CBD for vision health is a bit of an enigma. So let’s clear out all the misinformation today. The human eye is a sensory organ that reacts to light, allowing people to see. Many eye conditions can lead to vision complications. Some eye problems are minor and may go away on their own or are easily treatable. However, some eye disorders and diseases are more serious and can lead to blindness. The eye is very complex and contains various tissues and structures that work together to provide vision. Many types of eye disorders and diseases can affect vision and may lead to blindness.

How does CBD affect the Eyes?

Several studies have shown that CBD does have anti-inflammatory effects on the eyes. There are several medical conditions eye doctors commonly treat that cause inflammation including these:

• Cataracts
• Glaucoma
• Macular degeneration
• Allergies
• Meibomian gland disease

CBD can be used to protect nerves from damage and relieve neuropathic pain, possibly making it a useful choice for patients with optic neuritis, glaucoma and other types of eye disorders that are associated with the optic nerve.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of related eye conditions involving damage to the retina and optic nerve that may lead to vision loss, mainly because of high fluid pressure inside of the eyes. 

CBD & Glaucoma

• Cannabis has long been associated with relieving glaucoma symptoms. Patients suffering from it typically experience high levels of intraocular pressure (IOP). Too much extra fluid pressure damages the optic nerve and can cause vision loss and blindness.
• CBD may protect against cell damage, but studies have indicated that the chemical has no influence on IOP levels. Other studies have shown that
  CBD actually increases IOP levels making higher risks for glaucoma and pain associated with it. When and if the pressure in the eye becomes so severe, it starts to damage the optic nerve leading to gradual loss of vision.

What does CBD do for the Eyes?

In addition to increasing IOP levels and having effects on inflammation and nerves, CBD has also been seen to affect the level of activity of both oxidants and antioxidants. Oxidants can be reactive to other cellular molecules and cause various diseases, including macular degeneration.

CBD and its antioxidant qualities can help to reduce the risk of macular degeneration. However certain antioxidants found in green leafy vegetables are used for preventing or reducing the risk of macular degeneration. CBD may also have the potential to be an antibacterial compound. Antibiotics are slowly becoming resistant to bacteria; hence the nature of CBD could possibly be an alternative way for future remedies. This would be beneficial for eye diseases that result in the growth of bacteria, including conjunctivitis etc.

Facts on causes and symptoms of CBD with relation to eyes

There is ongoing research on its effects but so far CBD does not appear to cause any problems with healthy eyes. CBD can increase the symptoms and risk for people who suffer from glaucoma. In severe cases of glaucoma, the increased pressure damages the optic nerve and leads to blindness. However, there is no proof for CBD to cause glaucoma on its own.

Out of CBD and THC, it is the THC present in cannabis that causes red and watery eyes but it does not stand the same for CBD. CBD is not a good treatment for dry and irritated eyes. Instead, eye drops are used along with other lubricating agents to treat the dryness in the eyes. So in a sense, CBD cannot improve the quality of a person’s vision. That can be achieved by external factors like glasses or lenses but at the same time taking some vitamins and antioxidants can enhance and support the overall health of the eye and hence the vision.

 When people have consumed cannabis they often experience a temporary heaviness around their eyes. The predictable image of a stoner is supposedly a chilled-out individual with bloodshot and heavy puffy eyes but as we have come to understand the positive effects of cannabis more clearly now, the world has started to challenge this stereotype.

The CBD compound from cannabis is not the cause of red eyes. In fact, CBD reacts in a subtle, non-intoxicating way. The beauty of this compound is that it essentially gets the whole body back to its optimum, enabling it to produce and regulate the flow of natural chemicals to ensure the body is at its physiological best.

Heavy eyes are most likely to be the result of ingesting marijuana that contains very little CBD but a lot of THC. THC is the intoxicating element that causes the consumers to feel high. THC also lowers blood pressure which in turn increases blood circulation to the eyes. This very effect can cause redness and sensitivity to light, which often results in the eyelids of users being more heavy than usual.

As cannabis usage causes feelings of relaxation with these intoxicating varieties it becomes all the more visible through the eyes. There are more obvious signs although the plant does not affect the appearance of the eyes directly apart from the contribution to relaxation.

Let’s take a look at the question, CBD vaping what you need to know. Vaping CBD is the most effective way to take your CBD as it has the highest bioavailability compared to CBD food, drinks, or others. This is because CBD can be directly absorbed into the bloodstream via your lungs.

CBD E-liquid has been manufactured to be vaped, similar to standard vape juice, with some key differences to ensure the best vaping experience.

For the est CBD Vaping experience

The CBD is manufactured to either a 50PG/50VG (or 70PG/30VG) ratio. This means that the overall liquid is quite thin and is best vaped with a Pod Style vape device with a Sub Ohm coil at a low wattage. This is to ensure that the liquid is properly vaporised and to ensure that your coil does not burn if set at a higher temperature.

• Ensure that you are using a vape pod kit and that your device is at a low wattage under -20W
• Fill your tank with your CBD e-liquid and check that the coil is properly soaked. It is recommended to leave the liquid to sit for 5-10 minutes before vaping
• Start your CBD Vaping experience by drawing the vape into your mouth first, and then inhaling it into your lungs afterwards.
• Hold the CBD vapour in your lungs for a few seconds to allow the CBD to be fully absorbed.

How much CBD Vape can I vape?

It is always recommended to start with a few vapes at a time and see how we feel. Our CBD should be taken slowly, leaving time for the CBD to be absorbed before redosing. It is recommended to take the first dosage of CBD at home where you are free of any strenuous activities or where high concentration is required (like driving, going to work etc.)

Why is CBD used for Vaping?

There are a few different ways to get CBD into your diet, from eating drops to vaping it. Each one can be useful, and which one works for you will depend on what you want out of the CBD. At the end of the day, though, it will be down to personal preference and how it affects your body.

What does CBD vape liquid consist of?

The four ingredients a CBD e-liquid will be made up of:

1. Vegetable Glycerine (VG) – is normally made from soybean, coconut or palm oil. VG is used in a huge variety of food, pharmaceutical and cosmetics products. 
2. Propylene Glycol (PG) – Propylene Glycol has been the base ingredient in thousands of products for years. You can find PG in medicine, food (like ice cream) and more. 
3. Flavouring – Normally food flavourings are used to give the e-liquid a nice taste.
4. CBD – Vaping liquid can contain CBD isolate or broad spectrum CBD here in the UK, and should have been tested to make sure that there is no THC or any other compound in.

Vaping CBD v/s other methods of consuming CBD:

Vaping CBD rather than any other method does have a few advantages, with one of the biggest ones being that CBD e-liquids seem to be the most efficient way to take cannabidiol. 

According to the study, due to the way that CBD is being absorbed by the lungs – there are a huge number of blood vessels in the lungs – the CBD is absorbed the most as a vapour. Consuming CBD from drops or food the absorption rate is about 12%, meaning only 12% of the CBD is actually getting into your body and helping. With vapour, you can get up to 56% of the CBD!

Another benefit of vaping CBD is that gets into the blood much quicker than the other options, taking about 20-30 minutes for the vaporised CBD to start working. Compare that to other methods which can take a few hours for you to feel the effects and you can see the difference.

Eventually, it will all come down to your individual body and exactly what you are using CBD for. If you want to use CBD to help with your sleep or mental health then a slow and accurate drop system might be for you.

Potential Side Effects and Health Risks of CBD Vaping:

Some experts say that someone who regularly vapes CBD oil isn’t likely to notice its harmful effects at first. In fact, the immediate side effect of vaping CBD tends to make you feel relaxed. But over time, the damage can have a serious effect on a person’s health. A few of the health risks of regular CBD vaping are listed below.

1. Popcorn lung
2. Lung or heart disease
3. Compromised immune health
4. Death

Vaping CBD affects the lungs and heart and is linked to both lung disease and heart disease. Vaping impairs the ability of the inner lining of the blood vessels to produce a substance called nitric oxide. This inability can cause clotting and the blood vessels to constrict which can raise blood pressure levels instead of staying relaxed.

Let’s take a look at CBD for pets tail wagging benefits.

What Is CBD?

Put very plainly, marijuana is a plant with two main derivates, CBD and THC. THC is the active ingredient that is associated with the feeling of a “high” while CBD on the other hand is the ingredient that offers a range of potential health benefits, without any ill effects.

Epidiolex is an FDA-approved product that contains CBD. Apart from this, there are no other approvals given to CBD by the FDA. However, there is extensive research underway on CBD and the sale, purchase and use of it has been legalized in many major states in the US and all over the World.

How Does CBD Help Pets?

The main way that CBD functions in the case of humans and animals is basically the same.

CBD is known to target the endocannabidiol system that is present in humans. This causes a generalized sense of calm and is also known to reduce pain and inflammation, along with several other health benefits.

It may surprise you to know that animals too, have an endocannibidiol system that functions pretty much the same way as humans. The effects that CBD has on their systems are also the same.

CBD For Dogs, Cats and Horses

CBD offers a host of benefits for dogs, cats and horses. Listed below are some of them:

• CBD is known to control seizures in dogs
• CBD is also helpful in controlling pain, especially neuropathic pain
• CBD helps with the cardiac health of a canine
• CBD also possesses anti-anti-inflammatory properties that can be very beneficial
• CBD also shows anti-nausea, anti-anxiety and appetite-stimulation properties 
• Irritable bowel syndrome in dogs has been seen to improve with the regular use of CBD

Is CBD Safe For Consumption By Pets?

CBD is generally considered safe for consumption by pets, though is is yet not approved by the FDA in the US.

Here are some points you must keep in mind when purchasing CBD for your pets, to ensure the best product:

Check for quality

You can do this by reading the ingredient list on your product, as most CBD products carry a detailed list. Ensure that your product is obtained only from organically grown hemp plants. The product should also have undergone third-party testing.

Never use human products for animals

Though the action of CBD in both humans and animals is pretty much the same, you must never make the mistake of giving your pets CBD products that are meant for human consumption. This is because they might contain substances that might harm their systems.

THC content

You must ensure that the product you have selected has the least amount of THC or preferably, no THC at all. THC might cause toxicity in some pets.

Drug interactions

CBD might cause adverse interactions if mixed with other drugs. This can be avoided if you consult with your veterinarian before beginning to use the product.

Individual Sensitivity

Since each pet is different, it is obvious that each pet will react differently to CBD. Observe your pet carefully when you begin them on CBD for any changes in their diet, overall appearance or general behaviour.

Research In Support Of CBD For Pets

• A study conducted in 2018 investigated the use of CBD in dogs with osteoarthritis. The results showed that CBD oil reduced pain and improved mobility in the affected dogs.
• Studies on rodents and humans have indicated that CBD may have the potential to manage neuropathic pain.
• A study published in 2019 suggested that dogs who had been suffering from epileptic seizures for a while showed a significant reduction in seizures after they were started on CBD medication alongside traditional seizure medication.
• A study from 2018 recorded the effect of CBD oil given to a population of dogs suffering from osteoarthritis. Eighty per cent of the dogs showed an improvement in their mobility.

Side Effects of CBD 

Though CBD is deemed safe for consumption there are innumerable studies in support of the same. It is best you know of the side effects that might arise due to its use. This will help you cope better with the symptoms if they ever arise:

• Dry mouth
• Lowered blood pressure
• Constipation/Diarrhea or any other gastroenterological issues that might arise
• Inhibition of liver enzymes
• Lethargy 

Dosage of CBD For Your Pets

More often than not, the dosage is clearly mentioned on the container. In general, 2 – 4 drops, taken 2 – 4 times a day is recommended. 

Here are a few factors you must keep in mind though:

• The size of your pet. It is safe to alter the dose according to the size of your pet.
• The severity of the condition for which you intend to use CBD.
• The method of consumption of CBD, eg, CBD oil tends to work faster than a capsule since it does not have to cross the digestive tract.
• The concentration of your product. Some products available in the market are highly concentrated and should not be used generally.

Takeaway

Though the research on the use of CBD for pets is limited, there is enough evidence to prove that CBD does not harm your pets, if used responsibly.

If a few drops of CBD can help calm your pet and make them feel relaxed while firecrackers are being lit, instead of sending them into a frenzy, it is definitely worth a shot. 

It is always best to check with your veterinarian before you begin to use the product for your pet and start with small doses.

Take a look at this as well:

• CBD oil for dogs

CBD for focus and concentration might come across as a myth, but there are hard facts to back this statement and we are going to look at some of those. CBD is a Nootropic and seeing how nootropics are used to enhance mental function it is believed that CBD is a nootropic. While CBD does not offer intoxicating mind-altering psychoactive effects, it does offer many properties that have been found to offer various potential benefits that could result in improved mental function. 

Talking about ‘Focus’:

Focus is defined as directed attention, as well as concentrated attention or effort. Basically, this means you’re pointing your brain at something like a task or problem and asking it to think only about that one thing. And your brain actually likes this kind of work. In fact, some research suggests that the more you concentrate, the better shielded you are from distractions. So, the more focused you are, the less likely you are to fall off track.

 How Does CBD Help With Focusing?

CBD works by interacting with the receptors in your endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for many things, including mood regulation, cognitive functioning, and metabolism.

In terms of CBD for focus, CBD’s main targets are CB1 and CB2 receptors that specialize in regulating neurotransmitter function, reducing anxiety, and promoting calmness. By interacting with those receptors and causing some alterations, CBD may allow you to focus better and achieve enhanced mental clarity.

A report published by the National Institutes of Health in 2018 indicated that CBD can support mental health and sharpness in several ways. The report showed that CBD supplements may promote new neuron growth in the brain, which likely explains why CBD can support occasional anxiety, sadness, and focus.

 Benefits of CBD for Focus:

Here are some of the top benefits that consumers might expect when incorporating CBD into their routine. 

 1. Anxiety Relief

At one point or another, we’ve probably experienced being too nervous to think or do anything at all. For example: sitting agitated, fiddling with hands or moving legs up and down. 

CBD has shown some promise in reducing anxiety brought on by different factors, including social anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, or even stress. By offering relief from anxiety and decreasing your stress levels, CBD silences your mind and allows you to focus on the present moment or task at hand. 

2. Enhanced Cognitive Function

Besides relieving anxiety, CBD may also offer enhanced cognitive function that will improve mental clarity. A few studies have found that CBD can improve memory processing, among other mental processes, which could give a much-needed mental boost. 

By experiencing better cognitive functioning, it becomes easier to go about your daily life without dealing with issues like brain fog, burning out doing simple tasks, and otherwise being impacted by lower cognitive performance.

 3. Improved Energy Levels

Have you ever gotten enough sleep, only to still wake up feeling tired the next day? This is often caused by poor sleep quality, which can happen when you sleep late, experience sleep disturbances, or suffer from sleep disorders. 

The body uses sleep to restore it. If you don’t get adequate, quality sleep, your body won’t be able to recover and function properly. Now, when CBD enters the picture, CBD works by potentially calming your nerves and allowing you to enjoy a more restful, quality sleep – and this will contribute to improved energy levels!  

Why and how can a cannabinoid like CBD have any kind of impact on the brain at all? 

It’s because of your body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system is connected to your central nervous system and your peripheral nervous system. So the essential takeaways there are the brain and nerves! Cannabinoids mimic natural molecules your body produces, called endocannabinoids, and so they’re able to attach to special receptors that make up part of your ECS.

It is like CBD having a conversation with your body, but it’s using those special receptors to make it happen. In this way, CBD can work within your ECS, which plays a significant role in maintaining your physical and mental health by regulating functions such as mood, memory, stress, sleep, appetite and more. Without this system, your body would not be in a state of homeostasis, maintaining a stable internal environment despite fluctuations in the external environment. As a result, there is no focus or concentration. 

The Relationship between Sleep and Mental Clarity

Anything less than quality sleep can greatly impair your cognitive function and your ability to focus on even simple tasks.

 Lack of sleep affects mental clarity in several ways:

• Leads to lower alertness and concentration.
• Makes it more difficult to focus or pay attention.
• Logical reasoning and complex thought become more difficult.
• Impairs judgment.
• Impairs memory and the formation of memories.

As important as sleep is to the proper function of our body and mind, getting the appropriate amount of sleep and sleeping well are both important to avoid cognitive impairment. Because CBD helps us to maintain a healthy sleep rhythm, especially when paired with melatonin and other supportive efforts, it is a contender for helping support both your sleep and subsequently your mental performance and focus. It also works by indirect means by improving the way we sleep and how we process the daily stress in our lives, and by affecting how we interpret stimuli. Improving focus by using CBD, therefore, is an indirect path to improved cognitive function, which may be more the result of simply reducing stress reactions and getting better sleep.