Potential Uses for CBD Products
Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the major compounds found in cannabis. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the other main compound in cannabis, CBD is not impairing, meaning individuals who take CBD do not experience a mind-altering "high." CBD can be found in hemp, as well as other non-hemp plants. As a result of the 2018 Agriculture Improvement Act, hemp was removed from the federal Controlled Substances Act, effectively legalizing hemp-derived CBD. Over the following years, CBD has been used in a variety of products to help users address numerous physical and psychological issues.
CBD is often touted as an effective pain reliever. This is not a new use for the compound; CBD has been used for pain relief since 2900 BC. Researchers attribute CBD's ability to mitigate pain to its interactions with the endocannabinoid system, which regulates pain sensations throughout the body.
The body naturally produces endocannabinoids, a type of neurotransmitter that binds to cannabinoid receptors. Several studies have indicated that CBD products can interact with these neurotransmitters and reduce inflammation, effectively lowering sensations of chronic pain. Although further research is needed, CBD may also be an effective treatment for rheumatic diseases such as fibromyalgia.
Additional studies have found that CBD may be an effective treatment for certain cancer symptoms, including pain, nausea, and vomiting, as well as similar cancer treatment side effects. CBD's potential as a cancer treatment aid was first reported as part of a 2022 National Library of Medicine study.
Multiple studies have explored CBD's potential as a neuroprotective agent. One study focusing on the CBD and THC spray Sativex found that individuals living with multiple sclerosis could mitigate muscle spasticity and pain by using the spray. CBD has also been effective as a treatment for various seizure disorders, as well as neurological conditions such as Huntington's disease, Parkinson's disease, and various motor disorders.
Researchers believe CBD may be able to lower and manage blood pressure, which could help prevent heart failure, stroke, metabolic syndrome, and other serious health conditions. Studies suggest that the use of CBD helps regulate heart contractions and widens blood vessels.
These are only a few of the health conditions that may benefit from CBD use. Other studies have explored CBD as a treatment for sleep disorders and as a means of extending the lives of people living with glioblastoma.
In addition to physical health issues, CBD has been considered as a treatment for certain mental health disorders. The compound has demonstrated potential as a form of treatment for mood disorders, depression, anxiety, and psychosis. Studies have also focused on CBD as a means of reducing PTSD symptoms, such as nightmares.
While CBD has demonstrated potential to help individuals resolve various health issues, scientists must perform more research. As of 2025, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had only approved one medical product featuring CBD. Epidiolex, which contains purified, hemp-derived CBD, is a medication designed to treat several rare seizure disorders. According to the FDA, Epidiolex is both safe and effective for its intended use.
It must also be noted that many providers of CBD products also sell THC products. Any person interested in CBD who does not want to take THC should ensure that they are not purchasing a THC product or a product that features both CBD and THC.
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