Many experts in the field of neurodegenerative conditions have called Alzheimer’s one of the most important diseases of the 21st century, and there are numbers to back this claim. Right now, almost 6 million Americans are living with the disease and in 30 years that number is projected to increase to 14 million or more. It is the sixth leading cause of death among all Americans and the fifth leading cause among people 65 years of age and older.
While there are a few medications that help manage some of the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, there is nothing that slows its progression or cures it. Most medications come with mild to severe side effects that make taking them difficult. That’s where CBD or cannabidiol comes in. A number of research studies report positive effects of CBD on Alzheimer’s symptoms as well as its potential role as a medication for the disease in the near future.
Why CBD?
CBD is a neuroprotectant, antioxidant, and an anti-inflammatory agent making it a possibly perfect fit for treating Alzheimer’s disease, along with other medications. Researchers have discovered that the disease is strongly connected to the endocannabinoid system in which CBD does its work. CBD is the key that unlocks the endocannabinoid system’s ability to protect nerves and to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. CBD also neutralizes free radicals, clears out beta amyloid, improves the function of mitochondria and removes cellular waste, which are all associated with the formation of the disease.
Research Then and Now
People might be surprised to find out that research examining the effects of CBD on symptoms of Alzheimer’s has been going on since the early 2000s. One particular study examined the role of endocannabinoids in counteracting both the neurochemical and inflammatory consequences of B-amyloid-induced tau protein hyperactivity which is possibly the most important underlying cause of Alzheimer’s disease.
Another early study reported that there is increased evidence that the cannabinoid system may regulate neurodegenerative processes including glutamate production, oxidative stress and neuroinflammation. The authors believe that CBD may become a treatment for neurodegeneration and perhaps even interrupt the pathological process in Alzheimer’s disease.
In 2010, Swiss researchers found an involvement of the endocannabinoid system in the neurotransmission, neuropathology, and neurobiology of disorders including Alzheimer’s, Huntington’s, Parkinson’s and vascular dementia. They also believe that CBD holds a therapeutic potential in neurodegenerative diseases and may be able to slow down the cognitive decline and manage symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
As the research continued around the world, more evidence was discovered concerning the benefits of CBD for Alzheimer’s. Researchers from Brazil found a significant reduction of amyloid beta-induced neuronal cell death with the use of CBD. Another study found that the behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia like agitation and aggression, may be better managed through the use of CBD.
The Need for Hope
While there are medications available specifically to treat various symptoms of Alzheimer’s, they come with potentially negative side effects (nausea, loss of appetite, confusion, constipation and heart problems) and may only be effective for 6 months or slightly more. There are currently no therapies that can prevent, significantly slow down or reverse the disease and there surely is no cure. This has excited researchers around the world concerning the possible use of CBD as a viable treatment for Alzheimer’s.
Final Thoughts on CBD and Alzheimer’s Disease
People are living longer lives thanks to advances in food safety, public sanitation, and advances in medicine. But with each advancing year, we run a higher risk of developing some form of neurodegenerative disorder like Alzheimer’s disease. Traditional medicine can do only so much and it has been found that CBD may hold a promising place in preventing, slowing the progression, and treating the symptoms of Alzheimer’s.