5 Useful Health Benefits of CBD Oil

Cannabidiol ,better known as CBD, is the chemical compound found in the cannabis plant. It interacts with our neuroreceptors in the endocannabinoid system, this is where the signals are sent to the cells to regulate movement, mood, homeostasis and the immune system. CBD often comes from the cannabis sativa plant in its oil form and mixed with a carrier oil like hemp seed oil. CBD oil has become more popular in recent years due to its calming effects. Here are some useful health benefits of CBD oil.

Insomnia

According to the National Sleep Foundation, sleep-related problems affect 50-70 million of us every year. CBD can be used as a tool to help regulate sleep patterns and help you fall asleep naturally. CBD oil has been considered a safe way to treat insomnia and anxiety. Indirectly CBD oil can help improve sleep as it addresses the underlying causes of poor sleep, like anxiety, stress, pain, and depression.

Inflammation

It has been shown that certain components of cannabis are responsible for its pain-relieving effects. The body produces endocannabinoids that bind to cannabinoid receptors in the nervous system. It is believed that CBD may reduce chronic pain by affecting the endocannabinoid receptors and reducing inflammation. There is an oral spray called Sativex, a 1:1 combination of THC and CBD, that’s used for pain like MS.

Digestion

CBD is good for digestion in the way it helps lower cortisol which prevents leaky gut. Cortisol is a catabolic hormone that breaks down tissues in the body and is destructive on the lining of the GI tract. When the digestive system isn’t working properly the other body systems can’t function the way they should, like the nervous and immune systems. Studies have shown that CBD can help relieve digestive issues and maintain gut health.

Anxiety and Depression

CBD is most popular for its calming effects. There are several studies that show it can help reduce depressive symptoms. The compound helps reduce stress by regulating the heart rate and blood pressure. CBD may alter serotonin signals. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays an important role in mental health. When serotonin levels are low it can cause anxiety and depression.

Epilepsy

Researchers believe the way CBD acts on the endocannabinoid system and other brain signal systems may benefit those with neurological disorders. One of the most common uses for CBD is to treat neurological disorders like epilepsy and MS. Though these studies are fairly new, several studies have shown promising results. One study showed a reduction in seizures by 36.5% in a group of 214 people with severe epilepsy.