During the cold and flu season, many people are desperately looking for remedies to alleviate their unpleasant symptoms. One possible treatment option that is increasingly coming into focus is CBD oil.
The CBD extracted from the hemp plant is attracting attention due to its potential therapeutic effect without causing a high.
This article provides an overview of the research to date on the effects of CBD on the body and its potential benefits for common symptoms.
What is CBD oil and how does it work in the body?
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is one of over 100 active ingredients in the cannabinoid group found in the hemp plant. The hemp flowers, leaves and stalks in particular contain these substances.
The best-known cannabinoids are the non-intoxicating CBD and THC, which is known for its psychoactive effect. Initial research results on the use of cannabinoids are promising, although it is not yet fully known how exactly CBD interacts with the human body and influences health.
However, it is clear that cannabinides interact with the human body via an endocannabinoid system. This influences important functions such as the immune response, the sensation of pain and regulates sleep.
It is assumed that CBD has an indirect effect on this system by binding to cannabinoid receptors in the central and peripheral nervous system. Through these interactions, CBD can have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anxiolytic and other beneficial effects.
Can CBD oil alleviate cold and flu symptoms?
The possible effects of CBD on inflammation, pain, anxiety and immunity could also have a positive effect on cold and flu symptoms and alleviate them. It is therefore assumed that the following properties ultimately have a positive effect on the course of colds and flu:
Improved sleep quality
Research shows that CBD can promote the quality of sleep. In particular, CBD can help you fall asleep better and sleep through the night, as well as reduce daytime sleepiness. Adequate sleep is an important element in supporting immune function
Possible anti-inflammatory properties
Studies show that CBD can have anti-inflammatory properties. This means that the use of CBD can relieve sore throats and other symptoms by reducing the inflammation associated with colds and flu in the airways and throughout the body.
Pain relief
More and more research results show that CBD can influence the perception of pain in the body. Studies show that, together with the anti-inflammatory effect, various types of pain, such as headaches and aching limbs, arthritis and sore muscles, can be effectively alleviated. In this context, this could also apply to pain caused by flu and colds.
Possible antiviral and immune-boosting effect
Although studies are still needed to provide clear results, studies suggest that CBD can positively influence the function of antiviral immune cells. This may be helpful in fighting disease and may also protect against illness. However, further research is needed to confirm this potential effect.
What you should know before using CBD oil for colds
If in doubt, a doctor should be consulted before treating cold and flu symptoms with CBD preparations. Even if only comparatively harmless side effects of CBD are known, contraindications with other medications or health conditions may occur.
As there is still no uniform regulation and standardisation for CBD products it is also important to ensure high product quality. High-quality products from companies that have been tested and certified by third parties are recommendedfor example through a cosmetics or organic control.
Studies show promising results when using CBD to alleviate factors associated with cold and flu symptoms. In contrast, there are still no studies that indicate direct improvements of CBD for flu and colds. All in all, further studies are needed.
Can CBD help you with a cold or flu?
Current scientific findings indicate that CBD pain, Inflammations and anxiety and can improve sleep. In summary, it could therefore minimise the unpleasant symptoms of colds and flu and help indirectly.
All in all, CBD can be a supportive self-treatment alongside conventional treatment. However, it should be noted that the use of CBD is not a medical treatment and does not replace it.
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