Oklahoma vendors see increase in use of CBD oil for seizures, chronic pain

OKLAHOMA CITY (KOKH) — Medical marijuana is on the ballot next year in Oklahoma, but there’s a product made from the cannabis plant already helping people here treat illnesses.

Cannabidiol, or CBD oil, is a low-THC, hemp product, which means it’s not psychoactive. Products with CBD oil must have less than 0.3 percent of THC to be legal in the state of Oklahoma.

“More and more people are finding out about it, and more and more people are wanting to try it,” said Becky Adams, owner of Midwest Wellness in El Reno.

Awareness of CBD oil has grown as the state has eased restrictions on the substance in the past several years. Children and adults in Oklahoma are using it to treat a variety of conditions, including anxiety, PTSD, seizures and chronic pain.

10-year-old Matthew Johnston started having grand mal seizures about a year ago.

“We tried two different medications, which actually increased the seizures, and turned him into an angry, raging little kid,” said his mother, Dianna Johnston.

Then, a friend suggested they try CBD oil. Johnston says instead of having seizures multiple times a day, now Matthew only has about one a week. His recovery time is also shorter.

She credits CBD oil.

“It's made a big difference in his life,” Johnston said. “We're very thankful.”

So is Rene Custer, who started taking CBD oil for her diabetic neuropathy and other health issues.

“The pain that I've had consistently, from my legs to my hips, was gone,” she said.

Stigma around CBD still exists.

“It was so stereotyped, and people that are skeptical either give the thumbs up or the stern look, like what are you doing,” said Adams.

She just encourages people to try it.

“It just works,” said Johnston. “It does. And that's what I tell people. Just try it. You won't be sorry.”

With any new or alternative form of treatment, it's a good idea to do your research and consult with a doctor.