CBD: The Wonder Oil

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A recent Facebook post: “My favourite childhood memory is… my back not hurting.”

CAN ANYONE ELSE RELATE?
Despite our best planning for retirement, we can’t control the effects that ageing has on our bodies. Even the fittest and healthiest retirees can suffer from injuries, which take longer to recover from as we get older, as well as chronic conditions such as arthritis, MS, fibromyalgia, and of course cancer.
While doctors keep pushing painkillers and prescription drugs for these conditions, many retirees are turning to CBD oil as a means of relief. With the increase in legalised use of cannabis, CBD oil is increasingly popular as an alternative remedy.

CBD’s chemical name is Cannabidiol and is one of the 104 chemical compounds known as cannabinoids found in the cannabis or marijuana plant. Made by extracting CBD from the cannabis plant, then diluting it with a carrier oil like coconut or hemp seed oil, CBD oil does not contain Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis that causes the sensation of getting “high”. This means sufferers of chronic pain and anxiety can access the relaxing properties associated with marijuana, without the mind-altering effects.

Here are five possible benefits for retirees using CBD oil.

1 PAIN RELIEF

Clinical studies have shown that Marijuana is effective in decreasing pain associated with arthritis, nerve pain, sciatic nerve pain and inflammation, multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis. CBD oil can be used in oil, cream or tablet form to treat pain.

2 MENTAL HEALTH

According to the World Health Organization, depression is the single largest contributor to disability worldwide, while anxiety disorders are ranked sixth. CBD’s properties allow it to act on the brain’s receptors for serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood and social behavior. This natural approach eliminates the side effects of pharmaceutical drugs, including drowsiness, agitation, insomnia, sexual dysfunction and headache. CBD can also help in the extension of the deep sleep phase and the reduction of the lighter sleeping phases, allowing the body to regenerate and release toxins. As we get older we can experience loss of appetite, leading to weight loss, tissue weakness, and mental issues. Marijuana is well known to increase appetite (think midnight munchies!), and CBD oil can be used to stimulate appetite.

3 NEUROLOGICAL BENEFITS

Researchers believe that CBD’s may provide benefits for neurological disorders due to its ability to act on the endocannabinoid system and other brain signalling systems. While research in this area is still relatively new, studies have shown promising results in treatment for epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease and the neurodegeneration associated with Alzheimer’s disease. CBD may be delivered in a nasal spray for these conditions.

4 HEART HEALTH AND BLOOD PRESSURE

Studies indicate that CBD may be a natural and effective treatment for high blood pressure, a condition often linked to strokes and heart attacks. This is due to CBD’s powerful antioxidant properties and ability to reduce stress and anxiety.

5 CANCER

While not a cure for cancer, CBD oil can help to reduce symptoms of cancer and cancer treatment, such as nausea, vomiting and pain, including chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. CBD is administered via a mouth spray for these conditions.

Before rushing out to stock on CBD oil, do make sure you:

  • Check the legalities in your location – legalisation of cannabis products varies greatly between countries and states.
  • Consult your medical practitioner to fully understand the potential benefits, side effects and combination with existing medication.