CBD as a treatment for Alzheimer's disease

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Hemp is now widely known for its various therapeutic effects, for which it is now widely researched. From controlling pain and inflammation to helping treat certain mental disorders. The most common neurodegenerative disease on the list of diseases that can have a beneficial effect on Alzheimer's disease. Another very common one is Parkinson's Disease.

Hemp has been studied as a potential treatment for Alzheimer's disease since at least the turn of the century. Today, interest in this topic is higher than ever. The scientific publisher Frontiers recently launched a call for papers on "endocannabinoid system in neurodegenerative diseases", highlighting the topic as a "hot area of research".

In September 2021 alone, three articles appeared in the scientific literature summarising much of what is known about Alzheimer's disease and the endocannabinoid system - and as we all know, this is the system in which CBD operates.

What is Alzheimer's disease?

Let's start with an important question: What exactly is Alzheimer's disease?

It is a brain disease in which brain cells shrink and lose their function. This is caused by amyloid-beta, a protein that clumps together into amyloid plaques and damages nerve cells. The reasons why these processes begin and what triggers them are still unknown and have been the subject of research by scientists around the world. It is the most common form of dementia.

What does the research say about CBD and Alzheimer's disease?

Several studies have shown that behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) are reduced when cannabinoids are used. However, due to the small number of studies and their short duration, the effectiveness of these substances against BPSD cannot be confirmed.

A 2019 study suggested that BPSD may be useful for the treatment and prevention of Alzheimer's disease, as the constituents of BPSD can suppress some symptoms, such as behavioural disorders and memory loss. In addition, he suggested that the combined use of CBD and THC may be more useful than using one of them separately.

However, research is still limited and more human studies are needed to conclude whether CBD can help treat Alzheimer's disease.

Can CBD help with the mental and physical symptoms of Alzheimer's disease?

Alzheimer's disease can lead to changes in behaviour such as:

• loss of inhibitions
• aggressive behaviour
• sleep disturbances
• social isolation

CBD can be helpful in alleviating the common symptoms of Alzheimer's disease in a variety of ways. CBD has been shown to help with psychiatric symptoms such as sleep loss, anxiety and depression.

Despite its ability to help with certain symptoms, CBD may not be able to help with the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease that appear as the disease progresses.

Symptoms of disease progression include:

• difficulty speaking or writing
• impaired judgement
• distance from loved ones
• memory loss

Does CBD have any side effects?

According to the World Health Organization, CBD is generally considered safe. A few side effects occasionally occur and need to be considered.

Side effects noted in studies include:

• diarrhoea
• changes in appetite and weight
• fatigue

As always, we recommend consulting your doctor before taking CBD.

CBD dosing during Alzheimer's disease

There are many forms of CBD on the market. CBD oils or drops are a good option for anyone who can't take pills or capsules. But if you are more comfortable taking CBD capsules, we recommend choosing this method of taking CBD!

The amount of CBD you should take depends on several factors, including:

• your body weight
• the condition you are treating
• your CBD concentration
• your age
• other medications you are taking

And remember that less is sometimes more - so we always recommend starting with a smaller dosage and this can be adjusted as necessary.

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Article author:

Eva Kellerová



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Resources:

https://www.healthline.com/health/alzheimers/cbd-for-alzheimers#dosing

https://www.projectcbd.org/medicine/alzheimers-disease-endocannabinoid-system