Table of Contents
Why Do People Take CBD?
You may have heard terms like ‘wonder plant’ and ‘natural remedy’ used frequently when it comes to describing CBD, and the reason this naturally occurring compound receives so much praise is that it has a wide range of reported benefits. CBD (cannabidiol) is a compound which is extracted from the hemp plant (part of the cannabis family), it affects the human body by interacting with what is known as the endocannabinoid system which has receptors interacting with the nervous system and the autoimmune system. However, CBD has no psychoactive elements of effects. So what exactly are people taking CBD for?
Pain
Groups of civilization have been adopting the cannabis plant to manage pain dating back to 2900 BC, this is nothing new! Recent studies have looked into how exactly CBD can help manage pain, and in particular chronic pain associated with serious afflictions such as arthritis. Studies were carried out using rats with arthritis and it was found that the response to pain improved with CBD.[1] It’s believed that CBD has this effect due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Consequently people also use CBD to help with muscle pains and sports injuries.
Dermatological
CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties are not only beneficial for managing muscle injury, but it is also coming to light that this can be a great aid for those who suffer from acne. And the dermatological benefits of CBD don’t stop there: acne sufferers are also prone to the condition due to an overproduction of sebum. This is an oily substance which, when the correct amount is secreted, keeps skin and hair moisturised. However, too much will lead to dermatological issues. A test study found that CBD may help prevent glands from secreting excessive sebum,[2] thus helping those with acne and oily skin problems.
Anxiety
Anti-anxiety pharmaceuticals and antidepressants which are prescribed for anxiety and depression take effect by blocking the reabsorption of serotonin in the brain. This means that there is a greater availability of serotonin in the synaptic cleft (where nerves are transmitted). Thanks to this more serotonin signals can be transmitted, boosting mood and reducing anxiety and depression. Primary studies have found that CBD has a similar effect on the receptor in question,[3] and additionally some people prefer this alternate course of action due to the side effects they experience with pharmaceutical drugs.
Secondary effects
As you have read, the studied and reported effects of CBD are in abundance and this naturally occurring cannabis compound is not limited to a singular effect or purpose. Combined aspects of CBD such as its anti-inflammatory properties, the reduction of stimulation in the nervous system, and boosting mood from serotonin reuptake can make it an ideal anti-stressant. Furthermore when these individual benefits are brought together often CBD users find that they have been enjoying a better night’s sleep, and even overcoming insomnia. It has also been reported that CBD improves digestion, leading to a physically healthier feeling day-to-day.
In conclusion
These are just a few of the reasons why people are taking CBD today. The industry is growing exponentially which means more and more research and education surrounding the compound is coming to the fore, and more information about the capabilities of CBD will be available. Here at Reakiro we are keen to gather and share the most recent and relevant developments with our community, so we greatly look forward to publishing more articles on the potential of CBD.