Parkinson’s Disease and CBD

x

Parkinson’s disease is a nervous system disorder characterized by tremors and irregular body movements. Because Parkinson’s disease typically starts off with a few tremors that gradually progress into other negative symptoms over time, those living with this illness may find it difficult to perform daily activities.

Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease

Although the side effects of this disease will vary from case to case, some of the primary symptoms of Parkinson’s disease include:

  • Bradykinesia — slowness of movements
  • Shaking
  • Muscle aches and pains
  • Tremors
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Drooling
  • Rigid muscle

Because Parkinson’s disease is a progressive illness, a patient with this disease may exhibit minor symptoms at first that gradually worsen over time.

Although researchers have yet to discover a cure for this disease, there are medications currently on the market that help patients find adequate relief. Because the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease can be debilitating, it’s crucial to seek a form of medicinal therapy that allows the patient to perform their daily tasks with ease.

As medical practitioners begin to understand the therapeutic benefits of cannabis, one of the primary cannabinoids found in the plant — called cannabidiol (CBD) — has become one medication doctors may incorporate into a patient’s wellness plan to decrease their symptoms.

How Parkinson’s Disease Affects the Endocannabinoid System

Although researchers are still discovering the full functionality of the endocannabinoid system, they understand how crucial it is in achieving homeostasis within the body. This system plays a significant role in ensuring anti-inflammatory properties, pain management and movement coordination. In patients with Parkinson’s disease, various portions of the endocannabinoid system are irregular, causing altered pathological conditions that disrupt normal functioning.

Within the endocannabinoid system, receptors bind to various cannabinoids to produce essential brain chemicals, including dopamine. Because Parkinson’s disease typically affects the dopaminergic neurons in the brain, it’s crucial to examine the endocannabinoid system and its effect on the progression of this disease.

The portion of the brain that controls brain movement, the basal ganglia, also possesses a wide range of receptors necessary for motor function. In patients with Parkinson’s disease, these receptors are scarcer, disrupting the overall system.

How CBD Regulates the Endocannabinoid System of Parkinson’s Disease

Because marijuana produces CBD as an active ingredient, this form of medication can efficiently help normalize the endocannabinoid system in patients with Parkinson’s disease.

The endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role in the formation of dopamine. In patients with Parkinson’s disease, 60 to 80 percent of dopamine-producing neurons are lost or altered over time, creating degraded motor function.

Various cannabis products and forms, most specifically CBD, produce antioxidant and neuroprotection effects. This means neurons receive added protection against damage or death, stimulating receptor activation instead. The appearance of these favorable properties helps to ensure the endocannabinoid system can more efficiently regulate the body’s systems.

One of the benefits of CBD is that it fails to produce the psychoactive effects that pure cannabis products can create. Parkinson’s disease patients can enjoy the benefits of cannabis without experiencing altered mental states in the process.

Forms of CBD for Parkinson’s Disease Patients

CBD is an effective, safe form of treatment for those suffering from the unwanted symptoms of Parkinson’s disease at all stages. If you or a loved one is currently experiencing tremors, pain, coordination issues or other complications stemming from this disease, you may be considering CBD as a viable treatment option.

Parkinson’s disease patients can take CBD using a range of ingestion methods, including:

  • Smoking: One of the most common methods of ingestion for all marijuana products, CBD included, is smoking. This form of cannabis is widely known for its rapid-relief effects. If a Parkinson’s disease patient suffers from sudden tremors or coordination difficulties, smoking can help alleviate these symptoms almost immediately.
  • Vaporizers: Vaporizers offer a safer alternative for smoking since the patient will be inhaling water vapor instead of actual smoke. The major perk of vaporizers is the lack of throat discomfort, which is a major downside to smoking. Vaporizers offer quick relief, as well.
  • Ingestibles: Patients can also ingest CBD in the form of various edible products, capsules and tinctures. For those seeking a wellness plan with consistency, ingestible products allow for more reliably measured dosages. Ingestible forms of CBD also offer prolonged effects since the digestive system must break down the product.

The Best CBD Products for Patients With Parkinson’s Disease

Since no two patients are the same, herbalists cultivate a variety of medical marijuana strains suited to treat multiple symptoms. If you choose CBD to alleviate your symptoms, then be sure to select the cannabis variety best suited for you.

Patients with Parkinson’s disease should consider one of the following CBD strain options to treat their symptoms:

  • Kobain Kush
  • Dutch Dragon
  • Dark Blue Dream
  • Cherry Grapefruit
  • Lavender Haze

Please note that patients should consult with a doctor regularly for the best results. Under their guidance, you can discuss your individual symptoms and ask any questions. A healthcare professional will help you find the ideal dose and products for your needs.

Learn More About CBD and Parkinson’s Disease at MarijuanaDoctors.com

Want to learn more about the perks of CBD products in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease and other conditions? At MarijuanaDoctors.com, we supply you with the resources necessary to be a more informed patient. Find out more about the latest cannabis news in the industry, connect with medical professionals in your area and learn how you can find relief by choosing the marijuana products best suited for you.

Learn More About Parkinson’s Disease

Learn more about Parkinson’s Disease and what makes medical marijuana an effective treatment for Parkinson’s Disease’s symptoms.