CBD (Cannabidiol). That’s a very hot topic nowadays. Many talk about it and many more are using it- whether to sleep better, manage arthritic pain, mood booster, or even to look younger.
But are you aware that CBD could actually SAVE many lives?
Photo: Julia Teichmann
Problem #1: Some of the world’s most common, and potentially most dangerous, infections are resistant to antibiotics.
Statistics: More than 2 million Americans (and many more millions worldwide) get sick every year from these antibiotic-resistant bacteria[R], [R]. About 33000 people die each year from an infection caused by these bacteria. [R]
How CBD works: it works as a superbug antibiotic. The research found that CBD is a powerful antibiotic.[R] Specifically, CBD is active against several bacteria, including those who are resistant to antibiotics and cause serious infections (ie Staph aureus and Strep pneumoniae). Worth mentioning that CBD shows similar potency to antibiotics vancomycin or daptomycin. More good news: CBD did not lose effectiveness after extended treatment (as it happens with prescription antibiotics)
Problem # 2: Addictions: prescription opiate drugs, cocaine, morphine, heroin, and tobacco
Statistics: The deaths from drug overuse are exponentially growing, killing now over 70,000 Americans (2017 data). The majority of these cases involved opioid drugs [R]. Tobacco kills more than 8 million people each year worldwide [R]. Relapses to drug use are such great challenges, and unfortunately, very few effective therapies are available.
How CBD works: CBD helps cut down craving and anxiety, reduces drug motivating behavior and reduces withdrawal effects. CBD also modulates the opioid system in the brain, working as a pain killer and anti-inflammatory drug [R].
Problem # 3: Depression and Anxiety
Statistics: Did you know that 1 in 4 people suffer from depression and roughly 123 Americans die by suicide every day [R]? Anyone feeling stressed? Stress is a key risk factor for depression and anxiety.
How CBD works: Similar to classical antidepressants, CBD helps reduce depressive symptoms by stimulating the formation of new neurons (neurogenesis).
…“the multitarget effects of CBD may make it a highly efficacious treatment option,” says one study and I completely agree. Unlike classical antidepressants which are often combined to achieve results, CBD oil interacts with several receptors in the brain (including dopamine, serotonin, the endocannabinoid system, and more). In other words, CBD may be a substitute for a few, not just one antidepressant.
How CBD works for anxiety: CBD seems to decrease the activation of brain regions associated with anxiety, fear, and emotional processing.
Some thoughts…
Yes, we need more research to further confirm these health benefits of CBD oil. We still need to learn more about CBD and medical cannabis. But you see, not only opiate drugs are problematic. Antibiotics and antidepressants can cause problems, too.
I can tell this from my personal experience, as I almost died from one single dose of a prescription antibiotic. The problem is real.
Did you know the 2018 FDA watch list of drugs [R] is dominated by these two types of drugs: antibiotics and antidepressants? That’s because there are a lot of safety concerns. These drugs are evaluated whether they should stay on the market. Researchers are looking for safer, yet effective alternatives to these drugs.
Do you think CBD can save many lives? I believe is totally worth looking into CBD strengthen the immune system, so you can prevent infections (in the future, perhaps treat infections, too), help manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, pain, and addiction. As always, I highly recommend seeking medical advice before trying natural supplements.
