Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-intoxicating compound found in marijuana that has been gaining attention as a potential treatment for a variety of disorders and diseases, from epilepsy to cancer. A recent brain imaging study suggests that a single dose of CBD may reduce symptoms of psychosis by “restoring activity in three areas of the brain.” But can CBD also help repair the brain after traumatic injury?Traumatic brain injuries can have serious, long-term effects on everyday life. Fortunately, current research indicates that CBD oil may be an effective way to treat the symptoms of traumatic brain injuries, protect the brain from further damage, and start the path to recovery. Five neuroimaging studies have explored the acute effects of CBD on brain function in patients with a psychiatric disorder.
The results showed that patients being treated with CBD had intermediate activation in several groups located bilaterally in the inferior frontal gyrus and in the left middle frontal gyrus. Additionally, during the presentation of mildly fearful faces, CBD attenuated activity bilaterally in the back lobe of the cerebellum. While research is still ongoing, there is some evidence that CBD oil can be incredibly useful in the healing process after a traumatic brain injury. For example, it has been shown to reduce seizures, improve mood, reduce inflammation, and control conditions such as migraines, mental confusion, anxiety, depression and chronic pain.
It can also reduce the production of cytokines, which are small proteins that incite inflammation. The main mechanism by which CBD can be used to prevent brain damage due to traumatic brain injury lies in its extensive anti-inflammatory properties. In fact, some studies have found that CBD can offer some of the same benefits as medications used to treat traumatic brain injuries without producing the same side effects. Overall, research suggests that CBD may be an effective way to treat symptoms and protect the brain from further damage after a traumatic injury. While more research is needed to fully understand how CBD works and its potential benefits for treating traumatic brain injuries, it is clear that it has potential as an effective treatment option.
