Benefits of Using CBD Oil for Relief From the Symptoms of Huntington’s Disease
CBD may provide aid to those with Huntington’s disease.
The progression of Huntington’s depends on neurons in the brain becoming inflamed. CBD, however, acts as an anti-inflammatory agent within the body.
This helps extend the lifespan of neurons, which may impede the development of the neurodegenerative disorder.
Huntington’s Disease is a neurodegenerative disorder with no known cure. Patients with HD may suffer rapid decline in their cognitive and motor function, but most experience a more gradual decline over 10-15 years. Although more research is needed, some studies indicate that CBD for brain disorders such as HD may become effective treatments.
Understanding Symptoms of Huntington’s Disease
Many researchers are exploring the safety and efficacy of using CBD for nerve cells to see if it is a viable treatment option for relieving symptoms or slowing the decline of patients with HD. Even early symptoms of Huntington’s disease can be frightening:
- Involuntary movements
- Loss of coordination
- Lower decision-making capabilities
- Difficulty retaining new information
- Irritability
- Depression
As the disease progresses, so do the symptoms. People with HD eventually experience cognitive decline, decreased mobility and difficulty speaking. Many of them turn to CBD oil for managing symptoms and report that it helps them.
Using CBD for Brain Cells To Reduce Inflammation
Some studies show promise of the possibility that CBD oil reduces inflammation of nerve cells and the subsequent neuropathic pain this inflammation causes. This is good news for those with HD. This genetic disorder stems from production of a protein called huntingtin. These proteins curl around neurons, causing them to become inflamed and eventually die. A treatment option that specifically reduces nerve inflammation, such as CBD, may keep neurons alive longer, delaying the progression of the disease. With better future studies, researchers may even be able to find a way to use CBD to prevent huntingtin from attacking neurons in those genetically predisposed to HD.
Using CBD for Nerve Cells To Regulate Receptors
One of the main foci of research studies on HD is the link between Huntington’s disease and endocannabinoid receptors. Huntington’s disease involves a decrease in the effectiveness of cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2. CB1 receptors in the brain and spinal chord confirm that the right information is getting to the nerve cells. CB2 receptors are located on the lymph nodes and immune cells. Together, they ensure that the endocannabinoid system regulates the speed that messages are sent throughout the body. Proper signaling is important because it informs the function of organs, tissues and brain development. Rather than simply stimulating these receptors, resulting in unregulated spikes, CBD oil may make them work more efficiently.
If you or a loved one suffers from Huntington’s disease, there is promising research that the use of CBD oil for brain disorders may be effective. Talk to your doctor to discuss your options.
