CBD for Neurodegenerative Disorders
As neurodegenerative diseases continue to rise in the U.S.,
new hope may be emerging in the form of CBD. We're all familiar by now with the
reports of a growing number of people who have Alzheimer's and dementia, as
well as Parkinson's disease. Culprits
include pesticides, heavy metals in our food supply, and poor dietary choices.
Recent reports say that, by 2030, 1.2
million Americans could be living with Parkinson's disease. Just last year,
the
Alzheimer's Disease Association reported that more than 6 million Americans
might currently have Alzheimer's. In this post, we'll cover everything you
need to know about CBD and its incredible potential for treating symptoms
associated with neurodegenerative conditions.
List of Common Neurological Disorders
As we age, our risk of being affected by a neurodegenerative
disease increases dramatically. Other factors that play a role are genetics and
the environment - such as exposure to pollution. Neurodegenerative diseases
come in many forms, but scientists currently agree the following are the most
common.
Alzheimer's Disease / Dementia
Alzheimer's affects your memory and progresses over time.
There is no cure. Alzheimer's is also the number one form of dementia, accounting
for 80 % of dementia cases. Apart from memory loss, Alzheimer's also
affects thinking and behavior. Scientists believe Alzheimer's is caused by
neurons not interacting properly inside your brain - leading to premature brain
cell death.
Parkinson's Disease
Parkinson's, or P.D., affects your dopamine levels in an
area of the brain knowns as the substantia nigra. Symptoms generally progress
over time. According to the Parkinson's
Disease Foundation, symptoms include:
- Loss of Balance
- Bradykinesia (Slowness of Movement)
- Rigid Limbs
- Tremors
- Multiple Sclerosis (M.S.)
M.S. affects the central nervous system through the spinal
cord and brain. Scientists have determined that M.S. patients' brains are
attacked by their immune systems. This causes damage to delicate nerve fibers. Symptoms include:
- Tingling
- Numbness
- Mood Swings
- Memory Problems
- Pain
- Fatigue
- Blindness
- Lou Gherig's Disease (ALS)
A progressive disease with no cure, ALS, or amyotrophic
lateral sclerosis, affects the brain and spinal cord nerve cells. First discovered in
1869, ALS kills off healthy neurons in the brain, leaving you unable to
transfer information to the spinal cord. Eventually, ALS affects all your motor
skills, including muscles.
Ataxia
A disease of the nervous system, ataxia affects all age
groups. Symptoms include:
- Feeling Drunk
- Slurred Speech
- Falling or Stumbling
- Incoordination
- Huntington's Disease
A rare genetic disease, Huntington's, affects 41,000 Americans.
An additional 200,000 are considered at-risk
of inheriting Huntington's. Symptoms include:
- Mood Swings and Depression
- Impaired Memory
- Involuntary Movement
- Weight Loss
- Slurred Speech
How Does CBD Work?
When ingested, CBD
(cannabidiol) works with receptors in your endocannabinoid system (ECS).
The ECS is a vast physiological system responsible for our central nervous
system. It affects everything from mood to inflammation and pain. Several
studies have shown CBD's effectiveness in treating a wide range of conditions.
Some of the more common ailments CBD helps with include the following:
- Epidiolex (the first CBD-based FDA approved drug used to treat severe epilepsy)
- Arthritis
- Diabetes
- Acne
- Heart Disease
- Fibromyalgia
CBD for Neurogenerative Disorders: What The Research Says
A 2020
study indicated that CBD showed strong potential as a "pharmacological
tool for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders." As we age,
inflammation and oxidative stress (O.S.) build up and cause cell damage. Once
the damage occurs, it affects the central nervous system.
The two most common neurodegenerative diseases, Parkinson's (P.D.)
and Alzheimer's (A.D.), are particularly vulnerable to oxidative stress.
Because of its anti-inflammatory
properties, researchers have conducted several studies using CBD as a potential
neuroprotective agent.
In 2018, for
example, researchers showed CBD had a positive effect on mitochondrial
dysfunction. This is a leading contributor to neurodegeneration.
Additionally, scientists provided solid evidence of CBD's
therapeutical efficacy in patients with the following disorders:
CBD for Alzheimer's
In one
study with A.D. transgenic mice, scientists found evidence CBD helped
reduce symptoms associated with Alzheimer's. Researchers determined CBD showed
potential in preventing both social withdrawal and facial recognition. Another animal study proved that A.D.
subjects treated with CBD counteracted memory alterations.
CBD for Parkinson's
It is widely known that Parkinson's (P.D.) is strongly
influenced by our brain's reaction to Oxidative Stress (O.S.). Scientists
isolated receptors in our brain that responded therapeutically to
CBD treatment.
CBD for Multiple Sclerosis
In a recent, groundbreaking study, researchers found that CBD,
THC combo relieved M.S. symptoms. It also extended the silent cutaneous
period.
CBD for ALS
In treating ALS, there is mounting
evidence that a CBD/THC Combo helps manage spasticity. ALS patients treated
in one study said that CBD: THC treatment significantly reduced their symptoms.
CBD for Huntington's
At present, there is no cure for Huntington's (H.D.). CBD
may provide some relief for the disease. New research showed CBD, taken in
combination with THC, demonstrated therapeutic potential for H.D.
test subjects.
How To Use CBD for Neurodegenerative Disorders
For the greatest therapeutical-grade benefits, use a CBD:
THC Combo. As discussed, scientists have demonstrated a strong link between the
brain and CBD: THC therapy. It's no surprise that these two compounds are
considered the "heart and soul" of the more than 100 compounds that
make up cannabis Sativa.
Fortunately, we offer lab-tested, CO2 extracted Full-Spectrum CBD oil
that contains all of the compounds necessary for brain health - including THC.
If you're suffering from a neurodegenerative condition, or
want to achieve better brain health, consider adding supplements to your daily
CBD regimen.
Because many neurodegenerative diseases are caused by a poor
immune system, take a daily Vitamin
D with K-2 supplement. For added health benefits, add an immune
system booster as well. Having both high levels of vitamin D and essential
minerals, like turmeric, improve your immune system and overall health.
Since lifestyle factors and toxins found in the environment
play a role in neurodegenerative diseases. It is important to watch what you
eat and avoid heavy metals (PCBs and other chemicals found in some soaps, for
example). Be patient with your CBD regimen, as well. You may not notice a
change for the first 8-12 weeks. Stay consistent with your treatment and
continue using your CBD, even after you start feeling better.
Other Things To Consider When Buying CBD
When purchasing your CBD, look for organically grown
ingredients. Eden's Herbals, for
example, uses American-made, organically grown hemp for all our products. You
can also incorporate CBD gummies into your daily routine. Sometimes, if you're
nervous or want a quick CBD boost for extra energy, CBD gummies make a
quick and discreet snack.
The
World Health Organization (WHO) has stated that CBD is well-tolerated and
poses few side effects. You may still consider starting with the smallest dose
possible and seeing how your body reacts. Every individual is unique, so listen
to your body. Remember, you have cannabinoid receptors already present in you.
Adding CBD will activate those receptors and help restore balance.
If you want to learn more about CBD for neurodegenerative
diseases, contact Eden’s Herbals at
[email protected] today!
*These statements have not been evaluated or approved by the
Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure
any illness. Medical advice should be taken from a medical professional.
All of the articles on this site are written by 3rd party
content providers, expert bloggers or doctors not directly affiliated with Eden’s
Herbals.
Individuals should learn the risks and side effects prior to
taking CBD. Make sure to always check with a medical professional before
starting any new CBD treatment or medication that is not FDA approved.