A prediction reports that age-related macular degeneration cases will reach over 17 million by 2050. Other indices show cataracts may hit 50 million the same year.
Some research results suggest CBD products as a viable treatment option for several of these eye conditions.
This article discusses several research findings of CBD remedies for eye issues.
Does CBD really work for eye problems?
A common argument among the uninitiated is that CBD for eye problems may not be realistic since cannabis usage is widely associated with redness of the eyes.
While that may sound logical, the fact is the bloodshot eyes are usually a result of using THC-rich products – not CBD.
In fact, CBD is thought to do the opposite – reduce blood pressure, constrict blood, and, in turn, reduce eye redness.
With CBD’s promising potentials, manufacturers have gone a bit more innovative with the introduction of CBD eye drops.
These remedies have shown promising results in the management of corneal inflammation and pain.
Experts perceive these eye drops could activate the endocannabinoid receptors that curb eye irritation and pain.
The authors, however, say more time and research may be needed to substantiate existing evidence and perhaps establish more concrete facts about CBD as an effective manager of eye inflammation.
CBD Anti-inflammatory Properties
CBD’s anti-inflammatory property is no longer news. This makes it beneficial for inflammation triggered by endotoxin pressure or diabetes.
Interestingly, diabetes and macular degeneration are closely related – they are both a result of low glutathione levels.
Early research evidence suggests CBD may help manage both conditions by balancing glutathione levels.
CBD for Corneal Neuropathic pain
A 2018 research shows that topical use of cannabinoids might come in handy for managing inflammation and pain caused by injury on the eye surface.
The study featured the two primary cannabinoids – THC and CBD.
The authors reported trauma, surgery, neurologic infections and diseases as typical factors that could damage your cornea’s nerve endings which often aggravates into corneal neuropathic pain or CNP.
CNP comes with symptoms, including eye dryness, debilitating pain, stinging and burning sensations, and eye inflammation.
CBD for Diabetic Neuropathy
The World Journal of Diabetes featured a research which examined CBD as a “personalized medicine” for persons battling diabetic neuropathy.
The study focused on CBD antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties to treat symptoms associated with this condition.
The scientists also say although more trials are required, CBD may turn out a novel remedy for diabetes-induced eye issues.
Another study featured in the Molecular Vision publications shows that CBD may protect the retinal neurons in diabetic patients.
This study was, however, conducted in rat specimens; hence, researchers say more in-depth human-based research is required.
Using CBD for eye problems
CBD can be applied directly with eye drops.
Several manufacturers report the challenges they encounter when producing CBD eye drops. The real snag is in the fact that CBD oil and water do not easily blend.
For this, some dubious manufacturers may easily brand any mixture as CBD eye drops.
To be safe, before buying, do well to check the labels, buyer reviews, brands’ reputation, and the products’ certificate of analysis.
You may consider vaping if you manage ocular pains since CBD effects are usually faster-acting when inhaled through vaporization.
Regulating dosage is, however, a significant challenge with CBD vaping. You really can’t tell how much CBD goes in with each puff.
Besides, as with any form of inhalation, vaping may not be lung-friendly.
CBD tinctures are also a thoughtful CBD remedy for eye problems. They are best applied sublingually (that is, beneath the tongue).
This dosage route is considered faster and more efficient than oral doses.
Topicals, including lotions, balms, and salves are also CBD-infused options.
But these alternatives are not suitable for eye problems since applying them directly to the eyes is not practicable.
Edibles (including gummies), pills and capsules are other available CBD dosage alternatives. While these options may deliver relatively longer-lasting effects, the initial result comes only after several hours.
Summarily
Honestly, existing facts are insufficient to make any definite statement on CBD remedies for your eye concerns.
Speculators and prospective users have questioned the safety profile of CBD eye drops.
Research into this subject is relatively costly, complicated, and time-consuming. This has left medical practitioners and patients hanging about CBD as a viable remedy for eye conditions.
No doubt that CBD contains some beneficial ingredients that can help manage related symptoms; if you must use these products for your eyes, experts advise caution.
Better still, before using any CBD product for eyes, do well to discuss with your eye specialist.
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