Friday, July 12, 2019

How Does CBD Help Veterans?


CBD, cannabidiol, cannabis, CBD as natural remedy
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Veterans are growing increasingly interested in CBD and cannabis reform. In fact, many veterans are vocal advocates for these kinds of products and are leading the charge for legalization in many states. Since the Veterans Affair (VA) system is notoriously challenging, it makes sense that vets would turn elsewhere to find assistance for war-related injuries, anxiety, and PTSD. For many, that means relying on CBD and similar products to find the relief they need. 

What is CBD?

CBD, also referred to as cannabidiol, is a compound derived from hemp. Unlike THC, which is derived from marijuana plans, CBD doesn’t have heady psychoactive properties, nor does it alter your mental state. For many, it is considered a “cannabis light,” and while that isn’t a wholly dishonest description, it isn’t quite accurate, either. Instead, CBD is its own component entirely. It’s also a great alternative since both congress and the VA are able to deny benefits if a vet is found using medicinal cannabis, even in a legal state. 

For many, CBD is the natural preference over waiting for untimely assistance provided by this country’s legal bodies. Not only that, but many veterans also believe that CBD is more effective and safer than many of the services offered by the VA, which is largely enforced by anecdotal experiences but has been detailed time and time again. It’s telling that, in a study conducted by the American Legion, over 82 percent of veterans support completely legalized medicinal marijuana in all states across the country. So why, exactly, is CBD such a hit amongst vets? 

Benefits of CBD for veterans



CBD provides numerous notable benefits by targeting your nervous system’s ECS, or endocannabinoid system. The ECS provides support to your immune system, helps to regulate anxiety and depression, affects your pain receptors, and can even help you get a better night’s sleep. For many veterans, products by brands like Receptra Naturals are seen as the smart choice over waiting for a backed-up organization’s assistance, especially in cases of chronic pain from a war injury. 

While it’s still a topic of debate for many, there’s growing support to the notion that cannabis could be a key component in the treatment of PTSD. It’s thought that cannabinoids are able to trigger the release of neurotransmitters that promote increased happiness and pleasure. CBD is also thought to prevent the retrieval of the mind’s underlying traumas. It helps to deter traumatic memories, nightmares, and flashbacks. On top of that, veterans with PTSD often experience general anxiety and insomnia, both of which CBD is known to help alleviate. 

While THC also has benefits for veterans, it’s still an issue of the possession of cannabis, even in legal states, interfering with their benefits. On top of this, many states are facing an uphill battle towards legalization. While it’s gained steam in many parts of the country, there are plenty of others that stand in direct opposition to legalization. Compared to THC, which has psychoactive properties, CBD isn’t as heavily regulated and is even legal over-the-counter in some states.

A natural fit

With all the information on hand, the research underway, and the clinical trials on the positive effects of CBD, it’s natural that so many veterans are expressing interest. Indeed, it often sounds like too perfect of a solution which is why further research is needed. As it stands, however, removing regulations and pushing towards wider legalization could be just the thing that veterans need to feel that they’re in greater control of their lives and their conditions.  

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