CBD, or cannabidiol, is everywhere these days! You might see it as an add-on to your morning coffee, a booster for your post-workout smoothie, or even infused into products like sports bras and bath bombs. But what exactly is CBD, what are the advantages of CBD and why is it getting so much attention?
CBD vs. Marijuana, Cannabis, and Hemp
Cannabis plants naturally contain the substance known as CBD. Despite being the second most potent component of cannabis (marijuana), it does not have the same intoxicating effects as marijuana. This is because THC, the euphoric ingredient in marijuana, is essentially absent from CBD.
CBD is either produced in a lab or extracted from a plant called hemp, which is related to the marijuana plant. Cannabis is unique among its hundreds of constituents because it lacks the euphoric side effects of other substances. The World Health Organization (WHO) actually states that, when taken properly, CBD is safe for the majority of people and has no potential for abuse or addiction.
Is CBD Legal?
The legality of CBD is a little unclear. The 2018 Farm Bill made CBD, which is made from hemp, legal in all 50 states in the US. Products made from hemp, such as CBD, are permitted under this bill as long as their THC content is less than 0.3%.
Nevertheless, marijuana-based CBD remains federally illegal, even though the molecule is the same. Some states have tighter laws, so it’s good to check local regulations prior to buying CBD.
People buy CBD products online even without a medical marijuana card, and in most jurisdictions, this is entirely lawful.
What Are the Advantages of CBD?
The potential health advantages of CBD have been praised, and further study is being done in this area. The following are some of the most promising applications:
Epilepsy
CBD has robust scientific evidence supporting its use for specific forms of epilepsy, including childhood syndromes such as Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS). For many patients, the FDA-approved drug Epidiolex, which contains CBD, has been a life-changer in terms of the reduction of seizures.
Anxiety and Stress
Many people report feeling less anxious and calmer after the use of CBD. Some studies are ongoing to identify how CBD works in the brain to help with anxiety disorders.
Improved Sleep
By addressing chronic pain or anxiety that keeps individuals up at night, CBD may help people get better sleep.
Pain Relief
Research has indicated that CBD may be beneficial in controlling arthritis pain, chronic pain, and inflammation. Topical applications, including CBD creams or oils, are widely used for joint and muscle aches.
Addiction Recovery
Studies indicate that CBD may have the potential to diminish cravings for drugs like tobacco, heroin, and alcohol. So far, early results are promising.
Is CBD Safe to Use?
Generally, CBD is considered safe, but it can cause some mild side effects, including:
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Irritability
Additionally, by competing for the liver enzymes that break down some pharmaceuticals, such as blood thinners or anti-epileptic treatments, CBD may interact with them. This is comparable to how some drugs are affected by grapefruit.
If you are taking any other medications, especially ones that require stable blood levels, speak with your doctor before using CBD.
Besides that, large amounts of CBD can also alter blood tests related to the liver. This is not something particular to CBD. However, common drugs, including Tylenol (acetaminophen), affect liver function similarly. Nevertheless, it would be prudent to monitor your liver when on CBD daily.
The Issue With Unregulated CBD Products
The absence of regulation surrounding CBD is one of the main issues. The quality and purity of goods might vary greatly because the FDA does not regulate CBD supplements in the US like it regulates pharmaceuticals.
Some products may not contain the amount of CBD on the label, and some may have harmful contaminants. To be sure you are getting a safe and effective product, look for brands that offer a Certificate of Analysis (COA). This is a report issued by an independent lab that verifies the ingredients in the product and its quality.
How to Use CBD
CBD is available in so many forms that you will be able to choose what suits your needs:
- Oils and Tinctures: Taken under the tongue to get absorbed directly into the bloodstream.
- Capsules and Edibles: Excellent for controlled dosing and longer-acting.
- Topicals: CBD-infused creams, lotions, or patches applied to the skin to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Vapes: CBD can be inhaled; this acts quickly, though doctors do not recommend smoking anything, including CBD.
If you are using CBD for a specific health issue, like pain or anxiety, begin with a low dose and increase gradually. This will help you determine the right amount for your body without wasting product.
CBD Products Around the World
The substance also appears outside of the U.S. as an active ingredient in prescription drugs. For instance, Sativex is an aerosolized formulation of CBD that has been approved in several countries for the treatment of spasticity associated with multiple sclerosis.
Conclusion
CBD is an exciting natural compound with potential health benefits, especially for managing anxiety, pain, and epilepsy. However, it’s not a miracle cure. Be cautious of products that make wild claims, like curing cancer or COVID-19—these are not backed by science.
If you are considering trying CBD, make sure to:
- Buy from a trustworthy company that uses independent lab testing.
- Start with a low dose and adjust as needed.
- Discuss your plans with a doctor, especially if you are taking other medication.
More research is surely required, but CBD is finding its place as a promising low-risk option among most people seeking relief from common problems in health.