An Introduction to CBD and Its Potential Role in Preventing Memory Loss
10 October 2023Memory loss has a significant impact on one’s life, which is why researchers are keen to explore the potential of CBD in addressing memory issues. Naturally, memory problems become more common as we age. However, there are also various conditions, such as Alzheimer’s, that cause memory loss. In this blog, we explain how CBD Oil might help support cognition and memory.
The Link Between CBD and Memory Loss
Our brain is a remarkable organ. It’s the reason we have self-awareness and helps us remember everything from childhood events to our grocery list or the fact that we need to send an email to a colleague.
Everyone forgets things occasionally. Forgetting something once in a while is not a big deal. However, if you suffer from chronic memory loss that hinders your daily functioning, it usually indicates a more serious issue. It’s essential to determine the cause and seek treatment. CBD oil might offer a solution for memory loss.
CBD (cannabidiol) is a compound derived from the hemp plant. The hemp plant produces numerous compounds called phytocannabinoids. When ingested, these interact with the human endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system’s role is to maintain the body’s homeostasis (or natural balance).
It does this by regulating processes like emotions, stress response, blood pressure, and memory. Since CBD can interact with the ECS, this natural compound might have a positive effect on memory loss. Below, we discuss which memory problems CBD might address.
CBD for Memory Issues Due to Stress and Anxiety
Severe anxiety and stress negatively impact memory. When stressed, our brains struggle to create short-term memories. Stress and anxiety also hinder the transfer of memories from short-term to long-term storage.
Moreover, many people suffering from stress also have sleep issues. Proper sleep is essential for storing daily events in your memory.
CBD can be beneficial here. It has relaxing and calming effects and can alleviate feelings of stress and tension. This can also help reduce sleep problems. In this way, your brain can relax, allowing you to concentrate better and absorb new information.
CBD for Memory Loss Due to Alzheimer’s and Dementia
Dementia has a devastating effect on the brain. Patients with dementia experience cognitive decline over time. This is due to the brain’s neurons being damaged by the accumulation of harmful proteins.
What CBD can offer for dementia and Alzheimer’s is its potential to reduce inflammation in the brain. Additionally, it can reduce oxidative stress and even promote neurogenesis, meaning it can stimulate the body to produce new nerve cells. All these factors suggest that the progression of these diseases might be slowed down.
Protection of Nerves
What makes CBD a potent remedy for memory loss is its ability to help protect nerves. These neuroprotective properties can ensure that the brain and nerve cells are less likely to be damaged by oxidative stress, a process that can cause memory loss as you age.
These properties are also beneficial for certain conditions like MS, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s. Oxidative stress is a continuous process. It arises when breaking down nutrients releases oxygen. This is oxidation. However, this process also releases free radicals, byproducts that the body usually cleans up.
If this cleanup process is disrupted, free radicals remain in the body, causing damage. If you suffer from a nerve disease, you might experience more pain. CBD is an antioxidant, a compound that can help protect against free radicals.
In cases of brain disorders and diseases like MS, this natural remedy can help protect nerves, reduce inflammation, and even alleviate pain.
Can CBD Help Restore Memory?
If CBD can protect and maintain brain health, can it also help restore memory? Research suggests this might be possible. This was studied in rats with cognitive and memory issues. A single dose of 10 mg of CBD per kilogram seemed to help retrieve memories that were previously entirely forgotten.
Similar results were published in Neuropsychopharmacology. This study also used rats with memory problems. After receiving CBD, it was evident that there were improvements in recognition memory, recognizing objects and situations. There was also an improvement in working memory retention and social interactions.
The Positive Effects of CBD on the Brain
It appears that CBD can have a significant positive impact on memory issues. Of course, more research is needed, but from what is known, CBD shows great potential. It works in various ways, affecting sleep, cognition, stress levels, inflammatory responses, and nerve protection.
Moreover, CBD has few side effects and can be safely used long-term. However, it should be taken regularly, preferably daily. This can pose challenges for those with memory problems. You can ask for help or use memory aids, like setting an alarm on your phone to take your daily dose of CBD Oil or CBD Tablets.
Another convenient option is that you can ingest CBD with food and drinks. For instance, you could take your daily dose by drinking CBD coffee at breakfast. Or try our delicious CBD oatmeal, a healthy start to the day with an extra boost for your memory.
