Although there’s no cure for tinnitus, there are multiple ways to manage it. In recent years, some people have tried a new technique—consuming cannabidiol, a.k.a. CBD.
What the Research Shows
Very few human clinical studies testing CBD as a treatment for tinnitus exist, and the ones that do have mixed results, with none showing patients experienced any notable long-term improvement.
Some animal-based research has found that CBD doesn’t affect tinnitus, while other studies revealed that consuming CBD can make tinnitus worse for certain patients.
However, some medical professionals suggest that CBD may assist with tinnitus symptoms in a roundabout way.
“CBD may help in more indirect than direct ways when it comes to conditions affecting the auditory system,” said Lewis Jassey, M.D., medical director at medical cannabis company Leafwell.1
Possible Effects of CBD on Tinnitus
- Relieves ear discomfort—CBD can assist with pain management from an ear injury or ear inflammation, both of which can contribute to tinnitus.
- Quells anxiety around tinnitus—CBD may help resolve anxiety, which is common in tinnitus patients. Reducing anxious thoughts makes tinnitus easier to manage. CBD can also help alleviate stress or sleep issues that result from living with tinnitus.
- Reduces tinnitus medications—CBD could help decrease a patient’s intake of prescribed tinnitus medications, such as antidepressants and antianxiety medications, which can have unpleasant side effects for some patients.
The Bottom Line
CBD may have some potential benefits for tinnitus sufferers, but scientific, human-based research, though scarce, hasn’t found it to be a viable management solution yet.
If you’re struggling with tinnitus, we recommend utilizing proven medical methods for managing your condition. Our team offers thorough testing and individualized, comprehensive management plans that can help lessen your annoying symptoms. Call us today to get started.