CBD oil and Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a disease that can potentially disable the brain and spinal cord. In MS, the immune system attacks the protective coating that covers nerve fibers and causes communication confusion between the brain and the rest of the body. Eventually, the nerves can deteriorate or become permanently damaged, resulting the loss of ability to walk in severe cases. Unfortunately, there is no cure for MS, but there are treatments that can help speed recovery from attacks. Corticosteroids and plasma exchange are the most popular treatments. However, side effects to those treatments may include insomnia, increased blood pressure, mood swings, and fluid retention. Most patients are seeking treatment that isn’t going to produce a list of negative side effects, which is where CBD oil comes into play.

CBD has long been overshadowed by delta-9-THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the primary active ingredient in marijuana, because unlike THC, it does not produce a psychoactive “high.” CBD has nonetheless long been known to have useful anti-spasmodic, anti-epileptic, anti-anxiety, and anti-psychotic properties.The use of CBD oil to treat multiple sclerosis has been spreading rapidly. Most commonly, patients are using an oral spray and see reductions in neuropathic pain, spasticity, muscle spasms, and sleep disturbances. Other common methods of consumption include, but are not limited to, tinctures, capsules, edibles, topicals,etc.

One study focused on how compounds, including CBD, from marijuana can be used to regulate inflammation to protect the nervous system. The researchers treated immune cells in mice that specifically target and harm the brain and spinal cord. In response to the chemicals, the immune cells produced fewer inflammatory molecules. While further research is needed to prove the effectiveness of cannabinoids in treating MS in humans, many countries are already using CBD and THC to treat symptoms, like pain and stiffness of muscles.

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