Marijuana has over a hundred compounds integrated into it, some of which are proven to be beneficial to the human body. Cannabidiol or CBD is one of its most active compounds. It is also the compound that holds the health benefits that marijuana can bring.
CBD is becoming a well-grounded alternative to traditional medicine. So, who will win in this fight, let’s dig deeper!
The Efficacy of CBD in the Line of Medicine
Primarily, the reason why most medical studies are focused on the use of CBD is that it does not have any euphoric or high effect. This compound is gaining health and wellness momentum all over the world, especially in the states where medical marijuana is legal.
One of the most popular uses of CBD in the line of medicine is for pain relief. The marijuana plant has been used for pain treatment even back in 2900 B.C. Recently, scientists discovered that CBD is responsible for treating pain, even the chronic ones.
Additionally, CBD is commonly used to reduce anxiety, insomnia, and inflammation. Most people choose marijuana over traditional medicine for the reason that it works faster and more efficiently.
It was also found out that an individual’s body is equipped with cannabis receptors called the endocannabinoid system, the system involved in the regulation of several functions including sleep, pain, appetite, and immune system response.
Moreover, the endocannabinoid system has two main receptors– the CB1 receptor and the CB2 receptor.
While the CB1 receptors are present all over the body, a significant amount of it is in the brain. It deals with coordination and movement, feeling pain, emotions, thinking, mood, appetite, memories, and other functions.
On the other hand, the CB2 receptors are mainly in the immune system. These receptors affect pain and inflammation.
Back then, studies say that CBD attaches to the CB2 receptors. But now, it seems that CBD does not directly connect to either receptor. Rather, CBD directs the body to use more of its own cannabinoids.
Some of the known conditions that marijuana can help treat are epilepsy, neurodegenerative disorders, anxiety, and even Parkinson, which you find further information in this article from americanmarijuan.org.
Traditional Medicines
While traditional medicines are proven to be effective in treating various diseases, they also cause unwanted side effects as well as adverse reactions. The reason is that pharmaceutical medicines are produced using foreign synthetic chemicals.
Some of the unwanted side effects coming from prescription medications, regardless of what kind, are nausea, vomiting, allergic reactions, drowsiness, and palpitations.
Here are some of the examples of traditional medicines:
Ginger Root
This is very popular for its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. It can relieve pain induced by various syndromes such as premenstrual syndrome and knee arthritis. It is also a popular treatment for nausea and vomiting caused by pregnancy.
Echinacea
Echinacea has a very long history in the line of medicine. It was used by Native Americans to cure sore throat, cough, and pain. It also interacts with the immune system, making it healthier, and reduces pain and inflammation.
Clove Oil
Clove oil has terpene, more specifically beta-caryophyllene, which you can also find in the cannabis plant. Clove oil can be used to relieve pain, upset stomach, and respiratory conditions.
How CBD is Taking Over its Alternatives
According to a survey, more than 40 percent of individuals who consume cannabis stopped using traditional medications. Brightfield Group, the conductors of the survey, focused on the legal cannabis industry, found out that there is a rise to the number of people who switch to CBD from there traditional medicine. While it is true that more studies have to be done, the fact that the majority of people are now using medical CBD cannot be denied.
The research also found out that 42 percent of CBD users stopped using traditional medications and went over to using CBD medicines. Moreover, 80 percent of these CBD users discovered that the compound is highly effective in treating their conditions. On the other hand, 90 percent of those who were surveyed said that they would buy CBD-only products derived from the marijuana plant.
However, it is worth noting that using CBD comes with some short-term side effects, including increased heart rate, and coordination of the mind and body. So, before deciding to switch to medicines derived from CBD, you should make sure to consult medical experts if it is appropriate for your condition.
Medical marijuana and CBD-derived products are taking over the medicinal part of the world. It is continuing to provide relief to patients who are suffering from chronic illnesses. While there are now a lot of alternative options to traditional medicines, the horizon looks bright for people who are willing to try CBD products for the treatment of their medical conditions.