Farmer's Weekly (South Africa)
Holistic Health
CBD oil for pain relief
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are the two primary compounds that occur in hemp or cannabis plants. THC induces euphoria but can trigger paranoia, and is the substance that causes the ‘high’ in marijuana. CBD is the opposite: it is calming and non-psychoactive, which means it will not get the user ‘high’. This is the cannabis substance that appears in dietary and natural supplements.
The World Health Organization (WHO) describes CBD as non-toxic, non-addictive and non-intoxicating.
Abundant evidence indicates that it has extraordinary healing properties. It is mostly known for its anti-anxiety, anti-inflammatory and anticonvulsive benefits, but a recent WHO study suggests it may be useful for treating a wide range of conditions and illnesses: pain, cancer, nausea, inflammatory diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, an inflammatory bowel, and cardiovascular diseases.
CBD acts directly on the body’s existing endocannabinoid system, which specifically responds to cannabinoids.
Perhaps the most common use of CBD oil is as an anti-anxiety aid. One study found CBD to be superior to diazepam (Valium) as an anti-anxiety agent. CBD may also be useful for depression.
CBD products can vary quite a bit in strength and purity, so it is important to find a reliable source. • Source: Cohen, H. 2018. ‘What’s the deal with CBD oil?’ Base of Health Foundation. Retrieved from www.jonbarron.org/chronic-pain. • Johanita Louw has had a lifelong interest in holistic nutrition. Email her at farmersweekly@caxton.co.za. Subject line: Holistic health.