| June 3, 2020 | CBD
Disclaimer: This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
The discovery of CBD can be dated back to the 1940’s, but researchers didn’t begin to dig into the medicinal value of the supplement until much more recently. Since researchers and cannabis advocates have taken an interest in understanding the benefits of CBD, experts have uncovered evidence that suggests CBD may be a powerful weapon against anti-aging.
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CBD for Cancer Prevention
CBD, or cannabidiol, has been gaining much media attention in recent years. It’s been showing up everywhere – from coffee shop latte menus to gas station checkout counters. CBD oils, edibles, and vape cartridges are being used by people of all backgrounds. CBD has no psychoactive effects, meaning it won’t get a user high, and significant studies have been done on CBD oil for those that experience seizures. This has excited many researchers and has opened the doors for wider studies.
While it likely won’t make up for poor lifestyle choices (it isn’t a miracle cure), some research suggests CBD could have cancer-preventative effects. CBD appears to do this by protecting cells and their DNA from damage. This, in turn, keeps cells from multiplying out of control and creating cancerous growths. These mechanisms are still being studied, but existing data is encouraging.
Research suggests that CBD may have potential as a preventative measure for cancer, and continuing advancements in research hope to solidify this claim. While smoking any substance is unhealthy due to the risk of exposure to carcinogens, CBD oil and edibles and an overall healthy lifestyle may be viable ways to minimize the risk of developing health conditions.
Some research suggests that CBD may also help manage the side effects of some cancer treatments, such as nausea and loss of appetite from chemotherapy, but more evidence is still needed to understand how or when CBD is beneficial. While more long-term human studies are necessary before drawing any concrete conclusions, scientists are generally in agreement that cannabinoid therapy boasts magnificent potential for cancer prevention.
How Does Cancer Affect the Body?
Cancer starts with just one cell abnormality. That abnormal cell divides, and they keep dividing over and over in an uncontrolled way. Gene changes make one or more cells multiply too much, forming a tumor that grows through normal tissue. These tumors can metastasize, or move throughout the body. This causes the cancer to spread to other parts of the body and makes it difficult to fight.
There are over 200 types of cancer, and both the disease and its treatment can affect blood circulation and the lymphatic, immune, and hormone systems. While most cancers start because of gene changes that occur, some are due to genetic makeup.
Patients receive many different types of treatments for cancer, typically with the goal of remission in mind. Remission means that all symptoms of cancer are gone, though they could return. Treatment depends on a series of factors, including cancer type, where it began, and whether it’s metastasized and spread to other parts of the body. Treatment types are often combined for the best results.
Options range from chemotherapy and radiation therapy to surgery and stem cell transplants. Unfortunately, both cancer and cancer treatments can cause severe side effects. These can include constipation and diarrhea, fatigue, appetite loss, delirium, nausea and vomiting, pain, nerve problems, and more.
How Could CBD Help Prevent Cancer?
As the legal status of CBD has been rapidly expanding in the United States over the last few years, so have the number of scientific studies done on the substance. A 2012 study observed animals treated with CBD and found that they were significantly less likely to develop colon cancer under the same laboratory conditions. Several studies have also shown that CBD significantly decreases and inhibits tumor growth, meaning it may work as an effective way to both prevent and treat tumors.
Interestingly, many studies conclude that CBD in combination with tetrahydrocannabinol – THC, the chemical compound in cannabis that produces psychoactive effects – may prove to be even more effective in reducing cancer cell growth and reproduction. These findings suggest that CBD for cancer prevention may be a beneficial prophylactic therapy.
Study Results that Support CBD for Cancer Prevention
A 2018 study showed that hemp-derived CBD reduced the ability of ovarian cancer cells to metastasize. Researchers were particularly interested in finding plant-based therapeutics to use in treatments for ovarian cancer. “Our results indicate that KY hemp extract will attenuate OCC migration in a dose dependent manner in both cell lines. In A2780 OCCs, this attenuation was significant at all concentrations tested. A2780 cells treated with 12 -15 µg/ml hemp extract that contain 2.5- 3.2 µM CBD, caused a decrease in cell migration comparable to Cisplatin. Based on the data here we conclude that KY hemp has significant anti-metastatic properties against ovarian cancer.”
A 2011 study on rats shows that CBD can help control aggressive breast cancer cells. The study notes that there are limited therapeutic interventions today for metastatic breast cancers and that there is an urgent need for an effective, non-toxic treatment. “Using immune competent mice, we then show that treatment with CBD significantly reduces primary tumor mass as well as the size and number of lung metastatic foci in two models of metastasis. Our data demonstrate the efficacy of CBD in pre-clinical models of breast cancer.”
Recommended Regimen of CBD for Cancer Prevention
Cancer is a serious disease, so it is important to understand that CBD for cancer prevention should be used as a supplement rather than strictly as a treatment on its own. It’s also important to note that CBD has not yet been proven as a cancer preventative. Still, many people have found comfort in the existing research and have therefore incorporated CBD into their daily routine. For a preventative treatment, we recommend incorporating a dose of CBD into your daily routine in the form of a Gel Capsule or Gummy. Start with a low dose of 20 to 25 mg and increase if necessary. Effects will begin in about 60 to 90 minutes and last for several hours.
If you are suffering from existing tumors, a tincture or CBD-rich flower will offer fast relief of nausea and other cancer treatment side effects. These methods are more difficult to dose than a softgel or gummy, so start slow and wait at least 20 minutes before dispensing another dose or smoking some more flower.
CBD For Cancer
According to preliminary evidence, CBD may have two major functions in helping the treatment of cancer; slowing/stopping the growth of cancerous cells (prevention) and dealing with the symptoms of cancer treatments like chemotherapy (symptom management).
In the United States, the most common treatment for cancer is chemotherapy – an administration of intense anti-cancer drugs that induce severe side effects like nausea, fatigue, gastrointestinal disease, etc.
Researchers are interested in CBD’s ability to help combat all of these side effects. With more studies, scientists are looking into the effect of CBD on cancerous cells . This is the beauty of plant-based medicine – experience an improved quality of life without any risk of overdose or side effects.
What’s more? Early research has shown CBD’s ability to stop some cancerous cells dead in their tracks. Studies have been performed evaluating CBD’s ability to manage various types of cancer including; bladder, brain, breast, colon, endocrine, Leukemia, lung, prostate, and skin. Results have been varied and some studies remain inconclusive, but overall research suggests a positive link.
That’s why so many people are turning to cannabidiol instead of (or as a compliment to) many pharmaceuticals after a cancer diagnosis. In order to better understand the mechanisms by which CBD may be beneficial for cancer patients, we turn to a series of medical studies that have been conducted over the past twenty years. We will address the results below.
Studies that Support the Use of CBD in Cancer
Some research angles at specific types of cancer, and there is research that suggests CBD may be a suitable choice for combating the spread of breast cancer, prostate cancer, and colon cancer. Some studies take a broader approach, and CBD has been unofficially labeled “antiproliferative” and “anti-angiogenic” on several accounts. If these reports are proven accurate, it essentially means that CBD can stop the growth of new cancer cells and prevent tumors from growing their own blood vessels, both of which can help inhibit cancer’s advancement in the body.
As if cancer-fighting properties aren’t spectacular enough, research outlines several ways that cannabidiol may help manage other symptoms related to cancer and standard cancer treatments, like chemotherapy. In fact, some studies specifically involve chemotherapy patients hoping to manage nausea and vomiting and confirm the anti-emetic properties of CBD. Further research suggests CBD could even be useful for managing sleep disorders, pain, and inflammation, all of which are frequently primary concerns for cancer patients.
Research regarding CBD is expected to continue rapidly advancing, and there’s no doubt that cancer is one area of focus that won’t be overlooked. For now, the evidence we have suggests that CBD may be useful for cancer patients, which has led to a massive influx of anecdotal reports that “CBD cures cancer.”
Understanding exactly how it may work, however, requires a firm understanding of cannabidiol’s effect on the body’s endocannabinoid system and how it comes into play when regulating the immune system and combating cancer symptoms. Much more research is needed before CBD can be officially recognized as a cancer treatment, but a look at the following research will shed light on CBD and it’s many potential cancer-related uses:
Cannabidiol as potential anticancer drug
A 2013 study concluded that “Collectively, the non-psychoactive plant-derived cannabinoid CBD exhibits pro-apoptotic and anti-proliferative actions in different types of tumors and may also exert anti-migratory, anti-invasive, anti-metastatic and perhaps anti-angiogenic properties. On the basis of these results, the evidence is emerging to suggest that CBD is a potent inhibitor of both cancer growth and spread. Interestingly, the anticancer effect of this compound seems to be selective for cancer cells, at least in vitro, since it does not affect normal cell lines.”
Cannabidiol inhibits angiogenesis by multiple mechanisms
A 2012 study found that “CBD exerts a potent anti-angiogenic effect by widely affecting several pathways involved in this process. Its dual effect on both tumor and endothelial cells further suggests that CBD could represent a potentially effective agent in cancer therapy.”
Cannabidiol inhibits cancer cell invasion via upregulation of tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases-1.
A 2010 study evaluated the impact of CBD on cancer cell invasion. The study findings “provide a novel mechanism underlying the anti-invasive action of cannabidiol and imply its use as a therapeutic option for the treatment of highly invasive cancers.”
Learn more: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19914218
Antitumor effects of cannabidiol, a nonpsychoactive cannabinoid, on human glioma cell lines.
A 2004 study concluded that “The non psychoactive CBD was able to produce a significant antitumor activity both in vitro and in vivo, thus suggesting a possible application of CBD as an antineoplastic agent.”
Learn more: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14617682
Pathways mediating the effects of cannabidiol on the reduction of breast cancer cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis.
2011 looked at the effects of CBD in the treatment of breast cancer. The data demonstrated “that CBD inhibits human breast cancer cell proliferation and invasion through differential modulation of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) pathways…”
Learn more: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20859676
Non-THC cannabinoids inhibit prostate carcinoma growth in vitro and in vivo: pro-apoptotic effects and underlying mechanisms
A 2013 study published in the British Journal of Pharmacology provides evidence “that plant-derived cannabinoids, especially cannabidiol, are potent inhibitors of prostate carcinoma viability in vitro.”
Chemopreventive effect of the non-psychotropic phytocannabinoid cannabidiol on experimental colon cancer.
A 2012 study investigated the chemopreventive effect of CBD on colon cancer. The study concluded, “that cannabidiol exerts a chemopreventive effect in vivo and reduces cell proliferation through multiple mechanisms.”
Learn more: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22231745
Regulation of nausea and vomiting by cannabinoids.
A 2011 study looked into the antiemetic effects of cannabidiol and concluded that “Preclinical research indicates that cannabinoids, including CBD, may be effective clinically for treating both nausea and vomiting produced by chemotherapy or other therapeutic treatments.”
In vitro and in vivo efficacy of non-psychoactive cannabidiol in neuroblastoma.
A 2016 study evaluated CBD in the treatment of Neuroblastoma (NBL), one of the most common solid cancers in children. The results“demonstrate the antitumorigenic action of CBD on NBL cells. Because CBD is a nonpsychoactive cannabinoid that appears to be devoid of side effects, our results support its exploitation as an effective anticancer drug in the management of NBL.
Learn more: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27022310
Which CBD products help with cancer symptoms?
As you design your CBD-infused wellness routine for managing cancer-related symptoms, you should keep in mind that CBD has not yet been proven as an effective cancer treatment. Still, the public outcry suggests that many people with a cancer diagnosis have found great benefit when using regular doses of CBD. That means it may be most effective to utilize regular doses of CBD to take advantage of the protective and preventive properties of the cannabinoid. Then, CBD may also be a solution for sudden flare-ups related to your condition as well.
There’s a wide selection of CBD products to choose from but for managing cancer and related symptoms, we recommend ingesting full spectrum CBD oil daily in the form of tinctures or gel capsules.
These two products are very similar in that they both rely on the power of full-spectrum CBD oil. However, they provide two different dosing methods that make them more or less appropriate for some users. Capsules are easily swallowed while tinctures are dropped under the tongue. No matter which you choose, ensure that the product combines CBD and an MCT oil to increase the body’s ability to absorb cannabidiol.
Still, you may find that you experience sudden flares from your condition and need a safe way to manage them. CBD can be used to manage these sudden symptoms, too, and choosing a product is mostly based on preference.
Whether you’re hoping to manage pain, nausea, or another discomfort – we recommend vaporizing CBD isolate to combat these sudden symptoms. Vaping is recommended for the sudden onset of discomfort because it provides quick relief. CBD isolate is a 99% pure version of cannabidiol with other cannabinoids and terpenes removed. When vaporized, it can bring relief almost instantly, and the full onset of effects takes only 10 minutes.
If vaping isn’t your preference, you can increase your tincture or gel capsule dose to manage these acute flare-ups. However, they have a delayed onset compared to vaporized CBD—90 minutes vs only 10.
Many people find that managing the symptoms related to cancer requires a thoughtful combination of CBD products in order to ensure 24-hour therapeutic and preventative coverage.
What is the correct CBD dosage to help treat cancer?
Your weight, tolerance, condition, and severity of symptoms all play a role in how much CBD you will need to experience complete relief. It’s important to note that dosing for CBD is unique for every person, and you should start low and increase your dose until you reach a level of relief you’re comfortable with.
We suggest those suffering from cancer and related symptoms start with 20-40mg per day of CBD. If this isn’t enough to bring relief, we suggest slowly increasing the dose in increments of 10mg. A CBD tincture makes it easy to precisely measure doses, so you can increase and decrease as needed.
Alternatively, CBD gel capsules provide the convenience of pre-measured doses that make it easy to increase in larger increments. A 10-milligram capsule would be convenient for this dosing regimen, but there’s no harm in choosing a larger capsule, like a 20-milligram gel cap, because you can’t overdose on CBD and there are no serious side effects.
In addition to their antiproliferative properties, these ingestible products provide sustained relief for several hours, and many people report that a single dose is enough to get them through the entire day. Keep in mind that these ingestible CBD products have a delayed onset of approximately 90 minutes, so you need to allow plenty of time in between doses to monitor the effects before deciding to make adjustments.
Vaporizers provide a different vaping experience that can be more easily measured in the “number of puffs” needed to provide relief. Different formulas and vaping mechanisms may provide a different potency of CBD in each dose, but the effects kick in quickly, making them easy to monitor. To adjust your CBD vaping dose, take one or two puffs at a time and wait 10 minutes before deciding if another dose is needed. Slowly stacking doses in this manner will help you quickly learn your dosing threshold.
CBD for Testicular Cancer
With more and more people being diagnosed with cancer each day, we believe it’s important for our readers to understand how cannabis and CBD can help treat cancer. In other articles we’ve analyzed the published medical studies on CBD and cancer; however, in this article we’ll be providing a first hand account from a testicular cancer survivor on how CBD aided in his treatment. Chris Becker is now starting a wellness brand to help people take immediate action rather than waiting for a prognosis to make positive change in their lives.
When were you first diagnosed with cancer and what was the official diagnosis?
I found out I had a 15cm mass in my abdomen on January 10th, 2018. The diagnosis at this time was unknown. They thought it was Sarcoma, Lymphoma or Renal Cell Carcinoma.
Did you undergo any conventional cancer therapy before choosing CBD oil? If so, how did you feel afterward? Was it effective?
At first, I wanted to go holistic since all of the above possibilities had a terrible prognosis. However after about a month, and the mass growing to 22cm, I got a biopsy and they found out it was Testicular Cancer latest stage. I then started conventional treatment right away as it has an overall 95% survival rate, however, mine was lower since I was so far in.
How long after you were diagnosed did you start using CBD? What led you to try cannabis-based therapy for your condition?
I started using CBD right after my first chemo cycle. I’ve always been a believer in cannabis and was doing countless hours of research on it.
How did your doctor respond to your decision to use CBD as a cancer treatment? Was it difficult talking to your doctor about using CBD?
My doctor was definitely pro-cannabis as a way to mitigate the side effects of chemo, but not as a treatment or enhancer to help the body heal. However, it was not difficult to have my doctor completely on board with it.
This article specifically addresses how to talk to your doctor about CBD.
Can you describe your CBD routine? Were there any THC products used? What dosage of CBD helped you find relief?
I used one product. Full spectrum CBD capsules from a company called CBD Alive. Each capsule contained 10mg of cannabinoids. I took one a day at first, then went up to two a day. Usually in the morning. There was some THC. I believe it was a 20:1 ratio product. I think I went to 4 a day at one point, and then back to two a day.
How did Cannabidiol help?
One thing for sure is it helped with fear and anxiety. Gave me a more “no worries” feeling which was excellent for stress management and perfect for healing. I believe it helped my body deal with this issue on its own, as well as making the chemo more effective and less destructive as my side effects were very minimal.
Was Cannabidiol useful for managing other symptoms related to your condition?
I believe it was for sure. Mainly stress.
How long did you take Cannabidiol? How long after starting Cannabidiol did you (or your doctor) begin to notice results?
It’s hard to pinpoint since the chemo regimen I was doing is a proven effective method they’ve been using for years now for what I had. I also think there was just a combo of positive thinking as I called chemotherapy “healing therapy”, lots of prayers, CBD and having a ton of love and support.
How long after starting Cannabidiol before you were officially in remission?
In my case, there is no remission. My surgeon at UCLA had a completely different outlook because he is also a survivor himself. On youtube, he claims no matter what stage testicular cancer is in, it’s 100% curable. I was using CBD already for a few months straight and 2 months after my last chemo cycle, I had to do a big surgery. In one incision they took the left kidney, left testicle, some lymph nodes along the aorta and the 12cm mass (down from 22cm) which was once a lymph node on the aorta at one point before growing out of control.
The surgery was a success and I was like, that’s it. I’m done. The surgeon, Dr. Mark Litwin, said he was happy to bring me to the finish line as usual, this is where it ends. However, despite this amazing news that everything has gone exactly right, another miracle happened. One of the doctors on my team came to my room in the hospital a few days after surgery. He said, “did you hear the great news?” I looked at him kind of confused and replied, “No I haven’t.” Thinking how could there be any more news? He then said, “The pathology results came back on everything we removed. It was all negative. Non-viable tumor. No cancer found.” I was amazed as I completely forgot about pathology at this point. I thought maybe I would hear what type of mixed germ cell tumor it was later but it turns out, it was all killed. Upon leaving the hospital 8 days after surgery, my surgeon put his hands on me and said, “God has given you a second chance, do something good with your life.” A very memorable moment.
Do you still take Cannabidiol now?
Yes. Just about every night before bed.
What advice do you have for anyone who is skeptical of using CBD as a treatment for cancer?
I would say that there is almost no reason not to use it. At the end of the day, it will help your body deal and heal with the challenge in front of it.
If you were ever to have to go through the process again, would you still choose CBD as a preferred treatment method? What would you do differently?
Well, this is kind of hard because I originally discovered something with my left testicle in June 2016. I didn’t go to the doctor for almost 2 years. After countless warning signs of pain, injury, I didn’t go. That’s because the pain was mainly leg and back pain and some abdominal pain which all felt like related injuries. Being very active, I didn’t think anything of it. If I had to do it all over again, I would still go with the chemo/surgery as the primary option, while using CBD just because of the very high success rate. I would probably implement a lot more grounding and sunlight.
What is the best way for a reader to get in contact with you?
The best way would be my Instagram @newchrisbecker.
CBD For Cardiovascular Disease
Cardiovascular disease is one of the most common ailments in America; heart disease is the leading cause of death in the US, causing nearly 1 in 4 deaths annually. Nearly fifty percent of Americans have one or more risk factors for heart disease, which include diabetes, a history of tobacco use, obesity, and a largely sedentary lifestyle. Many different pharmaceutical interventions are prescribed for cardiovascular disease, from ACE inhibitors to anticoagulants to antiplatelet agents to cholesterol-reducers like statins and cholesterol absorption inhibitors.
If you’ve been diagnosed with cardiovascular disease, you may have a veritable armada of medications in your arsenal. Many of these medications can interact with both other medicines and the food you eat, making accommodating them in your life difficult. They can also produce nasty side effects and make you feel, well, crummy!
While we don’t advise discontinuing these medications outright (a terrible idea for your heart) without consulting your doctor and keeping a careful eye on your lab results (it’s important to continue to monitor your condition, and blood testingprovides an excellent picture of your cardiovascular health), there is some evidence to suggest that CBD can help alleviate the hypertension and inflammation underlying cardiovascular disease, reducing your risk of heart attack and stroke.
So, how does CBD help with cardiovascular disease? First, we’ll need to discuss the roots of cardiovascular disease—what it is, what causes it, and how to prevent it, or mitigate it if you’ve already been diagnosed. Then, we’ll explore the science of how CBD acts on your system to potentially reduce hypertension and relax your blood vessels.
When reduced to its most basic elements, cardiovascular disease is like so many other illnesses in that it’s a disease of inflammation. Your blood vessels can become inflamed just like other tissues of your body, restricting blood flow and potentially blocking vital pathways, causing a heart attack or stroke. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a symptom of this inflammation: the blood vessels constrict as they become inflamed, forcing blood through the smaller openings at higher and higher pressures, sort of like putting your thumb over the mouth of a garden hose. This not only stresses the walls of your blood vessels, it also strains the heart, which has to work harder to pump your blood through your constricted and inflamed system.
This is one of the reasons aspirin is commonly prescribed as a preventive measure to people approaching middle age, the time of life when we expect to see cardiovascular disease arise. Aspirin works in two main ways to help stave off heart disease: it is a blood-thinner, meaning it makes your blood less likely to clot within your blood vessels and produce a heart attack. It is also an anti-inflammatory, and helps reduce the inflammation within your blood vessels that is contributing to your high blood pressure.
CBD may also accomplish this relaxation of blood vessels, as some research suggests that it is a potent anti-inflammatory that has been shown to relax blood vessels themselves (more on the biomechanics of that action in a moment!). CBD may also reduce the cardiovascular response to different types of stress, which means it may help regulate your heart rate and decrease your risk of a sudden cardiac event. Of course, research advancements are needed before we can fully pinpoint the how, when, and why of CBD for cardiovascular disease, but many researchers are hopeful that CBD can one day be officially incorporated as a treatment option for the condition.
Before we begin talking about the science of how CBD helps improve cardiovascular health, we need to make a note: CBD is no different from other medications in that it won’t magically undo or negate poor lifestyle choices. Cardiovascular disease affects your whole body, so you’ll need to consider your whole body when treating it in order to be effective.
If you’re going to add CBD to your regimen, that’s wonderful! That said, if you’re looking to get the maximum effect from your dose, you’ll need to pair your CBD routine with healthier lifestyle choices. This doesn’t just mean quitting tobacco, reducing alcohol intake, and avoiding fried foods—like anything else in life, the more you put into your lifestyle changes, the more you’ll get out of them.
It’s a good idea to increase your physical activity—try making small changes like going for a morning walk or taking the stairs to your office instead of the elevator—as well as making responsible dietary choices. There is mounting evidence to support the theory that the standard American diet—high in sugar and carbohydrates, low in fat—is hard on your system and promotes systemic inflammation, so talk to your doctor about how to make changes to your diet that will support your heart health.
Diet is tricky because so much of the existing research is influenced by the sugar and wheat industries (who have a vested interest in downplaying the harm their products cause), so it’s important to do your research while paying close attention to who funded the studies you’re reading. We advise working with your doctor in conjunction with doing your own research, and don’t be afraid to seek a second opinion!
According to some existing research, the potent anti-inflammatory and anxiolytic effects of CBD may provide major benefits to your cardiovascular system, reducing your risk of heart attack and stroke. Studies also suggest that CBD may perform some of the functions of commonly-prescribed medications to soothe inflammation and bring down blood pressure. This preliminary research serves to provide hope for many affected by the disease, and to give foundation to researchers hoping to officially establish CBD as a treatment for heart disease. If you’re interested in more research about the applications of CBD for cardiovascular disease, check out our free case studies to see how CBD can help you take control of your health. If you’d like more information about replacing your current pharmaceutical regimen with CBD, consider our CBD ebook, which covers everything you need to know to make the switch successfully.
Studies that Support the Use of CBD for Cardiovascular Disease
While there are a fairly small (from a scientific perspective) number of studies available on the specifics of how CBD acts on the cardiovascular system, there’s a lot to unpack within them. We’ll be focusing on a study conducted in 2013, which found several phytocannabinoids (including CBD) to be effective in inducing vasorelaxation, or relaxing the tissues of blood vessels to increase their diameter, thereby improving blood circulation. CBD was also found to act as an agonist (a compound that boosts the effects of a different compound in the body) for a compound called PPARγ, which helps clear blockages in the arteries and reduces blood pressure.
According to this research, CBD acts on the cardiovascular system in (at least) two ways: it relaxes the blood vessels themselves, and it helps boost the activity of compounds that reduce blood pressure and gradually clear blockages. There are also other studies, performed on both humans and rats, that show CBD to produce vasorelaxation through a receptor located in the endothelium (the inner layer of cells lining your blood vessels). The full discussion gets a little complicated here, but the main point is that researchers found evidence that CBD acts on a receptor in the endothelium to help relax and expand blood vessels. While that receptor has yet to be specifically discovered, scientists have shown us where we should be looking, so researchers are getting warmer!
Some research suggests that the potential anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) effects of CBD can also benefit cardiovascular health by decreasing cardiac response to stress, reducing the likelihood of a sudden cardiac event, like a heart attack. Some studies also suggest that CBD can help regulate an irregular heartbeat, further reducing your risk of heart attack—especially if you’ve been diagnosed with an arrhythmia. These studies suggest that CBD has a regulatory effect on heart rate, and it does not appear to raise heart rate (unlike THC).
Ultimately, these preliminary studies offer a foundation for researchers to continue to delve into the benefits of CBD for cardiovascular disease, but they aren’t conclusive in marking CBD as a heart disease treatment. Future advancements in research will aim to uncover CBD’s full potential and hopefully help establish CBD as an official treatment for the life-threatening condition.
CBD products for Cardiovascular Disease?
As you design a cannabidiol-infused wellness regimen to help combat symptoms of cardiovascular disease, you should note that CBD has not yet been proven effective. Still, many people are intrigued both by its therapeutic potential according to the limited research and by the expansive anecdotal reports of success from people who take CBD regularly. In other words, using CBD as a preventative may be the first step to total symptom relief. After establishing a regular dosing routine, then you can use CBD to manage acute flare-ups as well.
There are multiple CBD products that you can choose from, but for managing cardiovascular disease, we recommend ingesting full spectrum CBD oil daily in the form of tinctures or gel capsules.
These two products feature the same main ingredient—full spectrum CBD oil. Choosing between the two means determining which dosing style works best for you. Tinctures are easily dropped under the tongue, and gel capsules are swallowed, just like any other pill. Just be sure the product you choose also utilizes high-quality MCT oil, which is crucial to the body’s ability to effectively break down and absorb CBD.
After establishing a preventative routine, you may find that you still need an easy way to use CBD for managing acute flare-ups. There are many products that may help you achieve relief from these sudden symptoms, and choosing is based on your own preference.
Whether it’s caused by stress, a big life event, or something else – we recommend vaporizing CBD isolate to combat these acute flare-ups. CBD isolate is a version of CBD that is 99% pure, and when vaporized it can deliver fast-acting relief to the entire body.
Additionally, you can simply increase your regular dose of CBD gel capsules or tinctures to manage these acute flares. Just keep in mind that they will take significantly longer to take effect than the 10-minute onset achieved with vaporized CBD.
Correct CBD dosage to help treat Cardiovascular Disease?
Choosing the best dose for you requires careful consideration of your unique biological factors, like weight and tolerance to cannabinoid-based supplements. Additionally, you may need to increase your dose for more severe cases of Cardiovascular Disease or to manage severe flares.
We suggest those suffering from cardiovascular disease start with 15mg per day of CBD. If this dosage doesn’t bring complete relief, we suggest increasing by 5-10mg until the desired effects are achieved. CBD tinctures make it easy to measure doses in small increments, so they may be a great option for those who are testing out different doses.
CBD gel capsules, however, offer pre-measured doses that make it convenient to take CBD daily. There’s no harm starting with the lowest dose (like a ten-milligram capsule) and increasing by that increment since you can’t overdose on CBD and it poses no risk of serious side effects
From here, you can increase your dose slowly until you experience complete relief. Don’t forget that with ingestible CBD products you’ll experience a delayed onset time – it can take up to 90 minutes for the effects to peak. That means you need to allow plenty of time between doses to the effects before you make any adjustments to the amount of CBD you are taking.
CBD vaporizers require a slightly different approach, as it can be difficult to measure the exact potency of CBD in every puff. Instead, try measuring the amount needed to experience relief from symptoms by the “number of puffs” needed. This is simple because vaporized CBD kicks in quickly, usually in ten minutes or less. This offers a great opportunity to slowly monitor the effects and stack on doses until you learn how much CBD you need.
CBD for Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia can cause persistent pain that makes it difficult to enjoy even the most pleasant activities. Like many chronic conditions, the pain of fibromyalgia can be difficult to manage. Can CBD help with fibromyalgia and, if so, how? Here, we examine the science of CBD for fibromyalgia. We’ll look at the causes and symptoms of fibro and associated pain before discussing how CBD can help alleviate these symptoms. We will also provide some dosing guidelines to help you incorporate CBD into your fibro wellness routine.
What is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a potentially debilitating condition that causes widespread muscle tenderness, pain, and fatigue. Related to arthritis, fibromyalgia can make even simple activities difficult or impossible. A chronic condition, fibromyalgia can be treated, but not cured. Like many chronic conditions, pain management for fibromyalgia is often difficult and may involve heavy pharmaceuticals.
How Can CBD Help With Fibromyalgia?
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a naturally occurring compound found in the cannabis plant that has no psychoactive effects. Many states that still ban medical cannabis will make exceptions for CBD due to its multitude of medicinal properties and inability to get a user “high,” like the compound THC is known to do. One ailment CBD is commonly used for is fibromyalgia.
Fibromyalgia is a condition involving multiple manageable yet chronic symptoms, including pain, fatigue, changes in mood, and memory loss. It is believed that the disorder alters the way the brain processes pain signals, thus enhancing all bodily pains. Fibromyalgia affects more women than men, and is most common in adults between 40 and 75 years old.
While researchers are not entirely sure what causes fibromyalgia, some studies suggest genetics may be involved. It is also believed that the heightened pain sensitivity associated with fibromyalgia is caused by lower levels of certain brain neurotransmitters, including serotonin and norepinephrine.
Current treatment for fibromyalgia includes pharmaceuticals and self-care, such as taking actions to improve general health. Treatments vary by symptoms, but range from pain relievers, antidepressants (to help treat pain and fatigue), and anti-seizure medications (which can be helpful in reducing certain pains and other fibromyalgia symptoms).
While CBD for fibromyalgia may be effective for many people, it is important to note that it is not a cure. Many people report that CBD for fibromyalgia also tends to work best in accompaniment with traditional pharmaceutical medications and lifestyle changes. Treatment will be different for each patient, but studies show that CBD may offer a solution to many of the discomforts related to the condition. Talking to your doctor about CBD may be the best first step.
It should also be noted that while the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recognizes the potential value that CBD may possess, to date they do not yet approve of it as a regulated treatment option. While the Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018 (otherwise known as the Farm Bill) regulated industrial hemp, it did not change the legal status of CBD. Overall, more research and clinical trials will be necessary to fully understand how this naturally occurring substance can aid in the treatment of this chronic illness.
The Science of CBD for Fibromyalgia
The human body comes fully equipped with an endocannabinoid system, which is comprised of different receptors that help the brain communicate with the rest of the body. A 2016 study in Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research presented research that supported the theory that a lack of endocannabinoids, the neurotransmitters that bind to the endocannabinoid receptors and facilitate cell communication, may be the cause of treatment-resistant, chronic pain syndromes. These may include migraines, irritable bowel syndrome, and fibromyalgia. CBD for fibromyalgia may help to treat this deficiency, thus leading to reduced intensity of symptoms.
The endocannabinoid system sends pain signals between the brain and the body. CBD has been found to alter these nerve pathways, and thus the pain felt throughout the body. This, accompanied with research that shows CBD’s anti-inflammatory effects, may also explain why CBD is an effective treatment for many fibromyalgia patients.
It should be noted that CBD only reduces fibromyalgia symptoms in some patients. Like all medications, CBD is not a magical cure-all and may be ineffective for some people. Further research is needed to understand why it works for some and not others, and advancements in the science of CBD for fibromyalgia are needed before CBD can be officially established as a fibro treatment. Still, some existing research hopes to light the way to discovering the complete therapeutic potential of CBD for fibro.
Current Research: CBD and Fibromyalgia
A 2008 study reviewed scientific literature via the National Library of Medicine database and other sources in order to examine how clinical endocannabinoid deficiency could explain why migraines, fibromyalgia, and irritable bowel syndrome are alleviated by cannabis. “Cannabinoids have similarly demonstrated the ability to block spinal, peripheral and gastrointestinal mechanisms that promote pain in headache, fibromyalgia, IBS and related disorders.”
Additional Research: CBD and Fibromyalgia
A 2019 study explored the effects of inhaled pharmaceutical-grade cannabis in a randomized placebo-controlled trial. Four different cannabis varieties with different levels of CBD and THC were tested in 20 chronic pain patients with fibromyalgia. “[M] more subjects receiving Bediol [13.4 mg THC, 17.8 mg CBD] displayed a 30% decrease in pain scores compared to placebo (90% vs 55% of patients).”
Recommended CBD Regimen for Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that requires daily treatment. When considering CBD as a treatment pathway, keep in mind that the benefits of CBD for fibromyalgia have not yet been proven. Still, many people find that regular application of CBD, whether systemic or topical, helps improve their discomfort.
For bodily pains, we recommend a topical product like a CBD Lotion that can be applied right onto the affected area. This will offer localized, long lasting relief when and where you need it. Apply generously and be sure to massage into your skin.
For daily relief and general mood stabilization, we suggest also taking a CBD tincture every morning. Begin with a low dose (one full dropper) and increase as necessary. If you are new to tinctures, try a flavored variety and mix in your coffee or tea.
CBD and Diabetes
Diabetes affects more than 100 million adults to date, and nearly ten percent of the American population suffers from the condition. The condition, which is characterized by high blood sugar and insufficient insulin levels, causes an array of uncomfortable symptoms, like swelling, fatigue, slow healing times, and weight changes.
Further, diabetes can also cause a number of other health conditions, especially if severe or untreated for a long time. Diabetes comes with an increased risk of heart disease, kidney disease, stroke, nerve damage, eye problems, and foot problems. Both Type I and Type II diabetes generally require treatment, which can include a series of treatments and prescription medications.
Type I diabetes is often treated with insulin or amylinomimetic drugs, while alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, Biguanides, DPP-4 inhibitors, along with insulin, are commonly prescribed for Type II diabetes. All of these medications act in various ways on the liver, pancreas, or other hormone-regulating functions.
One drawback of these hormone-based therapies and other diabetes medications is their side effects. Some possible side effects of the medications frequently prescribed for diabetes include bloating, nausea, gas, stomach pain, tiredness, dizziness, and more.
Luckily, a new therapeutic option may soon be able to rise to the occasion. Studies have shown that cannabis may reduce insulin resistance. Further, cannabidiol (CBD) has been noted to have preventative properties that may reduce the risk of developing diabetes for non-diabetics, which may be useful for those who are at increased risk for diabetes based on genetic or lifestyle factors. Ultimately, more evidence is needed before CBD can officially be considered a treatment for diabetes, but this preliminary research gives hope for a more natural alternative, and many people have already turned to CBD with positive results.
Though it’s still in its early stages, this research suggests that CBD could help in many ways, including with hormone regulation and with managing related symptoms. To better understand the link between diabetes and CBD, we look at various existing medical studies.
Studies that Support the Use of CBD for Diabetes
CBD was discovered in the 1940s, but continued to be shrouded in mystery until the past decade. Now, research regarding CBD’s health benefits is rapidly expanding, and researchers are identifying many ways that CBD may help manage the causes and symptoms of many types of chronic disease.
Researchers first identified a link between a disruption in the endocannabinoid system and insulin resistance and diabetes. Because the endocannabinoid system has a direct impact on many of the hormone regulating functions that directly impact the body’s ability to utilize blood sugar as energy, it has an undeniable impact on diabetes and related symptoms.
Further research identifies that cannabidiol may help prevent retina cell damage and cardiovascular damage that can lead to permanent damage to the eyes or an increased risk of heart problems. Research also suggests that cannabidiol could act as a preventative against the development of diabetes overall. CBD’s potential anti-inflammatory properties may also help explain the way that CBD is useful for patients with diabetes.
Because of the understanding of how the endocannabinoid system impacts hormone-regulating functions, research efforts regarding the use of CBD for diabetes are expected to continue to grow. Many of these efforts aim to eventually establish CBD as a primary treatment option for diabetic patients, and potentially even a preventative method for those classified as pre-diabetic. For now, we look to the following evidence to see what we do know about CBD for diabetes:
The Impact of Marijuana Use on Glucose, Insulin, and Insulin Resistance among US Adults
A 2013 study looked at the use of cannabis in 4,657 adults with diabetes, and found that “In multivariable adjusted models, current marijuana use was associated with 16% lower fasting insulin levels… We found significant associations between marijuana use and smaller waist circumferences.”
Cannabidiol attenuates cardiac dysfunction, oxidative stress, fibrosis, and inflammatory and cell death signaling pathways in diabetic cardiomyopathy.
A 2010 study reports that the results “coupled with the excellent safety and tolerability profile of CBD in humans, strongly suggest that it may have great therapeutic potential in the treatment of diabetic complications, and perhaps other cardiovascular disorders, by attenuating oxidative/nitrative stress, inflammation, cell death and fibrosis.”
Learn more: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21144973
Cannabidiol lowers incidence of diabetes in non-obese diabetic mice.
A 2006 study evaluated CBD’s potential as a preventative against diabetes and concluded “Our results indicate that CBD can inhibit and delay destructive insulitis and inflammatory Th1-associated cytokine production in NOD mice resulting in a decreased incidence of diabetes possibly through an immunomodulatory mechanism shifting the immune response from Th1 to Th2 dominance.”
Learn more: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16698671
Neuroprotective and blood-retinal barrier-preserving effects of cannabidiol in experimental diabetes.
A 2008 study evaluated the effects of CBD on retinal-cell death and found that “CBD treatment reduces neurotoxicity, inflammation, and BRB breakdown in diabetic animals through activities that may involve inhibition of p38 MAP kinase.”
Learn more: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16400026
Diabetic retinopathy: Role of inflammation and potential therapies for anti-inflammation.
This 2010 review is focused on the “therapeutic effects of cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive native cannabinoid, as an emerging and novel therapeutic modality in ophthalmology based on systematic studies in animal models of inflammatory retinal diseases including diabetic retinopathy – a retinal disease associated with vascular-neuroinflammation. Special emphasis is placed on novel mechanisms which may shed light on the pharmacological activity associated with CBD preclinically. These include a self-defence system against inflammation and neurodegeneration mediated by inhibition of equilibrative nucleoside transporter and activation of adenosine receptor by treatment with CBD”
Learn more: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21537423
Cannabinoids and endocannabinoids in metabolic disorders with focus on diabetes.
A 2011 review discusses the endocannabinoid system’s direct involvement with metabolic disorders and suggest that a disruption in endocannabinoid regulation can lead to obesity and diabetes, “thus raising the possibility that CB(1) antagonists might be used for the treatment of these metabolic disorders. On the other hand, evidence is emerging that some nonpsychotropic plant cannabinoids, such as cannabidiol, can be employed to retard β-cell damage in type 1 diabetes. These novel aspects of endocannabinoid research are reviewed in this chapter, with emphasis on the biological effects of plant cannabinoids and endocannabinoid receptor antagonists in diabetes.”
Learn more: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21484568
The endocannabinoid system in obesity and type 2 diabetes.
A 2008 review also explores the endocannabinoid system’s involvement in diabetes and shows that “Following unbalanced energy intake, however, the EC system becomes dysregulated, and in most cases overactive, in several organs participating in energy homeostasis, particularly, in intra-abdominal adipose tissue. This dysregulation might contribute to excessive visceral fat accumulation and reduced adiponectin release from this tissue, and to the onset of several cardiometabolic risk factors that are associated with obesity and type 2 diabetes.”
Learn more: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22231745
Which CBD products help with diabetes?
When looking to manage diabetes with CBD, you should first note that CBD for diabetes has not yet been proven. Many people have tried daily CBD for diabetes and related symptoms with good results, encouraging many of them to begin regular doses of the cannabinoid. In other words, CBD may be most effective when used regularly. CBD can also be used to manage sudden acute flares, but establishing a baseline concentration in your system can help you actively lessen the frequency of those uncomfortable symptoms.
There’s definitely no shortage in selection, but for managing diabetes and related symptoms, we recommend ingesting full spectrum CBD oil daily in the form of tinctures or gel capsules.
Both of these products are powered by full spectrum hemp oil, but provide completely different dosing methods to better suit different needs. Tinctures are easily dropped under the tongue, while CBD gel capsules are swallowed like other pills. Both can provide a suitable dose of CBD, but ensure that the product you choose combines CBD with a high-quality MCT oil—an ingredient crucial to the body’s ability to effectively absorb cannabidiol.
If you find that you still need a way to manage sudden flares, there are many CBD products you could choose from. However, some dosing mechanism deliver relief more quickly than others.
Whether caused by poor diet, lifestyle changes, or other factors– we recommend vaporizing CBD isolate to combat these sudden symptoms. Vaping is one of the quickest delivery methods for CBD. Vaping CBD isolate, a 99% pure form of CBD, can provide total-body relief in as little as 10 minutes.
If you prefer, you can simply increase your tincture or gel capsule dose to manage flare-ups. Keep in mind that they have a delayed onset of up to 90 minutes, so you should take them at the first sign of discomfort.
Many people find that the best approach requires a combination of CBD products, used in a pattern that provides 24 hour protective and therapeutic coverage.
What is the correct CBD dosage to help treat diabetes?
The best dose for you may vary greatly from the next person, as dosing is affected by unique biological factors like weight, tolerance, health condition, and the severity of your symptoms. Often, the “low and slow” approach is an easy, safe way to find your best dose.
We suggest those suffering from diabetes and related symptoms start with 10mg per day of CBD. If this low dose doesn’t bring relief, we suggest slowly increasing by increments of 5-10mg. Tinctures make it easy to accurately measure CBD in small increments, so they may be convenient for testing out different dosages.
CBD gel capsules, on the other hand, provide neat, pre-measured doses. If this is the way you prefer to go, you can find capsules as low as 5mg. There’s no harm in starting with a larger dose because you can’t overdose on CBD and there are no severe side effects.
Once a base dose is established, many people find that these ingestible products provide sustained relief from uncomfortable symptoms. Note that these ingestible CBD products can take up to 90 minutes to take full effect. Be sure to leave plenty of time to monitor the effects before you decide to increase your dose.
Dosing is different when you vape CBD because it’s difficult to precisely measure the amount of cannabidiol in each puff. Instead, try measuring the dose in “number of puffs,” which is easy due to the quick onset. Simply take a puff, wait ten minutes to monitor the effects, and then dose again if needed.
CBD and Chron's Disease (Colitis)
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is an umbrella term for two major conditions known as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. These diseases are characterized by chronic inflammation in all or parts of the digestive tract. According to the latest statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2015, an estimated 1.3% of US adults (3 million) reported being diagnosed with IBD (either Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis).
The symptoms associated with these gastrointestinal diseases can be extremely uncomfortable and at times, debilitating. These diseases cannot be cured; however, their symptoms are typically managed with immunosuppressive or anti-inflammatory drugs. The downside is that these drugs don’t always work and many carry long lists of side-effects—but there is hope! Preliminary research suggests CBD could soon emerge as a treatment for gastrointestinal upset and related disorders.
In order to gauge the medical efficacy of treating IBD with CBD, we turn to a series of medical studies conducted over the past ten years. The results are addressed below:
What Studies Exist to Support the Use of CBD in Crohn’s Disease and Colitis?
CBD was actually discovered before THC, but most research was focused on the psychoactive cannabinoid until the last decade. Now, research regarding CBD’s medicinal value is on the rise, and researchers are particularly interested in the use of CBD for digestive issues and related conditions. Evidence regarding the way that CBD interacts through the body, via the endocannabinoid system, and the way it regulates crucial processes led researchers to believe that CBD could be useful for the management of Crohn’s disease and colitis.
In fact, research exists that suggests cannabidiol could even be a suitable option for managing digestive issues that are otherwise resistant to treatment. Evidence even suggests that conditions like this, as well as irritable bowel syndrome and related conditions, may be linked to an endocannabinoid deficiency. That means CBD may help balance the endocannabinoid system to bring relief and help the digestive tract function as it should.
While the link between digestive issues and cannabis is one area of cannabinoid research that has a substantial amount of evidence, there’s still more to know. Research efforts regarding CBD and its effects on digestion, as well as inflammation and pain caused by Crohn’s disease and related issues will continue to grow in the coming years in hopes of officially establishing CBD as a treatment method for the condition. For now, though, the following studies provide a solid link between CBD and Crohn’s disease and colitis:
Clinical endocannabinoid deficiency (CECD): can this concept explain therapeutic benefits of cannabis in migraine, fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome and other treatment-resistant conditions?
A 2008 study suggested that diseases like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) are actually caused by an endocannabinoid deficiency in the body. “Migraine, fibromyalgia, IBS and related conditions display common clinical, biochemical and pathophysiological patterns that suggest an underlying clinical endocannabinoid deficiency that may be suitably treated with cannabinoid medicines.”
Learn more: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18404144
Cannabidiol, a safe and non-psychotropic ingredient of the marijuana plant Cannabis sativa, is protective in a murine model of colitis.
A 2009 study found investigated the effect of CBD in a murine model of colitis. The study results indicate, “In DNBS-induced colitis, cannabidiol reduced colon injury, decreased expression of inflammatory markers and inducible nitric oxide synthase, and decreased reactive oxygen species production…In conclusion, cannabidiol, a likely safe compound, prevents experimental colitis in mice.”
Learn more: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19690824/
The effects of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol alone and in combination on damage, inflammation and in vitro motility disturbances in rat colitis
A 2010 study evaluated the effects of CBD and THC (alone and combined) in animal models of colitis. “In conclusion, treatment with THC, CBD and sulphasalazine reduced signs of damage, inflammation and functional disturbances in a rat model of Crohn’s disease…CBD on its own also displayed beneficial actions, such as improved spontaneous activity and contractility to carbachol, which extends previous findings (Malfait et al., 2000; Borrelli et al., 2009) and further suggests that this phytocannabinoid, which is devoid of psychoactive properties, could help alleviate symptoms in human IBD. Combined treatment with CBD and THC proved beneficial in TNBS-induced colitis in the rat, as it resulted in additive effects on some functional parameters and as CBD caused an ineffective dose of THC (5 mg·kg−1) to produce beneficial effects of the same magnitude as those produced by a higher dose of THC (10 mg·kg−1) in the absence of CBD. It is possible therefore that the benefit-to-risk ratio may well be greater when CBD and THC are co-administered to ameliorate colitis than when THC is administered alone.”
Cannabidiol reduces intestinal inflammation through the control of neuroimmune axis.
A 2011 study proved that CBD reduces intentinal inflammation in both humans and mice through control of the neuroimmune axis. The study states, “CBD targets enteric reactive gliosis, counteracts the inflammatory environment induced by LPS in mice and in human colonic cultures derived from UC patients. These actions lead to a reduction of intestinal damage mediated by PPARgamma receptor pathway. Our results therefore indicate that CBD indeed unravels a new therapeutic strategy to treat inflammatory bowel diseases.”
Learn more: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22163000/
An Orally Active Cannabis Extract with High Content in Cannabidiol attenuates Chemically-induced Intestinal Inflammation and Hypermotility in the Mouse.
A 2016 study found that high CBD extracts reduce chemically induced intestinal inflammation and hypermotility in mice. “In conclusion, CBD Botanical Drug Substance (BDS), given after the inflammatory insult, attenuates injury and motility in intestinal models of inflammation. These findings sustain the rationale of combining CBD with other minor Cannabis constituents and support the clinical development of CBD BDS for IBD treatment.”
Learn more: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27757083/
Cannabidiol in inflammatory bowel diseases: a brief overview.
A 2013 medical review further substantiated CBD’s potential as an anti-inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) drug. “CBD is a very promising compound since it shares the typical cannabinoid beneficial effects on gut lacking any psychotropic effects. For years, its activity has been enigmatic for gastroenterologists and pharmacologists, but now it is evident that this compound may interact at extra-cannabinoid system receptor sites, such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma. This strategic interaction makes CBD as a potential candidate for the development of a new class of anti-IBD drugs.”
Learn more: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22815234
Topical and Systemic Cannabidiol Improves Trinitrobenzene Sulfonic Acid Colitis in Mice
A 2012 study concluded that topical and systemic (but not oral) CBD improves colitis in mice. “To summarize, CBD was given via 3 different routes of delivery to mice and its effect on the severity of TNBS colitis was compared. We confirm that CBD given intraperitoneally is protective, and we add that CBD given per rectum also offers protective effects, suggesting that rectal application of cannabinoids for the therapy of intestinal inflammation may be a feasible option.”
As indicated by the studies above, CBD has proven to be very effective in treating various types of inflammatory bowel diseases.
Which CBD products help with Crohn’s disease and colitis?
As you decide how to incorporate CBD into your wellness routine, keep in mind that CBD has not yet been proven effective for treating Crohn’s disease or colitis. Still, many people with these conditions have reported positive effects when using CBD regularly. That means CBD may be most useful when taken regularly as a preventative measure. You can also use CBD to manage sudden flare-ups, but establishing a regular concentration in your body is necessary to reap the protective benefits of the cannabinoid.
There’s an ocean of CBD products on the market, but for managing digestive issues, we recommend ingesting full spectrum CBD oil daily in the form of tinctures or gel capsules.
These products are virtually the same. They simply offer two different styles of dosing, and choosing the best one for you is based on preference. Just ensure that any CBD product you choose combines cannabidiol with a high-quality MCT oil—an ingredient your body needs to effectively process CBD.
After implementing a regular dosing routine, many people still find that they need to manage occasional flares. Depending on your preference, there are multiple ways that you can use CBD to provide relief from these acute symptoms.
No matter the cause – we recommend vaporizing CBD isolate to combat these acute anxiety flare-ups. CBD isolate is a version of cannabidiol that is 99% pure, and vaping provides near immediate results, delivering relief to the entire body.
If you prefer, you can increase your dose of CBD tincture or gel caps to combat these flares, but you should note that they have a significantly longer onset of up to 90 minutes.
Often, the best way to manage moderate to severe symptoms related to colitis or Crohn’s disease is to combine multiple CBD products. The right combination of products can help provide preventative coverage and powerful relief from sudden symptoms.
What is the correct CBD dosage to help treat Crohn’s disease and colitis?
Choosing the correct dosage for you requires careful consideration of some unique biological factors, like your weight and tolerance to cannabinoid-based medicines. Additionally, the type and severity of your condition will affect the amount of CBD needed to find relief.
We suggest those suffering from Crohn’s disease or related conditions start with 15mg per day of CBD. If relief is not felt at this dosage, we suggest increasing by 5-10mg until the desired effects are achieved. A tincture makes it easy to increase or decrease your dose by tiny amounts, so it’s a perfect option for those experimenting with different dosages.
CBD capsules are convenient in that they provide a pre-measured dose, so many people opt for them instead. There’s no harm in starting at whatever dose the capsules you choose offers because you cannot overdose on CBD and side effects are reportedly rare and mild.
After you’ve established a routine, you can increase the dose as needed to fully manage symptoms. Don’t forget that ingestible products take up to 90 minutes to fully set in. Be sure to allow plenty of time after each dose to monitor the effects before making adjustments to your dose.
CBD vaporizers call for a different dosing method because it’s difficult to monitor the exact amount of CBD in each puff. Because it takes only 10 minutes to feel the effects of vaporized CBD, you can easily decide if more CBD is needed soon after each dose. Stack doses as needed until you experience complete relief from symptoms.
A Note About CBD and Drug Interactions
CBD boasts a pretty solid safety profile that’s even supported by the World Health Organization, but perhaps the most notable risk is its potential to interact with certain medications. Like many medications, CBD is metabolized by the cytochrome P450 liver enzyme group. As it is processed by the body, it may reduce the number of enzymes available to metabolize other substances. This can potentially impact other medications by reducing their efficacy.
This interaction could prove true for some of the medications taken for Crohn’s disease, colitis, and other digestive issues, which utilize cytochrome P450 pathways for absorption. These drug interactions are not toxic, and could only be considered dangerous if it inhibits a life-saving medication’s efficacy.
CBD only affects these liver enzymes briefly, and many people are able to avoid the interactions by simply spacing out their CBD dose and other medications. Many people are able to use CBD with their regular medications with no report of significant interactions. It’s always best to speak with your doctor about CBD before you combine it with your regular medications, just to fully understand the benefits and risks.