From Skin Conditions to Parkinson’s Disease:
How a New Therapy (CBD) is Helping Patients
Research suggests that cannabidiol (CBD), a compound extracted from the hemp plant, could help manage everything from anxiety to psoriasis to Parkinson’s disease. With a better understanding of its potential medical benefits, experts say that millions of lives could be improved. And while the use of CBD to provide relief of health conditions is beginning to gain mainstream attention, it’s still often misunderstood.
What is CBD? CBD, a compound known as a cannabinoid, is found abundantly in the hemp plant. Cannabinoids work by binding with a series of cell receptors found throughout the body, known as the endocannabinoid system. This system is responsible for regulating a variety of functions, including mood, appetite, sleep, pain management, and inflammation. CBD is non-psychoactive, so it doesn’t make you feel “high.”
What are its medical benefits?While research about the medical benefits of CBD is ongoing, anecdotal patient reports are hard to ignore, and have caught the attention of researchers and doctors across many medical specialties. Dermatologist Jeanette Jacknin recommends CBD products for patients experiencing a variety of skin conditions. “Anti-inflammatory properties of CBD appear to dramatically improve symptoms for many patients,” says Dr. Jacknin. “Recent studies in medical literature found that applying a high-quality CBD topical can improve many skin conditions including acne, psoriasis, and eczema.”
But the benefits of CBD are not skin deep. Because endocannabinoid receptors are abundantly found in the nervous system, CBD has been associated with marked improvements in diseases that affect the brain, such as epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, addiction, and insomnia. There is also some animal and preliminary human research suggesting that CBD is a potent inhibitor of cancer growth and spread.
Choosing the Right Therapy.CBD is often consumed orally or used topically, for example, as a skin cream. For skin conditions and inflammatory issues such as arthritis, a topical therapy may be best. A CBD tincture (an easily absorbed solution of CBD and oil) can be taken alone or incorporated into foods or drinks. Products containing less than 0.3 percent tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are legal in all 50 states.
Experts say that increased education about this remedy will potentially offer a greater number of patients with relief from a diverse array of symptoms and conditions.
However, not all CBD is created equally. While there are many products on the market, quality and THC levels can vary significantly. Choose high-quality, ultra-pure options extracted from U.S.-grown industrial hemp that has been tested by a reputable laboratory that offers easy access and visibility to certificates of analysis of their products. Here in Buffalo, Harvest Moon Hydroponics, located at 4204 Union Road in Cheektowaga, provides that assurance through labeling and information on their website. Go to www.hmoonhydro.com, or call 716-634-8290 for information.
Article Source: Statepoint.net
