In the present article, we’ll discuss CBD’s effectiveness in treating neurological disorders. Medical practitioners from various parts of the world are now using cannabis extract to cure neurological problems and resulting pain and inflammation. And so far, there have been many success stories.
Nature of studies conducted
Before we start our discussion, here’s a synopsis of the studies conducted and the takeaways gleaned from them, presented in bulleted points below:
- The studies were conducted by groups of health professionals. Some were privately sponsored, some were groups of esteemed neurologists and some were affiliated by the government.
- A plethora of disorders, all treated by CBD were studied, including seizures, huntington disease, cervical dystonia, multiple sclerosis, parkinson disease, tourette syndrome, epilepsy.
- Both medically approved and non-medical marijuana consumption methods were reviewed. Pills like oral cannabis extract (ORE), Nabiximols, etc were studied alongside smoking or vaping cannabis.
The evidence from these studies revealed both THC and CBD are effective in the treatment of neurological diseases, though in varying degrees.
Findings, in a nutshell
The findings were quite interesting. From the studies, it appears the scarier the disease, the better the relief. For example, multiple sclerosis (MS) patients uniformly complain about pain, which sometimes become excruciating. Oral CBD extracts have been found to alley the pain, arising from MS.
Synthetic THC has been reported to reduce the symptoms of spasticity, especially the pain that people unfortunate enough to have to deal with this disease bear. The study shows a short-term use of CBD and THC and a mixture of them can alleviate pain whereas for complete cure, long-term use is preferred.
The science behind it
Research on medical cannabis has made significant strides lately. The previous consensus was CBD directly binds to a group of endocannabinoid receptors. But recent studies found that CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system only in vitro at supraphysiological concentrations. This has prompted scientists to understand its molecular targets better. They believe the answer to how CBD cures neurological disorders lies in its molecules.
The molecular targets that have so far been identified encompass a number of ion channels, transporters, enzymes and receptors. The most interesting about these studies is the wayward behavior of the targets.
Because of volatile behavior of CBD’s molecular targets, it’s difficult for scientists to determine whether CBD usage and recovery from neurological problems are linked or simply correlated. Luckily for them, some targets were totally consistent with the results of previous clinically controlled neurological treatment.
It’s safe to assume that there’s a causative relation between CBD’s molecular targets and recovery from neurological disorders. With the progress of ongoing scientific research, this relation will be explored.
The brain benefits
The brain is probably the most important area of the central nervous system. CBD’s impact on brain and the consequences are all well-documented. The way CBD acts upon the brain speeds up the recovery from neurological problems.
Here’s how it happens:
CBD acts upon the 5-HT1A receptor. This receptor is known as the serotonin receptor. It’s one of very few receptors which CBD actively stimulates. According to studies, some serotonin receptor agonists and antagonists provide neuroprotection. One such agonist is flibanserin. CBD releases cannabinoid receptor agonists, which work as proxies for serotonin drugs.
CBD also activates the opioid receptor. The benefits? Pain and nonstop inflammation are both significantly reduced. Neurological diseases, especially the ones involving the spine are accompanied by pain.
What the law says
Cannabis is undoubtedly effective against neurological problems. But don’t get excited already. Not all states permit you to consume it. There are 21 states other than Washington DC where the consumption of medical marijuana is allowed.
If you are thinking you can buy medical marijuana from the nearest drughouse because you live in one of the 21 states, you are wrong. In the United States, medical marijuana is FDA controlled. FDA approved medical marijuana drugs are dronabinol and nabilone.
Fortunately, some pill is not FDA approved only means a licensed health practitioner will not prescribe you that medicine. You can still get it. Some states approve the sale of cannabis products that are high in CBD and low in THC. You can buy these products. They are unlikely to be available in drugstores. So buy online.
Caution about side-effects
Cannabis users, especially those who want to recover from neurological diseases must be cautious. Clinical trials reveal cannabis usage come with a number of side-effects, including dizziness, nausea and vomiting. These side-effects may prove fatal for anyone suffering from nerve disorders.
CBD products is far safer in this regard. That’s chiefly because they have an optimal ratio of CBD and THC, making it safe to use and highly effective.
Summing up
The anecdotal and clinical evidence all confirm that CBD is useful for neurological patients. Contemporary scientific research echo this sentiment but has so far been unable to pin on all the factors, responsible for treating neuro problems. Hopefully, future research will shed enough light on it.