CBD Uses for Seniors

According to a 2020 Consumer Reports Survey, 20% of US senior citizens reported trying CBD, an increase of 6% from the previous year. The uptick in CBD use among seniors can be attributed to several factors, such as skyrocketing pharmaceutical prices, broadening awareness of conventional painkillers’ side effects, and changing attitudes toward cannabis products. However, the number one reason why seniors are turning to CBD is because it works! Let’s look at some of the most common CBD uses for seniors.

CBD Uses for Seniors: Benefits

Cannabidiol (CBD) is the primary active ingredient in federally legal hemp flowers. The compound interacts with receptors in our endocannabinoid system to help keep our essential bodily functions balanced. As we get older, we begin to lose our ability to cope with stressors, and we start to experience the effects of aging. CBD, along with moderate exercise and a healthy diet, can help us achieve a better quality of life in our golden years. Here are some ways CBD can benefit seniors:

CBD Can Ease Joint Pain

According to

CDC statistics

, 49% of US adults over 65 have reported doctor-diagnosed arthritis. Long-term use of over-the-counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen can adversely affect the kidneys and digestive system. Many seniors are searching for alternatives to NSAIDs and addictive opioid drugs for their creaky joints. A growing body of research has concluded that CBD has potent

anti-inflammatory properties

and can reduce chronic pain caused by inflamed joints.

CBD Reduces Muscle Spasms

Clinical studies

have shown that CBD and other cannabis compounds can reduce the muscle spasms associated with multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, and aging. CBD reduces muscle spasms by stimulating CB1 receptors in the nervous system, slowing the chemical signals that cause spasms.

CBD Has Neuroprotective Properties

Oxidative stress is at the root of most age-related neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s diseases. CBD is a powerful antioxidant that’s up to 50% more effective than vitamin C! Cannabidiol’s

neuroprotective properties

have been well documented, and researchers continue to investigate CBD as a potential treatment for age-related neurodegeneration.

CBD Promotes Restful Sleep

Chronic pain and anxiety are the two main reasons seniors often have trouble maintaining healthy sleep patterns. We’ve already talked about CBD’s effectiveness in easing body aches. However, CBD has also been shown to

reduce anxiety

in clinical trials. 

CBD May Inhibit Tumor Growth

A

2022 study

concluded that CBD exhibits several positive effects on cancer management, including encouraging apoptosis in cancer cells and slowing metastasis of tumors. CBD is also helpful in reducing nausea and vomiting and may even increase the effectiveness of chemotherapy treatments.

CBD Uses for Seniors: Risks

The most significant risk of CBD use for seniors is possible interactions with pharmaceutical drugs.

CBD may also be inappropriate for people with glaucoma as the compound increases intraocular pressure. If you’re interested in a natural way to improve glaucoma symptoms, consider speaking with your doctor about incorporating traditional cannabis or non-intoxicating cannabigerol (CBG) products into your daily routine.