A Multiple Sclerosis (MS) diagnosis can be scary. It is a chronic disease that can change your day-to-day and affect your ability to perform certain tasks. And while there is no cure yet, there are several treatments that can help control the symptoms, manage the progression of the disease, and bring back normalcy to your routine.

As the search for effective treatments continues, there is growing interest in the potential benefits of cannabidiol (CBD) for managing symptoms of MS. 

Despite limited research, early studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that CBD could play a role in alleviating some symptoms associated with this condition. Let’s go through what MS is, the symptoms it causes, and how CBD might help.

What Is Multiple Sclerosis?

Multiple Sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that affects the brain and spinal cord. In MS, the immune system gets confused and attacks the protective barrier (myelin) that covers nerve fibers, causing inflammation and damage. This causes inflammation and damages the nerves, which in time interrupts communication between the brain and the rest of the body.

We don’t know yet the exact cause of MS, but this disease is thought to be due to environmental, genetic, and immunological factors. 

One thing that makes things even more complicated with MS is that it can vary in terms of severity, symptoms, and progression, making it a complex and unpredictable condition.

There are four main types of MS:

• Relapsing-Remitting MS (RRMS): This is the most common form. The patient experiences cycles of new or more severe neurological symptoms (relapses) followed by periods of partial or complete recovery (remissions).
• Secondary Progressive MS (SPMS): This form is similar to relapsing-remitting MS in that it shows the same cycles of relapses and remissions. However, the disease worsens over time, with fewer or no periods of remission.
• Primary Progressive MS (PPMS): It presents a gradual worsening of symptoms from the onset, but comes with no periods of relapses and remissions.
• Progressive-Relapsing MS (PRMS): An uncommon type of MS, marked by recurring periods of acute symptoms.

The Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis

MS symptoms vary widely and depend on the location and extent of the nerve damage. 

Common symptoms include:

• Fatigue: A debilitating tiredness that affects daily activities.
• Pain and Spasticity: Muscle stiffness, spasms, and pain are common in MS patients.
• Mobility Issues: Difficulty walking or maintaining balance.
• Vision Problems: Blurred or double vision, or even vision loss, can occur.
• Numbness or Tingling: Often felt in the face, body, arms, or legs.
• Bladder and Bowel Dysfunction: Urinary urgency, frequency or incontinence, and constipation.
• Cognitive Impairment: Memory and concentration issues are reported by many patients.
• Emotional Changes: Depression, anxiety, and mood swings are common among MS patients.

Does CBD Help with Multiple Sclerosis?

This paper from 2022 reviewed several clinical studies examining the interaction of cannabis and multiple sclerosis, particularly focusing on its potential to manage MS symptoms like spasticity, pain, tremors, and bladder function. 

They tested the effects of Nabiximols, a spray containing a 1:1 ratio of THC and CBD, which has been licensed in several countries for treating severe spasticity in MS patients. 

These studies suggest that Nabiximols could reduce some MS symptoms, especially spasticity, and pain, and potentially improve the quality of life. 

Another research study explored how cannabidiol (CBD) might benefit MS patients. Despite the lack of extensive empirical data specifically linking CBD to improved mobility in people with MS, anecdotal evidence suggests that CBD supplementation might help reduce fatigue, pain, and spasticity, potentially enhancing mobility. Surveys indicate a significant number of MS patients currently use cannabis, often preferring a higher CBD to THC ratio to manage their symptoms. 

Additionally, the guide for Australian MS patients cites several reviews indicating that cannabinoids may improve sleep quality, a common issue for MS patients. One study noted that Nabiximols effectively enhanced sleep quality, supporting the idea that cannabinoids might benefit MS patients beyond symptom management.

How to Use CBD Oil for Multiple Sclerosis

If you are considering CBD oil to treat MS symptoms, it’s important that you know how to use it properly:

Dosage: As a dietary supplement, take one full dropper 1-2 times daily or as needed.

Administration: Hold CBD oil under the tongue for 10 seconds before swallowing to enhance absorption.

Caution: Though rare, discontinue use immediately if any adverse effects are observed. Before starting any new treatment, it is essential that you talk to your doctor to determine the best approach and dosage and confirm that it doesn’t interact with any other medication you are taking.

The Bottom Line

While more research is needed to fully understand the impact of CBD for MS, early evidence, and patient testimonials suggest it may offer some relief for symptoms such as pain, spasticity, and fatigue. 

However, it’s crucial to talk to healthcare professionals before beginning any new supplement or treatment, including CBD, to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your specific condition. 

With further research and clinical trials, the role of CBD in managing MS symptoms could become clearer, potentially offering new hope to those affected by this challenging disease.

If you’re considering adding CBD to your wellness routine, explore our range of high-quality products at Vitality.

References

​​Haddad, F., Dokmak, G., & Karaman, R. (2022). The Efficacy of Cannabis on Multiple Sclerosis-Related Symptoms. Life (Basel, Switzerland), 12(5), 682. https://doi.org/10.3390/life12050682 

Rudroff, T., & Sosnoff, J. (2018). Cannabidiol to Improve Mobility in People with Multiple Sclerosis. Frontiers in neurology, 9, 183. https://doi.org/10.3389/fneur.2018.00183 

Australian Government, Department of Health and Aged Care, Therapeutic Goods Administration. (2017, December). Guidance for the use of medicinal cannabis in the treatment of multiple sclerosis in Australia, Version 1. https://www.tga.gov.au/resources/resource/guidance/guidance-use-medicinal-cannabis-treatment-multiple-sclerosis-australia