CBD or Cannabidiol is a therapeutically potent, non-psychoactive ingredient extracted from the Cannabis plant. The excellent health benefits of CBD have made it the talk of the town. It has led health-conscious people to believe that consuming it as a dietary supplement can help improve their overall health.
Manufacturers have developed various edible CBD supplements like CBD capsules, oils, tinctures, and gummies to meet the growing demand of people. Though CBD oils were probably the first kind of the supplement introduced in the market, they are not so popular among its lovers because of their weird taste. On the other hand, people prefer its capsules more because the gelatinous covering masks the funny taste of it. This article will explore whether these capsules are an excellent alternative to other health supplements and how they can benefit your health.
How Can CBD Capsules Benefit Your Health?
● It Can Help Regulate Hypertension
A study showed that it is effective in reducing stress-induced hypertension in mice. Another small-scale human study demonstrated that it reduces high blood pressure caused due to stress and anxiety. It interacts with the endocannabinoid receptors embedded in the blood vessels and shows a vasodilatory effect. Consequently, the blood vessels get widened, thereby facilitating improved blood flow. It also helps decrease the risk of other diseases associated with hypertension.
● It Can Help Manage Diabetes
An impaired endocannabinoid system can destroy pancreatic beta cells and inflame the pancreatic islets, causing Type-2 Diabetes. A 2017 study shows that it helps relieve the inflammation of the pancreatic cells and help boost the synthesis of insulin, thereby regulating the blood glucose level. As a result, insulin production and the hormone responsible for controlling the blood glucose level go down. Consequently, the glucose level of the body rises.
● It Helps Relieve Stress And Anxiety
Several studies performed by researchers have indicated that CBD can help relieve stress and anxiety. It influences the endocannabinoid receptors present in the body’s nervous system and helps increase the synthesis of two neurotransmitters: dopamine and serotonin. These neurotransmitters are responsible for inducing a sense of calmness and wellbeing. Increased levels of these neurotransmitters help to reduce stress and uplift mood. A 2016 study shows that it can help treat Social Anxiety Disorders and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder.
● It Helps Improves Our Ability To Focus
Several studies have shown that it has remarkable neuroprotective properties. It can effectively reduce the severity of schizophrenia and other neuropsychiatric disorders. It helps calm irritability and increases the ability to stay focussed. As a result, you will be more alert and productive.
● It Helps Reduce Pain And Inflammation
CBD is a potent analgesic ingredient. Ongoing studies show that CBD can help block pain transmission and help in numbing the sensation of pain. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe inflammation caused due to various diseases. It can help relieve muscle soreness, joint pain, and even migraine pains. Some studies have shown that it can effectively relieve pain and inflammation caused by arthritis.
● It Helps Improve Skin Health
CBD has impressive antioxidative properties. It helps fight against the free radicals in the skin and delays the appearance of premature signs of aging. The antimicrobial properties of its supplements help treat microbial infection of the skin. It also helps regulate sebum synthesis and reduces excessive oil in the skin. As a result, it reduces the risk of acne and breakouts. Some studies show that CBD can help treat skin ailments such as rosacea, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and eczema.
● It Helps You Sleep Better
CBD capsules can influence the nervous system and help stimulate melatonin synthesis, the hormone responsible for inducing sleep. Studies have shown that it can help improve REM sleep behavior disorder. Some evidence indicates that taking these capsules can also help treat insomnia and other sleep disorders like sleep apnea. Taking CBD capsules or other CBD supplements may help you have a restful night’s sleep and enable you to stay energized the following day.
● It Might Enhance Sexual Health
Some studies show that its supplements can positively affect our sexual and reproductive health. A 2019 study showed that CBD might be linked with higher sperm count and better sperm motility. It can also help stimulate blood flow to the sex organs and help treat erectile dysfunction. It helps improve sexual performance to some extent.
● It Might Help Lose Weight
Research shows that CBD helps influence the endocannabinoid system and stimulate better metabolism. It also influences the endocannabinoid receptors present in the brain cells and decreases the urge to eat. As a result, it helps manage obesity and promote weight loss.
However, a review published in 2011 states that it might show mixed results in people depending upon their genetic makeup. While some study subjects have experienced a reduced appetite and increased weight loss, others have experienced increased urge to eat and weight gain.
● It Helps Treat Seizures
It is highly beneficial for reducing the intensity and frequency of seizures in epileptic disorders. The FDA has approved a CBD-based drug Epidiolex to treat Dravet Syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome, two rare epileptic disorders.
Can CBD Have Any Ill Effects On Your Health?
CBD capsules do not usually cause any harm to health. But, evidence suggests that consuming it can have some side effects, such as:
- Increased anxiety
- Decrease in appetite
- Mood changes
- Diarrhea
- Drowsiness
- Fatigue
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Dry Mouth or Xerostomia
- Liver dysfunction
Other Safety Concerns:
Scientific research indicates that CBD can react adversely with certain drugs, such as:
- Anticonvulsants drugs
- Antipsychotic drugs
- Sedatives
- Antifungal drugs
- Antibiotics
- Opioid Analgesics
- Anti-tuberculosis drugs
If you are under any of these medications, consult your physician before adopting these capsules as your health supplements.
The Bottom Line:
Scientific research and anecdotal evidence suggest that CBD capsules can be a good health supplement. However, not all studies are conclusive and more studies are necessary to understand how CBD affects our overall health entirely. For more information, one can visit cbd news. Furthermore, its supplements are yet to be approved by the FDA and thus, may not follow proper quality control measures during production. If you choose to include these capsules in your health regime, we recommend purchasing them from a reputable brand