Cannabidiol, the active ingredient in marijuana, has been proposed as a treatment for the symptoms of Dementia in older adults. However, research suggests that CBD may help manage symptoms of Dementia. This could be good news for dementia patients and their caregivers. Here, we'll explain what CBD is and how it can be used to treat Alzheimer's and other forms of Dementia in the elderly.

Definition: What Is CBD?

Let's begin with the fundamentals of cannabidiol (CBD). It's made from hemp, a marijuana relative. After drying, the resin is removed. Cannabidiol (CBD) and Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) make up this molecule (CBD).

Marijuana's psychoactive component, THC, makes it popular for recreational use. In the United States, items containing higher than 0.2 percent THC are prohibited.

Medicinal cannabidiol, or CBD for short, is a compound found in cannabis that has been shown to alleviate symptoms of depression and inflammation. CBD is legal in various forms in all but one of the United States' 47 states. As a result, it does not pose a risk of dependence or health complications.

CBD does not produce the intoxicating effects associated with THC, so it is critical to understand the difference. Instead, it has been found to offer anti-anxiety qualities that can assist control behavior and promote calmness. Epidiolex, a new FDA-approved medicine for the treatment of epilepsy, is based on CBD.

What Are the Advantages of CBD for Elderly People with Alzheimer's Disease?

Many people turn to cannabidiol (CBD) to alleviate anxiety, sleeplessness, restlessness, and chronic pain. People living with Dementia may benefit from CBD's ability to alleviate anxiety and agitation.

A senior may get anxious or agitated in ordinary situations due to Dementia's neurological effects. Occasionally, the agitation can escalate into violence. Keep in mind that the sickness is to blame for these behavioral changes. CBD may help ease these symptoms.

CBD could also help:

Reduce inflammation

Reduce the buildup of oxygen

Stimulate the brain to prevent memory loss and other cognitive declines

Inflammation

Injury triggers the body's normal inflammatory response. Inflammation around a wound or cut is common. However, neuro-inflammation is linked to Dementia. In Alzheimer's disease, protein clumps accumulate in the brain. This can impair brain function over time. This causes inflammation, which hinders the brain's ability to connect. There is evidence that CBD can reduce inflammation and improve cognitive function in people with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of Dementia. 

Oxygen Buildup

Inflammation of the brain is linked to an increase in oxygen levels. Expansion of the brain tissue releases oxygen. So, more inflammation means more oxygen buildup. The brain becomes less functioning as more oxygen is pumped into it. This can lead to brain damage or memory loss. In addition, the body releases oxygen while under stress, which is common in dementia patients. Using CBD, reducing stress and oxygen's detrimental effect on the brain may be reduced.

Brain And Memory Function

Dementia progresses to the point where brain tissue dies, and functions are permanently lost. This procedure can be slow and methodical, or it can be lightning-fast. Dementia patients may benefit from CBD's ability to slow or even reverse cognitive decline and memory loss. It's also possible that CBD helps stimulate the brain, which could assist elders in delaying the onset of Dementia.