CBD Oil Benefits: Inflammation, Cancer, Skin Care and More
CBD Oil is derived from the hemp seed, which is a part of the marijuana plant (cannabis). The oil is rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants that may help fight inflammation and other ailments associated with it.
CBD oil is filled with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents and other essential fatty acids (like GLA), all of which are known to combat diseases like inflammatory arthritis, cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. In this post, we will discuss what science says about the health benefits of CBD oil.
What Are The Benefits of CBD Oil?
1. Inflammation
CBD oil is rich in GLA (gamma linoleic acid), which is an omega-6 fatty acid that may boost immunity and fight inflammation.
However, both animal and human studies still need to conclude how effective the anti-inflammatory properties of hemp seed could be.
The oil is also a good source of anti-inflammatory compounds, which may help relieve arthritic symptoms. More research is required to study its anti-inflammatory effects.
2. Heart Health
A meal containing hemp seeds was found to help prevent high cholesterol levels. The results could be attributed to the polyunsaturated fatty acids in the seeds. These seeds (and their oil) could show potential in the treatment of cardiovascular disease.
As per an animal study, CBD oil was found to reduce cholesterol absorption. Another study states that taking 30 ml of the oil every day for four weeks reduces the ratio of total cholesterol to HDL cholesterol. This may promote heart health.
3. Diabetes Treatment
Diabetes is also linked to an unbalanced intake of essential fatty acids. As CBD oil is rich in essential fatty acids, it may work as a good supplemental treatment.
4. Reduce Cancer Risk
The tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in CBD oil may help inhibit certain forms of cancer. Most animal studies have shown the tumor-inhibiting action of THC.
5. Brain Health
The CBD oil contains cannabinoids. Studies show that these may help ease anxiety in those with a social anxiety disorder.
Studies also support that inhalation of hemp essential oil can have a relaxing effect on the nervous system. Inhaling the oil (aromatherapy) is believed to enhance the mood. There is a possibility that the oil may also have antidepressant effects. The essential fatty acids in the oil may also improve memory and prevent age-related cognitive decline.
6. Boost Immunity
The oil contains omega-3 fatty acids. Some research shows that omega-3 fatty acids may boost immunity and enhance protection against infections and other related ailments.
7. Beneficial During Pregnancy
CBD oil is also a great option for all pregnant mothers. Again, a major part of the credit goes to the omega-3 fatty acids.
According to an American study, adequate intake of omega-3 fatty acids is critical during pregnancy as they are the building blocks of the fetal brain and retina. They also play a major role in preventing perinatal depression.
Oils containing omega-3 fatty acids can also help prevent preterm delivery and promote an easier birth and the baby’s optimum lifelong wellness.
However, there is less information available on the safety of CBD oil during pregnancy. Also, whether the omega-3 fatty acids in the oil would benefit during pregnancy is still a matter of debate. Hence, we recommend you consult your doctor.
8. Digestive Health
Direct research on the efficacy of CBD oil in promoting digestive health is lacking. However, the EPA and DHA (in the omega-3s in the oil) were found to synthesize compounds called eicosanoids.
Some experts believe that these eicosanoids may regulate the secretion of digestive juices and hormones, thereby aiding the overall digestive process. However, sufficient research is lacking in this regard.
It also is believed that the small amount of protein in the oil is identical to the one present in our blood, which may help in alleviating digestive troubles (as the protein gets easily digested in the human body). More studies are warranted to establish this theory.
9. Skin Care
CBD oil for skin can help you get beautiful and healthy skin. It acts as a moisturizer and prevents your skin from becoming dry during the winters. In other words, it keeps your skin soft, fresh, and hydrated.
You can try applying CBD oil all over your body after taking a bath. You will notice the difference in a few days. However, we suggest you do a patch test first as anecdotal evidence suggests that CBD oil may cause allergies.
10. Protect Skin From Disease
CBD oil may be used to treat atopic dermatitis. Studies attribute this therapeutic effect to the polyunsaturated fatty acids in CBD oil.
Some evidence suggests that CBD oil can also be used as a treatment for eczema. The oil strengthens the skin and makes it resistant to bacterial and fungal infections.
11. Weight Loss
Studies have shown that individuals taking GLA supplements for a year gained back less weight. Since hemp oil is rich in GLA, it may also help in this aspect. However, there is no research supporting this statement.
The omega-3s in CBD oil may also contribute to weight loss in some way. But there is very little research to support this. Hence, it is important you talk to your doctor before using CBD oil for this purpose.
12. PMS Symptoms
GLA may help ease menstrual cramps. Studies show that supplementation with fatty acid may not cause any side effects.
13. Hair Growth
The healthy fats in CBD oil are believed to add moisture and shine to hair. The oil is also thought to strengthen fragile hair strands and can make your hair thicker. It may promote new hair growth as well.
Using the oil on the scalp, as per anecdotal evidence, may also reduce several scalp problems, including itchiness, dryness, and dandruff. The oil may also aid the treatment of scalp psoriasis.
These are the different ways CBD oil can benefit you. Knowing CBD oil nutrition facts, visit this page.