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Neurodegenerative disorders like Parkinson’s are on the rise. It is among the two most common neurodegenerative disorders, along with dementia. It is mainly movement-related disorders, but not solely. In this article, we will explore what does CBD oil for Parkinson’s disease.
First, let’s understand a bit about Parkinson’s. The disease is significantly about uncontrolled movements like shaking, stiffness, and difficulties in balancing and coordinating.
The condition mainly occurs due to the progressive death of dopamine-producing cells in certain parts of the brain. This appears to occur due to ageing, genetics, and some environmental factors. The condition is often diagnosed in people older than 60 years of age.(1)
However, there are some other things to understand. Parkinson’s is not just about movement issues. There are many other issues like emotional changes, depression, problem speaking, poor memory, urinary problems, and even skin issues. So, it is vital to visualize the disease in a broader context and not solely focus on the primary sign.
Doctors cannot cure the condition but slow down its progress and help reduce the severity of its symptoms. Thus, doctors prescribe drugs that promote dopamine production in specific brain centres.
Secondly, doctors also try to reduce shaking and muscle rigidity and manage mood disorders.
So, as one can see, any treatment approach to Parkinson’s would need to boost dopamine production and manage movement and mood disorders. CBD is good in that it has multiple actions. It is proven to reduce spasticity, help relax, stabilize mood, and have many other benefits.
Of course, one cannot expect CBD to cure the condition. Moreover, even medications cannot cure the condition. Further, it is worth noticing that though medication may help counter its signs and symptoms like shaking and spasticity, but they do not alter the course of the disease.
For example, drugs that boost dopamine production in the brain are the first-line treatment of the condition. However, these medications can only boost dopamine production in the remaining cells. They do not revive dopamine-producing brain cells. Although there are no studies on the topic, it is quite possible that CBD may slow down the death of dopamine-producing cells in the brain. CBD is an antioxidant and has anti-inflammatory action.
Of course, it is very challenging to see if any natural remedy prevents the death of specific brain cells. Hence, there are challenges in carrying out clinical trials. Nonetheless, it would be correct to say that CBD may help a bit. Here, the benefit would be experienced on consistent and prolonged use.
Further, it is worth knowing that studies do confirm CBD’s benefit in those living with Parkinson’s. There are only a few small clinical trials on the topic, and they have some promising findings. Although those clinical studies did not show significant benefits, they confirmed enhanced quality of life and reduced tremor, anxiety, and pain. CBD could also improve sleep quality in the patients.(2)
CBD products sold without a doctor’s prescription are pretty mild and gentle on the body. They are not meant to treat health conditions. However, they do have health benefits. Like any functional foods, one needs to take them regularly for a long time to experience their health benefits.
One can start taking CBD oil sublingually or use CBD vapes, and this may result in some quick benefits like reduced shaking and improved mood. However, suppose one keeps using them regularly for a few weeks. In that case, one may experience significantly improved sleep and quality of life.
It is vital not to overdose on CBD. One must realise that regular and prolonged use is more important. Exceeding the recommended dosage may not essentially result in greater health benefits. Moreover, Parkinson’s is a chronic and lifelong disorder, and CBD oil is safe for daily use for as long as needed. There is nothing like one should not use these Novel Food products for more than a specific period.
This is an interesting question. Although there are very few clinical trials regarding CBD use in Parkinson’s, but there are few studies on the condition. Further, studies in other brain or nerve disorders like multiple sclerosis and epilepsy show that broad-spectrum CBD products are better than isolate.
So, our recommendation is better to use full-spectrum CBD oil sub-lingually. Alternatively, some individuals, those who smoke or vape, might consider using full-spectrum CBD vapes or CBD pens. It appears that THC in these products may result in some additional health benefits. Here, this is also worth mentioning that CBD vapes for Parkinson’s work faster, providing instant relief sometimes.
Finally, do not forget that full-spectrum products also contain minor cannabinoids. In their composition, these products are closer to medical cannabis. However, they still have very low THC content and do not cause euphoria. Thus, these are effective and safe products.
So, where does CBD fit into the Parkinson’s treatment? CBD oil or CBD vapes are not medications and are not meant to treat ailments. Nonetheless, these are functional foods with some health benefits. CBD has a relaxing effect, lowers pain sensation, and reduces inflammation. It is also suitable for brain health.
All this means that it may be wise to use CBD along with other medications and lifestyle interventions. Especially considering that none of the prescription drugs can cure the condition. Hence, it is vital to explore non-pharmacological means to enhance the quality of life when living with Parkinson’s.
This article was authored by: Dr. Preet Pal Singh Bhinder.
This article was peer-reviewed by Dr M Mansoor Siddique (PhD). Dr Siddique has over eight years of experience working with CBD and CBD products.
Disclaimer: All of our products are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. It is recommended to check with doctor before starting a new dietary supplement program. All CBD products sold have less than 0.2% THC content and abide by both EU an UK law.
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