Cannabinoids, including Cannabidiol (CBD), are derived from the cannabis plant, and may help reduce symptoms of multiple sclerosis. Studies involving CBD and people with MS indicate that this compound may decrease spasticity, reduce pain and decrease inflammation.
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Decrease the disabling affects of spasticity.
For those with MS, spasticity exerts the greatest impact on their overall quality of life. Available pharmaceuticals to relieve spasticity are often poorly tolerated and provide limited benefits. However, clinical results from several, controlled trials involving MS patients using cannabinoids report reductions in the severity of spasticity symptoms and improved ability for MS patients to perform certain daily tasks.
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Reduce neuropathic pain associated with MS.
A meta-analysis of cannabinoid treatments for MS-related pain and neuropathy found that people with varying degrees of multiple sclerosis suffer pain described as a burning discomfort, “girdling” pain or a “pins and needles” sensation that is difficult to moderate. Cannabinoids used by MS patients reporting chronic pain may work to diminish pain and improve physical mobility.
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Decrease inflammation within the central nervous system.
CBD seems to exhibit potent immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce symptoms of several types of demyelinating diseases, such as MS, optic neuritis and transverse myelitis. In addition to possibly minimizing the movement of blood leukocytes involved in promoting CNS inflammation, CBD may also assuage deficits in motor activity during the chronic stage of multiple sclerosis.
Research findings also indicate that cannabinoids may help ease sleep disturbances (insomnia, interrupted sleep) and muscle spasms commonly affecting MS patients.
Author: Kurt Forstmann
Source: 3 Reasons to Consider CBD to Help Deal with Multiple Sclerosis