There are many claims about CBD oil working to help ease pain, anxiety, the symptoms of MS, colds, arthritis and much more. However, does CBD oil work? Does it really work to help deal with symptoms of so many illnesses, diseases and injuries? This is something we have looked into, along with any evidence that supports it.
While research into the benefits of using Cannabidiol oil is still in the very early stages. On saying this, there has been plenty conducted and the studies have begun to show that the oil does seem to have therapeutic effects when used to treat a wide range of conditions.
What is CBD oil?
First, let us look at what the product is. The oil is a compound taken from the Cannabis plant. The oil is manufactured by extraction then diluted using a carrier oil, typically hemp or coconut oil.
While the oil comes from the same plant that produces a “high” when smoked, CBD oil does not include THC, or if it does very little, which gives this high. This means it is not psychoactive and it is safe to take.
While it is available in oil form, it is also available in capsules, creams, soft-gels and more products.
There are many different types and strengths of oil but only those manufactured 100% organically should be used and from reputable companies.
So, does CBD oil work?
Let us look at some of the studies that have been undertaken to determine how successful CBD oil is at helping with various ailments and symptoms.
Acne
Acne is said to be one of the many things that the oil can help with, along with the scars that it leaves behind.
In 2014, a study revealed that CBD might help to reduce acne as it has a positive impact on human sebocytes. These cells bring about sebum that can cause spots. The study concerned topical oil and found that it may be beneficial.
Anxiety
Millions of people around the world suffer from anxiety and in 2019; a study into the effectiveness of CBD oil took place with teenagers in Japan.
The teenagers took CBD oil tablets to reduce their feelings of social anxiety and it showed promising results.
Alzheimer’s disease
A study into the effectiveness of CBD in Alzheimer’s patients revealed that the oil could have properties that provide neuroprotection to ward off the onset of the disease.
Chronic pain
Researchers conducted a study into whether CBD oil could help with reducing chronic pain.
A study showed that the oil might indeed help with reducing pain along with inflammation in joints, such as associated with arthritis.
Epilepsy
There is a strong suggestion that CBD oil may help with symptoms of epilepsy as the FDA gave approval to Epidolex, which contains the oil. It is used in the treatment of people with rare or severe epilepsy and the research revealed that CBD does have the potential to reduce the number of seizures.
Insomnia
Current psychiatry reports suggest that when CBD oil is taken in medium to high doses it can cause a sedative effect.
This does suggest that it can be used in the treatment of insomnia for people who have difficulty in sleeping. Another factor of the oil is its relaxing properties, which could help people who have difficulty sleeping if they suffer from anxiety or stress.
Multiple Sclerosis
People suffering from multiple sclerosis may have stiff muscles, which leads to difficulties when moving around.
Studies have suggested that taking CBD oil via a spray could reduce stiffness in muscles, otherwise known as spasticity.
Different potencies and types of CBD
If you are considering using CBD to help with an ailment, you have to be aware of the different potencies and types out there.
The first type of oil is a full-spectrum oil. This has all the cannabinoids that you find naturally in the cannabis plant, including a minimal trace amount of THC.
The next type of oil, which is the one most people turn to, is broad-spectrum and this includes all cannabinoids of the plant but it does not contain THC.
Finally, there is isolated CBD and this is pure oil that does not have any cannabinoids or any of the compounds of the cannabis plant.
Are there any side effects of CBD oil?
CBD oil is claimed to have numerous benefits. However, you may still be worried about potential side effects.
The FDA has listed some side effects that may be related to using oil. They have suggested it may have the following risks and side effects.
- It could have an adverse reaction on the liver;
- It may interact with other medications you have been prescribed or you are taking;
- It could make you drowsy;
- It could change your appetite – make you hungrier or not hungry;
- Cause diarrhoea.
Circumstances why CBD oil might not work
Some people have tried the oil and it has not worked for them. However, there may be situations and reasons why it has not worked.
Is the oil from a reputable source?
The oil might not have been 100% organically grown and from a reputable source. Only oil of this nature will hold the correct cannabinoids and not have any additional chemicals.
Reliable companies will provide a certificate of analysis to prove the oil is 100% organic and of the best quality possible.
This certificate will reveal the laboratory testing results of the CBD oil so you can be sure it holds the correct potency and is without contaminants.
Are you taking the correct dosage?
Another reason is taking an incorrect dose. It the amount taken is not high enough it will not help to alleviate the issue. It is not unusual to take up to 1,200mg of oil a day to help deal with chronic issues.
It is also possible to build a tolerance to a dose. Therefore, if the oil has helped when first taking it then you find it is not, it could be that you have built up a tolerance and need a higher dose.
It may take time to have an effect
CBD oil may not have immediate effect. It may be that you need to take the oil over a period before it begins to work. Along with this, you might be taking the oil by the wrong method. Remember there are various types, including creams, oil, capsules, gel and more.
Is the oil out of date?
Check the date of the oil you are using as it does have a shelf life. Generally, this is a period of 1 to 2 years and then it will lose its potency.
