CBD is a substance found in hemp plants. CBD is often offered as oil, although it is also available in an extract, a vaporized liquid, and an oil-based capsule. CBD has become widely available, and a variety of CBD edibles and products can even be bought online.
While many younger people have caught onto the CBD wellness trend, it may come as a surprise that many older adults utilize CBD oil to help alleviate symptoms associated with various common health issues.
According to research conducted in 2020, almost 20% of Americans aged 65 and over have tried CBD oil, up from 14% the previous year. Older generations may be slightly apprehensive about starting a CBD regime, especially regarding safety and efficacy.
It’s therefore critical to consider the situations for which CBD oil may be beneficial and if its usage is safe for the elderly.
Is CBD oil effective?
Each of us possesses what is known as an endocannabinoid system. The endocannabinoid system is responsible for maintaining a steady condition in which everything in your body functions optimally.
For instance, if it is hot outdoors or exercising strenuously, your endocannabinoid system will assist in stabilizing your heart rate and maintaining a healthy body temperature by causing you to sweat.
Your body functions optimally when everything is in harmony, and your endocannabinoid system contributes to maintaining that equilibrium regardless of what is happening in your external environment.
When anything is out of balance, such as an inflamed joint caused by arthritis or an injury, CBD oil supports your endocannabinoid system, allowing your body to better handle and resolve the issue.
Is CBD oil safe for seniors?
While further research is necessary, CBD oil is a promising therapeutic option for the elderly.
Seniors need to know that CBD does not induce a high since it contains less than 3% THC. This means that you receive all of the benefits of CBD without experiencing a high.
What are the benefits of CBD for seniors?
CBD’s health benefits continue to be investigated and reported in great depth. Below, we’ve listed the various potential health benefits of CBD and how it can help older adults.
Management of pain
Around half of the senior population suffers from arthritis. Compared to conventional pain drugs, CBD may be an appealing natural and perhaps safer option.
CBD has been shown in studies to lower inflammation while also relieving pain resulting from conditions such as joint pain and multiple sclerosis.
Neurodegenerative conditions
CBD may be a promising candidate in the battle against neurodegenerative disorders. The loss of neurons in various sections of the nervous system results in a deterioration in cognitive and motor abilities.
These conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease, dementia, and stroke, gradually impair the brain and nerves. Researchers are currently examining brain receptors to determine how CBD can help.
Since inflammation can exacerbate neurodegenerative symptoms, CBD can also boost brain health through this approach.
Further research on the subject is required, but CBD may evolve into a useful tool in the battle against neurodegenerative disorders.
Mental health conditions
As humans age, they undergo significant changes. Generally, people’s health deteriorates, and they are more likely to experience loss and sadness. Furthermore, depression, social isolation, and loneliness may contribute to poor mental health.
CBD may influence brain receptors involved in mood regulation and has been shown to promote stress reduction, mindfulness, and cognitive functioning. This potent mixture may significantly impact how the mind perceives its situation while improving mood.
Sleeping habits
Sleep problems and insomnia affect many people, and older folks are no exception. This could be so because individuals’ sleep habits vary as they age. Additionally, medical disorders and prescription drugs exacerbate the situation.
Sleeping pills prescribed by a physician can be helpful, but their usage can raise long-term risks such as dependency, addiction, and decreased sleep quality.
CBD may aid in the promotion of tranquility and relaxation. The final outcome may be improved sleep quality. This can be a natural approach for seniors to have more regular and restorative sleep. Additionally, it may help lessen the need for sleeping pills.
Anxiety
CBD can assist with the management of anxiety. Researchers believe it may alter how the brain’s receptors respond to serotonin.
People with social anxiety who took part in a study found that CBD made it easier for them to deliver speeches. Moreover, animal studies have demonstrated that CBD reduces anxiety expression.
CBD may aid in stress reduction and reduce the physiological effects associated with anxiety, such as an elevated heart rate.
Cardiovascular health
For older adults, heart disease is one of the leading causes of mortality in the US. High blood pressure is a significant risk factor for cardiac disease.
CBD has shown remarkable potential as a natural treatment for hypertension. According to one study, it decreased the participants’ resting blood pressure. Additionally, researchers did stress tests and discovered that the individuals tested in the study had a favorable stress response.
Another study indicates that CBD’s antioxidant qualities may help to reduce cardiac inflammation and prevent the death of cells caused by oxidative stress.
Bone health
Maintaining strong bones may be difficult, even more so for elders dealing with osteoporosis. Over time, bones grow increasingly weak and susceptible, increasing their susceptibility to fracture.
As a result of these factors, elders frequently endure substantial pain and a higher risk of fractures when they fall. Some studies show that CBD may help strengthen bones, lower inflammation, increase cell repair, and help with the healing process.
Appetite stimulation
Malnutrition is a significant health risk for seniors, whether caused by medication or aging. This might result in unwelcome weight loss, muscle and tissue weakening, and other health problems.
Research shows that CBD may also stimulate appetite. In this way, it may benefit seniors dealing with malnutrition and appetite loss.
Don’t let age stop you from enjoying a good life
With the explosion of CBD products on the market and the discovery of potential health benefits, researchers have just begun to skim the surface of how CBD might enhance older adults’ wellbeing. Preliminary research on CBD’s potential to treat various illnesses and disorders is very encouraging.
CBD is easily accessible in a variety of forms over the counter. Seniors should consult their physician, pharmacist, or home health professional before beginning a CBD regimen. It’s critical to evaluate whether CBD therapy is the best option and rule out any potential medication interactions or complications.
However, that being said, the stigma surrounding CBD and its association with marijuana still exists—family members or physicians may have certain reservations when it comes to using CBD and related products.
Besides informing your doctor, if you consider incorporating CBD into your daily health regimen, you should try to educate family members and skeptics about CBD (derived from hemp) and the immense health benefits of this magical compound.
DISCLAIMER: THIS ARTICLE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE
The information, including but not limited to text, images, graphics, and other material contained in this article, is for informational and educational purposes, solely intended to be used as a self-help tool. No information in this article or on this website is intended to substitute for professional medical advice, treatment, or diagnosis. Always seek guidance and advice from a qualified healthcare provider before undertaking a new healthcare regimen.
