The benefits of CBD

A natural remedy for many common conditions, CBD is a chemical substance derived from cannabis: it is one of 100 chemical compounds (cannabinoids) found in the Cannabis sativa plant. CBD contains no tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which eliminates the chance of any psychotropic effects. Cannabidiol thus acts on the central nervous system without any undesirable side effects or the risk of addiction. A very appealing natural alternative to many pharmaceutical drugs, what are the benefits of CBD? Have these benefits been proven in scientific studies? We’ll answer all your questions in this comprehensive guide!

7 key benefits of taking CBD

1. Provides a powerful anti-inflammatory effect

The first benefit of CBD is that it has natural anti-inflammatory properties, like all cannabinoids. It is a food supplement that is very popular among sportsmen and women as it allows them to relieve muscular and joint pain. Consuming CBD can help relieve and prevent chronic inflammatory pain. This is why cannabidiol is used in medicine to treat inflammation, especially when combined with Korean ginseng. Finally, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, CBD can alleviate the swelling and joint pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis, which helps to slow the progression of the disease and limit joint damage.

2. Acts as a natural painkiller

Among the other benefits of CBD, it is an effective natural painkiller. Cannabidiol has been used for thousands of years for this purpose and can provide short-term pain relief as effectively as conventional medication. It has analgesic and anxiolytic properties. It is important to know that the human body consists of an endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates various functions such as:

• sleep;
• appetite;
• pain;
• immune system response.

Taking CBD reduces pain by affecting the neurotransmitters that bind to cannabinoid receptors in our nervous system. In case of an imbalance caused by autoimmune diseases or inflammation, CBD’s properties help to trigger beneficial antioxidant and anti-inflammatory reactions. Our immune system is then rebalanced and we are protected from oxidative stress. 

3. Reduces stress and anxiety

Cannabidiol also has an anxiolytic effect, which means that it supports the body in helping it to fight emotional stress and anxiety. This is probably one of the most sought-after benefits of CBD: this active ingredient promotes relaxation and stress relief, which considerably makes the daily lives of recipients prone to chronic stress and anxiety attacks significantly easier. CBD is even recommended for treating depression. This compound is also believed to be beneficial for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. All of this is provided using a natural approach that can complement or replace the use of antidepressants depending on the severity of each individuals’ symptoms!

4. Relieves neurological disorders and epilepsy

CBD may also have neuroprotective properties, with great medical potential for relieving dystonia and epilepsy. This non-addictive active substance acts like a traditional sedative to prevent and relieve seizures. In addition, CBD reduces agitation in those with Parkinson’s disease. Everyone can enjoy a better quality of life thanks to the benefits of CBD. Cannabidiol is believed to relieve the symptoms of autism spectrum disorders and schizophrenia. It is said to be just as effective as conventional antipsychotics, but without the side effects.

5. Prevents degeneration

Another beneficial property of CBD is that it delays the onset of degenerative diseases. Consuming cannabidiol may reduce the rate of degeneration: by stimulating brain cells and reducing oxidative stress (and thus the formation of toxic substances), it enables the cerebrovascular system to combat damage. People with Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s disease can improve their cognitive functions. In addition, the benefits of CBD include its medical value in the treatment of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). CBD protects the neural system from brain damage and regulates blood flow.

6. Alleviates skin disorders and acne

Another advantage not to be overlooked is the fight against skin disorders, especially acne. Cannabidiol as a supplement regulates sebaceous gland function, which allows it to treat acne-prone skin. Thanks to its potential as a therapeutic agent, CBD can control the appearance of pimples and accelerate their disappearance. The CBD’s properties can also be used to treat psoriasis, eczema, rashes, and other skin conditions. To benefit from these properties, we advise that you apply CBD creams topically: they also have moisturising and nourishing effects to treat skin disorders.

7. Improves sleep

Finally, CBD’s final benefit is that it promotes better quality sleep. It is estimated that 1 in 5 French people do not sleep long enough, or well enough. Insomnia, hypersomnia, sleep apnoea and paralysis, sleepwalking, hypnic jerks, nightmares: lack of sleep can have significant consequences on quality of life, with the risks of developing cancer or cardiovascular and degenerative diseases. Taking CBD before going to bed may help you fall asleep faster and achieve a better quality sleep. Cannabidiol stimulates the production of melanin, a sleep hormone, but also cortisol, the stress hormone. With its soothing properties, this compound can replace sleeping pills to promote sleep and combat sleep disorders.

What are the other benefits of CBD?

Numerous scientific studies have examined the benefits of CBD and the role it plays in our health. Other benefits currently being analysed and which have yielded encouraging results include: 

• The treatment of drug addiction: CBD could modify the brain circuits linked to drug addiction. Studies in rats have shown that cannabidiol reduces morphine dependence and heroin-seeking behaviour.
• Anti-tumour effects: CBD is also said to have anti-tumour effects. It is believed to help prevent the spread of breast, prostate, brain, colon, and lung cancer. The compound is thought to inhibit the gene responsible for the growth of cancer cells in certain types of cancer.
• Diabetes prevention: CBD treatment has been shown to reduce the incidence of diabetes by 56% in mice, and greatly reduces inflammation.

Benefits of CBD on the human body: what do the scientific studies say?

The World Health Organisation (WHO), the world’s leading public health authority, has formally ruled that CBD is not addictive, safe, and has potential therapeutic applications. Hemp has been part of the Chinese pharmacopoeia for more than 4,000 years, but research on cannabinoids dates back only about ten years (and just a few months in France). The World Health Organisation’s Expert Committee on Drug Dependence has stated that "there is preliminary evidence that CBD may be a useful treatment for certain medical conditions [...] epilepsy, anxiety, inflammatory diseases, pain, nausea, etc.". Therefore, CBD has potential as a medicinal substance and future studies should more extensively confirm the benefits of CBD.

Is CBD legal?

Since 31st December 2021, cannabidiol has been authorised for sale in France. All CBD products derived from hemp which contain less than 0.2% THC can be legally sold and consumed in France. Furthermore, CBD is considered a dietary supplement: marketing it as a medicine is prohibited, despite the benefits of CBD currently being proven or studied. Regardless of any concerns, you can buy cannabidiol without any issues. CBD, unlike THC, does not alter users’ state of mind and is not euphoric. On the contrary, it is currently establishing its position within the medical sector, thanks to its beneficial therapeutic effects. Thanks to its very low toxicity, there is no risk of addiction.

How can you enjoy the benefits of CBD?

If you too wish to enjoy the many benefits of CBD, there are several options available to you:

• CBD oil: place a few drops under your tongue to enjoy the benefits of cannabidiol quickly.
• CBD flowers: hemp flowers are used in infusions with fatty substances or as a spray.
• CBD capsules: just like traditional food supplements, they provide access to all the benefits of CBD without the strong taste of hemp.
• CBD infusions: combined with other plants known for their therapeutic value, hemp can be consumed in infusions.
• CBD e-liquids: to be consumed with a vaporiser, these liquids are rich in natural organic terpenes to enable cannabidiol to release its full potential.
• CBD sweets: these sweets allow you to benefit from the properties of CBD in a discrete way while enjoying a fruity taste.
• CBD cosmetics: access the benefits of cannabidiol through a massage oil or a cream, which allow the active ingredients to penetrate the skin.

The dose for each option depends on the individual: not everyone reacts in the same way. Please note that CBD dosages are always indicated on the packaging, and you must respect them!

Cannabidiol: are there any contraindications?

If you have arterial or heart conditions

People with arterial diseases (or a family history of them) should avoid CBD. Always seek the advice of your doctor before using cannabidiol and exercise extreme caution. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should take precautions, and medical advice is still required: CBD can affect newborns, even if the risks are minimal. You can never be too careful! For heart conditions, CBD is officially contraindicated and consuming any CBD products is prohibited, especially in high doses. Cannabidiol can negatively influence the sensitive cardiovascular system. In addition, people who are allergic to pollen from the botanical species Cannabis Sativa L should completely avoid CBD.

Some potential side effects

Since cultivated hemp is an active ingredient, optimal doses have a direct effect on people’s well-being. However, when consumed in high doses, CBD can cause drowsiness (a benefit which can become a drawback). This is why we recommended using the compound during the evening. After initial use, always avoid driving or performing potentially dangerous activities, as you may not be sufficiently alert. Other side effects, which are rarer, include dry mouth, digestive problems, dizziness, and nausea. Always start with low doses of cannabidiol, then increase the dosage gradually to avoid unwanted side effects and to enjoy all the benefits of CBD!