Portrait of aged senior female consulting with doctor. Therapeutic in medical gown advising cannabinoid oil to patient. Practitioner holding bottle with cannabis leaf sign
As we age, our bodies go through a variety of changes that can impact our health and well-being. Age-related health issues such as arthritis, chronic pain, and insomnia can be challenging to manage, and many people turn to prescription drugs for relief. However, there is growing interest in using natural remedies like CBD to manage these issues. In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits of CBD for aging and age-related health issues.
What is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis, CBD does not produce a “high.” Instead, it is believed to have a variety of health benefits, including pain relief, reduced inflammation, and improved sleep.
CBD works by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates a variety of physiological processes, including pain perception, inflammation, and sleep. By interacting with the ECS, CBD may help to alleviate a variety of health issues.
The Benefits of CBD for Aging and Age-Related Health Issues
- Pain Relief
One of the most well-known benefits of CBD is its ability to relieve pain. This is particularly relevant for aging adults who may experience chronic pain due to conditions such as arthritis, neuropathy, or back pain.
CBD has been shown to reduce inflammation and pain by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system. In addition, CBD may also help to reduce the need for prescription pain medications, which can have a variety of side effects and risks.
- Reduced Inflammation
Inflammation is a common issue for aging adults and can lead to a variety of health issues, including arthritis, heart disease, and dementia. CBD has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to reduce the risk of these conditions.
A 2015 study published in the journal Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry found that CBD may be effective in reducing inflammation associated with arthritis. In addition, a 2017 study published in the journal Future Medicinal Chemistry found that CBD may have neuroprotective effects, which could help to reduce inflammation in the brain.
- Improved Sleep
Many aging adults experience sleep disturbances, which can have a negative impact on their overall health and well-being. CBD has been shown to have sedative properties, which may help to improve sleep quality and duration.
A 2019 study published in the journal Medicines found that CBD may be effective in improving sleep in individuals with anxiety and sleep disorders. In addition, a 2017 review of studies published in the journal Current Psychiatry Reports found that CBD may have therapeutic potential for the treatment of insomnia.
- Reduced Anxiety and Depression
Anxiety and depression are common issues for aging adults, and can have a significant impact on their quality of life. CBD has been shown to have anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) and antidepressant properties, which may help to reduce the symptoms of these conditions.
A 2019 study published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology found that CBD may be effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression in individuals with social anxiety disorder. In addition, a 2018 review of studies published in the journal Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews found that CBD may have therapeutic potential for the treatment of anxiety disorders.
- Neuroprotective Properties
As we age, our brains may become more susceptible to damage from oxidative stress and inflammation. This can lead to a variety of cognitive issues, including dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. CBD has been shown to have neuroprotective properties, which may help to reduce the risk of these conditions.
A 2018 study published in the journal Molecules found that CBD may have neuroprotective effects, which could help to reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease.
