Cannabidiol or CBD is one of two chemicals that make up marijuana. Cannabidiol has a chemical structure very similar to that of THC or tetrahydrocannabinol. However, unlike THC, CBD does not produce a psychoactive “high” like marijuana does. While it cannot be smoked like THC can, CBD is believed to have less harmful side effects than THC and is recommended by some medical practitioners to help people with chronic diseases.
Cannabidiol, also known as CBD Lube, is a naturally occurring phytocannabinoid found in nature. It was first isolated and used as an anti-inflammatory and nerve pain relief substance during the 1970s. Since then, it has been shown to have multiple medical benefits, most notably as an anti-psychotic and an anti-anxiety medication. In recent years, it has been discovered to be a potential source for treating a range of ailments and disorders including: depression, epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease, chronic pain, Crohn’s disease, herpes, neuropathy, sleep disorders, and more. In fact, it is currently being studied as a possible treatment or cure for certain forms of cancer.
Like other natural substances found in nature, CBD may contain some risk for side effects or interactions when taken by people with particular underlying conditions. People with liver diseases, diabetes, cancer, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, and bleeding disorders, or those taking other medications such as blood thinners, should consult their physicians before taking CBD. While there are no known interactions between CBD and other medications, patients should notify their doctors if they intend to start or stop any form of treatment. In addition, patients should be aware that CBD may increase the risk of certain side effects or reactions such as: dizziness, increased appetite, increased urination, difficulty concentrating, shortness of breath, and others.
For those interested in pursuing CBD as a medicinal treatment, it is important to obtain and compare CBD products. Currently, three pharmaceutical companies have formed a CBD pharmaceutical company that plans to manufacture and market a variety of pharmaceuticals derived from the medicinal cannabis plant. The three companies are MMJ Therapeutic Inc, Canopy Ranch Inc, and THC Pharmaceuticals Inc. Each of these companies has received granted funding from the Canadian Government to advance CBD into the pharmaceutical market. If successful, these companies will likely develop a number of new pharmaceutical products that target various symptoms associated with chronic and psychiatric diseases.
In addition to the development of pharmaceuticals, several physicians and other medical experts are exploring the use of CBD as a source of pain relief for patients suffering from serious debilitating medical conditions. Many of these conditions include debilitating muscle spasms caused by diseases such as MS, Crohn’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease. In the past, it was difficult to find effective medicinal and products because no substance had been identified that is effective in reducing a patient’s level of pain. Currently, there are clinical trials being conducted to assess the ability of CBD and other cannabis products to provide relief for patients suffering from MS pain and spasticity.
In summary, the future potential applications of CBD are significant and promise to make the lives of patients suffering from many medical conditions more meaningful and easier to live with. Even if the current trend toward the liberalization of medical marijuana is tempered at this time, there is still potential for future development of an entire range of CBD products that could replace the prescription pain management medications currently available. Patients who are interested in trying out CBD should consult their primary care physician and ask about the possibility of adding this therapeutic substance to their list of medications. A primary care physician can also assist patients in finding a reputable source for CBD. Some healthcare professionals believe that the future availability of CBD is only going to increase as scientists continue to evaluate the benefits of the therapeutic properties found in cannabis.