CBD Oil for Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)

With CBD’s increasing popularity across the world, now more than ever is the time to look into this alternative health product. A growing body of research has shown positive results from CBD in participants suffering from anxiety, chronic pain, inflammation, epilepsy, and other physical and mental ailments. 

One of these health conditions includes POTS, also known as Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome. Are there any benefits to using CBD oil for Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome? This article will explore this question.

What is POTS?

POTS, or Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome, is a condition that impacts the body’s blood flow (circulation). It primarily implicates your nervous system, both the autonomic and sympathetic systems. The former controls and regulates bodily functions, while the latter helps with the fight or flight response. 

POTS does not let your body stabilize the blood flow within your blood vessels into a stable rate. This condition’s symptoms develop from standing up from a reclining position and may be lessened by sitting, resting, or simply lying down. The main symptoms associated with POTS include fainting, lightheadedness, discomfort, and sometimes a rapid increase in heart rate (tachycardia).

However, it’s important to keep in mind that each case of POTS is different and unique to each individual’s body. Patients may see symptoms vary and change throughout the years. Sometimes a change in diet, physical activity, and other health related factors can help to manage and subside symptoms.

Who is at risk for POTS?

Currently, there are around half of million people in the United States suffering from POTS. A vast majority of these patients are women between the ages of 13 to 50. POTS can develop in people with a recent history of mononucleosis and is known to be found in people suffering from autoimmune conditions. People with conditions like Sjogren’s syndrome and Celiac disease can be at higher risk for POTS, since it affects the immune system. POTS can be detected with lab tests.

What is CBD?

The acronym “CBD” usually gets lumped in with THC and marijuana, which leads many people to have a negative perception of CBD. Even though these three words are somewhat related, there are key differences when it comes to CBD and THC. Cannabidiol, or CBD for short, is extracted from Cannabis Sativa. Unlike THC, however, CBD does not produce a “high” when it’s used — you basically get the same bodily effects without the mind-altering effects of THC. Which makes it an appealing option for people who want the physical effects of the plant but do not want to experience the hallucinogenic properties of THC. 

How is CBD oil made?

As mentioned above, CBD comes from Cannabis Sativa and is extracted from the plant, then diluted by oils known as carrier oils, which are usually hemp and coconut oil. CBD is diluted using these carrier oils because they bind to the chemical compound the best. However, oils are only one of the many ways that store CBD. There are also edibles, bath bombs, lotions, and many more products that contain CBD. 

How does CBD oil help to treat POTS?

It has recently been discovered that the body contains an endocannabinoid system, or ECS, which regulates body functions such as sleep and pain. This system produces endocannabinoids, which bind to cannabinoid receptors that are found in the nervous system. According to some research studies, CBD impacts the endocannabinoid receptors in the body, which in turn can reduce inflammation and pain. This can be especially helpful for people suffering from POTS, which is an autonomic condition of the nervous system.

No research has shown that CBD can cure POTS, however, CBD is known to treat symptoms associated with POTS such as dizziness, general pain, and anxiety. Patients with POTS have reported positive effects from using CBD, and unlike other drugs used to treat POTS symptoms, CBD has minimal side effects.

Final Thoughts

We hope that this article has helped you learn a bit more about CBD and POTS. It’s always recommended to conduct your own personal research when it comes to health products, and also to consult your doctor before starting any treatment option.