Multiple Sclerosis is an incurable autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system abnormally attacks the body. This condition particularly confuses the body’s defense mechanism into attacking the nervous system. As a result, it causes the myelin sheath, the protective layer of the neurons, to deteriorate, leading to several other health conditions. Cannabidiol or CBD, one of the non-psychoactive drugs found in the hemp plant, can be used for treating MS.
While the disease has no cure and can be challenging to deal with, it is still possible to slow down its progression and make it less painful with the help of CBD and additional support.
In this article, we’ll discuss the causes and treatments of Multiple Sclerosis, how CBD can help people with MS, and more!
Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms
MS is a progressive disease, and its symptoms can vary from person to person. Most people develop this condition between the age of 20 and 40. Here are some common symptoms of MS.
- Fatigue: Feeling of extreme tiredness even after getting enough rest.
- Vision problems: This may include any form of visual disorder, even complete vision loss.
- Weakness and stiff muscles: Deterioration of the mind-to-muscle connection.
- Cognitive dissonance: MS can affect cognitive capabilities, cause mood changes, and lead to depression and anxiety.
- Tingling sensation from numbness: Compromised neurons can cause tingling pins and needles sensation.
- Bladder and bowel dysfunction: Multiple sclerosis can also cause digestion issues.
It is important to note that having some of these symptoms doesn’t necessarily imply that you have Multiple Sclerosis. Getting yourself diagnosed by a healthcare professional is the best way to find out!
How CBD Works to Manage the Symptoms of MS
Both cannabis constituents, CBD and THC, have neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties that can help you manage MS better. Many of the effects of CBD may differ for every person, so you may need to consult your doctor before incorporating CBD products into your routine.
Slowing down the progression of this disease may involve chemotherapy, immunosuppressive drugs (like CBD), steroids, and anti-inflammatory medications (again, like CBD). Some disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) may also help by weakening/suppressing the immune system.
You can use CBD oil to ease some symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis. CBD binds with endocannabinoid receptors that play a role in regulating immune system response.
The exact mechanism involved in this process is still not fully understood, but growing evidence suggests that the drug can help MS patients by:
- Reducing inflammation
- Relieving pain
- Improving sleep
- Reducing muscle spasms
- Protecting nerves
Many users say CBD has improved their muscle function and reduced body pain so much that they can function normally and do their daily chores with little hindrance.
How to Use CBD to Treat Multiple Sclerosis?
Particularly for patients with MS, experts recommend taking CBD as a tablet, nasal spray, CBD oil, or tincture. When the drug is taken orally or as a nasal spray, it gives off immediate effects.
A 2014 study examined the effects of CBD nasal spray and approved it as an effective treatment for Multiple Sclerosis symptoms like urinary dysfunction, muscle stiffness, and pain.
A later study confirmed the drug’s efficacy in improving muscle spasticity by comparing the frequency of car accidents between MS patients who took CBD versus those who did not. Additionally, another study by the NCBI further explains how CBD and THC can improve overall mobility in people.
Side Effects & Safety Guidelines When Taking CBD For Multiple Sclerosis
There are a few things that you must know before using CBD products. Here are some safety guidelines that’ll ensure that CBD works best for you:
- Start with a small dose: The effectiveness of CBD could vary for each individual. We’d recommend you to start with small doses and increase them until you feel the desired effects.
- Choose a reputable brand: CBD products are not regulated by the FDA, so choose brands you can trust. The Health Bitch products are lab tested, 100% organic, and made in small batches. This ensures that you receive products that have accurate labeling and exceptional quality. Check out The Health Bitch store to learn more!
- Only choose products with THC levels below 0.3%: If you live in a state or country where cannabis is legal, you must be extra cautious with the products you choose. Did you know some THC goods are marketed as CBD products? THC is psychoactive and can cause intoxication. We only grow hemp plants that have THC lower than 0.3%! Check out high-quality CBD oil, Bath bombs, and CBD creams.
- Consider the side effects: CBD can cause sleepiness, dry mouth, and changes in appetite. Avoid taking CBD with alcohol, as both amplify the sedative effects.
- Before you take CBD with any other drug, consult a healthcare professional: CBD can interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, antidepressants, and antipsychotics. For example, combining two drugs can cause blood thinners to accumulate in the bloodstream and cause internal bleeding. Upon consultation, your doctor may lower certain doses to reduce the risk.
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