CBD has been touted as a cure-all for pain and other disorders. But does the compound really work to alleviate all ailments? A new survey breaks it down.

Products containing CBD are fast becoming a staple of consumer health regimes with it having the distinction of now being the most researched trend on social media. But what are the wellness benefits of CBD?

A recent survey by Project CBD validated prior established claims about CBD, most notably its effectiveness in treating pain and inflammation. About 90% of those surveyed who used CBD to reduce pain reported some improvement in the duration and frequency of their pain. In particular, their average pain score was 6.85 prior to taking CBD and 2.76 after taking CBD. 

Those who use CBD for sleep reported that their average time to fall asleep was reduced from one hour to 20 minutes. They also reported waking up 1.4 times per night when on CBD versus 4.3 times per night without it.  

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Among those who use CBD to treat a mood disorder, 92% of them reported that they experienced some relief from nervousness after taking CBD. Also, CBD worked well at reducing feelings or irritability, agitation and sadness, as well as helping mitigate mood swings and relieve panic attacks. 

Among those with medical conditions, CBD proved to be most effective for helping those with cancer and gastrointestinal (GI) diseases by relieving nausea, vomiting, and indigestion, as well as abdominal pain and cramps. 

About 40% of those surveyed reported having one or more side effects when taking CBD. The most common complaints were increased appetite, dry mouth, dry or bloodshot eyes, and tiredness. These complaints tended to be mild in nature. 

In terms of the types of CBD used, the majority of those surveyed used hemp derived CBD. Tinctures and topicals were preferred over flower and edibles. Those who used CBD products used them multiple times throughout the day. Often more than one type of product was used, and the combination of a tincture and topical was the most common combo of CBD products. 

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Finally, while some claim CBD is a panacea that can cure all ills, this survey showed that some symptoms do not respond well to CBD. For example, CBD did not offer significant relief from PMS-related bloating and diarrhea, the constipation that’s often associated with cancer, and low sex drive caused as a result of menopause. CBD was also not beneficial in helping those with gastrointestinal diseases maintain a healthy weight. 

The wellness benefits of CBD appears to be best utilized to help people alleviate their pain, improve their moods, and get a good night’s sleep.