As Cannabidiol (or CBD, as it is more commonly known) becomes more popular in the United States, many older adults are using it to treat a variety of ailments. But before you decide to begin a daily CBD regimen for yourself or a loved one, it’s important to understand the science behind it, where it comes from and its potential benefits for aging adults.
CBD is derived from the powerful Cannabis sativa plant, otherwise known as hemp or marijuana. This plant contains more than 80 known cannabinoids or plant compounds, including Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, which causes a “high” for many users. However, CBD is extracted and processed so that only trace amounts of THC remain.
In other words, CBD won’t get you high. What it will do, according to millions of regular users, is improve quality of sleep, stabilize mood and alleviate joint pain and skin rashes, along with a host of other benefits.*
In this article, we will discuss some of the most common issues our older customers have used CBD to address. But first, a quick note: Not all CBD is created equal. It is therefore essential that you review the Certificates of Analysis before adding any CBD product to your wellness routine.
Anxiety, psychological stress and mood disorders
Research shows that CBD may help alleviate occasional anxiety and promote an overall sense of calm. Every human and animal is born with unique brain receptors that help manage the flow of serotonin and other mood-impacting chemicals in the body.
As humans age, it is particularly important to maintain stasis in our brains, since increased anxiety can lead to unhealthy heart rate and blood pressure—especially when stressful situations pop up in our lives.
Studies have shown that these receptors in our brain respond positively to plant-based cannabinoids like CBD. When introduced as part of a holistic health regimen, CBD can help the brain to better manage feelings of stress, anxiety and dread and generally reduce the overall psychological effects from occasional anxiety.
Insomnia
Older adults are not immune to the challenges of poor sleep and insomnia. In fact, our sleep can be negatively impacted as we age by certain medical conditions and prescribed medications that are common in people over the age of 50.
Many of our customers express concern over the long-term effects of using prescription and over-the-counter medication for sleep. They worry about developing dependence, addiction and decreased sleep quality over time, so they turn to CBD as a natural, plant-based alternative.
Based on what we know about CBD so far, many researchers believe taking tinctures or soft gels daily can result in better sleep quality by promoting calmness and relaxation throughout the day.
Arthritis inflammation and pain management
The CDC estimates that approximately 23% of all U.S. adults—over 54 million people—suffer from arthritis, and one in four sufferers experience joint pain as a result. Arthritic joint pain is especially problematic for aging individuals, since it limits the mobility that is essential for living a long, healthy, active life.
CBD—especially when administered topically via a transdermal cream—has been shown to reduce inflammation while alleviating pain by clearing pathways in the brain as previously discussed. In addition, CBD offers a compelling natural alternative to the opioids and other prescription medications that are all-too-often prescribed to arthritis sufferers.
Studies have also indicated that unlike its prescription-based alternatives, CBD can be taken in large amounts to treat conditions like joint pain, arthritis and multiple sclerosis with minimal to no side effects. What’s more, CBD has actually shown promise for individuals who have developed an addiction to prescription pain medication.
Got more questions about CBD for older adults? Drop us a line! The experts at The Happy Camper are here to help you make an informed choice for you and your loved ones.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Our products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.