Is CBD Oil Ok for Alzheimer’s or Dementia?

Is CBD Oil Ok for Alzheimer’s or Dementia?

WHAT IS CBD OIL?

CBD, which is the short form for cannabidiol, is a chemical compound that is found in the cannabis plant. It is one of over 100 chemical compounds known as cannabinoids. CBD is naturally occurring substance that can be extracted and mixed with carrier oils such as hemp seed or coconut. The resulting product is known as CBD oil.

The CBD compound can be found in both hemp and marijuana plants. However, extraction of the compound from hemp is more common as it is the least processed form of the cannabis plant. Hemp contains most of the CBD that people use medicinally.

CBD oil is becoming an increasingly appealing option for people looking for relief from inflammation, pain, anxiety, psychosis, seizures, spasms, and many other conditions. Considerable research has been done on the medicinal effects of CBD oil on a wide range of neurological illnesses. Many of these suggest promising results.


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WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CBD AND THC?

THC is another compound that is found in the cannabis plan. Also known as tetrahydrocannabidiol, it is the more well know compared to CBD. However, the key difference between the two compound is that CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid. This means that using CBD will not get the user ‘high’. THC on the other hand, does cause a high.

THC creates a mind-altering ‘high’ when a person uses it, either through smoking or cooking. This is because THC breaks down when heat is applied and introduced to the body. CBD is different. It does not appear to change a person’s state of mind. However, CBD does seem to produce other significant changes in the body, which research suggests has some medical benefits.

BENEFITS OF CBD FOR PEOPLE WITH ALZHEIMER’S AND DEMENTIA

While there have been studies looking into CBD as a potential form of treatment for Alzheimer’s and other dementias, currently there isn’t enough conclusive evidence. For example, in one study, cannabis components such as CBD appear to remove amyloid clumps from nerve cells. However, these studies are still in the lab stages and have not been conducted on people.

Alternatively, there is promising evidence of CBD being used to treat some of the symptoms of dementia. Studies have found evidence that cannabinoids such as CBD can work to improve health outcomes in dementia patients. There are three ways in which the compound can help, by reducing inflammation, reducing oxygen build up, and by working as a neurostimulator. This results in a visible reduction of stress, anxiety, memory decline, pain, disturbed sleep, and other brain functions and behavioral symptoms.

DIFFERENT FORMS OF CBD

CBD can be available in several different forms. They are:

  • Oil
  • Isolate
  • Crystals
  • Wax
  • E-liquids

Of those listed above, oils, isolates, and wax forms are the main types of CBD available in stores.

Furthermore, each of these forms can be available in one or more of different types of products. These include, but are not limited to:

  • Oils
  • Tinctures
  • Creams and Gels
  • Capsules
  • Sublingual Sprays
  • Transdermal Patches
  • Vapors

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IS IT LEGAL?

In the United States, the legal status of marijuana ranges as follows:

  • Illegal
  • CBD and Low THS allowed
  • Medicinal use on prescription allowed
  • Recreational use allowed
  • Decriminalized

While federal law states that cannabis is still an illegal substance, many states are increasingly on their way to legalize hemp products in some way or another. Currently however, the legal issues surrounding CBD is quite a grey area. The good news is that based on current trends, it is likely that CBD will be legalized in the United States at the federal level in the next couple of years.

For now though, it is still important to look up the legal status and allowance for CBD that applies to where you live before you consider giving it to your loved one with dementia. The same goes for other countries around the world.

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CAN I SHIP CBD OIL?

When it comes to shipping CBD oil, there are some specifics that you need to be mindful of. As mentioned previously, cannabis is an illegal substance under federal law. However, the 2014 Farm Bill differentiates marijuana from industrial hemp and permits the cultivation of hemp within the United States. Therefore, companies that comply with this bill are allowed to ship their products anywhere in the country.

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DO I NEED A PRESCRIPTION?

Hemp oil and its derivative, CBD is considered to be a dietary supplement rather than a medication as they are made from industrial hemp plants. Therefore, you do not need a prescription and can legally purchase and consume CBD within the United States.

In some instances, though, doctors may recommend CBD for specific illnesses.

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WHERE CAN I GET IT?

There are places to purchase CBD oil. The first and probably most prolific avenue is online. There are numerous websites claiming to offer a variety of CBD products. This can be quite confusing for a first-time user. However, you should be extremely cautious when doing so. Often, websites that claim to sell CBD oil at low prices with few credentials are either scams or sell poor quality products.

Other places where you can obtain quality CBD oil and its products include specialty shops that focus entirely on CBD products. Likely to be located in areas where cannabis is legal in all forms, but can also be available in any health-conscious community. Sometimes you can also find local retailers and brick and mortar stores offering CBD or hemp oil for sale. However, chances are that they aren’t the quality products that you should be using.

Alternatively, these days many healthcare professionals specializing in alternative medicine such as, chiropractors, naturopaths, massage therapists, and more have started to offer CBD oil for sale. They can also be a good source of information on the product and help you make informed decisions on using CBD oil.

Below is a guide on how to shop for CBD:

https://www.consumerreports.org/marijuana/how-to-shop-for-cbd/

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HOW MUCH SHOULD I GIVE MY LOVED ONE?

When it comes to the dosage of CBD to be taken, it is important to remember that the effectiveness of CBD differs from form to form and product to product. This is due to the different concentration levels and methods of consumption available.

For example, CBD oil is often readily available as a tincture. It can be taken by applying a few drops under your tongue and holding it until it is absorbed before swallowing. You can also add it to water or other drinks. Other forms of CBD such as sprays, capsules, creams, or e-liquids have different dosage guidelines.

In addition, there are many variables such as weight, diet, metabolism, etc. that makes it nearly impossible to set a universally prescriptible dosage. As a basic rule though, you should start with the smallest possible dose and gradually build up. If a smaller dose is working for your loved one, then there is no need to increase the amount consumed. However, it is still best to consult your loved one’s doctor on the pros and cons of CBD as well as the recommended dosage before trying it.

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