Is CBD dangerous for the elderly?

CBD and the elderly: a solution rather than a problem?

Let's start with an alarming figure: a study published by the National Institute of Consumption (INC) explains that 35% of people aged over 65 are "polymedicated" in France, that is to say that they consume, on average, 14 different drugs in the same day.

While the prescribed pharmacological treatments can be beneficial in treating certain pathologies, overconsumption can lead to serious, even tragic consequences.

Statistics also show that more than 130,000 hospitalizations per year are linked to excessive drug consumption among seniors over 65. Finally, approximately 7,500 deaths are attributable to this cause each year, according to information provided by the Health Insurance. The INC also calls on doctors and health professionals to "review extended prescriptions for seniors", in particular by favoring natural or, at the very least, less invasive alternatives to drugs. to relieve certain symptoms.

And this is where CBD can play a role, along with other natural molecules with multiple virtues such as turmeric, ginger, flax seeds and green leafy vegetables. Being a reference online store in the sale of hemp products in France, it is the CBD that interests us today! Let's see how this natural cannabinoid extracted from the hemp plant can contribute to improving the quality of life of seniors.

CBD to relieve chronic pain in the elderly

In France, osteoarthritis affects nearly 10 million people, mostly aged 65 and over. This pathology is manifested by inflammation of the joints causing pain and limitations of movement… affecting the mobility of the elderly and contributing to their isolation. Research by the National Library of Medicine found that CBD has anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate symptoms for people with osteoarthritis.

CBD does indeed act as a powerful anti-arthritic agent, as it comes to alleviate joint inflammation, pain and stiffness without major adverse side effects. The analgesic properties of CBD can also relieve other pain associated with common conditions in the elderly such as osteoporosis, fibromyalgia and back pain. In fact, several celebrities have publicly expressed their use of CBD to relieve these kinds of symptoms. This is for example the case of Morgan Freeman and Whoopi Goldberg, two heroes of our childhood!

Combat anxiety, depression and sleepless nights

In 2022, Medscape conducted a study investigating the benefits of CBD in over 2,000 participants with insomnia, stress, or chronic pain. Participants were divided into 13 groups of 208 adults, each receiving one of 13 oral CBD extracts available on the US market. Verdict: 63% of participants reported a significant decrease in their anxiety after taking CBD.

Seniors who suffer from insomnia are often subject to anxiety and more or less chronic pain that prevents them from finding the arms of Morpheus. CBD promotes relaxation, soothing and muscle relaxation, and effectively combats REM sleep disorders which manifest themselves in nocturnal verbalization (talking in sleep), a tendency to wake up in the middle of the night and muscle spasms while asleep. CBD products can therefore help the elderly to improve their mood and promote full nights… two decisive pillars for their quality of life.

CBD to boost libido in seniors

Research on the effect of CBD on libido, especially in the elderly, is still limited, but beneficial effects are suspected, as cannabidiol appears to be effective on certain underlying health conditions that can affect sex life. These include anxiety, lack of sleep, pain and mobility, factors that can play an important role in healthy and fulfilling sexual activity.

CBD to delay skin aging

Aging has an obvious impact on the skin, with loss of elasticity, lack of hydration, difficulty in assimilating nutrients, certain dryness, etc. Through its antioxidant action, CBD fights against oxidative stress and delays cell aging.

Free radicals produced by our body's metabolic processes and by exposure to certain environmental factors such as pollution can damage cells and accelerate the skin aging process. Antioxidants like CBD, Vitamin C, polyphenols and flavonoids can neutralize these free radicals and protect the skin from their damaging effects.

Support for neurodegenerative diseases

Disclaimer: Here, we leave the aspect of the dietary supplement to address the therapeutic potential of CBD and hemp in a medical configuration, that is to say with the prescription and the rigorous supervision of a qualified health professional. CBD has shown interesting potential to improve the quality of life of patients suffering from neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

In the case of Alzheimer's disease, CBD may help reduce inflammation, a key factor in disease progression. Additionally, CBD may exert a neuroprotective effect by helping to prevent nerve cell death and stimulating the growth of new cells. It may also help better manage common behavioral symptoms of Alzheimer's disease such as restlessness, aggression and sleep disturbances, by acting on the endocannabinoid system to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.

When it comes to Parkinson's disease, CBD has shown promising effects in managing non-motor symptoms like depression, nervousness, and mood swings.

Remember that research on the effects of CBD on neurodegenerative diseases is still ongoing and that additional studies are needed to better understand the mechanisms of action of CBD in this context.

CBD and the elderly: possible side effects

Although CBD is generally considered safe and well tolerated by the body, it can occasionally cause some side effects, especially in the elderly, but also in beginners who are more likely to dose the wrong dose. product.

These include fatigue, a certain drowsiness, some transit disorders (diarrhea) and a fluctuation in appetite. These side effects are usually mild and disappear within a few days, provided the dose of CBD is adjusted… with one exception: older people who are already on medication or have relatively serious underlying health conditions should stop consumption. if these side effects occur.

Indeed, drowsiness and dizziness could increase the risk of falls and injuries, which is a major concern for older people. Changes in appetite and weight could also impact the nutritional health of older adults, especially those who are already at risk of malnutrition.

CBD and the elderly: beware of possible drug interactions

CBD can influence the way the body metabolizes certain drugs by inhibiting or stimulating the liver enzymes responsible for their metabolism, especially in the elderly. Consumers, whether young or old, should always consult their doctor if they are taking medication, especially if the drugs in question are metabolized by the liver.

Some medications are more likely to interact with CBD than others. These include blood thinners, antipsychotics, antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and diabetes treatments.

Our recommendations for the use of CBD in the elderly

For senior citizens, CBD oils are particularly effective due to their mode of absorption, especially when applied sublingually (under the tongue). They can also be used as a seasoning for a dish or applied to the skin to treat skin problems or muscle or joint pain.

CBD oil capsules simplify the calculation of the recommended dose, while CBD infusions bring more pleasure due to their beautiful organoleptic properties. Elderly people who have never used CBD should start with the lowest dose (5% for an oil for example), and increase the dosage very slightly if the desired effects are not there.