Cannabidiol: The History of Cannabidiol and its Use in Medicine
| On : June 5, 2023
A Rich History
Cannabidiol, or CBD, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. In this blog post, we’ll explore the history of CBD and its use in medicine, from ancient times to modern-day.
We’ll start by discussing the early uses of cannabis and hemp in traditional medicine, including its use in ancient China and India. Then, we’ll move on to the discovery of CBD and its potential therapeutic properties. We’ll also touch on the legal history of CBD, including its classification as a Schedule I drug in the United States.
Finally, we’ll discuss some of the current and potential uses of CBD in modern medicine, such as for treating epilepsy, anxiety, and chronic pain. Whether you’re a history buff or just interested in the science of CBD, this blog post has something for everyone.
Early Uses of Cannabis and Discovery of CBD
The use of cannabis and hemp for medicinal purposes can be traced back thousands of years. Ancient Chinese and Indian cultures used cannabis for a variety of ailments, including pain, inflammation, and digestive issues. In fact, the first recorded use of cannabis as medicine dates back to 2737 BC, when Chinese Emperor Shen Neng prescribed cannabis tea for a variety of health conditions.
It wasn’t until the 20th century that scientists began to isolate and study individual compounds found in the cannabis plant. In 1940, Dr. Roger Adams at the University of Illinois was the first to successfully isolate cannabidiol (CBD) from the plant. However, it wasn’t until the 1960s that CBD’s chemical structure was fully understood.
Over the past few decades, research has suggested that CBD may have a variety of potential therapeutic properties. It is believed to interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating mood, appetite, and sleep. CBD has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and pain-relieving effects.
Legal History
Despite its potential benefits, the legal status of CBD has been complicated. In the United States, CBD was classified as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act in 1970, along with marijuana and other cannabis-derived products. This made it difficult for researchers to study the compound and for patients to access it.
However, in 2018, the Farm Bill was passed, legalizing the production and sale of hemp-derived CBD products in the United States. This has led to a surge in interest and availability of CBD products for consumers.
Current Research
Today, CBD is being studied for its potential therapeutic uses in a variety of conditions, including epilepsy, anxiety, and chronic pain. In fact, the FDA has approved a CBD-based drug called Epidiolex for the treatment of certain types of epilepsy.
While the research on CBD is still ongoing, it’s clear that the compound has a rich history and potential for use in modern medicine. As always, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement or medication regimen.
