From a pain reliever to an appetite influencer, CBD seems to have a solution for all health issues. Hence the common question: Is CBD a cure-all?
Well, while growing researches and user testimonials support these claims, there are yet inadequate scientific data to validate them.
But while we await more science-based clarifications, we may rely, tentatively, on existing research on CBD for a range of health conditions that affects our daily lives.
Also read our article about CBD benefits on Covid-19
While CBD promises a whole lot, this article considers, specifically, the role of CBD in handling arthritis, gout, and constipation.
Not sure how CBD can help you – or a loved one – handle these conditions? Read on!
Does CBD Work for Arthritis?
Stats put the total number of arthritic patients in the US at 50 million. This makesthe condition a leading cause of disability in the United States.
Among others, Osteoarthritis(OA) and Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are the two common forms of arthritis.
- Osteoarthritis
This degenerative disease affects the bones and joint cartilage, which results in stiffness and pain. The condition usually affects the thumb, knee, and hip joints.
- Rheumatoid arthritis
This is an autoimmune disease that causes a patient’simmunesystem to attack their joint, a condition that leads to inflammation. This form of arthritis usually affects the feet and hands and may cause sore, stiffness, and swell in the joint.
Some animal-basedresearch perceives CBD’s efficacy in handling arthritis and relieves pains associated with inflammation.
For instance, in a 2011 rat-based study, CBD reduced inflammatory pains in the samples by altering the brain’s perception of stimuli.
A more recent study found that, when applied topically, CBD helped relieve arthritis-related inflammation and pain.
A 2017 study suggests that Sativex, a cannabis-infused mouth spray, was effective in managingarthritis-related pain. Note that the spray contains both CBD and THC as activeingredients.
Although exiting research seems promising, they are inadequate to make substantive claims. Hence, more research is needed.
CBD for Gout
Gout is also a form of arthritis.
Gout occurs when excess uric acid crystalizes (forms solid) and leaves deposits in the joints. These deposits soon become inflamed, sore, and tender. Gout is commonly characterized by pain and inflammation – thankfully, early researches say both conditions respondpositively to cannabis properties.
Notably, CBD has shown remarkable effects in managing inflammatory pain.
A research report looked at the effects of CBD in rats. The study, which used transdermal administration – skin application – saw long-lasting results without any ‘high’aftereffect.
The authorof the study thence suggests that topical CBD administration may come therapeutic for arthritis-related symptoms.
A 2018 study again reports positive results. The authors found cannabis products with high myrcene and caryophyllene– two terpenes found in Cannabis – to beeffective in handling migraines, headaches, and related pain concerns, including arthritis.
This should be great news to persons battling gout-related symptoms,particularly pain.
Now, Constipation and CBD
Perhaps everyone knows enough about constipation – an irregular/infrequent movement of the bowels.
Initially, constipation may start out as a feeling of blockage in the bowels. While it may seem negligible initially, pain and general discomfort may soon set in. And, then, it becomes tough to visit the toilet. Stool gets hard and irregular.
If not handled immediately, the bowel movement gradually becomes irregular.
If CBD for constipation sounds strange, it’s not just you – we all once felt so.However, some research links think CBD can help handle your infrequent toilet visits.
Series of research say CBD comes useful for managing inflammation in the body. This same effect can have a significant impact on those battling constipation.
For instance, a study shows CBD – and in general, Cannabis – may help treat inflammatory bowel disease (IBS).
IBS patients suffer an inflamed stomach, which may lead to sores and large swellings in the intestinal tract. Treating this condition involves reducing the inflammation level – a typical attribute of CBD.
Therefore, CBD may comehandy for constipation as much as it does for inflammation. CBD may help curb the inflammation significantly and bring relief to your symptoms.
CBD’s Safety and Legality
Is CBD safe? – this is one common question among skeptics.
Yes, it is. As long as you’re dosing quality CBD products,you’re good to go.
Sofar, CBD is considered safe and widely tolerated. Since CBD does not contain the dreaded high-causing THC, you still won’t get high even with high doses. However, discuss with your doctor before you dose.
Now, talking legality, the 2018 farm bill makes CBD legal, federally. However, before you proceed with any CBD-infused product, confirm your state’s legislation on CBD.
Should I give CBD a try?
Why not?
As we await more evidence, the harmony between existing preclinical studies and firsthand user experience can’t all be a mere coincidence.
So, if your doctor says you’re good, then, you are. Check out CBD products.
