Wednesday, October 14, 2020

CBD Oil and How it Can Treat Eating Disorders

 





Cannabinoid oil, commonly referred to as CBD oil, is a compound derived from the cannabis Sativa plant. It is a natural remedy for many health conditions that has been used from the early 1940s to date with continuous research carried out in different parts of the world on its benefits. Of its many benefits, the oil has been found to aid in the treatment of eating disorders interestingly. Many people who suffer from an eating disorder will tend to suffer from depression as well. CBD oil caters to the eating disorder treatment and helps with depressive episodes promoting healthier individuals and better quality of life. A few studies have also confirmed the benefits of this treatment as a major contributing factor to overall improvement in the quality of life of eating disorder patients.

Common Eating Disorders

To understand CBD oil's role in treatment, it is important to understand what eating disorders are and the various types of eating disorders. There are three main conditions associated with eating disorders: anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder.

Anorexia is a condition where individuals deprive themselves of nutrients through starvation. This can be a result of depression or obsession to lose weight and remain skinny.

Binge eating disorder is a severe condition where individuals impulsively consume a lot of food at once to a point where they become uncomfortable.

Bulimia, on the other hand, is a life-threatening condition where individuals attempt to compensate for bad eating habits by inducing vomiting or taking laxatives to flush out food and nutrients from their body systems.

All these disorders can lead to fatality if not treated. CBD oil plays a major role in treating such conditions and is becoming more acceptable for this use.

How CBD helps with Eating Disorders

CBD oil contributes to the treatment of eating disorders in many ways. The most prominent of them being its ability to relieve psychological symptoms associated with anorexia and bulimia. In the body's endocannabinoid system, cannabinoid receptor agonists influence the brain and change perception to hunger and improve appetite leading to improved eating habits in the long run. These receptors also influence the perception of satiety, which can be helpful to individuals with binge eating disorders prompting them to eat less.

Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, CBD oil can help bulimia patients get relief from the hyperacidity complications associated with excessive vomiting and too much bile release in their system.

Like other cannabis derivatives, CBD oil can trigger "the munchies" when taken in larger amounts. This refers to a sudden urge to eat that comes about due to the consumption or inhalation of some cannabis products. This can be beneficial to patients with anorexia nervosa improving their eating habits and leading to weight gain. This is achieved by the effect of CBD oil on sensory brain receptors that influence smell and taste, making them amplify these senses, leading to an individual wanting to eat more.

Clinical trials suggest that CBD oil can help maintain healthy body weight by influencing body processes such as homeostasis, lipogenesis, and insulin response. Endocannabinoids and CB1R receptors are present in the pancreas, liver, fat tissue, and other body parts. CBD oil combines with these receptors to maintain normal body processes that break down excessive fats and control insulin regulation. As a result, this promotes appetite and energy balance in the body. Binge Eating disorder patients benefit greatly from this mechanism. Not only are their cravings sorted, but excess fats consumed prior are slowly eliminated from the body, enabling them to attain an ideal body weight over time.

Advantages of CBD oil for Treatment of Eating Disorders

There are many treatments available for eating disorders. Conventional medical treatments have been used over the years, and more recently, CBD oil or medical cannabis is proving to add value to this cause. It is a reliable choice in that:

·     It is non-psychoactive and will not lead to dependence.

·     CBD oil has no side effects to its users if taken at the correct dosage.

·     It is an affordable form of treatment compared to some other treatment alternatives.

·     It is effective for treating eating disorders and caters to other underlying ailments that are probable causes of the eating disorder; for example, depression.

·     There are multiple ways to administer CBD oil to a patient. These include; pills, capsules, vapes, injectables, gummies, and oils. Bulimia patients, for instance can use vaporized CBD to ensure its components are retained in the body and not lost while vomiting.

·     CBD oil is a natural treatment, unlikely to harm the body in any way if taken the right way.

Disadvantages of CBD oil for Treatment of Eating Disorders

Like other medicines, there is also a flip-side to the use of CBD oil to treat eating disorders. These include:

·     CBD oil is not an FDA-approved drug; hence should be taken with caution.

·     There is limited research in its use; hence, eating disorder patients with other underlying conditions should consult with their doctor before taking up this treatment.

·     Some states prohibit the use of cannabis-based treatments; thus, it may not be applicable everywhere.

 

 

How to Help Eating Disorder Patients on CBD oil Treatment

Patients from these conditions become reserved as a result of shame from their deteriorating health. BED patients keep away from people while eating to avoid judgment over how much they are eating. The first way to help them is by accepting them for who they are and encouraging them on their goal to recover from these disorders.

Therapy is an additional measure that may be beneficial to them. Most of such individuals have underlying psychological problems that trigger their behavior. Undergoing therapy may prove to be beneficial in their wholesome recovery.

For persons living with such patients, ensuring they take their medicine when intended and in the correct amounts will go a long way in their recovery process. CBD oil treatment is most effective if taken consistently, combined with healthy habits such as good nutrition practices and regular exercise.

 

Saturday, September 5, 2020

What CBD does for Tension Headaches




Migraines and headaches affects millions of people around the world. Major headaches are extremely painful, and even an insignificant stimulus like sound, smell, or light can lead to intense pain. Apart from the temporary therapeutic medicines may ease the pain for some time, but the intense sensation can return anytime again.

 

What is CBD?

By now, we all know how miraculous CBD is. Cannabidoil is a chemical compound found in marijuana that can interact with the endocannabinoid system present in the brain and the central nervous system. The endocannabinoid system is responsible for managing several physiological functions such as pain, inflammation, memory, cognitive function, and the frequency of headaches and migraines.

Health Benefits of CBD?

CBD is a perfect remedy for several health problems. Its interaction with the endocannabinoid system can help us lead a perfectly healthy life. Here are a few potential benefits of CBD:

  • CBD has become a popular remedy for several types of epileptic seizures. It is being used to treat children suffering from Lennox-Gastrault and Dravet syndrome.
  • CBD's anti-inflammatory properties can help the patients of rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis and reduce inflammation and pain.
  • CBD has the ability to boost the production and uptake of serotonin to reduce anxiety and depression.
  • CBD can also be used to manage addiction caused by excessive use of recreational marijuana. CBD can significantly reduce the psychoactive properties of THC.
  • It can also help with inflammatory skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis, and atopic dermatitis.
  • CBD has also surfaced as popular neuroprotection and helps prevent Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and huntingtins disease.

 

 

 

What Are the Headaches?

Migraine or headache is a painful sensation that is felt in the head area, and its intensity ranges from mild to intense. The radiating pain can be felt as a pounding sensation, sharpness, and dullness, which may be triggered by external factors.

Migraine or headache is a painful sensation in the head area, and its intensity ranges from mild to intense. The radiating pain can be felt as a pounding sensation, sharpness, and dullness, which may be triggered by external factors.

Headaches may occur due to several reasons. Primary headaches are caused by over-exertion of the pain-sensitive areas of the brain. The nerves, blood vessels, or the head muscles can play a key role in triggering the uncomfortable sensation.

One of the most common types of headache that occurs in all ages is a tension headache. It is a mild to moderate pain that feels like a band tied around the head. A tension headache's symptoms include dull aches, tightness, pressure, scalp tenderness, or discomfort in shoulders and neck. There are two main types of tension headaches.

Episodic tension headache: episodic headaches may last for thirty minutes to a week. More than 15 days of such headache is considered chronic.

Chronic tension headache: more than 15 days of tension headache is chronic, and each episode could last for hours.

 

How is CBD effective for tension headaches?

It is important to note that no particular Medical Research is carried out on the benefits of CBD for headaches. However, CBD's anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties are considered to be equally effective for relieving the symptoms of tension headaches. 

The ability of CBD to interact with the endocannabinoid system makes it a great option for treating headaches. The receptors of ECS are present in the brain and the central nervous system. CBD can interact with these receptors and help the system carry out the physiological functions and maintain homeostasis. A small dose of 20-30 mg is enough to decrease the intensity of tension headaches. If it doesn't create a significant difference, you can easily increase the dose because CBD is safe and has no potential side effects.

 

CBD is Safe

 CBD is safe because it cannot cause a euphoric effect, unlike its chemical cousin THC. CBD isolate is pure and does not contain any other cannabinoid, and All legal products contain less than 0.2 % THC. However, full-spectrum CBD contains THC, and it can flag positively in a drug test. If you want to use all active cannabinoids of the cannabis plant, go for broad-spectrum CBD. It does not contain THC, and it is legal in most states of the US.

 

Side Effects of CBD

CBD is safe, and it does not cause any potential side effects. Some people may face nausea, fatigue, and changes in weight and appetite. However, remember that CBD and THC are both non-fatal and do not cause any serious health issues.

 

How to Take CBD for Headaches?

CBD is available in different forms such as tinctures, oil, sprays, vapes, and topical. You can use CBD creams and lotions to massage your neck, shoulders, and head. of you want instant results, you can go for CBD vapes. Smoking CBD takes the does directly into the bloodstream and helps the body to be at ease.

There is no right or wrong dose of CBD. Your ideal CBD dose depends on your weight, severity of health issues, sensitivity to CBD, and the product quality. CBD can be a perfect natural remedy for tension headaches.

 


Thursday, July 30, 2020

What does CBD Oil do for Heart Health?




You’ll find CBD oil in almost every “health and wellness” aisle in grocery stores! CBD-infused products have taken over the market – you’ll find everything from CBD bath bombs to CBD pet food in stores!

So, what is CBD and what are its effects on the human heart? Is it any good for heart health as claimed by a lot of companies and research? Keep reading to find out more!

 CBD Oil

Before we go on to details, you should know what exactly CBD oil is.

CBD oil is cannabidiol oil. Cannabidiol is a cannabinoid that is naturally found in the hemp plant and extracted from it for its beneficial effects.

 

Benefits of CBD Oil for the Heart

CBD oil works in numerous ways to improve heart health. Here are some of the benefits of CBD oil for heart health:

·         CBD oil reduces inflammation

Inflammation is a key contributor to many heart diseases like heart attacks. Chronic inflammation occurs in cases where the body is continuously exposed to harmful substances. While you’re growing up, fats and cholesterol accumulate in the arteries that supply blood to your heart. If your diet is poor, the build-up can eventually turn into plaque. The body then starts a chronic inflammatory response toward the plaque, which can further worsen as more cells are attracted to the area with the plaque. This can break down and detach the plaque. Eventually, the plaque travels in your bloodstream and can block tiny arteries supplying blood to your heart, resulting in a heart attack.

Thus, with its anti-inflammatory effects, CBD can be effective in reducing the chances of heart attacks.

 

·         It can reduce potential risks after a heart attack occurs

A study also shows that CBD oil can reduce the incidence of arrhythmias (which is a dysregulation in the electric rhythm of your heart causing it to beat abnormally) when given after a heart attack and can also reduce the size of the damaged part!

 

 

·         CBD oil can potentially reduce blood pressure

Chronic high blood pressure causes hypertensive heart disease. It can lead to an abnormal enlargement of the heart which can even result in heart failure. A study shows that CBD oil can decrease blood pressure!

It can do so by relaxing blood vessels so that blood flows through your circulatory system smoothly and easily.

 

 

·         CBD oil reduces stress and anxiety while improving mood

CBD oil can improve your mood and eliminate stress. When it comes to the heart, stress is a real killer! Leading a stressful life significantly increases your chances of getting heart diseases. Studies suggest that CBD oil works on serotonin receptors, making them more sensitive to serotonin, a neurochemical that regulates mood.

By reducing stress levels, CBD oil can protect your heart!

 

These are a few of the many benefits of CBD oil for your body!

 

How to Take CBD Oil to Improve Heart Health

There are many different ways of taking in CBD oil to improve heart health, some of which are listed below with their pros and cons:

·         CDB edibles – these include CBD gummies, candies and taffies. CDB edibles are extremely popular and can be found easily. However, they have certain disadvantages like delayed absorption of CBD because the edibles have to be digested first. Moreover, edibles are available in limited potencies, making it harder to adjust dosing for each individual.

 

·         CBD tablets and pills – CBD tablets and pills are readily available. They are available in different potencies, making it easier for you to adjust your dosing schedule. However, CBD oil from these pills and tablets takes hours to get absorbed because the tablets and pills have to go through the digestive system to be absorbed. Moreover, it’s possible that not all the CBD gets absorbed this way.

 

·         CBD vapes and inhalers – CBD vapes and inhalers have a rapid onset of action because the CBD gets absorbed into your bloodstream from the lungs. However, ethical concerns behind CBD vaping and the potentially harmful effects of vapes can be a downside.

 

·         CBD sublingual tablets – these tablets are to be placed under the tongue until they get dissolved. This form of CBD gets absorbed quickly. The veins under your tongue absorb the CBD, thus, the CBD doesn’t need to bypass your digestive system first! This allows for a rapid onset of action too. This mode of taking in CBD is great for heart health.

 

·         CBD topicals – CBD topicals like cosmetics, bath bombs, and creams are usually used for local pain relief or skincare effects!

 

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Will consuming CBD oil make me high?

No, consuming CBD oil does not make you because CBD is not a psychoactive substance. The compound in marijuana that makes you high is THC, not CBD.

 

Is CBD oil legal?

Yes, CBD oil is legal in the US and UK, given that the THC concentration is regulated and lower than the maximum recommended amount, that is, 0.3% for the US and 0.2% for the UK.

 

Dosage

Whenever you start consuming CBD oil, it’s always best to start with a lower dosage. Studies show that CBD oil shows its maximum beneficial effects at an optimum dosage and its potential benefits decrease both, above and below that dosage.

Since every human body reacts differently, it’s best to find out on your own what dosage works best for you. Start with the lowest possible dosage and then gradually increase the dosage until you start seeing the positive effects of CBD on your body. Then, keep the dosage constant!

 

 

Precautions/Warnings

Whenever you’re getting a CBD oil product, make sure you get it from a trusted brand that has a good repute. Look for brands that offer certifications of their CBD and allow you to trace their CBD source. This is extremely important to make sure that the CBD oil you’re getting is pure and natural. It should be free from contaminants to reduce exposure to chemicals!

Moreover, if you’re already taking medicines for heart diseases, you should consult your doctor before adding CBD oil to your regime!

 

Bottomline

CBD oil has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties that can protect the heart from a number of diseases. It’s a safe oil to consume without any major side effects so it’s worth giving a shot!

That being said, make sure you follow the precautions and dosage instructions whenever you give it a try!


Friday, July 10, 2020

CBD Oil and Oral Hygiene

CBD oil has taken the health industry by storm and its demand is constantly rising! However, a branch of the health industry where CBD oil has many benefits is still pretty much undiscovered, that is, dental/oral health!

You can find food, beverages, and cosmetic products infused with CBD oil. Now, get ready for CBD oil infused toothpastes and mouthwashes. They’re great for your oral hygiene and health.

Keep reading to find out more about CBD oil and oral hygiene!

What is CBD?

For those of you who still haven’t heard of CBD, let’s set up the background!
CBD is cannabidiol – a natural substance derived from the hemp plant. It is a cannabinoid that influences the natural endocannabinoid system of the body!

Dental Care and its Importance

Dental care is a very important part of your life – and we often tend to ignore it in our busy lives! How many of you brush your teeth twice a day and floss regularly? It’s probably a very small percentage because in today’s busy world, in between switching from one screen to the other, we don’t find time for our oral health and hygiene.
Not taking care of your oral hygiene can lead to tooth decay and pain, which you want to stay away from! So, let’s find out more about how CBD oil improves your oral hygiene!

Benefits of Using CBD Oil for Oral Hygiene

CBD oil is known to have many beneficial effects on the human body, which include oral health improvements. Here are the benefits of using CBD oil for oral hygiene:
·        CBD oil reduces inflammation

CBD oil improves your oral health by reducing inflammation. Many gum diseases start with painful inflammation in their early stages. If you’ve ever had inflamed gums, you know exactly how painful it can get! By reducing inflammation, CBD oil restores gum health and reduces soreness and bleeding.


·        CBD has antibacterial properties!

One of the bacteria that can cause tooth decay is Streptococcus mutans. This bacteria feeds on sugar and starches that get left behind between your teeth. It can colonize your mouth and cause cavities! CBD oil helps eliminate this strain of bacteria while leaving the other “good” bacteria behind.



·        CBD oil reduces bad breath

When the bacteria mentioned above stay in your mouth and feed on sweet leftover food, they create a layer of plaque on your teeth. This plaque then hardens to form tartar, which is what gives you bad breath. By keeping the bacteria at bay, CBD oil reduces bad breath!


·        CBD oil helps in relieving pain

For those with chronic oral pain, you know how debilitating the pain can get! You get irritable, don’t feel like eating anything and want to remain isolated when you’re going through any form of oral pain. This is also true for those teenagers who suffer from pain when their braces are tightened. Adding a little bit of CBD oil to your oral care routine can relieve the pain! CBD oil reduces pain signals that are sent to the brain!

These were some of the many benefits of CBD oil for your oral health!


How to Use CBD Oil for Improving Oral Hygiene

There are many ways to include CBD oil in your oral care routine, which are listed below:
·        You can add CBD oil to your toothpaste. Alternatively, you can also buy toothpaste that is already infused with CBD oil. Use the toothpaste regularly and you’ll notice a positive difference in your oral hygiene!

·        You can add CBD oil to your mouthwash and then use the mouthwash regularly. Alternatively, you can also buy mouthwash infused with CBD oil.

·        You can apply CBD oil directly to the affected area in your mouth using a dropper.

·        Add a few drops of CBD oil to lukewarm water and then gargle with it.

·        If you’re taking CBD oil for pain relief after a major dental procedure, you can also take CBD oil pills or capsules.

·        You can incorporate CBD into your oral oil-pulling routine which eliminates bad breath. Add a few drops of CBD oil to coconut oil (melted) and then swish it around in your mouth for about 10-15 minutes! After that, spit it out. Do not ingest it. Oil pulling has shown to have many benefits for oral hygiene including elimination of bacteria and bad breath!

Do’s and Don’ts

You should use CBD oil correctly because using it incorrectly can have consequences. Here are a few do’s and don’ts of using CBD oil for oral hygiene:
·        Do not ingest toothpaste or mouthwash that contains CBD oil. Although CBD oil is safe to consume in the form of tablets or pills in a controlled dosage, it’s not safe to ingest mouthwash or toothpaste.

·        Make sure you only use a few drops of CBD oil. Don’t use it excessively!

·        Do not ingest the CBD oil if it’s specifically made for your oral hygiene.

·        Make sure you consult your dentist and doctor before using CBD oil, especially if you’re on any medications for chronic conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long can I use CBD-infused dental products for?
You can use CBD-infused dental products for as long as you want. They do not have any side effects.

How long will it take to see a noticeable improvement in my dental hygiene?
It can take about 2-3 weeks to see a noticeable improvement in your dental hygiene after regular use of CBD oil-infused dental products.

Will using CBD oil make me high?
No, CBD oil does not make you high!

Are there any side effects of using CBD oil for oral hygiene?
No, there are no side effects of using CBD oil for oral hygiene. However, if you ingest the CBD oil in large doses, you might face adverse effects like nausea and dizziness. All-in-all, CBD oil is safe for oral use!





So, what are you waiting for? Get your favorite CBD oil infused dental products and experience an improvement in your oral health! After all, your teeth are important and worth keeping for a long, long time!

Thursday, June 25, 2020

Is CBD effective for different Addiction Treatments?

Is CBD effective for different Addiction Treatments?
https://www.laxhempoil.com/2020/06/is-cbd-effective-for-different.html




With the ever-increasing mental health problems, we have seen that in recent years drug addiction has become very common.  Patients of anxiety depression and panic disorders seek relief by taking different drugs.  Drug-related deaths are also increasing day by day.  In a study conducted in the United States, it was estimated that almost 130 people die of opioid overdose in a day.  Not only this, the death rate due to other drugs such as heroin cocaine and alcohol are also raising concerns.

 CBD or cannabidiol has become famous in the last few years for its exceptional health-related benefits.  Research has proved that CBD can have a very sound effect on the body and mind.  It is helpful in pain relief, inflammatory responses, depression, anxiety, seizures and skin health problems.

Can CBD cause addiction?
 CBD is one of many compounds extracted from the cannabis or hemp plant.  It is non-psychoactive and does not cause a high.  The intoxicating compound of the cannabis plant is called tetrahydrocannabinol.  Its presence in the solution can cause addiction.  However, all legal and authorized products of CBD contain only less than 0.3 % of THC making CBD completely safe to use.  Such a minute amount of THC cannot cause any damage to the cognitive abilities of the body.  Once the scientist came to know that CBD was not addictive they started researching on how CBD can work for drug addiction control.  The ability of CBD to regulate the stress response and compulsive behaviour of the body makes it an ideal choice for drug addiction treatment.

CBD to reduce opioid addiction
 Opioids are over the counter drugs given for chronic pain. To our surprise, opioid addiction has become one of the major problems of the time.  Reports say that about 11.4 million people around the world are misusing the prescriptions of painkillers.  Opioids are addictive and it is very hard to stop using them but sometimes they are the only solution for chronic pain, for example, pain caused by cancer treatment methods such as chemotherapy.  Withdrawing opioids can cause symptoms like fever, sweating, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, nausea, body aches and dilated pupils.  Using CBD can reduce anxiety and control insomnia.  It can have a very positive effect on the nervous system and in the reduction of addictive behaviour.

CBD for cocaine addiction
 The number of cocaine addict around the world is increasing by folds.  Withdrawing from cocaine can cause fatigue, irritability, education, paranoia and anxiety.  In a study carried out on rats, it was found out that applying CBD on the skin can also reduce impulsivity and anxiety caused by addiction to alcohol or cocaine.  Scientists think that CBD oil can be equally helpful in treating addiction to cocaine in humans.

CBD for alcohol addiction
 About 40% of the people who take admission to drug treatment centres are addicts to alcohol.  It is easily available and it causes many other health issues other than addiction.  Withdrawing from alcohol can be a very unpleasant experience for the addicts.  It can cause anxiety, tremors, sleep disorders, nausea, hallucination, fits, irritability, and sweating.  CBD can help in reducing anxiety and fixing sleep patterns.

CBD for tobacco addiction
 Excessive use of tobacco can cause several forms of cancer.  Withdrawing from tobacco addiction may not cause severe symptoms like other drugs but it is still very difficult to get over this habit.  Nicotine is the main addictive substance of tobacco.  Studies have shown that if CBD is added to inhalers, it can reduce the urge to smoke.

CBD for marijuana addiction
 Pot smoking is a dangerous sport because marijuana can cause adverse effects on different systems of the body.  Addicts may develop a marijuana use disorder in which nothing seems more important than pot smoking.  Withdrawing from marijuana can cause restlessness, irritability, reduced appetite and insomnia.  Excessive intake of cannabinoids in the form of marijuana can reduce the sensitivity of our endocannabinoids.  The body may take up to 3 weeks to recover from the damage done by excessive cannabinoids in the body.  The main psychoactive compound in marijuana is THC which interacts with the cb1 receptor of the body.  CBD is non-addictive and it can also indirectly interact with cb1 receptors.  CBD can reduce anxiety and fix the sleep patterns which decreases irritability and restlessness.

Other health benefits of CBD
CBD is available in several different forms such as gummies, oil, creams, lotions, vapes, and chewing gums. you can choose the right product according to your condition and what your doctor advises.
Here are a few more health benefits of CBD.

·         CBD is found to be very effective in treating epilepsy in children. it can reduce the frequency of seizures and create an overall positive effect on the body.
·         CBD is an excellent treatment method for depression and anxiety disorder. it can be used to treat the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder. it increases the production of serotonin that lifts mood and creates a happy internal environment.
·         CBD is a non-addictive alternative for opioids which are given for relief from chronic pain caused by cancer, rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis. it also reduces the inflammatory responses of the body such as acne and symptoms of psoriasis.
·         CBD topical can be used to treat skin conditions like redness, sensitivity and wrinkles, eczema and irritability.


Wrap up

The health benefits of CBD have remained shadowed for a long time but scientists are carrying out extensive research on how CBD can improve our daily life functions. It is an effective treatment of addiction caused by various potent drugs. However, do not forget to consult your doctor for the right product and its recommended dose.

Saturday, June 6, 2020

Why could CBD be labeled as a dietary supplement?







Seasoned CBD users know a lot about CBD legislation and regulations. As per the food, drug, and cosmetics act (FDCA), CBD is a drug but not a dietary supplement. Consequently, selling and marketing of CBD products as nutritional supplements are unlawful.

A particular exclusion clause in the FDCA’s definition for the dietary supplement is the reason behind this rationale. It states, “any article that is approved by FDA as a drug cannot be sold as a dietary supplement”. Epidiolex is a CBD based drug approved by the FDA, and the approval came well before CBD-infused dietary supplements hit the market.

Many stakeholders in the industry put forth a different perspective stating that CBD could be labeled as a dietary supplement. They claim that they market and sell products that contain full-spectrum and broad-spectrum hemp extracts, which is not the same as CBD isolates.

The debates remind us of the court verdict on the status of lovastatin, which is a compound present in red yeast rice. Red yeast was a health product that was in use from thousands of years. The FDA approved the isolated compound (lovastatin) as a drug for treating cholesterol. Consequently, the FDA challenged the use of lovastatin in a dietary supplement.

The court held that the lovastatin utilized in the nutritional product was from a single strain red yeast rice grown under lab conditions. The court added, “the product maker purposely chose and carried out a technique to deliver explicit levels of lovastatin that are distinct than those typically present in red yeast rice.

There are more than hundred distinct cannabinoids plus terpenes present in the hemp plant, and CBD is one of them. Hemp is processed using organic and synthetic extraction methods. Individually, the cannabinoids can be isolated using various extraction methods.

Epidiolex doesn’t contain any cannabinoids other than CBD. Also, it doesn’t contain THC or terpenes that are available in the full-spectrum CBD extracts. Likewise, broad-spectrum CBD extract is another variant that includes several cannabinoids other than CBD.

The similarities of the Pharmanex case and the CBD dietary supplements can’t be overlooked. It may seem that the argument is reliable, but the reality could be different. However, none of the CBD manufacturers filed a legal case with the said argument to oppose the FDA’s stance on CBD infused dietary supplements. Notably, the FDA stated that it may consider the facts against the exclusion clause that prevent the sale and marketing of full-spectrum and broad-spectrum products.

The 2016 draft guidance from FDA says that the FDA secretary has the authority to overrule a particular clause in drug exclusion rule, and the same can be done by issuing a regulation.

A recent congress bill (H.R.5587) would remove the barriers on the sale and marketing of hemp CBD as a dietary supplement across states. Likewise, it seems the lawmakers are not particularly happy about the agency’s stance on CBD, and they would support the regulation of CBD as a dietary supplement.

All we can do is to wait for the FDA’s response in this matter. Nevertheless, it is prudent that the stakeholders in the CBD industry would put forth the similarities of lovastatin case and CBD products as a legal theory to counter any unfavorable actions from the FDA.

Wednesday, May 27, 2020

How CBD Oil Benefits Dogs





CBD gets credited with the potential to alleviate different pain points in humans. Naturally, veterinary officers and pet owners wonder if CBD oil for dogs can provide those very benefits.
In fact, according to Statista, 27% of pet owners in the US purchased CBD oil for their pets in 2019. With about 63.4 million households owning dogs, many of these pets have once or often been subjected to a CBD oil dose. 
So, is CBD oil beneficial to dogs? Undeniably, Yes. That said, let us have a glance at the…

Conditions that CBD oil can solve in dogs

All mammals have a unique-functioning organ scientifically named the Endocannabinoid System (ECS). The ECS has neurotransmitters called the cannabinoid receptors.
Therefore, the consumption of CBD activates the cannabinoid receptors of the Endocannabinoid System in dogs to create a homeostatic effect and boost immunity.
When these two occur, the following conditions get alleviated from dogs:

1.    Osteoarthritis

Arthritis in dogs gets characterized by an unusual functionality of the joints, which in turn, brings about severe pain. Mainly, arthritis an inflammatory condition.
Thankfully, CBD oil is known for its plethora of anti-inflammatory properties. CBD reduces inflammatory pain from the joints of those dogs; thus, loosening up the joints and enhancing mobility.
According to PubMed, dogs that suffer from arthritis can get pain relief, especially when the dosage gets administered twice daily at the needful doses.

2.    Pain

There are different reasons why your dog may be suffering from pain. The pain could be disease-related, chronic, or even inflammatory.
As mentioned above, CBD is an anti-inflammatory compound that can help in stopping reducing pain coming as a result of joint inflammation.
Aged dogs that suffer from back pain emanating from Intervertebral Pain Disease can also enjoy moments of relief when a CBD oil dosage gets administered to their bodies.

3.    Cancer

There is no single piece of dependable research showing that CBD can cure cancer in dogs. However, there are possible benefits of CBD that can help in treating cancer conditions.
According to a study, CBD has tumor-reducing effects, especially during radiation therapy, thereby alleviating the harmful side effects.
Also, CBD oil can help in reducing tumors on the brain and spine. Although these two studies were not done on dogs, the results can be replicated since they have the ECS. 

4.    Nausea

Scientists believe that the Endocannabinoid System gets involved in the regulation of metabolism. Unregulated metabolism means that your dog will struggle to have an appetite even for its favorite food or treat. 
This could be due to the repulsive effects of cancer treatment. Fortunately, many oncologists believe that the integration of CBD oil in the treatment can reduce nausea.

5.    Seizures

Studies show that CBD oil for dogs is useful when it comes to managing seizures. The exact way in which CBD manages the frequency of seizures in dogs is unknown as of the moment.  
Nonetheless, scientists ultimately believe that CBD improves the control of seizures in patients suffering from specific epileptic conditions.

Monday, May 11, 2020

CBD Oil and Alcohol: A match made in Heaven?








CBD Oil and Alcohol Effects – Do’s and Don’ts

In recent years, the consumption of CBD and its related products has significantly increased. It’s used everywhere now – you’ll see it as a supplement in food (even pet food), topical creams and gels, tablets, inhalers, and even alcoholic beverages! Its numerous health benefits are being widely studied with promising results!

So, what is the deal with alcohol and CBD oil? Can you mix the two together?
Keep reading to find out more about the Do’s and Don’ts of CBD oil and alcohol!


CBD with Alcohol – Are there any disadvantages?

While CBD oil has many protective roles in terms of alcohol consumption, both of these products potentiate the effects of each other.

CBD oil is naturally an anxiolytic – it reduces anxiety and stress levels. The consumption of CBD oil makes you feel relaxed to the extent that you start feeling sleepy.

Alcohol consumption, too, makes you feel drowsy and sleepy. It impairs your cognitive functions and clouds your thinking abilities.

When these two are mixed together, the result is potentiation of their effects. CBD oil enhances alcohol’s sedative and inhibitory effects on the brain. Even though we learned earlier than CBD oil with alcohol decreases the blood alcohol concentration (BAC), the sedative effects of alcohol and the cognitive effects that accompany it are increased, despite a low blood alcohol concentration. Although CBD doesn’t cause any cognitive impairment on its own, it can enhance the cognitive impairment caused by the consumption of alcohol.

Therefore, if you’re just looking to have a great time, the combination will work great for you! It will intensify the pleasure you’re feeling. Moreover, this combination is also great for those that have difficulty falling asleep. Traditional sleeping medications make you feel drowsy and tired. Some of these have an after-effect, making you feel drowsy even after you’re awake. On the other hand, CBD and alcohol can improve your sleep quality, provided you’re taking it in recommended doses!
So, should you consume CBD oil and alcohol together or is it harmful to your body? The answer is yes, you can consume CBD oil and alcohol, but you need to take a few precautions while doing so.

Here are a few DON’Ts of consuming CBD oil and alcohol together:

·         Make sure you’re not consuming too much of either together! If you’re just new to consuming CBD oil and alcohol together, start in very small doses. Every human body is different and everyone’s tolerance to alcohol is different as well. Starting with small doses will make you realize how much you can tolerate and what doses are good for you without producing too much sedation or cognitive impairment.

·         Just like you’re not supposed to drink alcohol before driving, make sure not to drink CBD and alcohol before driving or performing any important function that requires focus. Many people still drive after consuming small quantities of alcohol. However, since CBD oil can potentiate the effects of alcohol, it’s better to stay away from the steering wheel and sit on the back seat of a cab instead!


·         Don’t settle for cheap quality products that contain impure alcohol or impure CBD! Make sure the alcohol mixed with CBD you’re getting is from a certified brand that makes pure products. Impure CBD that’s grown illegally may contain trace amounts of THC, which is the compound in marijuana that gives you a high. THC and alcohol don’t go well together and can have disastrous effects so make sure you’re getting your CBD alcohol cocktail from a recognized or certified place!



Here are a few DO’S of consuming CBD and alcohol together:

·         CBD oil is generally a lot stronger than CBD tincture and it doesn’t mix well with alcohol. Always prefer using CBD tincture with alcohol because it’s lighter and mixes well with alcohol! CBD tincture is also readily available mixed with alcoholic beverages.  

·         If you’ve been prescribed CBD for medical reasons by your doctor, make sure you don’t mix it with alcohol without consulting with your doctor first! Only your physician can give the best advice on how to mix CBD with alcohol so that it is still therapeutic for you and there are no harmful effects. Moreover, if you have any metabolic disorders, you should always consult your doctor before trying anything new.

·         Always look for certifications when you’re buying CBD oil or alcohol or even a mixture of both from someone!



CBD Oil’s Protective Role Against Alcohol

Many research studies suggest that the intake of CBD oil protects against the effects of alcohol. Here are a few ways CBD oil has proven to be beneficial against the effects of alcohol:

·         CBD oil prevents your liver from being damaged by alcohol

Alcohol causes fatty liver disease in those who regularly consume it in large amounts. However, CBD oil has been shown to play a protective role by preventing this disease! It protects the cells of the liver so that fatty degeneration doesn’t damage the liver.


·         CBD protects your brain from alcohol-induced damage

Alcohol has a degenerative effect on the brain’s neurons. On the other hand, CBD oil has a protective effect on the brain! It has antioxidant properties that protect the brain against oxidative damage induced by alcohol. It also protects the neurons of your brain by enhancing the production of anti-inflammatory proteins.


·         Consuming CBD oil before alcohol helps lower blood alcohol concentration (BAC)

Studies show that when you consume CBD oil before consuming alcohol or even with alcohol, your blood alcohol concentration is significantly lower than if you consume alcohol alone! This means that CBD oil makes you less drunk with the same amount of alcohol!
As a result of the decreased blood alcohol concentration (BAC), your liver will be less loaded with alcohol and there will be fewer chances of liver degeneration!


These are a few of the many protective roles that CBD plays in alcohol consumption!
So, what are you waiting for? Try out a CBD mocktail and have a great time! Don’t forget to keep the do’s and don’ts of CBD and alcohol in your mind when you mix the two!