Cannabidiol, CBD, comes from the Cannabis plant that contains more than 100 types of cannabinoids. The main compound is I-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) that gives a user a “high” feeling when it activates cannabinoid receptors in the brain. CBD is another such compound also in the cannabis plant, but without psychoactive effects. CBD does not affect the cannabinoid receptors; hence one does not feel high after consuming it. Research on THC and CBD’s relationship proves that CBD has antipsychotic properties that make it perfect for treating schizophrenia. CBD interferes with the neurotransmitter system in many ways. However, research on how exactly it works is still underway.
CBD’s regulation.
In 2018, the FDA approved CBD use derived from marijuana to treat rare forms of epilepsy in people aged two years and older. Consequently, the DEA approved Epidiolex, which is the only legal form of CBD. Hemp-derived CBD is permitted on the federal level. Many states and other countries are yet to jump on board.
Approval by the DEA and FDA implies that the use and effects of CBD are a point of concern. The benefits greatly outweigh the demerits. Although the dosage levels are not assured, doctors are currently prescribing CBD to patients with various ailments, including Schizophrenia. CBD medication is a therapeutic and natural way for patients to alleviate their symptoms. CBD is available in the form of gummies, oils, creams, salves, and lotions. Consumers should exercise caution when taking non-prescription CBD drugs. Buying a highly potent CBD oil for anxiety is crucial to help with any ailment. Now, you can buy CBD gummies in Europe from reputable suppliers.
Benefits of CBD for Schizophrenia.
Antipsychotic effects
CBD reduces psychotic symptoms induced by Schizophrenia. An analysis was performed on a woman diagnosed with chronic psychosis with schizophrenic tendencies. The paper proves that many schizophrenic patients use cannabis daily. However, most of these patients end up consuming THC by accident instead of CBD, resulting in more severe symptoms of psychosis among these patients. THC makes the situation worse. The use of CBD reverses the effects of THC due to its antipsychotic property. Schizophrenic patients display high cognitive impairments, with 75%-85% of patients have cognitive deficits. CBD improves cognitive functions in schizophrenics. Patients with Parkinson’s disease also rely on CBD to alleviate their psychotic tendencies. Further, CBD alleviates schizophrenic symptoms putting the patient at ease and gives them a clear mind to assess their surroundings.
The recommended dose range to reduce psychotic effects in schizophrenic patients is 800-1000 mg/d. The mechanism of how CBD produces antipsychotic effects is not well understood. However, a hypothesis claims that CBD inhibits anandamide metabolism resulting in decreased psychotic symptoms. CBD can block degrading enzymes and hydrolase. Anandamide levels are negatively correlated to psychosis. CBD is also compared to other antipsychotic drugs, where CBD has fewer side effects and is a better solution to treat psychosis.
Anxiolytic effects
When administered at intermediate doses, CBD gives an anxiolytic effect. The drug has the same effects as healthy patients subjected to conditions that could induce anxiety, such as public speaking and many others. Stress and cognitive complications caused by schizophrenia reduce significantly in a patient subjected to specific doses of CBD.
The recommended dose range to alleviate anxiety in schizophrenic patients is 200-400 mg/d. The dosage structure is highly experimental, as studies on the accurate range are still underway. The rule of law currently is that one should stick to what is prescribed by medical personnel. CBD is a better drug since it prevents the use of medications that may cause addiction, such as benzodiazepines, thus preventing substance dependency and abuse.
Antioxidant effects
CBD increases hippocampal neurogenesis and interacts with the 5HT1A, GPR55, and TRPV1 receptors producing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. CBD modifies antioxidants in the body by turning active and free radicals into less active forms. It alters the amount and activity of antioxidants.
Furthermore, CBD prevents the formation of superoxide radicals and has the same effects as butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT). It impedes the production of concentrated transition metal ions. The CBD’s antioxidant property is more potent than that of vitamin C and E.
A combination of CBD benefits has other positive effects on the body, such as stimulation of neurogenesis, mood regulation, better sleeping patterns, treating nausea, and improved cognitive activity.
Patients taking CBD start to experience many other benefits from the drug, for instance, relieving pain. Marijuana use as a pain killer dates back to 2900 B.C. CBD also offers the same effect. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is involved in the regulation of pain and immune response. CBD impacts the endocannabinoid receptor and helps reduce inflammation. Patients who have arthritis and multiple sclerosis take a combination of THC and CBD to treat their pain. Delta 9 THC is popular for this, although delta 8 THC is a very good delta 9 THC alternative that can also be used.
Side effects of CBD.
CBD carries a set of risks to its users. Although most of the side effects are tolerable, several patients have reported to experience some side effects that include,
- Diarrhea
- Low appetite
- Fatigue and drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Weight loss/gain
CBD negatively interacts with various medications, such as blood thinners. Further, proper dosage levels are not precise. CBD products purchased online or over the counter have lower CBD levels than indicated on the labels in most situations. Besides, most of these products have a high chance of containing THC, which counteracts the positive effects of CBD. This could worsen a patient’s condition instead of improving it.
The purity of CBD drugs and oils is also not assured. Being a relatively new method in treating schizophrenia, ingestion of the wrong cannabinoids may be adverse. A patient must get a reliable CBD product source and in the correct dosage levels.
Final thoughts.
We find that research on the use of CBD is limited. Most of the data is highly hypothetical. Further, means to acquire the rights strains of the drug are not easy to come by. A prescription from quacks could be detrimental to the patient. However, used correctly, CBD is beneficial to the body and schizophrenic patients. It gives a calming effect that combats anxiety and depression. It also alleviates psychosis, which is common amongst schizophrenic patients. CBD is also effective in treating Parkinson’s diseases, Seizures, Diabetes, Acne, and dealing with cancer-related symptoms.
