Why More People Are Choosing CBD Over Traditional Medications

Author: Ondrej Stovicek

Growing Popularity of CBD as an Alternative Treatment

Recent surveys reveal that more people are turning to CBD as an alternative to conventional treatments. This shift is significant, with many users reporting that they have been able to reduce or even eliminate their reliance on traditional medications after using CBD. The overwhelming consensus among users is that CBD is an effective treatment option.

The Study Behind the Trend

A comprehensive study conducted by the Brightfield Group and HelloMD, involving 2,400 participants, highlighted the increasing preference for CBD over traditional medicines. HelloMD, a group that connects patients with cannabis-prescribing doctors, found that a large percentage of users consider CBD to be more effective than conventional painkillers. Additionally, CBD is a natural substance, which appeals to those seeking alternative therapies.

Who Is Using CBD?

The study also shed light on the demographics and conditions of CBD users. While many associate cannabis with its psychoactive component THC, CBD, another cannabinoid, is gaining recognition for its therapeutic benefits without the "high."

  • 68% of CBD users also use THC products.
  • 55% of CBD users are women, despite the stigma surrounding drug use among women.

CBD is commonly used to manage conditions such as insomnia, depression, anxiety, joint pain, chronic pain, schizophrenia, PTSD, arthritis, epilepsy, and other neurological disorders.

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Why Choose CBD Over Traditional Medications?

CBD's popularity in the U.S. has been on the rise, particularly because it can replace several pharmaceutical drugs with one natural substance. For many, CBD offers better results than conventional medicines, especially in treating mood disorders and anxiety.

Comparing CBD to Traditional Treatments

  • Joint Pain and Inflammation: 54% of users treat their pain with CBD products, compared to 48% using THC-dominant products.
  • Migraine Relief: 38% use CBD-rich products, while 35% prefer CBD from hemp, and 34% use THC.
  • Chronic Pain: 32% treat chronic pain with CBD-dominant products, compared to 28% who use THC.
  • Arthritis: 31% use CBD from hemp, while 28% prefer CBD-dominant products, and 24% use THC.
  • Nausea Relief: 31% treat nausea with CBD from hemp, compared to 26% who use CBD alone.

These statistics underscore the growing belief that CBD is a safer and more effective treatment option than many traditional medications, especially given the low risk of side effects associated with its use.

Health Benefits and Safety of CBD

CBD has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including a protective effect on the brain and anti-cancer properties. These benefits make it appealing not just for those with serious illnesses but also for individuals seeking to maintain overall health. Importantly, CBD has not been shown to have any harmful effects on vital organs like the kidneys or liver, a common concern with long-term use of pharmaceutical drugs.

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CBD's Impact on Users' Health

  • 66% of users reported that CBD products are "more effective" or "much more effective" than over-the-counter medications for alleviating symptoms.
  • 67% of CBD-only users and 69% of hemp users found CBD more effective.
  • 14% of CBD users found it extremely effective for nausea relief, compared to 11% who used hemp-based CBD.
  • 11% of users with CBD-dominant products reported significant relief from arthritis, compared to 9% using THC.

CBD's ability to restore balance within the body, known as homeostasis, and reduce high blood pressure demonstrates its potential as a multi-targeted therapy, making it more effective than traditional painkillers that often address only one symptom.

Conclusion: The Future of CBD in Medicine

CBD's growing popularity is a testament to its effectiveness as an alternative to traditional medications. As more research supports its benefits, and as public awareness increases, it's likely that CBD will continue to be a preferred option for those seeking natural, effective treatment options without the side effects associated with conventional drugs.