As more states have legalized marijuana in recent years and acceptance of medical cannabis has increased, more and more new products are being tailored specifically to the aging population.
This is especially true for products that contain cannabidiol, or CBD. CBD is the non- psychoactive component of the cannabis plant that can be used as an oil, tincture, cream or edible.
Many older adults are unaware of how medical cannabis can improve their quality of life. Since CBD is extracted from the hemp plant, seniors can take advantage of the extract’s medicinal benefits. In addition, older adults have the option to use it in many different forms such as tinctures, ointments, or other products.
CBD can also reduce or even replace the need to take harmful and addictive prescription medications.
With this message, it’s no surprise that older adults are slowly starting to let go of their preconceptions and start consuming CBD.
Here are 8 reasons why CBD should be a healthy routine for every senior.
1. pain relief
Marijuana has long been known as a pain reliever, far outweighing the benefits of prescription drugs in some cases. Clinical studies have therefore proven that cannabis is very effective in reducing arthritis and neuralgia, and can promote long-lasting healing of various muscle and joint pains.
2. bone health
CBD oil is a great resource, especially for older adults, as it can improve bone health and reduce the risk of fractures. According to a study, CBD can help heal existing fractures and strengthen bones in the long run.
3. calming effect
Although CBD is known for its calming properties, it can also boost energy and counteract sluggishness in humans. This is because CBD strengthens the cells in the body and helps in their complete regeneration.
In addition, CBD is an antioxidant that promotes a sense of alertness that can be disrupted by the presence of free radicals. A study showed that cannabidiol has stronger antioxidant properties than vitamins C and E.
4. Control glaucoma
Researchers are increasingly investigating the use of marijuana to treat glaucoma. This is a neurodegenerative disease that affects vision by increasing pressure in the eye.
For decades, there has been evidence that cannabinoids can reduce this increase in stress by up to 25%. Since glaucoma patients often want to avoid the side effects of cannabis when using THC-containing supplements, CBD can be an excellent medication for lowering eye pressure.
5. insomnia and sleep disorders
The older we get, the harder it is to sleep deeply for longer periods of time. During these periods, our brain regenerates and eliminates toxins. Therefore, sleep quality is also very important to prevent age-related neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s or glaucoma.
Older people often use sleeping pills, which have a high level of dependence and a variety of unpleasant side effects. CBD can help prolong deep sleep phases and reduce lighter sleep phases.
6. alternatives to prescription drugs
The number of older adults taking daily prescription medications is increasing every year. However, prescription drugs can be extremely dangerous for users, leading to organ damage, tissue damage, addiction, and even death.
Cannabis products are a safer alternative to prescription drugs because they have fewer side effects and are less likely to cause addiction.
CBD reinforces this benefit and has been used in the United States to combat addiction to prescription drugs. There have also been no deaths or overdoses attributed to marijuana use.
7. stimulate the appetite
A common health problem among older adults is loss of appetite, which can lead to weight loss, tissue weakness, and mental health issues. While marijuana has long been
used to increase appetite in patients, isolated CBD has also been shown to be a powerful appetite stimulant.
8. Alzheimer’s and dementia
Recent research is investigating the extent to which marijuana use can prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. According to several studies, cannabinoids, as well as CBD more broadly, can help eliminate the toxic proteins associated with the onset of this disease. Cannabinoids can reduce inflammation in the brain and help regenerate damaged cells.
Although the potential benefits of using CBD are well documented, it is recommended that you always consult your doctor before using CBD products.
