Can CBD Oil Help Improve Eye Health?

Since the 2018 Agriculture Improvement Act, cannabidiol has been legal in all 50 states. This has led to a significant increase in interest in using CBD for various health and wellness benefits. Many people have started to examine whether using CBD oil for eyes can improve overall eye health or treat certain conditions such as glaucoma. Read on to learn a little more about CBD oil and eyesight.

Why Would CBD Help Eye Health?

CBD has known anti-inflammatory and pain-killing benefits. Although research into the substance is still relatively new and incomplete, medical professionals have found CBD to be effective for various benefits including treating chronic pain, improving sleep and mitigating anxiety.

More specifically, glaucoma has a long-established association with medicinal cannabis use. It is believed to help reduce pressure in the eye that can worsen glaucoma. Many patients report positive benefits and pain relief.

What Is the Research Saying?

Currently, the research on CBD oil for glaucoma and other eye health issues is in its infancy. For example, a 2016 paper examined cannabinoid receptors in vervet monkeys. It found that manipulating the endocannabinoid system can help improve vision and eye health. However, this was performed on non-human subjects and is only a step on the way to showing real medical benefits.

Another study reviewed research on cannabinoids and glaucoma. It determined that there is some evidence that the antioxidant properties of CBD may help prevent nerve damage in the eye.

However, another study found that CBD oil actually increased eye pressure in rats. In other words, the research is mixed. Nonetheless, CBD oil has documented benefits and researchers will certainly continue to examine it as an option for glaucoma and other conditions.