As the marijuana and hemp industries continue to grow in popularity and expand their influence, research is being poured into how the dominant chemicals of these plants impact our health. From pain-relief to more serious neurodegenerative diseases, it is believed that THC and CBD may be able to heal or improve a large spectrum of diseases and disorders.
With CBD being the breakout star that lacks the psychoactive effects of its marijuana-based counterpart, we see more research being conducted with this relatively new substance. One major question that seems to be raised in regards to its interaction with the body and mind is, can CBD act as a medication for Alzheimer’s and Dementia, and does it work?
If you have considered turning to CBD as a natural treatment for the symptoms of these two neurodegenerative disorders, refer to the article below to learn more about the efficacy of CBD as a potential treatment option.
What Is CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a chemical found within the hemp plant that is theorized to have many health applications. Why? In the human body, there exists a system of receptors known as the endocannabinoid system. Our bodies release their own chemical compounds (endocannabinoids) to bind to receptors throughout the system to achieve a wide range of goals. This system is designed to keep the body functioning optimally and is involved in processes such as pain-management, memory, and the immune system.
Phytocannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, are cannabinoids found in plants, which essentially serve the same purpose as endocannabinoids when they are introduced to the body. Whether users are applying is a CBD skin cream or consuming tincture oil, the thinking goes that using THC and CBD should be able to meet the same needs that endocannabinoids would if the endocannabinoid system was not functioning properly. But does this theory hold a basis in reality?
Can CBD Truly Alleviate the Symptoms Of Alzheimer’s And Dementia?
As is the case for most CBD applications, there is no tangible proof that CBD does or does not work for senile patients. Because CBD is such a new substance, we simply don’t have enough research on the interaction between CBD and neurodegenerative disorders. As was stated above, cannabinoids are involved in almost every process in the body, including those featured within the brain.
There is some research that states brain issues caused by Alzheimer’s, such as the buildup of a protein known as amyloid, can be broken down by cannabinoids. Other research conducted on mice believes that CBD can act as a preventative treatment option for those who may be at risk for a neurodegenerative disorder.
So, does CBD have a use in the prevention or treatment of diseases like Alzheimer’s and Dementia? The studies above do provide some hope for those who are looking to ease their symptoms or prevent them long before these diseases are allowed to develop, but the issue is that there is no definitive answer. For now, however, it doesn’t seem that taking CBD would produce any harmful effects if you were to use it for this purpose.
While CBD is prized for its ability to heal the body and the mind, it is important to do your research before you use CBD for your own illnesses. While there are no serious negative side effects or the potential to overdose, which makes it great as a substance to test out for your own purposes, always consult your doctor before you begin using CBD to treat your symptoms. Additionally, it is important to make sure that you continue to take any medications that are required and follow your treatment plan.
