Cannabidiol (CBD) oil is a non-intoxicating compound found in cannabis plants that has become popular over the past few years for its therapeutic potential. The range of health benefits attributed to CBD is wide-ranging, from reducing stress and improving sleep to helping manage conditions like chronic pain, fibromyalgia, and seizures. With increasing numbers of people turning to CBD for its potential health benefits, it’s important to understand what CBD does in the body, how it works, and what the existing research says about its effectiveness.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the six most researched health benefits of CBD oil and examine the evidence-based research underlying these claims. We’ll also explore the side effects associated with CBD use and discuss the importance of understanding the quality and sourcing of CBD products.
What are the Health Benefits of CBD Oil?
The purported health benefits of CBD oil have been extensively researched, though the evidence base is still relatively small compared to other more established treatments. The six most researched health benefits of CBD oil are:
1. Pain Management
CBD has been studied for its potential to reduce chronic and acute pain, both through direct application and when taken orally. A 2011 review of clinical trials concluded that CBD may be an effective treatment for arthritis and other types of chronic pain. More recent studies suggest that CBD oil may also help reduce inflammation, thereby providing relief from some of the symptoms associated with these conditions.
2. Stress Relief
CBD may help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety, which can be beneficial for those who experience these issues. A 2020 study found that using CBD oil daily for one month reduced self-reported levels of stress and anxiety in participants. The researchers noted that “CBD offers potential benefits for managing stress and anxiety.”
3. Reduced Seizure Activity
Several studies have looked at the potential of CBD to reduce seizure frequency and severity in those with epilepsy. A 2018 study found that taking CBD daily for two months significantly reduced seizure activity in children with Dravet syndrome.
4. Improved Sleep Quality
CBD has been explored for its potential to improve sleep quality in people with sleep disorders. A 2020 review concluded that CBD may be helpful for insomnia, although the evidence is still preliminary.
5. Hemp Oil for Substance Abuse Treatment
CBD may be beneficial for overcoming addiction to certain drugs, including heroin, though more research is needed. A 2020 study found that using CBD in combination with traditional medication-assisted treatment led to a reduction in opioid cravings and use in those with opioid abuse disorder.
6. Possible Extension of Life in Those with Glioblastoma
Research suggests that using a combination of CBD and THC may extend the life of some people with glioblastoma, a form of aggressive brain cancer. However, more research is needed to confirm the efficacy of this approach.
What are the Side Effects of CBD Oil?
There are some known side effects associated with CBD, such as fatigue and changes in appetite and weight. It’s important to note that these side effects are rarely reported with CBD use.
Additionally, although CBD is generally considered safe, it is possible for people to develop an adverse reaction when taken in large amounts. It’s important to note that some CBD products are not manufactured to rigorous standards, so it’s important to purchase products tested by an accredited third-party laboratory and look for batch reports on the company’s website.
Finding Quality CBD Products
When looking for CBD products, it’s important to check that they have been tested by an accredited third-party laboratory and are formulated with high quality ingredients. Additionally, it’s important to read customer reviews to ensure that the product you’re considering is of good quality and offers the desired benefits.
The Bottom Line
CBD oil is a popular supplement that has recently gained attention for its potential to reduce stress, improve sleep, and manage chronic pain and other conditions. However, the research surrounding these purported benefits is still relatively limited, so it’s key to consult your healthcare provider before taking CBD. Additionally, make sure to purchase quality products sourced from reputable brands, as the quality of CBD products can vary greatly.
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Alan Brett, MD
With the growing interest in CBD oil, many people are interested in learning about the potential health benefits of this natural remedy. While the evidence base is still relatively small, research suggests that CBD may be beneficial for managing pain, improving sleep quality, reducing stress and anxiety, and even extending life for those with glioblastoma. Additionally, there are some known side effects associated with CBD, so it’s important to speak to your healthcare provider and purchase quality products from reputable brands.
