By 2025, the CBD industry is projected to heat the $20 billion mark in the United States alone. Currently, the marijuana and hemp compound is an essential ingredient in popular products such as cookies, toothpicks, and beverages. A recent study by Cowen & Co. shows that up to 7% of Americans are already using CBD for various reasons. CBD consumption is expected to grow and especially so with its current legalization. 

But what can cannabidiol do for you? The marijuana plant has been in use for centuries to treat various ailments. However, scientific research into the benefits of CBD, among the multiple compounds in the cannabis Sativa plant has just begun. Due to its listing as a prohibited drug, the analysis was only limited to animals. We should now see a lot of clinical trials on human beings with the passing of the US Farm Bill. 

CBD Effect on PTSD and Anxiety

A 4 Minute presentation can be quite troubling, especially for students with social anxiety. A small research seems to indicate that CBD can reduce cognitive impairment and nervousness in people with social anxiety.

Well, it’s interesting to know that Actress Kristen Bell is very open about using CBD to deal with anxiety. Tom Hanks also claims that CBD helps him deal with anxiety and improve on his acting career.

CBD may also help with other forms of anxiety, such as post-traumatic disorder and social anxiety disorder. In a 2011 study, people with social anxiety disorder were given 400mg CBD or placebo, and those who took CBD had reduced levels of anxiety. 

The active members of the military and the returning soldiers usually suffer from symptoms of PTSD, such as traumatizing memories and nightmares. According to a published report by the Veterans Association in 2016, up to 66000 veterans were under treatment for opioid addiction. CBD has emerged as a better alternative to opioids, without the side effects. 

A handful of studies indicate that CBD can help with symptoms of PTSD. In 2015, a medical paper studied the effects of CBD on unstable and erratic moments of PTSD. The researchers saw that CBD was quite effective in reducing chronic unpredictable stress. Combat soldiers and veterans can, therefore, use CBD within an hour and lessen the adverse effects of PTSD, according to studies. 

CBD and other Neurological Disorders

A 2016 study suggests that CBD may have antipsychotic properties and can be useful for people who have schizophrenia. The good news is that CBD was a better alternative to antipsychotic drugs that may cause addiction and other undesirable effects. Apart from anxiety, CBD has shown considerable promise as a treatment for depression and other neurological disorders. More studies may be necessary, but researchers are optimistic about the potential for CBD as treatment.

Another study gave people living with severe epilepsy a measure of CBD oil-based on their body weight, and their seizures went down by a mean of 36.5%. 

CBD and Pain

Actress Mandy Moore is popular on the red carpets. However, walking long red carpets comes with its challenges such as pain and discomfort. Mandy Moore uses CBD oil to soothe the pain. Whoopi Goldberg is the co-founder of a company that promotes CBD products that deal with menstruation pain. Many women have found the brand, Whoopi & Maya, to be quite helpful, and that has helped increase its popularity.

Well, Cannabis sativa has been used as a treatment for pain for centuries. In recent times, researchers discovered that CBD might be the main component responsible for the pain-relieving properties of marijuana. 

Your body contains an endocannabinoid system, and that specializes in regulating such functions as appetite, sleep, pain and mood. The body produces endocannabinoids that attach to the receptors in your nervous system. Several studies show that CBD affects receptor activity to interact with neurotransmitters and reduce inflammation. For example, a study in mice indicated that CBD was effective in reducing pain from surgical incisions.

A couple of human studies have shown that a blend of CBD and THC can help reduce arthritis and multiple sclerosis pain. Sativex, an oral spray, has been approved for the management of recurring sclerosis pain.

CBD on Beauty and Skin Care

Recently, Olivia Wilde opened up in an interview about using CBD lotion to help deal with neck pain and for relaxation. Kim Kardashian admitted on Instagram stories that she was obsessed with CBD products to rejuvenate her mind and body. Another celebrity is Emma Roberts, who does not shy away from lauding her favorite CBD bath tonic in helping her relax and enhance her skin. 

Among the most common skin conditions is acne. It affects up to 9% of the population, and you probably know someone living with it. Recent CBD studies suggest that it may be useful in treating acne due to its ability to reduce sebum and its anti-inflammatory properties. 

One study in particular concluded that CBD might be a safe and effective way of treating acne, thanks to its extraordinary anti-inflammatory properties. 

The Bottom Line

Research on the possible therapeutic benefits of CBD is still ongoing, and we may still find out other ways that you can use the marijuana or hemp product. The passing of the farm bill is especially beneficial, and more research will probably follow. 

Even though there's a lot to learn about the safety of CBD, preliminary results indicate that it is entirely safe for use.