Over the past few years, cannabidiol has been a hotly discussed topic in the media, as many people have touted CBD as a life-changing remedy for myriad health complaints. With its anti-inflammatory, anti-fibrotic, and anti-spasmodic properties, CBD has been shown to help with anxiety disorders, chronic pain relief, and even addiction recovery. Researchers are also exploring the benefits of CBD for patients with Parkinson’s disease. So, can CBD products be used as an alternative to smoking cessation?
CBD Has Been Shown to Help Treat Nicotine Addiction
While there is a lot of hype surrounding the use of CBD for treating many ailments, there is some promising research done on CBD’s efficacy on nicotine addiction. For example, a study done in 2012 found that THCV (tetrahydrocannabivarin) reduced the effects of nicotine withdrawal symptoms in rats. Another study done in 2013 showed that CBD can decrease cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with tobacco use.
However, the use of CBD and its effects on nicotine addiction continues to be investigated, so more validation is needed.
CBD Has the Potential to Assist With Smoking Cessation
The use of any form of cannabis products, such as vaporizers or edibles, is increasing in states where recreational marijuana has been legalized due to their lower levels of second-hand smoke. One study found that marijuana smokers who were using vaporizers had more success quitting smoking than those who switched to e-cigarettes. However, the study also showed that there is still a high risk of relapse in those who try to quit smoking with CBD.
Studies on the efficacy of CBD on smoking cessation continue to be conducted and published, but so far, the results have been mixed. A study done in 2012 showed that CBD was helpful in helping smokers quit. Another study done in 2015 showed that both 0% and 10% CBD could help smokers try to kick their habit of hard drugs.
Another study published in 2017 showed that CBD could help with inflammation and pain, which may make it an effective tool for smoking cessation.
Smoking Marijuana is Less Harmful than Cigarette Smoking
Smoking any substance will have deleterious effects on the body, but marijuana smoking is significantly less harmful than cigarette smoking. Even those who are trying to quit cigarettes are finding the benefits of smoking marijuana instead of nicotine products or prescription drugs. One study showed that the percentage of lung cancer deaths due to marijuana use is about one-tenth of the number of tobacco-related deaths.
CBD Can Help Reduce Anxiety and Depression in Patients with Parkinson ’s disease
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive and degenerative brain disorder that causes muscle stiffness and tremors. CBD has been shown to have neuroprotective effects, which may help in the treatment of this disease. According to a study in 2011, CBD can help relieve anxiety and depression in people with Parkinson’s disease.
Another study done in 2015 showed that CBD can help those with Parkinson’s disease reduce the symptoms of tremors, muscle stiffness, and balance problems.
