15 Effects of CBD Oil | What does the research say?

Several academic institutions are currently researching the effects and benefits of CBD oil in both medical and therapeutic use. Harvard, Stanford, Oxford, and Cambridge are just a few universities leading the field with their studies on CBD effects and potential CBD benefits. For a substance to be approved for research, especially by such big institutions, it has to have a very low-risk profile, be safe for use, and have a high potential for success. Here's what we know about the effects of CBD oil, and so far it's overwhelmingly positive.

What is CBD and how does it work?

CBD has been used for thousands of years for many of the same reasons we use it today. CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of the main active compounds in the Cannabis Sativa L. plant. Cannabis generally has two forms: marijuana, which is intoxicating, and hemp, which is non-intoxicating. All Naturecan CBD is derived from hemp and processed to produce the highest quality Broad Spectrum CBD oil with non-detectable THC levels. The CBD oil is tested from raw material through to the finished product to ensure it has no intoxicating effects. CBD works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Although the ECS is one of the least understood systems in our body, it's also one of the systems keeping us alive. Without it, the body couldn't adapt to changes in our environment and we wouldn't survive very long at all. For instance, every time you step outside of your house into the cold, your ECS helps your entire body instantly adjust to the change in temperature and keep you from passing out. You can think of the ECS as a communication network throughout our body. It consists of three parts:

- Endocannabinoids, which act as messengers carrying information throughout our body to corresponding receptors.

- Cannabinoid receptors, which act on this information by making changes to our biological functions.

-  Metabolic enzymes that break down the endocannabinoids once the job is done.

The ECS is responsible for regulating various other vital functions, such as sleep, pain, mood, appetite, memory, stress, immune function, and more. The goal of the ECS is to maintain balance. It acts like the conductor of an orchestra, making sure all body functions are synchronized and giving guidance where the rhythm is off.

But the key players in keeping our ECS running smoothly are the endocannabinoids. Without these vital messengers, there´s no communication in the time of a crisis. One of the greatest threats to the ECS is modern-day life. A lack of sleep, poor diet, high-stress levels, and sedentary lifestyle all weaken our ECS to the point where it can’t regulate our body’s vital systems as it should.

Our body starts excessively producing enzymes to break down our endocannabinoids before they can complete their job. The consequence? Our ECS cannot communicate properly and our individual physiological functions fall out of balance. You´ll notice this because problems start arising in the areas maintained by our ECS. CBD supports our ECS in many ways, but primarily by promoting the production of natural endocannabinoids so that the ECS can communicate better with the rest of our body. Essentially, CBD encourages our body to do what it already does: Maintain balance.

What are the effects of CBD oil? 15 Potential Benefits

Just as there are various types of CBD products, there are different effects depending on how you take them. Since our ECS interacts with several body functions, CBD can affect us in many ways. For instance, you might notice the effects of CBD oils a little sooner than you would the effects of CBD capsules. So, while different CBD products take different amounts of time to work, they offer similar potential benefits.

Here are some of the main CBD oil effects:

1. Better sleep

Studies have shown that one of the many CBD benefits is improved sleep, stay asleep, and achieve a better quality of sleep than they usually would. This is because CBD can directly influence the amount of adenosine produced in our bodies. Adenosine is an organic compound produced by our body to regulate how tired we feel. High levels of adenosine will help us fall asleep, and lower levels will help us stay awake. CBD won't increase the levels of adenosine in our body (which is why CBD effects won't make you drowsy); instead, it helps regulate our adenosine levels to match our body clock and not get messed up from too much stimulation (like blue light from phone screens, stress, sugars, etc).

2. Pain management 

Recent studies have discovered cannabinoid receptors in our peripheral nerves (which is where pain is detected) and found that cannabinoids like CBD are able to block peripheral nerve pain in a whole new way. It can do this without any side effects or lasting dependency, suggesting that CBD effects may be a far more sustainable option for managing pain without impairing your daily life.

3. Mood

Many studies have found that CBD effects can help improve mood in multiple ways. On the one hand, CBD benefits us by interacting with serotonin receptors, which may improve feelings of wellbeing and more relaxed. On the other hand, CBD can inhibit sympathetic transmission by activating certain cannabinoid receptors. In other words, CBD effects can temporarily turn off our “fight or flight” response, which is responsible for producing high levels of adrenaline and cortisol (the stress hormones), and instead activates our parasympathetic response, which allows us to relax, easing any stress and anxiety.

4. Skin health

This is where the type of CBD you use can make a difference. Topical CBD, such as CBD balms, or even CBD oil applied onto your skin, works differently from CBD you ingest. Instead of traveling all the way into your bloodstream to take effect, topical CBD interacts with the cells it’s directly applied on. This is also a great way to soothe aches and pains in specific areas! Studies have found that CBD can help repair skin, as it only targets damaged cells and doesn't irritate surrounding healthy cells. CBD benefits may help improve acne, scarring, and signs of aging in your skin thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Recent studies have even found that CBD can stimulate collagen production, which helps skin cells retain water and appear plumper and firmer, which may reduce the appearance of wrinkles Wrinkles!

5. Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a chronic condition that occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus begins to grow outside of the uterus (typically in the pelvic region). This tissue is known to cause pain, inflammation and scar tissue, which can eventually lead to infertility and other complications. While research on the use of CBD for endometriosis is still minimal, there are growing studies suggesting that CBD may have a range of therapeutic benefits for women with this condition. According to a 2018 cross-sectional study on CBD use, pain reduction was the most commonly reported reason for using CBD products.

6. CBD effects on the brain

It is crucial to acknowledge that although CBD and the brain have demonstrated potential therapeutic advantages, its effects on brain development in infancy and adolescence are not comprehensively comprehended.

7. Arthritis pain relief

Early evidence is promising, as pointed out by the Arthritis Society. Multiple animal studies suggest CBD may indeed have both pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. For example, the results of a 2015 study on the impact of transdermal CBD (applied directly on the skin) on arthritis in rats indicate that CBD might have therapeutic potential for inflammation and pain related to arthritis. This is also supported by anecdotal evidence from people with rheumatoid arthritis who have used CBD oil and shown signs of improvement in their symptoms, such as pain, anxiety and sleeping problems. With more research being done on CBD and arthritis every day, there seems to be a lot of promising potential, and the future looks bright.

8. Migraines

CBD, or cannabidiol, has shown potential in alleviating migraines. A 2017 study in the European Journal of Pain found that CBD reduced acute pain in rats, and a 2020 review in "Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research" highlighted CBD's anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in pain modulation, further supporting its potential for migraine relief. While more research is needed, CBD may offer an alternative approach to managing migraines. Consult a healthcare professional for guidance on dosing and usage.

9. CBD and menopause

CBD, or cannabidiol, shows promise in alleviating menopausal symptoms. Preliminary research, such as a 2019 study suggests that CBD may help with hot flashes and mood swings due to its interaction with the endocannabinoid system and anxiolytic properties. While more research is needed for a comprehensive understanding of its effects, CBD could offer a complementary approach to managing menopause symptoms. Consulting a healthcare professional is recommended for guidance on CBD dosage.

10. CBD and depression

For CBD and depression, a 2018 review concluded that multiple studies have demonstrated the anti-stress and antidepressant activity of CBD in animal models after short- or long-term use. In a further research study from 2018 on CBD and depression, scientists found that a single dose of CBD induced antidepressant-like effects in mice and rats. Furthermore, a later 2020 study with almost 400 participants looked at CBD and depression, among other issues. These individuals were prescribed CBD for mental health issues, neurological problems, and pain. Following three weeks of CBD use, all participants reported that their quality of life improved.

11. CBD and mental health

CBD has shown promise in supporting mental health, particularly in addressing anxiety and depression. Studies, such as a 2015 review in "Neurotherapeutics" and a 2020 study in the "Journal of Clinical Psychology" suggest its potential benefits for mental health. While more research is needed, CBD could be a valuable complementary approach. Consulting a healthcare professional is advisable to determine the appropriate use and dosage for individual needs.

12. Migraines

CBD, or cannabidiol, has shown potential in alleviating migraines. A 2017 study in the European Journal of Pain found that CBD reduced acute pain in rats, and a 2020 review in "Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research" highlighted CBD's anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in pain modulation, further supporting its potential for migraine relief. While more research is needed, CBD may offer an alternative approach to managing migraines. Consult a healthcare professional for guidance on dosing and usage.

13. CBD and Parkinsons

CBD shows promise in alleviating symptoms of Parkinson's disease, as suggested by studies like the 2018 research in "Frontiers in Pharmacology" and a 2020 study. These studies indicate that CBD's interaction with the endocannabinoid system may improve motor symptoms and sleep quality. However, more research is required to understand CBD's potential benefits fully. Consultation with a healthcare professional is advisable for individuals considering CBD as part of their Parkinson's management.

14. CBD effects on PMS

CBD and Mood swings

PMS can affect how we think and feel. You might feel anxious, depressed, or irritable without understanding why. Research has suggested that CBD could possess calming qualities, which might help balance your mood.

CBD and Pain

More than half of women who menstruate have experienced some level of pain associated with their period – like cramps or tender breasts. Since the ECS helps to regulate the pain response, it’s possible that CBD could contribute to pain relief.

CBD and acne

Around 65% of women report worse acne during their periods. This is likely due to decreased estrogen and progesterone levels, which trigger the sebaceous glands in your skin to produce more sebum – an oily substance that lubricates your skin. Studies have shown that CBD could possibly promote healthy sebum production in the skin. An in-vitro 2014 study suggested that CBD could reduce sebum production in human sebocytes.

15. CBD effects on heart health

CBD Effects on Heart Health CBD shows promise for heart health in early studies, with potential benefits like lowering blood pressure and promoting better blood flow. However, more research is needed for a comprehensive understanding of its long-term effects. Consultation with healthcare professionals is advised before incorporating CBD into wellness routines, particularly for individuals with existing cardiovascular conditions or taking medications.

Other possible effects of CBD Oil

There still needs to be so much more research on CBD effects, but preliminary studies suggest that CBD oil may also reduce psychotic symptoms in people with mental disorders, such as schizophrenia. In addition, CBD may help people beat substance addictions, by modifying circuits in the brain to reduce dependence and drug-seeking behavior. Another 2017 study suggests that CBD benefits may reduce the risk of heart disease by alleviating high blood pressure and allowing the heart to pump more efficiently. And we’re discovering more and more CBD benefits every day! Many of these outcomes need to be confirmed by studies in humans, but some very positive effects of CBD have been demonstrated

What are the potential side effects of CBD oil?

Many pharmaceutical drugs have side effects which may even leave us feeling worse than we did before taking them. Zolpidem, for instance, is a common drug prescribed to those who have difficulty getting to sleep. Its side effects can include depression, hallucinations, abnormal thoughts and behaviours, amnesia, trouble breathing, and so much more. Studies have found that CBD is a natural alternative to help with the very same problem and without even a fraction of the side effects. While it's very unlikely that you'll experience side effects when taking CBD at the recommended dosage, here’s what to expect if you do:

CBD Side effects

- Changes in appetite

- Diarrhoea

- Dizziness

 - Dry mouth

- Nausea

The WHO didn't declare that CBD effects are safe and generally well-tolerated for no reason. Of course, there is a risk of interaction when taking CBD along with other medications so be sure to always consult a doctor first.

Takeaway Message

Although CBD benefits have been known for thousands of years, we´ve only recently started researching them. CBD supports the body in its natural process of maintaining a balance between all essential functions that contribute to good health and wellbeing. . It's no surprise then that studies are finding such a wide range of CBD oil benefits, such as improving our sleep, regulating our mood, alleviating pain, repairing our skin, and even supporting the immune system!

 Of course, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of CBD, but so far it's looking very promising! As long as the THC levels in CBD products are under 0.2%, they’re perfectly legal and safe for consumption without having any intoxicating effects. We ensure that all Naturecan CBD products have non-detectable THC levels by following a rigorous six-step testing process. You can also check our website for a Certificate of Analysis, listing all cannabinoids, terpenes, and other valuable ingredients found in all of our CBD products.

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