Spotlight on CBD
In the next series of blog posts, we are taking the time to shed a little light on CBD for anxiety disorders, sleep, and chronic pain. It’s important to dispel common myths and misconceptions, as well as enhance community knowledge.
Hemp-based cannabidiol
It is widely known that FDA-approved medications for anxiety, sleep, and chronic pain have many limits. These include a delay in treatment relief, incomplete response or residual symptoms, potential for addiction, and poor tolerability. As a result, the quest for novel and more effective therapeutic approaches continues, while the chorus of emerging evidence-based support is getting louder in regards to the role of Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-intoxicating Cannabis sativa component, in the treatment for generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
What exactly is CBD?
CBD is the second largest group of over 100 different cannabinoids found in cannabis plants. Research is growing, supporting the usefulness of major and minor cannabinoids (i.e. CBC, CBN, CBG) for a variety of health conditions.
How it works: the endocannabinoid system
These non-addictive, THC-free cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), the human body’s regulatory system that regulates sleep, memory, appetite, digestion, temperature, inflammation, and pain.
Not all CBDs are created equal
It is imperative to ensure the quality of each product in order to offer the most benefit. A full-spectrum (contains the most cannabinoids to enhance the “entourage” effect) CBD that is International Organization for Standardization-approved (ISO), third-party tested and carefully grown, cultivated, harvested, and produced is a priority when making a selection to be utilized for health improvement. CBD should be CO2 extracted and optimally-dosed taking into consideration the individual’s weight, body chemistry, and condition severity.
Who should discuss CBD with their provider?
Patients should always discuss any supplements with their provider before adding CBD to their medication regimen. People who are attempting to conceive or are currently pregnant should not take any CBD products. Cannabinoids can be helpful for people with the following conditions:
- Daily physical discomfort
- Chronic pain
- Inflammation
- Anxiety and stress-related problems
- Nausea and vomiting
- Seizures and convulsion
- Skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and rashes
We look forward to diving deeper into CBD as an option to improve quality of life for many patients. With these criteria in mind, Alchemy Wellness will be carrying several new lines of CBD oils, capsules, and vegan gummies curated by Aubrey Cutchin, MSN, PRN, LMT.
