From influencers and celebrities to Instagram and TikTok, it seems everyone is trying out CBD products. The popularity and impact of social media is at an all-time high, which enables more and more of us to hear about and experience products that we may not have otherwise been aware of.
What Is CBD?
CBD, short for Cannabidiol, is a naturally occurring compound directly derived from the hemp plant a variety of the Cannabis Sativa plant species. With the benefits of CBD being shared on social platforms, a larger majority of people are trying the chemical to see if it can help them whether this be to ease symptoms of health conditions, or to relieve the side-effects of medical treatments, such as chemotherapy.
Popular Uses Of And Studies Into CBD
It’s important to note that a lot of research is still being carried out on the effects of CBD. For this reason, the following areas should not be considered as set in stone guidance. A lot of studies are currently taking place into the effects of CBD in these areas.
Arthritis: The Arthritis Foundation, for example, have shared that although effects of CBD have not been validated in the quality studies of humans, animal studies have suggested that the chemical has both anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Also, some people suffering with arthritis have reported on noticeable pain relief, anxiety reduction and/or sleep improvement since trying CBD.
Anxiety: Harvard Medical School states that CBD is also commonly used for those suffering from anxiety and insomnia, with studies suggesting that the compound can improve not only falling asleep but staying asleep, too.
MS: Most commonly diagnosed in those in their 20s and 30s, MS is one of the most common causes of disability in younger adults (with women being approximately 2 to 3 times more likely to get the condition compared to men).
MS is a life-long autoimmune condition that affects the entire body through the brain and the nervous system. One of the most common symptoms for those who live with MS is painful muscle spasms and stiffness, with the muscles themselves tightly contracting, resisting movement and feeling weak. Nabiximols (Sativex) is the cannabis-based medicine that is licenced in the UK for those who suffer from MS-related muscle spasticity, when no other treatments or medications have worked for the patient.
Obtaining CBD
While a GP wouldn’t be able to prescribe CBD, healthcare specialists can, and will do so in cases where alternatives are either not working or are no longer suitable for the patient. Over the counter products are also available from reputable brands such as Vitabiotics CBD.
Rising Popularity
The NHS estimates that one in every 100 people have epilepsy, with the condition affecting more than 500,000 people in the UK; while the Multiple Sclerosis Trust and Public Health England have revealed that over 130,000 people in the UK are living with MS. With such staggering statistics, it’s no surprise CBD has become so popular in recent years, when there are claims that the compound could have medicinal benefits to those suffering with and affected by these health conditions.
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