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CBD Oil and Seniors: A Miracle or Myth?

Lately, so many of us are hearing about incredible breakthroughs that have been made about the medicinal qualities of Cannabinoids; which are compounds that include cannabinol (CBD) and the active constituents of cannabis.

We have heard of so many patients are benefitting from CBD who suffer from Cancer, Alzheimer’s, Epilepsy, Parkinson’s, Stroke, Depression, and other chronic conditions like Glaucoma, Arthritis, and Migraine Headaches.

But how does it work, and why is CBD becoming a new medical breakthrough for so many conditions?

CBD oil is originated and extracted from the hemp plant. Cannabidiol (CBD) oil is also called hemp oil.  It contains CBD extracts from cannabis plants. It is the non-intoxicating part of the marijuana plant. It is believed that it helps your body by attaching to receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system—a complex biological system involved in maintaining certain aspects of your health. Emerging research shows that endocannabinoids may play a role in regulating such functions as memory, sleep, and mood, as well as metabolic processes like energy balance.

After several decades of research, scientists studying the effects of marijuana made several important discoveries. Not only did they identify the active ingredient in marijuana, they also discovered where and how it works in the brain—via a new system they called the endocannabinoid (EC) system.

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)—is a unique communications system in the brain and body that affects many important functions, including how a person feels, moves, and reacts. The natural chemicals produced by the body that interact within the EC system are called cannabinoids, and like THC, they interact with receptors to regulate these important body functions.

Contrary to THC, which produces the hallucinating formula of cannabis, CBD does not effect the part of the brain that induces mind altering. For a senior, experts say it can help, not only with the above symptoms, but also, it can help with balance and fall prevention. It can also help with tremors and anxiety.

We are only in the beginning stages of learning all of the benefits of CBD and how it can help us. It may be a great way to help your senior achieve a “balance” that may be affecting a multitude of conditions in their quality of life.

Once applied, most can see results within 20-40 minutes after application. There are several methods to get CBD into your system. This includes Inhalation, Topical Application, (the most popular), Sublingual or Ingestion. Depending on the circumstances, you will find the method that is most beneficial.

Obviously, with the medicinal breakthroughs that are happening, there are many companies that are emerging. How do you find the right CBD oil for you?

Seek out the concentration of CBD Oil. With many products on the market now, read the label over how much is present. Check the bottle. Some list the amounts in mg, such as 250mg, 500mg, etc. Other CBD oil products may specify the concentration in percentage, like 4%, 5%, 20%, etc. The higher dose of CBD will likely have a more pronounced effect.

Start with products that have a low or moderate dosage. It’s better to use multiple applications at first, to determine the best for you. Over the course of several days you will be able to figure out the adjustments that are best for you.

Sourcing: The quality of CBD oil is based upon its source; i.e. where it was grown, and what is the species of cannabis, (sativa, ruderalis or indica). Look for brands who source their CBD from organic, hemp grown farms in pristine Europe. Currently, the German regulatory system is strict and enforced higher than most other areas in the world. In addition, any CBD oil must adhere to the EU’s strict organic standards, which are stricter than the USA.

The good news is that here in Washington State the Cannabis Industry is thriving, and there are many knowledgeable individuals who can help steer you in the right direction.