Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of more than 100 cannabinoids that occur naturally in cannabis and hemp. Over the years, anecdotal evidence and clinical research have revealed a number of potential benefits.

CBD can be an attractive option for a number of reasons. Unlike THC, it is not psychoactive and does not cause intoxication. Studies have shown that it can be taken in high quantities without adverse effects. While research on its effects, the right dosages, and the right preparations are still developing, the news so far looks good.

How Does CBD Work for Epilepsy?

This is one of the first areas where evidence of CBD’s benefits became apparent. About a third of all people who suffer with epilepsy do not get relief through available conventional medications. In clinical trials, CBD has been shown to significantly reduce the incidence of seizures without heavy side effects, even in people who have had little relief in the past.

Before over-the-counter CBD preparations were legalized, a number of states allowed their medical use specifically for seizure disorders like epilepsy. Today, many with treatment-resisitent epilepsy continue to explore relief with CBD products.

How Does CBD Work for Pain?

Chronic pain affects more than one in five people in the US at any given time. Many of the medications available to cope with chronic pain have many concerns of their own, from the potential for liver toxicity to issues like addiction. Because of this, many people have explored CBD as a potential solution.

Research has shown that CBD acts as an anti-inflammatory, which in turn has pain relief benefits. While research is still in its early stages, animal trials in Europe have shown that CBD can relieve chronic pain associated with arthritis. In the meantime, individuals who are looking for relief from chronic pain discuss their results with one another and experiment to see if CBD is helpful for them.

How Does CBD Work for Anxiety and Depression?

Our understanding of the mechanics of how CBD oil works for both anxiety and depression is still developing. The limited clinical research that has been conducted, however, has shown that CBD can be effective for generalized anxiety as well as clinical depression.

There are theories that depression is an inflammatory disorder. Since CBD acts as an anti-inflammatory, this may be its mechanism for reducing symptoms associated with both anxiety and depression.

How Long Does CBD Take to Work?

There is no one answer to the question of how fast does CBD work. Vaped or sublingual CBD’s effects can be felt in as little as 15 minutes. Edibles and topical CBD products may take an hour or two to work. Research on using CBD to treat anxiety or depression typically measures results over several weeks.

This is an area where there is still a great deal to learn, but more research is coming out on a regular basis. As we learn more, CBD users will have more information to make decisions about their health.