There’s a lot of discussion about THC, but CBD also has plenty of benefits. The 2018 legalization of hemp extracts has provided plenty of opportunities for studying the non-intoxicating phytocannabinoid. An exciting area of research involves addiction. Heroin and prescription drug dependence is an epidemic in America. Recent examinations of hemp show CBD may help ease opioid withdrawal symptoms.
Opiate Withdrawal is Hard
Many people turn to medical cannabis to reduce dependence on narcotics for pain relief. For some patients, addiction is their medical condition, and cannabis isn’t an answer. Premium hemp has the potential to help with opioid withdrawal symptoms and improve their chances of success. The most common responses to ridding the body of opiates include:
CBD to Reduce Opiate Cravings
The hardest part for many to stay clean is the cravings. A 2019 study offers hope for patients handling opioid addiction and their loved ones. CBD has the potential to relieve stress and anxiety that can increase cravings. It also improves sleep, which is a primary opioid withdrawal symptom.
Often, people develop an addiction to painkillers following an injury. Their doctor prescribes opioids for relief, and their dependence increases from that point. When they go into rehabilitation for opiate misuse disorder, the pain returns. CBDalso has anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce swelling and pain without causing a psychoactive effect.
Scientists are currently exploring other benefits of CBD and opiate dependence. A 2019 interview in Nature Briefings with pharmacologist Yasmin Hurd discusses the positive, promising research involving the popular, federally legal cannabinoid.
“In our rat model, we observed that CBD reverses some of the glutamate-related changes that heroin induces in the brain.”
Researchers have also been conducting human trials with CBDfor the past two years. The change to federally legal status has increased the number of hemp-related human trials occurring. A study using Epidiolex for opioid withdrawal symptoms began November 1, 2020, and is expected to conclude on June 30, 2021.
The results of this research may open the available treatment options approved by the FDA for Epidiolex’s pure CBD from G.W. Pharmaceuticals.
These studies will provide more information on all cannabinoids and help medical professionals understand how they interact with the endocannabinoid system
It’s Not Just Opiates
CBD shows great potential to help with many addictions. Studies show that the non-intoxicating compound also has the potential to reduce tobacco consumption. Small reports dating back to at least 2013 indicate the phytochemical reduces smoking by at least 40%.
Like all forms of dependence, alcoholism is deadly. Dr. Allan Frankel, a medical cannabis doctor in Los Angeles, recommends cannabis sourced CBD for easing withdrawal symptoms and cravings. The doctor suggests a specific ratio of CBD: THC in a capsule.
Addiction is hard to live with and challenging to overcome. But not impossible. The premium hemp flower cannabinoid may help with opioid withdrawal symptoms, improving the patient’s chances of success.
