Medicinal Cannabis in the form of CBD (Cannabidiol) was legalised in NZ last year on prescription under strict control. CBD is one of more than 100 natural cannabinoids derived from the cannabis plant. CBD binds to the body’s CB1 receptors in the brain and nervous system and CB2 receptors in the immune system, regulating inflammation. CBD can have great therapeutic effects as described below without any psychoactive effect. i.e no feeling of being high or stoned. Unlike THC found in recreational marijuana. CBD is non addictive, very free of side effects with medication and very safe. Death from cannabis in general is so rare as to figure in no government statistics worldwide. Dr Batt is one of a few NZ doctors trained in CBD prescribing.
MAIN USES FOR CBD: PAIN - arthritis including Rheumatoid, neuropathic and cancer pain. NAUSEA - cancer, chemo therapy ANXIETY, DEPRESSION, PTSD, INSOMNIA NEUROPROTECTION - Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, Multiple Sclerosis SPASM/DYSKINESIA EPILEPSY
In 2017, a World Health Organisation report stated, “There is preliminary evidence that CBD may be a useful treatment for a number of medical conditions,” among them Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, MS, pain, anxiety, depression, cancer and diabetic complications. As a known antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic agent, there is also anecdotal evidence that it improves the symptoms of insomnia, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), skin complaints, arthritis and migraines.
