Through the ages, man has always sought the elusive elixir of life. A single cure for most maladies, one that would wipe away all his health problems and restore life to broken bodies.

Like snake oil in time past, many have described CBD oil as the new cure-all substance. But how true is this?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a derivative of the hemp plant and one of the many therapeutic substances that can be found in the plant. Like its co-constituents, the substance has found use cases in managing certain ailments and medical conditions, but it does not cure all medical problems.

CBD is not a cure-all substance; neither is it a fad.

So, what might CBD do for you?

Research has indicated that CBD has medicinal benefits in reducing inflammation, managing anxiety, and managing severe seizures. In recognition of CBD’s efficacy with managing symptoms of seizures, the FDA approved Epidiolex, the first prescription-based CBD medication for patients suffering from two rare forms of epilepsy.

While it might seem like the approved range of clinical uses of CBD is limited, research is ongoing to establish other use cases. However, there are some other common reasons people use CBD.

Chronic Pain: Some research studies suggest that CBD contains substances that can relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Outside the United States, especially in Canada and the United Kingdom, the drug regulatory bodies have approved a CBD based pain reliever Sativex for management of mild to severe pain and muscle spasticity caused by multiple sclerosis.

Anxiety and Depression: Although limited, some research support the use of CBD for managing anxiety and anxiety related ailments. Researchers opine that CBD can help to dampen emotional responses to upsetting images and actions.

Sleep Disorders: Several people have spoken fondly of the calming effect CBD has on the brain and how it has helped them sleep better. However, this is not to say that the effect is the same for all. While CBD might have an effect on certain individuals, others experience no effect and some others, only in large doses.

Final Words

Pharmaceutical-grade CBD is generally safe, and according to the World Health Organization WHO, there is no evidence of public health-related problems associated with the use of pure CBD. However, it is important to seek your physician’s advice if you are considering using CBD for health and wellness.