CBD Health

Topical products are a unique way to administer cannabidiol (CBD) and other cannabinoids. Topicals possess many advantages as an alternative method, as patients who are not comfortable with broadcasting their cannabis use to the world can use lotions or creams discreetly. Topicals are also beneficial for targeting certain areas like the hands, back, or legs.

Topicals can also take effect rapidly, as they bypass the stomach and digestive system, going straight through the skin to bloodstream.[1] But the benefits of topicals don’t stop there. In fact, for some dermatological conditions, topicals might actually exert its effects by enhancing function of the skin barrier.

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a condition characterized by chronic inflammation and uncomfortable itching. Research on the mechanism of AD has revealed damage to skin barrier function due to the effects of pro-inflammatory substances like cytokines.[2]

Several cannabinoids are effective at relieving AD symptoms, likely due to their anti-inflammatory properties.[3,4] Studies have dug further to better understand the mechanism underlying these effects.

Treatment with oxazolone solution (1% in acetone) mimics the effects of AD in pre-clinical models. Using this technique, as well as cell assays, researchers found that cannabinoid 1 (CB₁) receptor agonists (which increase the function of the receptor) inhibited the production of inflammatory compounds linked to AD.[5]

An additional study employing the same AD model confirmed these findings. However, researchers also found that CB₁ agonists significantly accelerated and improved skin barrier recovery.[2]

These results support the use of cannabinoids like palmitoyl ethanolamide, or PEA. In fact, this endocannabinoid has been used to treat dermatological conditions like AD.[6] While PEA is a CB₂ agonist, it stimulates anandamide, another endocannabinoid, to activate the CB₁ receptor. These actions in turn alleviate itch.[3,4,6]

While there are many benefits of topical use, a greater understanding of how cannabinoids exert their effects on dermatological conditions like AD may help when choosing the right therapy. For example, knowing which cannabis compounds work directly via the CB₁ receptor or CB₂ can help you in discussing a plan with your doctor or dispensary.

It’s also important to keep in mind the benefits of the “entourage effect,” or the power of full-spectrum cannabis brought on by both cannabinoids and terpenes.[7] So, if you haven’t used topicals before, trying out different products may be best to determine what works best for you and your condition.

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References

1. Huestis MA. Human cannabinoid pharmacokinetics. Chem Biodivers. 2007;4(8):1770-1804.
2. Kim HJ, et al. Topical cannabinoid receptor 1 agonist attenuates the cutaneous inflammatory responses in oxazolone-induced atopic dermatitis model. Int J Dermatol. 2015;54(10):e401-408.
3. Sheriff T, et al. The potential role of cannabinoids in dermatology. J Dermatolog Treat. 2020;31(8):839-845.
4. Eagleston LRM, et al. Cannabinoids in dermatology: a scoping review. Dermatol Online J. 2018;24(6):13030.
5. Nam G, et al. Selective cannabinoid receptor-1 agonists regulate mast cell activation in an oxazolone-induced atopic dermatitis model. Ann Dermatol. 2016;28(1):22-29.
6. Borrelli F, et al. Palmitoylethanolamide, a naturally occurring lipid, is an orally effective intestinal anti-inflammatory agent. Br J Pharmacol. 2015;172(1):142-158.
7. Russo EB. Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects. Br J Pharmacol. 2011;163(7):1344-1364.

The rising popularity of cannabidiol (CBD) means there are always new CBD products hitting the market.

You may be familiar with gummies, oils, and capsules. Did you know that there’s another form of CBD called CBD paste?

Below, we take a closer look at CBD paste and how it compares to other CBD products.

What is CBD paste?

CBD paste is similar to other CBD products in that it contains CBD, but it differs a lot in terms of potency. It’s usually much more concentrated than other types of CBD.

Some companies add CBD paste to oils like MCT oil.

CBD paste is a good option for people who want or need to take higher doses of CBD, whether for a specific condition or because smaller doses don’t quite do the trick.

What does the research say about CBD?

While the research on CBD is still coming out, what we know so far suggests that CBD might have a few benefits.

Some research points to CBD as a potential treatment for pain because it affects cannabinoid receptor activity and reduces inflammation.

Another study found that CBD may also help with pain related to multiple sclerosis (MS) and arthritis.

However, this study used Sativex, a type of prescription CBD spray not approved for use in the United States. Sativex also contains tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound in cannabis, which may contribute to its effects.

Some people also take CBD to help with:

Evidence also suggests that CBD may help with cancer-related pain and chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.

Additionally, CBD can help people with certain kinds of epilepsy. Epidiolex is currently the only drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that contains CBD. It’s available by prescription and specifically intended to treat epilepsy.

Other animal and human studies suggest that CBD may also:

• Have antipsychotic effects. A 2015 review found this to be the case, though researchers note that more studies are needed.
• Have anti-tumor effects. This was noted in a 2015 research review, but again, more research is needed.
• Help with substance use treatment. A small review found that CBD may help with addiction to certain substances, including opioids, cocaine, and tobacco.

Benefits and drawbacks of CBD paste

You might be wondering, why choose CBD paste over other forms of CBD, like gummies or capsules? Here are some advantages of CBD paste:

• It’s a more effective way to take CBD in high doses (instead of taking several gummies or capsules, for example).
• You need to take a smaller amount to get a higher dosage, which can help you avoid additives.
• It’s often more cost effective.
• You can use it to make your own edibles or CBD products.

However, there are also several drawbacks of CBD paste compared to other forms of CBD.

It’s a little harder to figure out dosage with paste. It often comes in syringe form. Because it’s hard to dispense, it’s easy to take too much, which can increase your risk for experiencing side effects.

Paste also has a strong taste. The paste-like consistency means you might end up with it stuck to your teeth and gums.

How to shop for CBD paste

Here’s what you should look for when shopping for CBD products like CBD paste.

CBD source

You can choose between CBD isolate and full-spectrum or broad-spectrum CBD. If you prefer to stay away from THC, opt for an isolate. Know that by choosing an isolate, you’re not getting the full benefit of the entourage effect.

Potency

CBD paste is a lot more potent than other types of CBD. Keep this in mind when buying and taking it. It may not be the best product for people new to CBD.

Third-party testing

The FDA can take action against CBD companies that make false claims about their products.

But the FDA doesn’t currently guarantee that any over-the-counter CBD products are safe or effective. So, how can you be sure you’re buying a quality CBD product that is what it says it is?

Look for a certificate of analysis (COA). This means that the CBD paste has been tested for all sorts of contaminants, like pesticides, heavy metals, and molds.

The COA can also tell you whether the advertised potency is accurate or not, as well as which cannabinoids the product contains.

Hemp source

Look for companies that source their hemp in the United States, since U.S. hemp is subject to certain agricultural regulations. Bonus points for hemp that’s U.S.-certified organic.

Customer reviews

Look at customer reviews to get a sense of whether the company and its products have a good reputation. Reviews are a great baseline. If people are repeatedly mentioning the same problem, it’s usually a sign that that’s something to pay attention to.

How to use CBD paste

If CBD paste is already mixed with a carrier oil like MCT oil, you take it like you would a CBD oil.

Most CBD paste, though, comes in a syringe. You can push it out and add it to foods or beverages, or eat it straight from the syringe.

Because CBD paste is a lot more concentrated than gummies or oil, start off with a tiny amount. Remember, it can take some time to feel the effects of edible products.

Eloise Theisen, RN, full-time medical cannabis program faculty at the Pacific College of Health and Science, and president of the American Cannabis Nurses Association, suggests swallowing the paste instead of letting it dissolve under your tongue.

The longer it’s in your mouth, the higher the chance of the stuff sticking to your teeth and gums, which can feel unpleasant and delay its effects.

You can find out more about dosage by checking out our article on CBD dosage.

Safety and side effects

While research suggests that CBD is generally considered safe, some people can experience adverse effects, like:

• fatigue
• weight loss or gain
• appetite change
• diarrhea

Don’t forget to talk to your healthcare provider before taking any kind of CBD. It can interact with certain medications.

Also avoid taking CBD alongside high fat foods or meals. One study found that doing so might increase your risk for side effects.

Takeaway

If you’re finding it hard to take high doses of CBD with traditional gummies and oil, you may want to try CBD paste.

This cannabis-derived extract is a lot more concentrated, making it easier for people looking to take a high dose of CBD.

People with chronic pain or dealing with pain or nausea due to cancer and chemotherapy may need higher doses of CBD to feel any noticeable effects.

When shopping for CBD paste, look for a reputable company that provides customers with a comprehensive COA.

Is CBD Legal? Hemp-derived CBD products (with less than 0.3 percent THC) are legal on the federal level, but are still illegal under some state laws. Marijuana-derived CBD products are illegal on the federal level, but are legal under some state laws. Check your state’s laws and those of anywhere you travel. Keep in mind that nonprescription CBD products are not FDA-approved, and may be inaccurately labeled.

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Original Article: https://www.healthline.com/health/cbd-paste#takeaway

Alcohol is on its way out among younger crowds, at least according to a new study. Younger consumers who are diverse and more affluent now prefer CBD beverages over alcohol for various reasons, including for socializing and “on-the-go” relief of anxiety, insomnia, and depression. The new information comes from cannabis market research firm High Yield Insights which ran a study this month of over 4,000 CBD users. The study included 1,200 people who drink CBD beverages.

According to the results, those consumers that use CBD drinks are younger, with 62 percent being Gen Z or Millennials. They are also affluent, with 33 percent living in households with income over $100,000.

The study also found that a significant number of respondents now use CBD since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. The study also found that “CBD beverages users are much more likely than CBD users overall to use infused drinks to alleviate nausea and for exercise recovery. They also express more openness to household brands entering the CBD market.”

High Yield Insights collected the data in partnership with global consumer survey company InnovateMR. According to a statement released this week, it is the first study of its kind to research such consumer patterns concerning CBD and CBD beverages.

Furthermore, researchers note that the study also reviewed other categories, such as “currently used as well as those they would consider using or have discontinued using.”

According to a statement, “the study included over 35,000 respondents who answered key questions about their anxiety levels, impacts of the pandemic on their life, and their impressions of CBD products. Nearly 4,200 current CBD users gave additional responses about how and why they currently use CBD, product categories they would consider using in the future, and factors they consider when making a CBD purchase.”

“The beverage format appeals to consumers new to CBD because it is accessible, easy to dose, and resembles functional drinks in the mainstream market. Convenience was cited as a purchase driver for 42% of survey respondents and 45% report using other foods and beverages with enhanced ingredients,” said Mike Luce, President of High Yield Insights and a 20-year veteran in consumer insights and market research in a statement.

He continued: “CBD beverages is an omnichannel category as well. Drinks users are twice as likely to have purchased from a supermarket or drug store than CBD buyers overall. Picking up a single can or bottle is a relatively inexpensive solution for curious mainstream consumers. This is evident in the responses from non-users, who indicated greater interest in CBD beverages than any other format.”

Consumers use Hemp-derived CBD for many reasons. Research shows that many people use it for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Others prefer it because it has the potential to treat anxiety, stress, and depression. As a recent press release noted, “this has spurred increased interest in CBD as consumer seek out new products to add to their health and wellness repertoire. However, because many CBD companies are largely unknown by consumers, current and potential consumers face the challenge of finding a product suited to their needs.”

“The CBD market is ripe for innovation and brand-building,” noted Luce in a statement. “Of the 4,200 users surveyed, only 28 percent report having found a product, brand, or format that works for them. Efficacy is utmost in the mind of consumers. About 40 percent of CBD users indicated achieving the desired result as a driver for more frequent purchase, which was second only to lower prices.”

Original Article: https://www.potnetwork.com/news/younger-cbd-consumers-prefer-cbd-beverages-over-alcohol

Derived from the hemp plant, cannabidiol (CBD) can provide a host of benefits to the mind and body, all without inducing intoxicating effects.

But with all the different CBD products available on the market, how do you know which one to use? More specifically, CBD oil and topicals may be applied similarly. How do they compare to each other? How do they differ? And more importantly, which one should you use to target whatever ailment you’re experiencing?

CBD Oil

Oil can be applied topically to specific areas that are experiencing discomfort. It’s also an ideal substance to use for a massage, as oils help to lubricate the skin and minimize any friction while a massage is being performed.

The use of CBD oils during a massage also provides the opportunity to add essential oils to help both nourish the skin and provide an aromatic experience.

But CBD is also often taken orally, usually under the tongue using a dropper. By consuming CBD oil orally, it can have a more systemic effect on the entire body. [1]

CBD Topicals

Topicals can be further broken down into different formats, including tinctures, creams, salves, and ointments, each of which has a different texture, consistency, and base.

The different CBD topical formats may also differ in CBD potency, much like CBD oils. These types of products tend to be more commonly used to target specific areas of the body. [1]

Which Should You Use?

The decision between oils and topicals ultimately depends on the reason why you’re using CBD and what your comfort level and preference is. Generally speaking, both topicals and oils can work for pain management.

That said, topicals may be more effective for alleviating acute pain, inflammation, and headaches in a more targeted manner. They may also be more effective for treating skin issues, including eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis. Further, topicals may be included in a regular skin care regimen to promote healthier skin.

But for those looking to manage chronic stress, anxiety, or insomnia, CBD oils that can be ingested orally may be optimal, as the effects will be more long lasting and impact the body as a whole. It is also easier to control dosing with the oral route. [1]

Having said all that, combining both topical CBD along with oral CBD may provide the best of both worlds. We always recommend speaking to your doctor before initiating CBD use. And it’s also important to test out different products to see which might work best for your body.

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Reference

1. Bruni N, et al. Cannabinoid delivery systems for pain and inflammation treatment. Molecules. 2018;23(10):2478.

A synthetic cannabinoid drug known as ARDS-003 has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to start Phase 1 clinical trials. The substance is injectable and crafted to aid those with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a serious condition prevalent with COVID-19.

ARDS is known to cause shortness of breath, rapid breathing, low blood pressure, and fatigue. Cytokines are proteins that cause inflammation. While inflammation is considered a healthy immune system response, too much of it can have fatal consequences (called cytokine release syndrome), especially in the setting of COVID-19 infection.

Cannabinoids have found a spotlight in treating ARDS, as research shows they can be natural anti-inflammatories–most notably, cannabidiol (CBD). [1]

The synthetic cannabinoid ARDS-003 was derived by researchers at Tetra Bio-Pharma. While this compound isn’t a natural molecule extracted from the cannabis plant, it’s engineered to act similarly to phytocannabinoids.

ARDS-003 interacts with the endocannabinoid system by binding to the cannabinoid receptor 2. This receptor plays an important role in regulating the immune system.

Guy Chamberland, MSc PhD, CEO and chief of regulatory officer at Tetra Bio-Pharma told Forbes, “We have extensive preclinical evidence that the active pharmaceutical ingredient in ARDS-003 has a profound effect in inhibiting the factors that lead to excessive immune system activation.”

While this isn’t going to prevent COVID-19 from spreading, it may just help those who are at risk from the novel coronavirus. Scientists have observed that those who struggle most with this virus have an inflamed respiratory system that can drown the lungs with excess fluid.

As ARDS-003 enters into Phase 1 of clinical trials, researchers will observe how it can help individuals with COVID-19. Whether or not the protective effects are long-lasting and are successful for people of all ages, ethnicities, and medical conditions remain to be seen.

Remember, there is no definitive evidence to date to show that using cannabinoids including CBD can prevent or treat COVID-19. Greater research is needed in this important area.

Reference

1. Khodadadi H, et al. Cannabidiol modulates cytokine storm in acute respiratory distress syndrome induced by simulated viral infection using synthetic RNA. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res. 2020;5(3):197-201.

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What do consumers really think of cannabidiol (CBD)? Are they using it to treat medical conditions or wellness? To find out, researchers looked to the popular social media channel Reddit to see what the buzz is all about.

Scientists from the University of California San Diego performed a sweeping analysis of testimonials and the results were an emphatic confirmation of the momentum behind the promise of CBD.

The researchers scoured the r/CBD forum, digging up a staggering 104,917 posts (with 376 analyzed from a sample of 3,000 after filtering), spanning the period from January 2014 to August 2019. To organize all the information, they developed a coding system, which split testimonials into two categories. One revolved around CBD as a treatment of a diagnosable condition, which was made up of 11 subcategories, with the second category focused on wellness, which consisted of two subcategories.

The researchers found that 90% of the Reddit posters believed CBD can treat diagnosable conditions, including psychiatric disorders like depression, which were the most cited (63.9% of the posts), followed by orthopedic conditions (26.4% of the posts). Sleep disorders made up 14.6% of posts, and, finally, neurologic and gastroenterological issues at 6.9% and 3.9%, respectively. [1] Only 29.5%, in contrast, alluded to wellness benefits.

“Because CBD is not an FDA-approved treatment for nearly all the conditions cited by users who post to Reddit, CBD users may unnecessarily experience prolonged illnesses that would otherwise be alleviated with proven effective treatments,” the authors stated. “In addition, CBD use is not devoid of health risks.”

The study authors note some limitations, such as that results may not translate to the larger population, especially since Reddit users tend to be young and male. But the conclusions are telling:

“The findings of this case series suggest that the public may already perceive CBD as an effective therapeutic for many health conditions. We believe this misperception warrants a multipronged response encompassing regulation, clinical practice, and health education.”

While CBD has not undergone the vigorous clinical trial testing that approved treatments have followed, it is not fair to call these results a misperception, as there are many studies indicating that CBD and other cannabinoids can indeed be effectives across numerous medical conditions. This is evidenced by the approval of Epidiolex® (in the US) for epilepsy and Sativex® (outside the US) for symptoms of multiple sclerosis.

Certainly more data are needed and both physicians and consumers require far more education on CBD and cannabinoid medicine; but numbers don’t lie, and, if so many Reddit users find CBD effective, there must be something to it.

Image Credit: Gerd Altmann

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Reference

1. Leas EC, et al. Self-reported cannabidiol (CBD) use for conditions with proven therapies. JAMA Netw Open. 2020;3(10):e2020977.

Arguably the most popular cannabinoid on the planet right now is cannabidiol (CBD).

CBD’s popularity has grown exponentially in recent years.

In fact, CBD is searched for more often on Google compared to THC, and that has been the case for a handful of years now.

The rise in popularity for CBD has been paralleled by CBD’s availability in most countries.

People can purchase CBD products almost anywhere, from gas stations to online platforms.

In virtually every country that permits legal CBD sales, CBD is treated differently compared to THC from a regulation and public policy standpoint.

Whereas only two countries on earth allow sales of THC products for adult use, dozens of countries now allow CBD in one form or another.

Most CBD is derived from hemp as opposed to non-hemp cannabis, and as such it is easier to produce on a large scale compared to cannabis that is high in THC.

The abundance of global CBD supply is being infused into just about anything imaginable right now and many consumers are left wondering if the products they are purchasing are worth the money?

Not Enough CBD?

If you have ever searched for CBD products, then you are probably well aware that there are an incredible arrayt of options.

Figuring out which one is best for your particular situation can prove to be a daunting task.

A good place to start is to look at how much actual CBD is in the product.

According to a recent study conducted in the United Kingdom, the amount of CBD in a product varies widely.

The study was conducted by a team of investigators at King’s College in London and examined the safety and effectiveness of commercially marketed CBD products that are commonly available over-the-counter.

The researchers found that the contents of the CBD products involved in the study were of “variable quality” and that the amount of CBD in the products was significantly below the doses used in controlled clinical trials.

“Although there is enormous consumer interest in CBD, there is little evidence that OTC preparations have significant pharmacological activity or provide health benefits. … [C]ontrolled trials of OTC preparations are needed to address this issue. There is also a need for more accurate labelling and advertising of OTC CBD products,” the researchers concluded.

In a year where we all could use some good news, cannabis supporters got it this Election Day, with adult-use legalization initiatives passing in four states, and medical passing in one state. Additionally, Oregon and Washington D.C. dealt huge blows to the War on Drugs.

Here’s everything you need to know about these historic victories for legal cannabis:

Arizona

Spearheaded by activists with the group Smart and Safe Arizona, a significant majority of voters in the Grand Canyon State said yes to Prop 207, legalizing recreational cannabis. People age 21 and older will legally be able to purchase and possess up to an ounce of cannabis flower and a maximum of 5g of concentrates while being allowed to grow six plants, according to AZ Central. Business owners hope recreational sales to be operational by April 2021.

Montana

Montana voters passed statutory Initiative 190, effectively legalizing the sale and possession of recreational cannabis. Voters in Montana have the organization New Approach Montana to largely thank for the victory, as activists collected an impressive 130,000+ voter signatures earlier this summer to qualify the initiative—during the midst of COVID-19 restrictions. The MT Department of Revenue will be tasked with the regulation and licensing of the recreational market.

New Jersey

A majority of voters in New Jersey answered yes to Public Question 1, approving a referendum to legalize recreational cannabis. The adult-use cannabis market is now in the hands of the legislature in the Garden State, but Governor Phil Murphy (D) repeatedly came out in support of legalization well before election day even saying it “can’t fail.”

The New Jersey governor was right, and this landmark passing will influence surrounding East Coast states—most notably those with large cities and potentially lucrative markets like New York and Pennsylvania. New York Governor Andrew Cuomo and Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf have both spoken out several times in favor of legal recreational cannabis markets in their respective states—but neither have made that happen.

South Dakota

With voters approving both Amendment A to legalize an adult-use cannabis market and Measure 26 to establish a state medical program, South Dakota has officially become the first state ever to pass both at the same time. This unprecedented win for legal cannabis is one that other states will likely emulate in upcoming years, perhaps as early as 2022 and 2024. The transition that states are now making from having only a medical program to legalizing a recreational market is certainly remarkable, especially considering it took a pioneering state like California 20 years to do so.

Mississippi

Mississippi citizens overwhelmingly approved of a medical cannabis program in their state, with more than 70% of voters saying yes to Initiative 65. And until recently, despite being a state with no legal program whatsover, the University of Mississippi was the only approved research grow facility in the US. And now, the people of Mississippi will have access to what has been growing at the university for years.

Oregon

Oregon became the first U.S. state to decriminalize all drugs, with voters approving a measure that would emphasize funding for treatment over punishment. This monumental victory in Oregon is a major success in pushing back against the antiquated, failed War on Drugs, which has gone on for too long, ruining millions of lives and costing billions of taxpayer dollars in its wake. Much like California got the ball rolling with medical cannabis in 1996, this historic approval in Oregon could signify the pealing back of many layers of hurt.

If that wasn’t enough, votes also approved the use of medicinal psychedelic mushrooms.

Washington D.C.

Voters in D.C. approved Initiative 81, effectively decriminalizing entheogenic plants and fungi, such as ibogaine, dimethyltryptamine (DMT), mescaline, psilocybin, or psilocyn. Law enforcement will place the policing of those possessing these substances at a low priority.

A Celebration for Cannabis Supporters

In a year of struggle and division, citizens in the above states have spoken—and the majority of We the People are in favor of cannabis prohibition to end, once and for all. As we move toward another voting season in 2022 then 2024, these monumental victories will no doubt have a huge influence on voters and lawmakers in states that have not yet legalized plant medicine.

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Cannabidiol (CBD) is commonly used to promote healthy skin and alleviate issues such as acne and redness.

Given these properties, it makes sense that companies are creating topicals specifically designed for the skin. A multitude of salves, lotions, and creams infused with CBD have already made it to the market, each promising to help soothe the skin and promote a healthier glow.

Studies have already shown that CBD has medicinal properties, but what is it exactly about CBD that makes it an excellent ingredient for facials?

Soothes Inflammation

Much of the redness and blemishes of the skin are the result of underlying inflammation. CBD may be able to counter inflammation by interacting with the endocannabinoid system’s receptors in the skin. This can help to alleviate issues that arise as a result of inflammation, including psoriasis and acne.

Treats Atopic Dermatitis

CBD oil is high in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which may be able to help treat certain skin issues such as atopic dermatitis. One particular study found that hemp oil could alleviate the symptoms of atopic dermatitis after a 20-week period.[1]

Prevents Excessive Oil Production

One of the main issues behind acne breakouts is the overproduction of oil in the pores. CBD oil may be able to balance out oily skin and manage sebaceous glands without clogging pores.[2]

May Fight Signs of Aging

This cannabinoid may even have anti-aging properties. CBD oil can help to reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles and may even prevent them from developing.

One particular study showed that CBD acts as a potent antioxidant and may protect against glutamate neurotoxicity, which can cause cell damage or death.[3] Antioxidants have anti-aging properties that can slow the aging process by reducing free radicals and therefore minimizing the damage they cause to the skin. This can help keep the skin looking more youthful.

The next time you book your facial appointment, consider trying out a CBD-based product to rejuvenate the look and feel of your skin.

Image Credit: Seksak Kerdkanno

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References

1. Callaway J, et al, Efficacy of dietary hempseed oil in patients with atopic dermatitis. Journal of Dermatological Treatment. 2005;16(2):87-94.
2. Oláh A, et al, Cannabidiol exerts sebostatic and antiinflammatory effects on human sebocytes. J Clin Invest. 2014;124(9):3713-3724.
3. Hampson AJ, et al, Cannabidiol and (−)Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol are neuroprotective antioxidants. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. 1998;95(14): 8268-8273.

Cannabidiol, popularly known as CBD, has been a controversial subject in the clinical setting. The dark era of cannabis prohibition did a lot to hamper research. Consequently clinician training has been void of the mechanisms of cannabinoid-based therapy.

Fortunately, things have taken a different turn and now there is emerging scientific evidence in this area. With the pace set, it’s time to get the relevant stakeholders (clinicians) on board. And that is exactly what one organization is doing.

The Medical Cannabis Clinicians Society in the UK provides a platform for clinicians to share practical knowledge and spark conversations on medicinal cannabis. The society is made up of an independent network of clinicians offering consultation and treatments as well as spearheading research in this area.

In their recently released guidelines, the society extensively explored CBD and provided recommendations for physicians. Below is a breakdown of the highlights.

In the UK, two cannabinoid-based drugs have been approved and licensed for use by the public: Sativex^®, for the treatment of spasticity in multiple sclerosis, and Epidyolex^®, a treatment for seizures. While the former has a 1:1 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) to CBD formulation, the latter is 98% CBD.

On the safety of CBD, the guideline cited a 2018 WHO report which found that CBD was “generally well tolerated with a good safety profile.” There is no evidence on CBD causing severe side effects or dependence.

As outlined in the guidelines, therapeutic benefits include the following properties:

• Anticonvulsant
• Analgesic
• Anti-inflammatory
• Anti-anxiety
• Neuroprotective
• Antipsychotic
• Immunosuppressive

The strongest evidence for the therapeutic significance of CBD lies in the treatment of intractable childhood seizures.

CBD can be consumed through various methods and this affects how it is broken down and used in the body:

• Oral
• Submucosal
• Intranasal
• Vaping/inhalation
• Topical

The response to CBD is individualized and is affected by age, tolerance, genetic, body fat percentage, and other factors. A low dose to start with is considered 10mg daily; this can be increased gradually over four weeks to 60mg.

Since CBD is excreted through the kidneys, those with impaired kidney function should be monitored and liver function should also be checked if they are taking a very high dose. Therefore, patients with liver or kidney impairment may need to start at a lower dose.

CBD also interacts with some drugs that are metabolized through the cytochrome P450 pathway, such as some anticonvulsants, antibiotics, antifungals, anticoagulants, antacids, heart medications, and St John’s Wort.

Common side effects found in clinical trials of high-dose CBD include sleepiness, decreased appetite, and diarrhea.

The guidelines also provide a nice checklist of questions for patients to consider when buying CBD products.

We recommend both patients and physicians review this guidance to aid in conversations about CBD and to learn more about this growing and popular therapeutic option.

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