central nervous system. The receptors within this system send interactive messages to the brain, the cardiovascular system, and organs throughout the body. If the immune system is not functioning optimally, these messages get disrupted. Many dysfunctions arise due to faulty signaling.
Cannibinoids support immune function, which then regulates cellular function within all the systems of the body. Neurological disorders, autoimmune conditions, and cancer can all be prevented with a properly functioning immune response. Just as we humans can benefit from the healing effects of CBD, so can our canine friends.
Animals suffer from pain and inflammation, both of which can be alleviated with CBD supplementation. Older dogs frequently suffer from joint pain, severely limiting their daily activity. The anti-inflammatory effects of cannabidiol can reduce discomfort, increasing joint mobility and function. And if your pet, regardless of age, gets injured, CBD can accelerate the healing process.
All About CBD Oil
When starting supplementation with CBD hemp oil, there are a few caveats to be aware of. The benefits are dose dependent, meaning if you don’t take a high enough dose, you won’t notice any benefits. Also, duration of supplementation is important as you likely won’t notice any significant changes by taking just one or two doses. The effects are cumulative as it takes time for CBD to build up in your system.
You’ll also want to experiment with different delivery methods, such as, tinctures, edibles, topical applications, or capsules. One method may work better than another so play around until you find one that delivers noticeable benefits. You also don’t want to take too much oil, and it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare practitioner if you have any concerns about taking it.
CBDPure Hemp Oil
This is the brand I like. All the products from CBDPure are organic, and come with a 90-day money-back guarantee. They are cold pressed and unrefined, extracted from Colorado hemp plants naturally high in CBD.
I like taking oils because of the sublingual delivery method, which in my opinion is superior to taking pills and capsules, as the oil bypasses the digestive system, being absorbed through the mucosa in the mouth.
Many people, however, prefer oral preparations, which are also highly efficacious. CBD oil also comes in softgels.
You can purchase the oil here.
Purchase softgels here
Key Points
As you can see CBD oil from hemp is a versatile supplement, boasting many health benefits. Use it for inflammation, pain, autoimmunity, depression, and as an adjunct to cancer treatment. It’s also great to treat your pets. CBD oil, extracted from hemp, contains over 80 different cannabinoids, along with other therapeutic phytochemicals.
Have you used CBD oil? What was your experience? Let me know in the comments:)
Disclaimer: This article is strictly for informational purposes only and is not intended to be medical advice. Please be diligent and always do your own research in regard to any material I present on this site. I claim no responsibility for any distress, whether it be physical or emotional, that may occur as a result of the information you obtain from my blog.
Thank you for sharing this information about CBD Oil. Like many others, I suspect, it is confusing why CBD oil and hemp were illegal for so long. It confuses me why something that is supposed to have so many benefits for your health was classified as an illegal drug.
I am looking forward to when the research catches up and is able to provide documented, medical research to support the various statements and claims about the things that it’s supposed to do.
I live and work in Colorado where all forms of cannabis, including hemp, are legal. I meet a LOT of people that say that CBD oil helps them or a family member with their pain or anxiety issues.
Hi Sondra,
I feel the same way you do and don’t quite understand why CBD and even cannabis for that matter have long been maligned, considering the documented benefits. I’m hoping research will eventually catch up and I’m optimistic that it will.
Personally, I can attest to CDB oil’s effectiveness in treating pain, and know people who find it indispensable for anxiety. Thank you for reading!
I often buy hemp seed oil and I was one of those people who used to think that hemp oil and hemp seed oil were the same. Duh, seed, pressed seeds, it makes perfect sense, I wonder why I never thought of it before. Thank you for pointing that out in your article.
I was aready aware of the many health benefits of CBD oil, but there were still a lot of things I didn’t know. I wasn’t aware that CBD oil could help with diabetes. I also didn’t know that it helped with brain concussions and injuries. Years ago I was diagnosed with total burn out and tensional cephalia, meaning that my brain muscles were inflammed.
I took medication to lessen the pain, shaved off my long hair, because it had become so brittle due to the cephalia and its weight was adding to the pain … My hair has grown back to my shoulders now :-) Tensional cephalia seems to have come back at times, and so it is really great to know that I can treat this with CBD oil.
Therefore, I am extremely grateful to have come across your article. A friend of mine has diabetes and I will send him your article too.
Very informative and important article. Thanks for sharing!
Hi Christine,
Yes, it’s easy to confuse hemp seed oil with hemp oil. People are becoming increasingly aware of the benefits of cannabis and particularly CBD because it’s legal to purchase as a supplement. It’s now being used in people who have diabetes or brain injuries.
I’m sorry to hear about your journey with tensional cephalia. I haven’t heard of that condition. It sounds horrible. I can’t imagine the muscles in my brain being inflamed. CBD is used for pain management so it could prove to be helpful for your condition. I hope you can find some relief.
Thank you for taking the time to comment!
Hi, I have been reading about CBD oil and it’s benefits for a while now. I have seen a variety of CBD promotions and the like. I am wondering if you have links or if there are scientific studies showing CBD’s effect on cancer.
Diabetes runs in our family and I had gestational diabetes as well during my 1st pregnancy so I am curious if CBD has a scientific basis with this kind of illness. Thanks.
Hi Gillian,
As cannabis becomes more mainstream, people will start realizing how beneficial it is. Read this article for more information on cannabis and cancer treatment.
Cannabis is also beneficial for diabetes due to its blood-sugar stabilizing effects. It’s also anti-inflammatory and has neuro-protective effects. Topical creams made with cannabis are used to relieve the peripheral neuropathy so many diabetics suffer from.
Thanks so much for reading!
I know that cannabis can be used to help those suffering from cancer. I didn’t know it was possible to use CBD oil to treat other diseases. This is important information people should be aware of.
Any plant is a potential remedy. So I hope that you article will inspire people working in that area. I encourage you on your desire to help others meet their health goals.
Yes, cannabis is used in the treatment of cancer, as well as other diseases and conditions. People are catching on to its benefits. Thanks so much for reading and commenting!