The original article points to research from 1881 as early evidence of benefits discussed in relation to CBD and epilepsy. Some epilepsy patients even move to countries or states where CBD is legal to access products. The number of parents using it to reduce children's seizures was rising rapidly worldwide.

CBD was consequently becoming more popular than THC because it lacks THC's psychoactive effects. It also acts on different receptors.

Research has a long history. Although CBD's precise action was not fully understood, many countries attached importance to these studies.

Read our detailed CBD history here.

Charlotte Figi's extraordinary story

Charlotte Figi is one of the first names associated with CBD and epilepsy. Living in Colorado, she was born in 2006 with Dravet syndrome, a very rare chronic epilepsy. This devastating condition affects around one in 16,000–21,000 babies.

A child in pink clothing lying beside books.

Charlotte Figi, a patient with Dravet syndrome | Source: CNN

At four, Charlotte lost the ability to walk, speak and eat and experienced 300 seizures weekly.

Her parents tried every option offered by modern medicine but realized conventional doctors could not help. Despite hesitation, they began medical cannabis treatment when she was five.

After a small amount of oil from a high-CBD variety, seizures stopped almost immediately. Hours passed without another seizure; CBD had worked.

A child walking among potted cannabis plants.

Charlotte Figi was described as living a normal life thanks to CBD.

At the time reported, she had two or three seizures monthly, regaining the opportunity for normal life. Her parents told CNN she was happy and thriving and wanted everyone to know the treatment's effect.

Scientific articles on CBD and epilepsy:

Note: This is not medical advice! Please do not use CBD or related products without consulting your doctor!