Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a cannabis derivative that is taking the country by storm and quickly becoming a preferred supplement for seniors with all kinds of issues, ranging from anxiety to pain. Cannabis is one of the most studied plants in the world, and the benefits of CBD are becoming better documented by the day. Many particular characteristics of CBD are making it a popular choice for seniors. Here’s a look at some of the reasons behind this blooming trend, as well as some of the health conditions that CBD might be able to address.
Related: 42 Surprising Facts About the Marijuana Industry
No Psychoactive Effects
While CBD does come from the cannabis plant, the same plant family of marijuana that people use to get high, CBD does not get users high. There are no altered states of consciousness that come with using CBD products of any kind, so there is no risk of feeling out of control or of unwanted “highs.”
All Natural
An increasing number of people, seniors included, are looking for all-natural supplements. Products that feature CBD as an active component open the door for those who would prefer to avoid taking traditional pharmaceuticals for conditions like chronic pain.
FDA Approved and Registered
Laws at both state and federal levels are in rapid flux, but some CBD products have begun to be registered with the FDA, like the over-the-counter CBDMEDIC products. There is also an FDA-approved CBD medication for epilepsy, paving the way for future products.
Fewer Side Effects
We’re all familiar with the commercials for medications that casually mention a long list of possible side effects, some of which are extreme. In some cases, the side effects of a medicine seem potentially worse than what it is treating. Like anything, there are some people who are allergic to CBD, but possible side effects are minimal, including dry mouth and drowsiness.
There Are Numerous Ways to Take CBD
One of the interesting and practical aspects of CBD is the myriad forms it comes in. From pill and tincture to tea and candy, there are numerous ways to incorporate a daily dose into a routine. The price for an ounce of CBD oil can start at $30 and go up to $200.
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Pain Management
Most people experience pain as they get older, sometimes related to underlying maladies and sometimes just from normal wear and tear on the body. For some, CBD has provided relief from pain related to causes such as arthritis and cancer.
Anxiety Relief
Some people also find that anxiety can worsen with age, especially as financial and health related concerns pile up. One study found that among seniors who tried CBD, some 30% indicated that it eased anxiety and reduced their stress, with a little more than half of saying it improved their quality of life.
Sleep Aid
Some seniors have found that CBD helps ease their sleep woes by addressing issues like pain and anxiety. And some research suggests that CBD may help with insomnia even when the sleep problem does not involve anxiety or pain.
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Added Benefits
Not all CBD is created equal, and one major difference in products is whether it is a CBD isolate or a broad-spectrum hemp extract containing other cannabinoids. Products that contain other elements of the plant work with the endocannabinoid system in our bodies to enhance its functions in conjunction with other systems like the endocrine and digestive systems.
Curiosity
A step down from grannies smoking weed, trying out CBD is a way to dip a toe into cannabis, something that many seniors may have thought of as taboo for the majority of their lives. CBD is one of the fastest growing industries, and some people are interested in seeing what all the fuss is about.
Word of Mouth
While there are scientific studies to back up CBD’s effectiveness for a variety of ailments like anxiety, insomnia, pain, and inflammation, many people decide to try CBD because someone they know has told them about their first-hand personal success with it.
