Properties of CBD
Discover the Therapeutic Properties of CBD
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a cannabinoid present in the cannabis plant that has been used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Despite its long history, information about CBD is limited, with few accredited doctors specializing in this type of treatment. This article aims to provide insight into the therapeutic properties of CBD and its applications.
Understanding CBD
CBD has a molecular configuration similar to THC, but unlike THC, it does not have any psychotropic effects. This makes CBD an attractive option for those seeking the therapeutic benefits of cannabis without the intoxication. CBD has very low toxicity and minimal adverse side effects, with the worst case being a sedative sensation if the dosage is too high.
A 2015 study published in "Pharmacology & Pharmacy" shows that cannabis plant extract with a high CBD content is more effective at ameliorating symptoms caused by pathological diseases than CBD in its pure form. This is due to the presence of other cannabinoids, aromatic terpenes, and hundreds of other molecules in the plant that enhance CBD's natural action.
Forms and Dosage of CBD
CBD can be consumed orally in the form of oils, capsules, or sprays. The dosage of CBD is not yet well-defined and varies depending on the disease, but it is common to start with 1 mg CBD per kg of body weight and gradually increase the dosage until an effective quantity is determined. CBD can also be used in creams, ointments, and other cosmetics for localized pain and skin problems such as acne or psoriasis.
Conditions Treated with CBD
Research on CBD has increased significantly in recent years, with studies exploring its potential therapeutic applications. Some of the conditions CBD can potentially treat include:
Pain and Inflammation
CBD has potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective against pain and inflammation when taken orally or applied topically in creams.
Anxiety and Depression
Studies have shown that CBD is an effective anxiolytic, which helps regulate mood and prevent depressive phases.
Epilepsy
CBD is effective in some patients affected by severe forms of epilepsy, particularly among children with Dravet, West, or Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.
Antipsychotic
Cannabidiol has significant antipsychotic properties and can be used to relieve symptoms of schizophrenia.
Nausea and Vomiting
Research has shown that CBD has antiemetic properties, making it particularly effective against nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Studies have explored CBD's effectiveness against inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
Multiple Sclerosis
CBD is one of the active ingredients used in Sativex, a drug for patients with multiple sclerosis.
Acne
CBD has a sebostatic and anti-inflammatory effect on human sebocytes, making it an effective treatment for acne.
Neurological and Neuropsychiatric Disorders
Cannabidiol protects neurons from degeneration, making it particularly useful against neurological diseases like Alzheimer's.
Drug Addiction
CBD may be used to fight against addictive behavior, including aiding cigarette smoking cessation and reducing opiate addiction.
Fracture Care
Research has shown that CBD accelerates the healing of bone fractures by stimulating osteoblast activity.
Cancer
CBD has shown potential in fighting certain types of cancer due to its anti-tumor properties and its ability to inhibit the creation of new blood vessel networks required for tumor growth.
Liver Protection
Studies have demonstrated that CBD protects the liver from hepatic steatosis caused by alcohol consumption and damage caused by cocaine consumption.
Diabetes
CBD may reduce the incidence of diabetes and help treat complications related to this disease, such as diabetic cardiomyopathy and diabetic retinopathy.
This non-exhaustive list of diseases that can be treated with CBD will be updated regularly based on the latest scientific advances. CBD is also currently being studied for its potential effects on obesity, asthma, degenerative disc disease, and the cardiovascular system.
A Historical Look at Phyto-Cannabinoid Discovery
Professor Lumir Hanus has been a pioneer in the field of cannabis science, contributing significantly to our understanding of CBD and its therapeutic applications. Alpha-cat's CEO, Sebastien Beguerie, had the incredible honor of meeting Professor Hanus, one of the heroes of cannabis science.
Conclusion
As scientific research on CBD continues to grow, our understanding of its therapeutic properties and potential applications will only deepen. For those seeking the therapeutic benefits of cannabis without the intoxication, CBD offers a promising and well-researched alternative. Whether consumed orally or applied topically, CBD may be a valuable tool in addressing a wide range of health conditions.