Cannabidiol, or CBD, is the non-psychoactive ingredient responsible for a majority of the health benefits found in Cannabis. Adding CBD supplements to your daily routine has many health benefits that could eliminate the need for some of your prescription medication.
Using CBD supplements instead of prescription or OTC medications
In 2019, US prescription sales hit $345.7 Billion. A steady increase since 2000, and one that will continue to rise (over the counter medication, sales topped $32.2 Billion). Our reliance on pharmaceutical medication is ever-increasing and can lead to death if not properly taken. You can say that about most things these days. But to date, there are no deaths due to ingesting too much CBD or THC. Our bodies’ cells have specific THC/CBD receptors that activate when you smoke or ingest cannabis.
The Endocannabinoid System
Research is limited due to the government’s classification of cannabis as Schedule 1. As more and more evidence points to the beneficial use of this ancient medical plant, that will change. Over the last few years, more and more evidence has shown that the endocannabinoid system has increasing physiological functions. This leads to the discovery of many therapeutic properties that can help with a long list of diseases. Such as Parkinson’s disease, hypertension, and neuropathic pain.
Here are just a few examples where CBD supplements can help:
Sleeping disorders
Multiple studies show that CBD improves symptoms of sleep disorder when taken appropriately. CBD can affect the REM cycle of sleep, which is where our dreaming takes place. REM Sleep Behavior Disorder, or RBD, patients report having a better night’s sleep with CBD.
Anxiety and depression
If you are currently taking prescription medication for your anxiety or depression, talk with your doctor about adding CBD to help. Often CBD can be used instead of or along with your prescription medication to help get you through your day.
Hypertension
Studies show that a single dose of CBD oil can reduce your blood pressure and stroke volume. The calming effects of cannabis are well known, and it’s nice to see the science backing it up finally.
Acne
I wish I knew about this when I was a teenager. CBD can help reduce the production of Sebum, which is the oily substance that is on our skin. Too much of this will cause an increasing amount of acne. Everyone’s skin is unique, so please consult with your doctor to see if adding CBD supplements will help your acne.
There is a lot of misinformation out there about cannabis, and as we get closer and closer to full legalization, there will be a lot more information to come. If you are interested in adding CBD supplements to your daily routine, do some research and determine if CBD is right for you.