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CBD oil, also known as cannabidiol oil, is a substance derived from the marijuana plant. Unlike other cannabis compounds, CBD oil doesn’t contain THC. Therefore, it doesn’t have a psychotropic effect on users. Thanks to the effectiveness of CBD oil in clinical practice, medical marijuana doctors and patients are increasingly embracing it.
CBD oil is made by mixing CBD extracted from the marijuana plant with carrier oils such as hemp seed oil and coconut oil. The packaged oil is generally referred to as a tincture and is available in dispensaries in various concentrations.
CBD Oil Uses and Health Benefits
Although its mechanism of action remains unclear, CBD is thought to influence critical receptors in the brain. These include glycine receptors that regulate serotonin production and opioid receptors, which regulate pain. Thus, CBD oil can be used to aid different conditions, including:
Chronic Pain
Marijuana is an effective antidote for intractable pain, such as nerve pain and pain resulting from cancer. A study reportpublished in the Journal of Experimental Medicine indicates that a spinal injection and oral dose of CBD alleviates neuropathic pain and inflammation.
CBD oil is thought to alleviate nerve pain by binding itself to the brain’s glycine receptors that regulate the movement of signals between nerve cells. CBD also reduces chronic pain by regulating endocannabinoid receptor activity, thus reducing inflammation.
Anxiety and Depression
Millions of Americans battle anxiety and depression. These mental health disorders have a devastating impact on patients’ wellbeing. There are different pharmaceutical interventions for anxiety and depression. However, they often cause side effects such as drowsiness, agitation, and insomnia.
CBD oil is proven to aid anxiety and depression. It has an antidepressant-like effect, thanks to its ability to regulate serotonin production. This is the neurotransmitter that regulates social behavior and mood.
Epilepsy
The FDA recently approved the use of Epidiolex for epilepsy treatment. This is a purified variety of CBD oil used on common forms of epilepsy, including Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.
Epilepsy disorders are typically characterized by seizures, which are difficult to control using traditional interventions. CBD prevents seizures among epilepsy patients without causing the sedating side effects associated with previous medications.
Acne
This skin condition affects 9% of the American population. Acne is caused by various factors, including genetics, overproduction of sebum, bacteria, and underlying inflammation. Studies have proven that CBD oil is a safe and effective antidote for acne.
It prevents sebaceous gland cells from producing excess sebum. It also has an anti-inflammatory property and thus regulates the secretion and activation of pro-acne compounds such as inflammatory cytokines. Therefore, the anti-inflammatory properties of CBD oil make it an effective solution for acne.
Addiction Treatment
It’s somewhat ironic that a marijuana extract can be used as an addiction alternative. For years, those opposed to the legalization of medical marijuana argued that it’s addictive. Studies have debunked those myths by revealing that CBD oil can be used for addiction and substance abuse management.
CBD regulates brain circuits that are linked to addiction. Clinical trials show that in moderate dosages, CBD oil prevents heroin-seeking behavior besides reducing morphine dependence. It also minimizes the withdrawal symptoms of recovering addicts.
The Potential Side Effects of CBD Oil
Despite its numerous benefits, clinical studies have also shown that CBD oil can trigger adverse side effects. These side effects often arise when CBD oil is used in improper dosages. The severity of the symptoms varies from one patient to another. Some of the potential side effects of CBD oil include:
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Changes in mood and appetite
- Diarrhea
Individuals with liver conditions should avoid using CBD oil since it can increase the production of liver enzymes, thus causing inflammation. Besides, pregnant and lactating mothers should avoid CBD oil because it can affect babies’ development.
Medical marijuana patients also need to be wary of CBD oil’s interaction with other medications. When used concurrently with pharmaceutical epilepsy drugs, CBD oil can increase toxicity and diminish its effectiveness. Thus, it’s best to consult your primary physician before you start using CBD oil.
Legal Status
The legal status of CBD oil and cannabis in the United States varies from state to state. While CBD oil derived from hemp, containing less than 0.3% THC, it is federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill states that individual states have the power to regulate its production and sale. In Florida, for example, the use of medical marijuana is permitted for patients with qualifying conditions who possess a valid medical marijuana card in Florida. However, recreational cannabis use remains illegal in the state, reflecting the ongoing complexities and disparities in cannabis legislation across the U.S.
Final Thoughts
Although studies continue to reveal CBD oil’s health benefits, patients should beware of its potential side effects. Using CBD in the right doses helps prevent most of its side effects.
To use CBD oil legally, you need to submit your Ohio medical marijuana application. If successful, you’ll be issued a marijuana card that allows you to purchase and use CBD oil legally.
