CBD is a cannabinoid that has wide-ranging effects, including anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. It’s most well-known for its ability to soothe anxiety and reduce the symptoms of chronic pain.
cbd gummies are a type of cannabis-infused edible that takes advantage of this property while also delivering the advantages associated with smoking traditional marijuana.
Here we look at the health benefits of CBD gummies, as well as their potential side effects and legal status.
Health Benefits of CBD Gummies
In addition to its well-known use as a treatment for chronic pain, CBD appears to be a potential treatment for several other conditions.
- Anxiety
Anxiety is a debilitating and all-too common affliction that affects millions of people worldwide.
Studies show that CBD has potential to treat anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder, panic disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). There are also studies that report CBD’s ability to treat specific phobias such as arachnophobia (fear of spiders) and echophobia (fear of noises).
- Depression
Depression is a serious condition characterized by sadness and lack of interest in life. Although effective treatments for depression are available, medications such as SSRIs often have unpleasant side effects, including drowsiness, weight gain and sexual dysfunction.
CBD has shown promise as a treatment for depression – especially in those with bipolar disorder (manic depression), schizophrenia or other disorders that affect mood (such as depression).
- Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain syndrome that causes widespread muscle pain, among other symptoms. It can be hard to diagnose and the condition tends to have a significant effect on quality of life, including sleep and general mood.
Studies have shown CBD’s potential to relieve these symptoms. However, more research is needed to confirm its use as a treatment for fibromyalgia.
- Inflammation
Various studies have shown that CBD may have the power to reduce inflammation. This is especially the case when it comes to gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable bowel disease (IBD).
- Migraines
Although more research is needed on this front, early studies show that CBD has potential to treat migraines, especially those with an aura (a visual warning before the actual pain of a migraine starts).
- Neurodegenerative disorders
There are a number of neurodegenerative disorders that can be caused by dementia, stroke and Alzheimer’s disease. CBD may have some protective effects against these conditions, which is why it’s being tested as a treatment for epilepsy among other conditions.
- Parkinson’s disease
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition that causes shaking and other symptoms. Studies have shown that CBD may be able to reduce some of the symptoms associated with this movement disorder, such as uncontrollable shaking and tremors.
- Spasticity disorders
Spasticity is a common side effect of multiple sclerosis (MS). It can leave the patient feeling stiff, immobile and unable to move around.
A study has shown that CBD has the potential to treat spasticity. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.
- Stress relief
Stress is a common source of illness and anxiety worldwide. It can be anxiety induced or caused by other stressful events, such as change in workplace or personal life circumstances. Studies show that CBD has the potential to provide stress relief and help manage emotional responses associated with stress.