What is CBD good for?

Discover CBD's potential: from soothing anxiety to easing pain, we'll unravel the science behind CBD benefits and how it can enhance your wellness journey.

What Are the Benefits of CBD?

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound within the cannabis sativa plant which supports the body and mind in a variety of ways. As more people take CBD for its potential health benefits, the body of CBD research keeps growing to help shed light on all the ways it can help us.

Here are some science-backed reasons why people take CBD:

1. To reduce anxiety, stress and depression

One of the reasons why CBD is so popular and continues to gain momentum as a therapeutic is its calming effect. Indeed, clinical research supports CBD being an effective treatment for stress, anxiety and even depression.

According to a 2015 review of 49 studies, CBD shows great potential as a treatment for anxiety disorders. The researchers found that, “preclinical evidence conclusively demonstrates CBD’s efficacy in reducing anxiety behaviors relevant to multiple disorders” including PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), GAD (generalized anxiety disorder), PD (panic disorder), SAD (social anxiety disorder), and OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder).[1]

Through a 2022 review, researchers explained that 7 placebo-controlled, double blind studies demonstrate CBD’s effectiveness “in reducing the stress response and its manifestations of fear, anxiety, depressive behaviors and burnout,” and that “extensive preclinical evidence” supports these findings. They also noted that, “CBD significantly decreased depressive symptoms” in three open-label clinical trials. [2]

2. To manage or relieve chronic pain.

Since the late 1990s, chronic pain has been the number one reason that people use medical marijuana products, and numerous studies support the effectiveness of such use. However, according to a 2022 study, “all clinical evidence is for [cannabis-based medicine] containing THC, and there is no randomized controlled trial evidence for the use of CBD-only medicine for chronic pain.” In other words, there’s a lack of clinical evidence proving that CBD alone is good for chronic pain management. The authors of this study, however, cited 2010 research demonstrating that adding CBD to THC improves “analgesic efficacy,” which indicates that CBD plays some role as a painkiller. Whether CBD can relieve pain alone, or in synergy with other cannabinoids, is not yet determined; more research is needed. [2, 3, 4]

3. To help with PTSD

According to research published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine in 2019, 10 out of 11 adults experienced a reduction in symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) after taking CBD for for 8 weeks in conjunction with psychotherapy and psychiatric drugs. [5]

Through a 2023 review of clinical studies, which solely utilized purified CBD (i.e. THC of .3% or less), researchers stated that CBD can help with PTSD by “reduc[ing] cognitive impact and anxiety induced by traumatic recall.” Although they noted that CBD was effective only for non-sexual trauma-based PTSD, they ultimately concluded that “clinical evidence exists to support the use of single doses of CBD to reduce symptoms of PTSD.”  [6]

4. To treat addiction to drugs, alcohol or cigarettes

As a non-addictive substance that is used to reduce anxiety, stress and
depression (see #1 above), CBD holds promise as a treatment for certain substance use disorders, such as opioid, marijuana and nicotine addictions.[7] For example, through a 2013 pilot study, researchers gave cigarette smokers desiring to quit CBD inhalers to use when cravings rose; those who had real CBD inhalers smoked 40% less cigarettes, while those with placebo inhalers didn’t change their smoking habits. [8]

Through another double-blind, randomized, placebo controlled trial,
researchers explored CBD’s potential as a treatment option for opioid
addiction. Heroin-addicted subjects, who were in a period of abstinence, took either 400 or 800 mg of CBD once daily for three days in a row, and experienced reduced anxiety and cravings triggered by conspicuous drug cues. The CBD also “reduced the drug cue-induced physiological measures of heart rate and salivary cortisol levels,” showing physiological as well as psychological mitigation of addictive patterns. [9]

A few, less structured studies have been conducted to assess CBD as a
therapy for marijuana addiction, a.k.a. cannabis use disorder, with some being case studies. Through them, researchers learned that CBD can help marijuana addicts maintain abstinence by reducing cue-induced craving and anxiety, much like in the opioid study. [10]

As far as alcohol addiction goes, 2019 research showed that CBD
administration resulted in less alcohol consumption by animal subjects, specifically through reductions in “ethanol intake, motivation for reducing ethanol intake, motivation for ethanol, relapse, anxiety, and
impulsivity.” CBD also reduced alcohol-induced liver and brain damage, “preventing neuronal loss by its antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties.” [11]

5. To help manage diabetes

Although clinical evidence is sparse, one 2021 case report found that CBD may have potential as a natural therapeutic for diabetics. Citing a 2016 study, the researchers noted “a statistically significant reduction in resistin and an increase in glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide…suggesting a possible improvement in glycemic control.” Ultimately, they concluded that more evidence is needed to recommend CBD “as an alternative treatment for uncontrolled type 2 diabetes,” but that CBD wouldn’t harm or worsen a person’s diabetes. [12, 13]

Based on the findings in a 2012 study, CBD shows promise for helping diabetics manage some disease complications associated with diabetes. For example, because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, CBD may help protect endothelial cells in blood vessels from oxidative damage; thus it may help support cardiovascular health in diabetics, who are at greater risk of cardiovascular disease. [14]

6. To help prevent seizures

In 2018, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), approved a pharmaceutical, oral preparation of CBD - Epidiolex - as a treatment (in patients ages 2+) for seizures caused by two forms of epilepsy, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome. Through 3 double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trials involving 516 patients, the pharmaceutical CBD was shown to reduce seizure frequency when taken with other meds. [15]

7. To treat neurological disorders and protect against certain cancers

Through a 2021 study, CBD was found to have potential for treating a several neurodegenerative disorders, including epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease, and multiple sclerosis. This is because CBD has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and neuroprotective properties. The researchers also noted its role in protecting against cancers of the nervous system. [16]

8. To relieve arthritis symptoms

Through one study of 40 patients with longstanding rheumatoid arthritis (RA), researchers concluded that CBD “might be beneficial as an adjuvant treatment” for RA. Noting CBD’s potential ability to reduce chronic inflammation, the researchers suggested that CBD may ease arthritis symptoms. [17]

Findings from 2022 research support CBD’s potential as an arthritis therapeutic. Surveying results of CBD use to relieve pain due to rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or autoimmune arthritis, the researchers discovered that “CBD use was associated with improvements in pain (83%), physical function (66%), and sleep quality (66%),” with osteoarthritis sufferers reporting the greatest reduction in pain. The researchers also noted, “The majority of respondents reported a reduction or cessation of other medications after CBD use,” indicating that CBD is an effective and better-tolerated treatment for arthritis. [18]

9. To help manage multiple sclerosis symptoms

According to a 2022 study, CBD may offer potential benefits for individuals suffering from Multiple Sclerosis (MS). The neuro-protective, anti-inflammatory, and immuno-modulatory properties of CBD can be particularly beneficial in managing MS symptoms. These benefits can help lessen the immune system's harmful attacks on nerve coverings, decrease swelling, and ease pain and muscle stiffness that come with MS. The study underscores the therapeutic promise of CBD as a complement to traditional MS treatments, highlighting its potential to improve the quality of life for patients by addressing both physical symptoms and neurological damage. [19]

10. For relief from gastrointestinal disorders

A 2016 study explores how cannabinoid compounds may offer relief to individuals dealing with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Crohn's disease, conditions characterized by chronic inflammation in the digestive tract. The anti-inflammatory properties of CBD are particularly relevant here, as they can help reduce the gastrointestinal inflammation that is a hallmark of these conditions.

Furthermore, CBD's ability to interact with the endocannabinoid system, which plays a significant role in regulating gut function and inflammation, suggests it could offer therapeutic benefits. [20]

11. To help with insomnia & improve sleep quality

According to a 2019 case study, CBD has shown promise in managing insomnia by helping to regulate sleep patterns and reduce anxiety, which is often a contributing factor to sleeplessness. Its calming effects on the nervous system can facilitate easier transition to sleep, potentially increasing the duration and quality of sleep for those struggling with insomnia. [21]

12. To lessen schizophrenia symptoms

A 2017 clinical trial examines CBD’s potential to alleviate symptoms associated with schizophrenia, a complex mental health disorder characterized by delusions, hallucinations, and cognitive challenges. CBD’s antipsychotic properties can play a crucial role in moderating brain function, potentially reducing psychotic symptoms without the significant side effects commonly associated with traditional antipsychotic medications. Moreover, CBD's ability to support neural regulation and reduce inflammation may contribute to its therapeutic benefits for schizophrenia patients. [22]

13. To support cardiovascular health & help regulate blood pressure

CBD has also been investigated for its potential benefits in promoting heart health, particularly in reducing high blood pressure, a major risk factor for heart disease. Through a 2017 study, researchers showed that “a single dose of CBD reduces resting blood pressure and the blood pressure response to stress.” Such results indicate that CBD might possibly play a role in hypertension management, but that more research is necessary to conclude anything about its potential to treat high blood pressure.

Besides its ability to immediately lower blood pressure, CBD shows other potential to support heart health. As a vasorelaxant, it can help dilate blood vessels and improve blood flow. Additionally, CBD's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects may contribute to the protection of heart tissue and support overall cardiovascular health. All this, combined with CBD’s stress-reduction and anti-anxiety properties, demonstrate a need for more research on how CBD may support a healthy cardiovascular system. [23]

14. To help pets stay healthy

CBD’s benefits aren’t just limited to humans - research has shown our pets can benefit as well. A 2018 study examining cannabidiol’s potential as an alternative treatment for osteoarthritic dogs, underscored a significant decrease in pain and increase in activity. [24]

Through another 2022 study, researchers further explored CBD’s potential as a treatment for epileptic dogs, and noted a decrease in the frequency of seizures, as well as overall behavioral improvements. [25]

While more research into CBD’s full range of applications for pets is needed, it’s not a stretch to imagine how it’s known anti-inflammatory effects and anti-anxiety properties may also benefit pets suffering from separation anxiety or noise phobias, and thus enhance their overall quality of life.

Looking for the best quality CBD? We’ve got you.

Purity is our priority - discover the highest quality premium CBD products on the market and shop our Skunky picks now.

References:

  1. Blessing EM, Steenkamp MM, Manzanares J, Marmar CR. Cannabidiol as a Potential Treatment for Anxiety Disorders. Neurotherapeutics. 2015 Oct;12(4):825-36. doi: 10.1007/s13311-015-0387-1. PMID: 26341731; PMCID: PMC4604171.

  2. Henson JD, Vitetta L, Hall S. Tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol medicines for chronic pain and mental health conditions. Inflammopharmacology. 2022 Aug;30(4):1167-1178. doi: 10.1007/s10787-022-01020-z. Epub 2022 Jul 7. PMID: 35796920; PMCID: PMC9294022.

  3. Argueta DA, Ventura CM, Kiven S, Sagi V, Gupta K. A Balanced Approach for Cannabidiol Use in Chronic Pain. Front Pharmacol. 2020 Apr 30;11:561. doi: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00561. PMID: 32425793; PMCID: PMC7204604.

  4. Boehnke, K. F., Gangopadhyay, S., Clauw, D. J., & Haffajee, R. L. (2019). Qualifying Conditions Of Medical Cannabis License Holders In The United States. Health affairs (Project Hope), 38(2), 295–302. https://doi.org/10.1377/hlthaff.2018.05266

  5. Elms L, Shannon S, Hughes S, Lewis N. Cannabidiol in the Treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: A Case Series. J Altern Complement Med. 2019 Apr;25(4):392-397. doi: 10.1089/acm.2018.0437. Epub 2018 Dec 13. PMID: 30543451; PMCID: PMC6482919.  

  6. O'Sullivan, S. E., Jensen, S. S., Nikolajsen, G. N., Bruun, H. Z., Bhuller, R., & Hoeng, J. (2023). The therapeutic potential of purified cannabidiol. Journal of cannabis research, 5(1), 21. https://doi.org/10.1186/s42238-023-00186-9

  7. Prud'homme M, Cata R, Jutras-Aswad D. Cannabidiol as an Intervention for Addictive Behaviors: A Systematic Review of the Evidence. Subst Abuse. 2015 May 21;9:33-8. doi: 10.4137/SART.S25081. PMID: 26056464; PMCID: PMC4444130.

  8. Morgan CJ, Das RK, Joye A, Curran HV, Kamboj SK. Cannabidiol
    reduces cigarette consumption in tobacco smokers: preliminary findings.
    Addict Behav. 2013 Sep;38(9):2433-6. doi: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2013.03.011.
    Epub 2013 Apr 1. PMID: 23685330.

  9. Hurd YL, Spriggs S, Alishayev J, Winkel G, Gurgov K, Kudrich C,
    Oprescu AM, Salsitz E. Cannabidiol for the Reduction of Cue-Induced
    Craving and Anxiety in Drug-Abstinent Individuals With Heroin Use
    Disorder: A Double-Blind Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial. Am J
    Psychiatry. 2019 Nov 1;176(11):911-922. doi:
    10.1176/appi.ajp.2019.18101191. Epub 2019 May 21. Erratum in: Am J
    Psychiatry. 2020 Jul 1;177(7):641. PMID: 31109198.

  10. Khalsa, J. H., Bunt, G., Blum, K., Maggirwar, S. B., Galanter, M.,
    & Potenza, M. N. (2022). Review: Cannabinoids as Medicinals. Current
    addiction reports, 9(4), 630–646.
    https://doi.org/10.1007/s40429-022-00438-3

  11. De Ternay, J., Naassila, M., Nourredine, M., Louvet, A., Bailly,
    F., Sescousse, G., Maurage, P., Cottencin, O., Carrieri, P. M., &
    Rolland, B. (2019). Therapeutic Prospects of Cannabidiol for Alcohol Use
    Disorder and Alcohol-Related Damages on the Liver and the Brain.
    Frontiers in pharmacology, 10, 627.
    https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2019.00627

  12. Mattes RG, Espinosa ML, Oh SS, Anatrella EM, Urteaga EM. Cannabidiol (CBD) Use in Type 2 Diabetes: A Case Report. Diabetes Spectr. 2021 May;34(2):198-201. doi: 10.2337/ds20-0023. Epub 2021 Dec 23. PMID: 34149261; PMCID: PMC8178711.

  13. Jadoon KA, Ratcliffe SH, Barrett DA, et al.. Efficacy and safety of cannabidiol and tetrahydrocannabivarin on glycemic and lipid parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel group pilot study. Diabetes Care 2016;39:1777–1786. doi: 10.2337/dc16-0650. Epub 2016 Aug 29. PMID: 27573936.

  14. Horváth B, Mukhopadhyay P, Haskó G, Pacher P. The endocannabinoid system and plant-derived cannabinoids in diabetes and diabetic complications. Am J Pathol. 2012 Feb;180(2):432-42. doi: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2011.11.003. Epub 2011 Dec 5. PMID: 22155112; PMCID: PMC3349875.

  15. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). News Release: FDA Approves First Drug Comprised of an Active Ingredient Derived from Marijuana to Treat Rare, Severe forms of Epilepsy. FDA.gov, June 25, 2018.

  16. Ożarowski M, Karpiński TM, Zielińska A, Souto EB, Wielgus K. Cannabidiol in Neurological and Neoplastic Diseases: Latest Developments on the Molecular Mechanism of Action. Int J Mol Sci. 2021 Apr 21;22(9):4294. doi: 10.3390/ijms22094294. PMID: 33919010; PMCID: PMC8122338.

  17. Lowin T, Tingting R, Zurmahr J, Classen T, Schneider M, Pongratz G. Cannabidiol (CBD): a killer for inflammatory rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblasts. Cell Death Dis. 2020 Sep 1;11(8):714. doi: 10.1038/s41419-020-02892-1. PMID: 32873774; PMCID: PMC7463000.

  18. Frane N, Stapleton E, Iturriaga C, Ganz M, Rasquinha V, Duarte R. Cannabidiol as a treatment for arthritis and joint pain: an exploratory cross-sectional study. J Cannabis Res. 2022 Aug 24;4(1):47. doi: 10.1186/s42238-022-00154-9. PMID: 35999581; PMCID: PMC9400326.

  19. Filippini G, Minozzi S, Borrelli F, Cinquini M, Dwan K. Cannabis and cannabinoids for symptomatic treatment for people with multiple sclerosis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2022 May 5;5(5):CD013444. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD013444.pub2. PMID: 35510826; PMCID: PMC9069991.

  20. Hasenoehrl C, Taschler U, Storr M, Schicho R. The gastrointestinal tract - a central organ of cannabinoid signaling in health and disease. Neurogastroenterol Motil. 2016 Dec;28(12):1765-1780. doi: 10.1111/nmo.12931. Epub 2016 Aug 26. PMID: 27561826; PMCID: PMC5130148.

  21. Shannon S, Lewis N, Lee H, Hughes S. Cannabidiol in Anxiety and Sleep: A Large Case Series. Perm J. 2019;23:18-041. doi: 10.7812/TPP/18-041. PMID: 30624194; PMCID: PMC6326553.

  22. McGuire P, Robson P, Cubala WJ, Vasile D, Morrison PD, Barron R, Taylor A, Wright S. Cannabidiol (CBD) as an Adjunctive Therapy in Schizophrenia: A Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial. Am J Psychiatry. 2018 Mar 1;175(3):225-231. doi: 10.1176/appi.ajp.2017.17030325. Epub 2017 Dec 15. PMID: 29241357.

  23. Jadoon KA, Tan GD, O'Sullivan SE. A single dose of cannabidiol reduces blood pressure in healthy volunteers in a randomized crossover study. JCI Insight. 2017 Jun 15;2(12):e93760. doi: 10.1172/jci.insight.93760. PMID: 28614793; PMCID: PMC5470879.

  24. Gamble LJ, Boesch JM, Frye CW, Schwark WS, Mann S, Wolfe L, Brown H, Berthelsen ES, Wakshlag JJ. Pharmacokinetics, Safety, and Clinical Efficacy of Cannabidiol Treatment in Osteoarthritic Dogs. Front Vet Sci. 2018 Jul 23;5:165. doi: 10.3389/fvets.2018.00165. PMID: 30083539; PMCID: PMC6065210.

  25. Lima TM, Santiago NR, Alves ECR, Chaves DSA, Visacri MB. Use of cannabis in the treatment of animals: a systematic review of randomized clinical trials. Anim Health Res Rev. 2022 Jun;23(1):25-38. doi: 10.1017/S1466252321000189. Epub 2022 Jun 15. PMID: 35703023.

Try one of the best premium organic CBDs.

Joy Organics was created with a clear initiative: to develop premium CBD products through innovation and excellence, with service to match.

Affiliate Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn commissions. Your support facilitates our research in the CBD and wellness space, which we'll continue to share with you. We only recommend products we use ourselves and have found to be effective!