As more and more research is conducted into the potential of CBD as a treatment for dementia, the possibilities of this natural remedy are becoming clear. As dementia is an increasingly common and debilitating condition, there is great hope that CBD may be able to provide relief. This article will explore the potential of CBD as a treatment for dementia, looking at the research that has been done and what it could mean for those suffering from this condition. By exploring the potential of CBD as a treatment for dementia, we can open up new possibilities for those living with this difficult condition.
How does CBD interact with the brain to potentially help with dementia symptoms?
CBD is known to interact with receptors in the brain, which can help to reduce inflammation and promote neuroprotection. It also has been shown to stimulate the growth of new neurons and help to reduce the effects of oxidative stress. Studies have suggested that CBD can improve cognitive function and help to reduce the symptoms of dementia.
What evidence exists to support the claim that CBD can help with dementia?
There is some evidence that suggests that CBD may be beneficial in helping to manage symptoms of dementia such as agitation, aggression, and insomnia. CBD has been found to reduce inflammation, which is thought to contribute to the development of dementia. It has also been found to reduce oxidative stress, which can damage cells and lead to dementia. Additionally, CBD has been found to help reduce anxiety and depression, which are often symptoms of dementia. While more research is needed to confirm these findings, the evidence so far is promising.
Are there any risks associated with using CBD to treat dementia?
Yes, there are certain risks associated with using CBD to treat dementia. Those with existing heart conditions or who are taking other medications should consult their doctor before using CBD as it can interact with other drugs and increase the risk of side effects. Additionally, some reports have indicated that CBD may cause changes in blood pressure, so those with hypertension should be especially careful. Finally, as with any new treatment, it is important to monitor your symptoms and discuss any changes with your doctor.
How has the use of CBD for dementia been studied so far?
CBD has been studied for its potential to improve symptoms of dementia, but the findings are limited and inconclusive. Research so far suggests that CBD may have potential benefits for those with dementia, such as reducing anxiety and agitation, improving sleep, and improving cognition. However, more research is needed to understand the full potential of CBD in treating dementia.
Is there a recommended dosage of CBD for treating dementia?
There is not yet a recommended dosage of CBD for treating dementia as more research is needed to determine its safety and efficacy. However, many people have anecdotally reported positive effects from taking CBD oil in small doses. It is always best to consult with a doctor or healthcare professional before taking CBD for any medical condition.
Cannabidiol, more commonly known as CBD, has been praised in recent years for being something close to a miracle elixir. Got a headache? Feeling anxious or stressed out? Yep, CBD has been reported to be good for that, too. Cancer symptoms, seizures, and even acne may be relieved with this natural remedy, some scientists say. And, while studies are small and inconclusive at this point, research does suggest that CBD may also help treat the 5 million people in the U. Sound far-fetched? Yet despite the prevalence of such upsetting symptomswhich can include sensory hallucinations and delusionary thinkingtraditionally there has been no good way to treat BPSD. Ashwin Kotwal, M. Kotwal says. Because of this, antipsychotics can cause a whole host of undesirable side effects, including blunted emotional responses, sedation, drowsiness, and confusion. Antipsychotics have also been shown to increase mortality in dementia patients. None of this news to the families of dementia patients. Which is the reason why some people are looking to alternative treatments like CBD. CBD, a compound found in the cannabis plant, theoretically works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, a system in the human body that regulates cognition, pain sensation, appetite, memory, sleep, immune function, and mood. Research suggests that the endocannabinoid system also plays a role in psychosis. So, if a compound can alter the signals sent by the endocannabinoid system, maybe it can alter the course of psychosis. Blake Pearson, M. The problem is that products that contain THC are not as widely available and are still federally illegal in the U. Pearson says. The thing that most experts are concerned about is how cannabinoids might interact with other drugs, based on what we know about how our bodies metabolize the chemical compounds. And anecdotally, he treats hundreds of patients for this exact problem, and sees so many of them benefitting. When Karen Van Dyke learned about the potential for CBD to help with dementia-related psychosis, she talked with a doctor about how it might help her aunt. Her dementia had progressed, and she was increasingly anxious and experiencing sundowners, a word used to describe the agitation, confusion, and aggression that can hit people with dementia in the afternoon and evening. So, she brought her aunt to see a nurse who specializes in cannabis medicine. Her confusion subsided substantiallyshe no longer frantically asked for her purse, or for her husband who had passed 30 years prior, and was able to calmly hold a conversation. Her aunt was when she started taking the tinctures and lived for just a few more years, but Van Dyke says she would have started her on it much sooner if she knew how well it would work. The only side effect she noticed was that her aunt seemed to be sleeping a little more than normal, so her nurse suggested reducing the dosage a bit. Which did the trick. After seeing how cannabinoids helped her aunt, she now tells all of her clients to ask their doctors about them as a treatment option. She says there may be barriers if your loved one is in a large care facility, but some smaller homes may be OK with it. Her aunt was living at home, so it made things easier. Drug interactions can be really serious, and patients with dementia tend to be on multiple medications. The tricky thing is that there are not a lot of physicians out there who feel comfortable recommending and overseeing cannabinoid medicineespecially for patients with dementia. Being board-certified in the U. If a caregiver is looking for options to treat dementia with psychosis, the first step is to speak with their physician and ask about using cannabinoids, Dr. It may fall on deaf ears. You can also check if your state has a list of medical cannabis doctors this will vary depending on the laws in your state. Amy is a freelance journalist and certified personal trainer. She covers a wide range of health topics, including fitness, health conditions, mental health, sexual and reproductive health, nutrition, and more. Her work has more. What can we help you find? Dementia Types. Cannabidiol products are touted for healing everything from anxiety to pain. But can they help with hallucinations and delusions, too? March 11, Medical Reviewer. On this page. CBD as an Alternative Treatment. First Steps. What to Read Next. Start Survey.
Hemp and CBD oil were federally legalized with the Farm Bill, but scientists have been researching cannabidiol and its potential benefits for many years prior to the cannabis boom. CBD products are gaining popularity at a rapid pace, mainly due to the number of conditions potentially alleviated by this compound. Researchers are discovering new symptoms that CBD may be able to treat or help with in some way from anxiety to inflammation and neurodegenerative diseases like dementia. CBD may provide relief to thousands of people across the country.
