According to research, CBD can indirectly influence the human endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system regulates various body functions like mood, sleep, appetite, metabolism, pain transmission, and immune responses, among others. In places like Canada where cannabis oil is legal, medical use ranges from treating seizures, sleep disorders and mental health issues to relieving chronic pain, improving mood and appetite.
Nonetheless, there are various aspects to consider before you start using CBD, especially for medicinal purposes. Here is a brief overview of why you should consider CBD for treating epileptic seizures.
1. It is easy to integrate
CBD comes in various forms, meaning adding it to your treatment or regimen shouldn’t take much effort. You can find CBD oils, tinctures, waxes, isolates, shatters, edibles, CBD-infused meals and beverages as well as topical balms and lotions.
Different forms suit different uses and affect individuals differently, but you can take CBD any way you prefer as long as it is safe to in that form. Isolates and concentrates are ideal for vaping while oils and tinctures require an oral and sublingual application. Topical balms and sprays for skin application suit those seeking the skin benefits of CBD. For epilepsy, the best way to take CBD is through inhalation and oral ingestion.
Make sure you review the exact amount of CBD available in the formula you purchase. It can also be used in cooking as an ingredient in various homemade meals. Nonetheless, it is advisable to discuss with your doctor to determine the right dosage and CBD delivery method for your unique needs. This is very crucial, especially if you are under other medications.
2. It works for most people
CBD for seizure treatment is the only FDA-approved cannabis-derived medication thus far. Preceding this approval were a series of clinical studies that provided evidence of its efficacy in reducing epileptic seizures. According to experts, taking CBD as part of seizure treatment can help to significantly reduce the number of seizures and fainting. This is particularly so in hard-to-treat, drug-resistant epilepsy such as LGS and Dav Syndrome.
Epidolex is a clinical medicinal formulation that uses 98% CBD that has been FDA approved for two rare and severe forms of epilepsy; its use shows great improvement in these patients and many doctors believe CBD can reduce or even prevent seizures. As such, CBD for treating epilepsy may be an option, especially if other medications are failing. Make sure you choose high-quality CBD products from reputable retailers in your area. Not all CBD is the same quality and sub-standard options will not provide any medical benefits. CBD from reliable sources is generally safe and has no adverse effects when you choose the right delivery system.
3. It is legal in some places
CBD oil is legal in Canada. In the US, federal law permits the sale and use of CBD and other hemp products that contain less than 0.3% THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). In the UK, the threshold is 0.2%. THC and CBD are the two well-known compounds of the 100 different cannabinoids in the cannabis plant. However, there are over 400 active compounds in cannabis varieties, but unlike THC, CBD is not hallucinogenic.
According to WebMD, following President Trump’s signing of the Farm Bill in June 2018, all hemp-derived products became legal. Industrial hemp, which farmers cultivate for its rich fiber, is the go-to cannabis variety for CBD products. It contains less than 0.3% THC and high amounts of CBD. Manufacturers can also extract CBD from other marijuana varieties.
The Farm Bill reclassification means that hemp is no longer on Schedule I as being controlled substance, however, the FDA will still continue to regulate all cannabis and its derived products under the FD&C Act Section 351 of the Public Health service act, especially any cannabis derived product marketed with claims of therapeutic benefit, and the addition of CBD to food products and dietary supplements remains unlawful even if they are hemp derived which can be observed in the recent series of warning letters sent out to various companies. The FDA permits the sale of Epidiolex, a CBD-based medication for treating drug-resistant epileptic seizures, and the DEA reclassified Epidiolex drug from Schedule I to Schedule V. This means that you will still need to check where you live to see what your options are.
4. Potential health benefits
According to ScienceDirect, there are various evidence-based studies that indicate CBD may help to reduce epileptic seizure attacks. Studies show great promise in treating numerous health conditions, areas where CBD may impact some include:
- Temporary relief from pain originating in different regions of the body.
- Anti-inflammation and anti-swelling.
- Reducing symptoms of anxiety and panic disorders.
- Promoting mental health.
- Fighting brain tumors and cancer cells.
- Improving mood and relieving depression.
- Better sleep, rest and recovery.
- Better digestive health and appetite for food.
- Cardiovascular health benefits.
Since CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which connects to other central systems, it can influence various processes and may aid in the treatment of many conditions. CBD is a beneficial compound that you may be able to add to your health and fitness diet. Besides treating seizures, you may also experience other therapeutic and medicinal benefits.
Conclusion
Other minor reasons may also merit considering CBD for seizures. Many patients are reporting significant improvements in the US, Canada, UK, Australia, and South Africa, among other regions. If your condition is resistant to conventional seizure medications, adding CBD to your treatment may help deliver therapeutic benefits and reduce fainting.
While the discovery of CBD and the endocannabinoid system is relatively recent, cannabis use in treating seizures and other medical conditions long predates lab studies. It is these traditional practices and anecdotal support that offer ground for further investigations. If you are considering CBD for seizures or any other medical condition, it is of paramount importance that you research, compare your options, and consult with a certified medical professional. Make sure you find high-quality CBD products, and look up the details of every ingredient in the formula including lab tests and extraction process to verify quality and efficacy.
