CBD for senior citizens is a natural. Here’s why. Adults over age 50 comprise a sizeable portion of the American demographic. They have plenty of aches and pains, because aging can do that to you. Plus, many of these baby boomers were around in the ’60s and are a bit more apt to experiment with products that may not be totally mainstream. But here’s the best part. CBD has few, if any side effects, unlike many over-the-counter and prescription medications being consumed for those aches and pains.
But first, a little background. The CBD we discuss in this blog is a product of hemp. Unlike its cousin marijuana, which contains THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD from hemp will not get you high. That fact alone is probably why so many people choose CBD over THC. Both have their uses, but we’re here to discuss CBD from hemp, so I’ll leave you to do your own research on THC, if you’re interested.
CBD from hemp
Hemp is the plant from which CBD is derived. The CBD, or cannabidiol, is a chemical compound found in the hemp plant and is extracted by several methods. When purchasing CBD, you want to learn about its extraction methods, because how it’s extracted is important. There are also other important factors to look for that I’ve linked to here. Do yourself a favor and know all you can about the product you purchase. There are a lot of fakes out there and the least that can happen is that your money goes down the drain. The worst that can happen is toxins and chemicals a reputable product will not contain could produce a negative reaction.
In fact, this fake product alert appeared in a recent article in Forbes. “Hemp-derived CBD oil is now poised to overtake olive oil in the category of most counterfeited plant extract on the planet, making authenticity a prime concern for older consumers. Random samplings of CBD products consistently detect misrepresentation between their labels and their contents. In some cases, the nominal cannabinoid is entirely absent, in others, more nefarious substances have been found.”
How can seniors benefit from CBD?
First, it’s important to know that every body, human or otherwise, already has an endocannabinoid system (ECS), with CB receptors that travel around the body to help keep balance in the numerous systems in our bodies. When our ECS becomes compromised, adding CBD can help restore balance. It’s a lot more complicated than that and you can learn more here.
CBD can be beneficial for anyone, but let’s look at some of the ways CBD can benefit senior citizens.
Pain
CBD is an anti-inflammatory, and most pain is caused by inflammation, so it makes sense that when joint and muscles ache, or when you experience pain from arthritis, neuropathy from surgery or cancer treatment, nerve pain and others, CBD can ease the discomfort. Use it as an oil to supplement your diet and balance your system. In addition, apply creams or salves directly to the affected area to get to the heart of the matter quickly. It’s a great alternative to prescription and over-the-counter products, which often can have side effects.
Sleep
Sleep can be elusive as we age, but with CBD, a restful sleep can be within reach. It acts as a calming agent for your mind and your body. As noted above, it can help ease pain, which may interfere with a restful sleep. CBD can also help stabilize hormones that can cause anxiety and stress. A great benefit of CBD is that, unlike sleeping pills or other aids, it’s not addicting and doesn’t produce negative side effects.
Bones
As we age, our bones tend to lose density. When that occurs, the potential for fractures increases. CBD, which can control inflammation and help repair bone cells, could be a way to stave off bone fragility. Some research shows that CBD can help strengthen bones, but also promote healing if there is a fracture.
Depression
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, depression and anxiety in older adults is common for multiple reasons. But, low serotonin levels generally tend to bring on depression and anxiety disorders. Introducing CBD prompts CB1 receptor, most commonly found in the brain, to act and it binds with a serotonin receptor to activate its calming effect.
Heart. Heart problems continue to hold center stage among many seniors, but CBD can do a heart good. Studies have shown that it can help reduce blood pressure. High blood pressure is often linked to heart attack and stroke. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties can help lower inflammation and reduce cell death that accompanies heart disease.
Aging well with CBD
Included as part of a healthful lifestyle, CBD can help alleviate some of the more uncomfortable aspects of aging. Its nutritional properties alone make it a wonderful dietary supplement. Topicals in the form of salves, lotions, creams and ointments, work to alleviate conditions such as pain, dry skin, burns, etc. when applied directly to the specific area. It’s a more natural alternative to health care that comes with few side effects, if you work with your doctor and know what’s in the CBD product you want to use.