CBD is the latest health trend to hit the streets and boasts that it can aid in anything from chronic pain the inflammation that comes with it to reduce anxiety. But what exactly is CBD and does it really benefit the heart?
What exactly is CBD and is it legal within the UK?
CBD, also known as cannabidiol is a chemical that is extracted from the flowers and leaves that grow from cannabis. Cannabis itself is an illegal class B drug, as is the compound THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) which it contains. However, CBD in its pure form CBD isn’t illegal since it doesn’t trigger the effects of cannabis that are intoxicating.
Which CBD products are on the market?
The range in CBD products has increased drastically in recent times There are capsules, oils, sprays, gels and drops for oral use and sweets, tea, beer like hummus, CBD-infused clothing.
Many of them are available at reputable stores on the high street as well as on the internet.
What exactly is CBD is used to treat?
A report from the World Health Organization suggested that CBD could help in treating symptoms related to diseases like Multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease (MS) and insomnia, depression, anxiety and Alzheimer’s.
It also states that this research is in its early stages and that further research is required before any conclusions can be made regarding whether CBD is beneficial.
CBD’s popularity has received an increase due to its popularity due to the fact that 2 CBD-based medications have been approved for prescribed usage from the NHS in England: Epidyolex, which has been shown to reduce seizures in children suffering from severe epilepsy. The other is Sativex that contains an amalgamation with CBD and THC and is approved to treat stiffness in muscles and spasms for people with MS.
Does CBD work?
Harry Sumnall, Professor in Substance Use at Liverpool John Moores University, states: “In terms of the CBD products that you can buy There’s no evidence to back up the claims made about many of these. There’s a lot in marketing which claims that CBD is a’miracle for the 21st century’ but marketing has outstripped the scientific evidence about what CBD is effective for.”
“In regards to the items available in shops there’s almost no evidence to back up the claims made by many of these.”
Harry Sumnall, Professor in Substance Use at Liverpool John Moores University
Professor Sumnall suggests that while CBD oil could prove effective for some but in certain instances, the results may be due to an effect known as the placebo (where people’s faith in the treatment can make them experience a better feeling). The placebo effect is strong, but Professor Sumnall cautions against people who attempt CBD oil without speaking with their physician the risk could be problems.
The main distinction between CBD utilized in clinical trials as well as in retail stores is the amount. Studies have shown that certain products have very little CBD (or perhaps no CBD at all). Some contain THC, or other illegal substances, or alcohol in place of CBD. Contrary to this during clinical trials, CBD is purified, made to a very high quality and then administered in a larger dosage. Also, it is taken on a regular basis and under the supervision of a medical professional.
Since 2016 all CBD products that are advertised as having medicinal value has to be licensed and controlled as a medication regardless of whether it actually works. Manufacturers must adhere to very precise and rigorous rules regarding manufacturing, packaging and details provided.
So far, Professor Sumnall says, CBD products in shops are advertised as nutritional supplements, not drugs and therefore none have been tested in this manner.
Can CBD aid the heart?
Inflammation is an integral part of the process which can lead to various diseases, including coronary heart disease and high blood pressure. It is also a factor in stroke. There are some indications that CBD can help reduce inflammation. Some studies have also suggested that CBD may be a beneficial factor for the heart. This has been demonstrated in rats following having suffered a heart attack as well as in mice suffering from certain heart-related damage caused by diabetes. However, as these studies tend to be based on laboratory findings or in animals, and not on humans, we can’t at present be sure that CBD can benefit humans’ heart.
The research is continuing into the benefits of the purer versions of CBD for a wide range of ailments that include circulatory and heart disorders, and particularly, conditions of the heart muscle. This includes myocarditis as well as some forms of cardiomyopathy.
Some of the research still being conducted in animals More research is required before we can say that CBD could be beneficial in this regard.
“It’s obvious that CBD could be a viable option,” says Professor Sumnall, “but we’re at a very early stage of the research.”
Always consult with your doctor in the event that you are considering using an CBD product to complement your current treatment.
Nature Pharm
https://www.nature-pharm.com/
