With the evolution of cannabis legislation in Switzerland, many people are turning to cannabidiol (CBD) for its potential health benefits. So, can CBD help treat multiple sclerosis?
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Some patients with chronic conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS) use CBD to relieve their symptoms. Although the research is not yet conclusive, CBD has shown promise as a useful tool for reducing chronic pain and alleviating the unpleasant symptoms associated with various medical conditions. This article will look in detail at how CBD could help multiple sclerosis patients.
The basics of CBD
CBD oil is extracted from the cannabis and, unlike THC, it does not cause the 'high' often associated with cannabis. There are many cannabinoids in cannabis, but CBD and THC are the two most commonly mentioned.
Research into CBD is still ongoing, but there is promising evidence that CBD may have therapeutic benefits, such as reducing pain, anxiety and insomnia. There are three types of CBD:
Isolated CBD oil is pure CBD, without THC or any other cannabinoid from the cannabis plant. However, the isolated product may contain solvents from the extraction process. That's why it's important to look for products with a certificate of analysis (COA) from third-party tests to check for purification residues.
The other two forms of CBD are broad spectrum and full spectrum. Broad spectrum does not contain THC but includes other cannabinoids. Full-spectrum CBD contains a small amount of THC and may be more effective than other forms of CBD due to the 'entourage effect'.
Can CBD help control symptoms and treat multiple sclerosis?
Some people use CBD oil to help manage chronic pain as an alternative to potentially addictive drugs such as opioids. Currently, there isn't enough research to verify the analgesic benefits of CBD, but what we do know so far is encouraging. Some symptoms of multiple sclerosis that CBD could help improve are:
Fatigue;
Muscle spasms;
Nervous pain or discomfort;
Pain and itching.
A 2018 review suggested that CBD is an effective pain management tool with few side effects. The research looked at pain caused by:
Cancer;
Neuropathies;
Fibromyalgia;
Inflammation.
Researchers have also studied the anti-inflammatory effects of CBD. A 2015 animal study showed that mice with arthritis given 6.2 mg of CBD per day had less swelling and pain than those given no CBD oil. While these results are very interesting, human studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness of CBD.
The symptoms of multiple sclerosis
Some studies have also looked specifically at whether CBD can help treat multiple sclerosis by controlling patients' symptoms. However, most research has looked at the effects of THC and CBD together in the form of a mouth spray called Sativex.
According to a 2014 research summary, Sativex could be an effective treatment option for multiple sclerosis-related symptoms such as muscle spasms, intermittent urination and pain.
A 2018 study examining the effects of Sativex on the driving ability of people with multiple sclerosis found that users of the spray did not show an increase in car accidents. Users also reported an improvement in their driving ability, probably due to reduced muscle spasms. It has been suggested that cannabis products with a CBD ratio of 1:1 could reduce muscle spasms and pain in people with multiple sclerosis. Cannabis may also reduce inflammation-related fatigue, thereby improving mobility in people with multiple sclerosis.
Both the National Council and the Council of States support this measure, signalling a unified commitment to promoting healthcare options for Swiss citizens. While legalisation paves the way, Switzerland has put in place restrictions on the use of medical cannabis. Reserved for specific medical conditions such as chronic pain, multiple sclerosis and epilepsy, only strictly controlled varieties are authorised for medical use. These regulations guarantee a meticulous cultivation process, maintaining high standards of quality and safety.
Available forms of CBD
CBD is available in several forms:
Oils and dyes
These liquids are taken orally by placing drops under the tongue. These options are suitable for people who have difficulty swallowing tablets.
Creams and lotions
The CBD products Topicals are best for muscle and joint pain, and can be used to treat certain skin conditions. Topicals are not suitable for systemic problems such as insomnia.
Capsules and gums
Those with systemic problems may prefer tablets. However, not everyone feels comfortable swallowing capsules and tablets. Gummies are an ideal form for those who don't like taking pills.
Vapes
Experts advise against consuming CBD in this way because of the potentially negative effects on health.
How to find quality CBD products
Here are a few questions to ask when buying CBD products:
What type of CBD is it? To take full advantage of the entourage effect, choose a full-spectrum product. If you want to avoid THC altogether, choose isolated or broad-spectrum CBD. Note that any product CBD may contain a small amount of THCThis can show up in drug tests.
Does the company test its products in a third-party laboratory? How can I buy CBD legally in Switzerland?
What does this CBD product contain? Look for products containing hemp, hemp extract or hemp oil. Also check where the company's raw materials come from. Ideally, look for products containing organic hemp grown in Switzerland.
How to choose the best CBD products for people with multiple sclerosis
CBD oils from companies providing proof of third-party testing;
Made from hemp grown in Switzerland, in accordance with National Council standards;
Passing tests for pesticides, heavy metals and mould.
Mariswiss is one of the companies selling legal cannabis in Switzerland. Products are sold on the mariswiss.com website, including: CBD FLOWERS, CBD RESINS.
To buy cannabis legally in Switzerland, please contact Mariswiss.