Hi David,

So far so good, with the CBD (three days). My situation is compounded by the fact that, aside from PN, I have a number of other chronic auto-immune conditions, the worst being colitis. I am having a bad colitis flare (in fact, it never really stops, and I always test for inflammation in my body) right now.

But perhaps the CBD might help with the colitis . . . I certainly don't think it can make it any worse.

Anyway, to my point. In your original post you mused how CBD might function as a vasodilator. Interestingly, besides CBD I am presently doing my own self-trial of daily sildenafil (yes, Viagra!). I have persuaded my doctor to give me a very low daily dose (10-20mg) as there has been anecdotal and lab evidence that it can significantly mitigate diabetic neuropathy. Of course, the fly in the ointment is that diabetic and idiopathic represent different mechanisms--the vasolidator component might be what works for diabetics who lack the proper blood supply to nerves (poorly written, but you get my drift).

Two weeks in, I can say that my neuropathy symptoms (mainly constant fasciculations and fluid paresthesias) are improved from the weeks before--though this condition varies like hell anyway.

Fingers crossed that either of the self-meds--perhaps both--produce results.

Cheers

PS a question--you probably say this, but do you think that CBD merely mitigates symptoms or does it having any impact at all on the actual condition?

Hi there,

Glad to hear it. I know a number of people who use CBD (and a few THC) for Colitis and it really does help them. I'm sure you'll be able tell soon enough. But on a basic level CBD is known to reduce inflammation, so that alone will be immensely beneficial to you.

That's fascinating about sildenafil. I think I had heard this but I'm not sure. But it seems like that and the CBD are working well on that front. My fasciculations have improved since taking CBD too. When they get bad, I take some CBD and it's gone within minutes. I hope it keeps working for you.

This is a complicated question to answer, primarily because quality human trials have yet to be conducted. The limited scientific evidence and a more sizable amount of anecdotal evidence seems to show that in higher doses it can lead to actual improvement in certain conditions. I would look at the article I posted initially from Leaf Science and read some personal experiences from people. Most people take very low doses and so only experience symptom relief. But given its therapeutic value, including lowering inflammation and being neuro-regenerative and not just neuroprotective, CBD (and actually THC and other cannabinoids) seem to have a genuine ability to effect real healing. There are some studies underway, and I hope the changing legal landscape more quality studies will be conducted.

There is some evidence that CBD can help with colitis.

A Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled, Parallel-group, Pilot Study of Cannabidiol-rich Botanical Extract in the Symptomatic Treatment of U... - PubMed - NCBI