Parkinson’s disease is a neurological disorder that results in a variety of movement issues including tremors, difficulty balancing, muscle stiffness, and more. Parkinson’s disease is progressive, meaning the symptoms become worse overtime, and unfortunately there is no cure. An individual who is in the early stages of Parkinson’s disease may experience difficulty standing, lack of facial expressions, shaky hands, balance issues, and slowness in movement. Symptoms might progress into slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, memory loss, loss of smell, difficulty concentrating, and more. Individuals with Parkinson’s disease may also suffer from depression, anxiety, apathy, irritability, pain, and difficulty sleeping. Although there is no cure for Parkinson’s disease, individuals are often prescribed medications to alleviate its symptoms. However, these medications often have debilitating side effects (nausea, dizziness, blurred vision, etc….)
A recently published study from Brazilian researchers showed that CBD reduced anxiety and tremors that occurred during a public speaking test for people over 60 with PD. Subjects who took 300 milligrams of CBD before giving a speech had less symptoms than a control group who were given a placebo. Researchers, Alyssa S. Laun and Zhao-Hui Song from the University of Louisville, Kentucky, found that CBD acts as an “inverse agonist” on CPR6 receptors. These receptors are found mainly in the basal ganglia region of the brain, which connects to the cerebral cortex and brainstem, driving functions in our bodies including movement, learning, and emotion. With that being said, CBD can have therapeutic effects against symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
CBD has shown to demonstrate relief for tremors, psychosis, and sleeping problems. Additionally, it can be used to reduce depression, anxiety, and relieve pain. CBD is a natural alternative to traditional medications. CBD is also gaining momentum as a treatment for other health-related conditions including Alzheimer’s disease, epilepsy, anxiety, and chronic pain.
CBD has been found to be safe by researchers. There is almost no evidence for potential abuse and/or dependence on it. However, there are a few side effects that can be seen in CBD users including diarrhea, appetite changes, and tiredness. In addition, there may be dangerous drug interactions when CBD is combined with certain pharmaceutical medications. It is important to talk with your doctor before trying CBD. The long term effects of CBD usage is unknown. It is crucial that individuals speak with their physician before using CBD.
For more information visit https://www.dementiacarecentral.com/parkinsons/treating/cbd/.