Cannabis Sativa is a unique plant that contains over 100 chemical compounds. Modern medicine is researching every day on this chemical to find out how it can serve as a drug for treating ailments in the elderly. Although very little knowledge is present of its benefits, we will take a closer look at what CBD is and how it is extracted and transformed into CBD oil and sold to the elderly to reap certain benefits.
The Endocannabinoid System and Its Significance:
Every individual is born with an endocannabinoid system or ECS. The ECS helps keep the body balanced by ensuring all the organs work at their best. If you are running or exercising vigorously, the endocannabinoid system will maintain your body’s stability by making you sweat. It will ensure that your heart rate maintains a normal range and your overall body temperature doesn’t go out of bounds. Hence, it is vital to keep the endocannabinoid system in check, thus ensuring a healthy, functioning body.
CBD and How It Helps the Body:
When an external factor disrupts the endocannabinoid system of the body, like an inflamed joint due to muscular tension, or chest tightness due to anxiety, that is when the cannabinoid oil jumps in to help support the body and put it back in a stable condition.
Another form of CBD that’s also present in the Cannabis sativa plant is tetrahydrocannabinol or THC. It is another popular compound known for producing intoxicating effects when consumed. A considerably high amount of THC is also found in marijuana, and upon consumption for medical reasons, it comes with an added side effect of producing the “high” feeling. Thus to combat this, doctors are now prescribing cannabinoid oil as an alternative, as it is free from intoxicating ingredients.
Today, CBD oil is used to treat numerous health conditions among the elderly, including but not limited to:
- Inflammation in muscles
- Depression
- Muscle spasms
- Insomnia
- Body ache
- Arthritis
- Anxiety and stress
- Parkinson’s disease
- Lung disorders
- Asthma
- Multiple sclerosis
- Migraine and hypertension
- Reducing symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease
- Reduce cancerous cell growth
- Chemotherapy patients report reduced nausea
Besides using its oil, CBD is also consumed as an oil-based capsule and as a vaporized liquid. CBD-infused drinks, food items, beauty products, and OTC medicines are also widely available.
Benefits of Using CBD for Seniors:
Although there is ongoing research on the usage of CBD, one cannot deny that this compound comes packed with health benefits for ailments common among old-age individuals.
1. Arthritis:
One of the most common issues amongst senior people is joint dysfunction, known as arthritis. About 70% of older people above 50 suffer joint pain in the United States. CBD oil is known to ease patients in managing two significant types of arthritis. It helped them manage insomnia and anxiety caused by arthritis, and CBD also significantly reduced the pain in their joints.
2. Anxiety and Stress:
Various studies have shown that when treated with CBD, patients with post-traumatic stress disorder saw considerable improvement in their symptoms. It has also displayed proven results among those suffering from anxiety and stress.
3. Chronic Pains:
Chronic pains are the worst kind of discomfort among elderlies. Fortunately, using CBD oil not only helps in relieving the pain but also keeps them at bay when used regularly. CBD oil has certain anti-inflammatory properties along with anti-bacterial properties to treat chronic pains effectively.
Things to Consider When Buying CBD Products:
Although offering multiple benefits, the FDA does not hold responsibility for the effectiveness of CBD-based products as it is still relatively new. One needs to be mindful of which products to buy and consume, especially when introducing them to the elderly, as they are at a higher risk of health conditions than younger people.
· Choosing the Right Kind of CBD Product:
Many CBD-based products are available in the market, including topical creams, lotions, pills, capsules, carrier oils, etc. For people suffering from arthritis or inflammation, topical products would work better. When consuming it orally as an oil-based pill, one should be mindful of the potential negative interaction with other drugs.
· Buying from the Right Source:
Always buy CBD-based products from a trusted cannabis and CBD dispensary who can assure you that the product is safe from toxins. It would be best if you looked for a COA (Certificate of Analysis) which ensures no contaminants in the product before buying.
Side Effects:
All in all, CBD usage can be deemed safe for usage by aged individuals if proper verification is conducted prior to usage. However, the consumption of CBD oils may pose a few minor risks:
- Dry mouth
- Fatigue and laziness
- Diarrhea
- Weight gain/loss
- Changes in appetite
