Rarely has one supplement been the catalyst for such excitement or skepticism. So is CBD a wonder drug or simply snake oil? Fans of CBD are touting benefits for all sorts of illnesses and ailments. Scientists and researchers have also observed the benefits folks have experienced, including curbing anxiety to relief from pain caused by injuries to arthritis. Perhaps the greatest promise CBD offers is that few (if any) side effects have been recorded. This may be the best news of all. Unfortunately, many pharmaceuticals are hastily and at times recklessly prescribed. This has caused patients to experience a whole host of negative baggage including addiction and harmful side effects, not to mention the exorbitant expense of these drugs.

Much more research is still needed to build a concrete, airtight case for the evidence of CBD’s healing powers. And certainly, not all doctors are convinced of CBD’s helloing powers beyond a psychosomatic benefit. However, what follows are five popular uses for CBD and the positive results people are experiencing from CBD and how it’s making a difference in their daily well being. That being said, we encourage all users of CBD and those who have an interest in trying CBD to consult a physician before changing or modifying their current treatment regimen. As not every type of CBD will work for every person or every type of affliction and certain drug interactions with CBD are possible.

1. Pain

Whether you’re experiencing recovery from an injury, recurring flare-ups or chronic suffering, pain interferes with one's ability to enjoy physical activities or simply get through the day in comfort. CBD can offer relief. Many studies have supported the power of CBD to alleviate pain related to several causes including cancer, inflammation, multiple sclerosis as well as chronic/ neuropathic pain. CBD is gaining wide popularity in treating athletic pain and injury, back pain, and sore muscles. Thus eliminating the need to use addictive pain killers such as opiates. Perhaps it’s no surprise results like these are being regularly observed. Scientists know the body’s endocannabinoid system plays a pivotal role in how our bodies process painful sensations. Cannabinoids can play a role in helping to short circuit pain signals. 

2. Arthritis

More than 50 million adults in the U.S. are negatively affected by stiff, inflamed and aching joints. In osteoarthritis (the most common form), the protective cartilage surrounding the joints can wear away over the years. As a result, bones rub against each other. Rheumatoid arthritis conversely is an autoimmune disorder in which the body attacks its’ own joints — however, the pain and inflammation associated with both are similar. Both can be a severely painful condition that keeps people from enjoying the activities they love.

Many arthritis sufferers turn to opioid pain killers, corticosteroids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). All of these treatments carry side effects ranging from damage to the heart, kidneys, and stomach not to mention addiction.

CBD, by contrast, has no known negatives. CBD addresses arthritis by diminishing inflammation and pain. Studies point to the possibility that CBD may have stopped the progression of the disease in some cases.

3. Aging

While getting older may not be easy, CBD can make our golden years much richer by alleviating common health complaints associated with aging. Just as we know folks are benefitting from relief from arthritis and stiff joints. CBD has been shown to help patients with relief from gout attacks. Further, promising research has singled out CBD as a potential treatment for Parkinson’s disease. Because the body’s endocannabinoid system plays a role in bone metabolism, this makes cannabinoids an attractive therapy for osteoporosis and the loss of bone mass. 

4. Anxiety

40 million Americans suffer from anxiety or anxiety-related disorders. Unfortunately, only about 36% of the population receives treatment. Conventional treatment often includes expensive medications like anti-depressants that also carry serious side effects including weight gain, headaches, and sexual dysfunction.

Mounting evidence shows that adding CBD to your routine can have a clear therapeutic benefit without the side effects. Anxiety and depression are believed to be triggered in part by the lack of serotonin in the brain. CBD has been shown to mimic the effect of serotonin in the brain. 

5. Depression

According to the World Health Organization, more than 4% of the planet's population (over 300 million people) are affected by depression. That makes it the planet’s number one source of disability. Not unlike anxiety disorders, CBD has become a source of hope. Current research suggests antidepressant-like effects from the compound. In other words, a link between depression and low endocannabinoid levels. According to studies, CBD can boost the levels of the body’s natural “bliss” molecule anandamide. Anecdotal evidence implies that CBD can be effective in conjunction with or replacing traditional antidepressant treatments.

While research is promising, it’s important to understand at this point current data cannot be taken as proof. Depression is a complex illness and much more research is required. 

We hope you find this helpful as you begin the journey into discovering how CBD may be incorporated into your daily routine to enhance your well being.