Cannabidiol or CBD is creating quite a sensation lately due to its dramatic effects on seizures. Many people have seen videos or have heard stories about this substance reducing seizures from hundreds a day to just a few. For those suffering this condition, it can be life changing, allowing a person to live a more functional and fulfilling life. The benefits of CBD don’t end here either. There are multiple other potential uses for this natural substance.

Cannabidiol or CBD and THC are two of the most abundant cannabinoids found in the marijuana plant. CBD is non psychoactive and doesn’t provide the “high” that people experience with marijuana. Rather, it is isolated from the plant and used in a wide variety of forms for its medicinal properties. Clinically, it is currently being used to treat nausea, vomiting, seizures, tremors, PTSD, insomnia, mild anxiety, rheumatic pain, and neuropathic pain.

One of the ways CBD is said to work is as a master neurotransmitter, stimulating multiple chemical pathways. This includes an intrinsic network in our nervous system and brains called the Endocannabinoid System (ES). This neuro-network has been more recently discovered, and much more needs to be learned, but it is understood to be one of the ways CBD achieves its’ wide ranging effects. Interestingly, it increases a powerful neurotransmitter in the ES called anandamide. This substance acts as “super” neurotransmitter by enhancing the effects of numerous other neurotransmitters. For instance, CBD enhances the 5 HT, TRVP-1, and andenosine systems, which accounts for how it helps with elevating mood, insomnia, tremors, mediating pain, reducing inflammation, and treating nausea.

CBD is very safe but it does have side effects – mainly by making other medicines more potent. Because of this it can be given to the very young or old for seizure conditions; but it should be done under the care of a healthcare practitioner familiar with its use. Research in this area is still incomplete and much has to be learned about CBD. Additionally, potency, dosage and the best form of delivery are still being determined. If you are considering using CBD products, avoid the untrained “bud tenders” at the dispensaries, and find a healthcare practitioner who is knowledgeable about these issues and consult with them.