CBD has been everywhere lately and seems only to be growing in popularity, especially within the wellness world. There are many questions about the health benefits of CBD that often get asked and ongoing misconceptions regarding what may or may not happen when taking CBD. Understanding any cannabis-derived products that affect the body and mind before starting use is essential. Read on as we answer the question: What is CBD?
Cannabidiol CBD is a chemical found in marijuana and the cannabis plant used to manage various health conditions such as inflammatory and neuropathic pain. CBD is found in marijuana and the hemp plant (Cannabis Sativa plant). Hemp-derived CBD products do not contain THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the chemical in marijuana that causes psychoactive effects referred to as a high.
Farm Bill
The Farm Bill of 2018 made cannabidiol CBD legal as controlled substances in the United States, in accordance with the drug enforcement administration. Prescription-strength CBD oil derived from the cannabis plant has been approved by the FDA as a practical option for seizures and is often used to help patients with epilepsy. Research is ongoing to learn more about the varying ways CBD can be used as a tool for public health issues.
How does CBD work in the brain and body?
CBD does not have the same psychoactive effect on most people as THC. There is no mental state of euphoria or intoxicated type of feeling. CBD does not interact with the CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors in the brain that THC and other cannabinoids do. Instead, CBD induces the brain’s endocannabinoid system to create more natural cannabinoids and then slows down the chemical breakdown in the brain.
CBD is known to counteract the effects of THC by blocking CB1 receptors. CBD can induce calmness and relaxation but will not cause the same psychoactive solid reaction that THC does. CBD also has some neuroprotective properties and has been shown to slow some degeneration of neurons.
CBD works as a natural pain suppressant and increases the activity of serotonin receptors in the brain. This increased activity positively affects pain, anxiety disorders, stress, depression, sleep disorders, and obesity, among other things.
Some benefits of CBD are that it can be used to alleviate things like nausea, chronic pain, inflammation, neuropathic pain, insomnia, seizure management, nerve pain, high blood pressure, and more. CBD works to balance the body’s overall physical functions.
CBD is often used in cancer care, working as an aid to those enduring chemotherapy for its pain combating properties. New research also shows promise for cannabidiol CBD as a potential anticancer drug substitution for a more dangerous prescription drug. More research is being done to confirm CBD’s effectiveness in cancer treatment. CBD has topical uses as well, including for acne, psoriasis, and other inflammatory skin and health conditions.
Can CBD make you feel high?
CBD will not make one feel high; it does not have the same interactions with the brain to cause an altered mental state. It will not affect memory, mobility, or body temperature as THC can. CBD has no effects that can be associated with abuse or dependency. If you have any doubts or safety concerns, we recommend talking with a healthcare professional to find the right CBD oil or to compare other medications or dietary supplements that may work better for your needs.
What are some conditions CBD can potentially be helpful for?
CBD manages various conditions, from skin irritation to neurodegenerative disease. More research is constantly being done to learn more about CBD and benefit those with illnesses. Talk with your marijuana healthcare professional for the latest additions to these conditions.
The WHO has stated that CBD can have medical benefits to those who suffer from health conditions such as:
Alcohol addiction & prescription drug withdrawal symptoms
Cancer treatment
Dementia & Alzheimer’s Disease
PTSD
Common Uses
CBD and anxiety
CBD has been shown in research to affect different forms of anxiety disorders positively. It has been shown to reduce stress. CBD has beneficial effects on general anxiety disorder and other severe forms of anxiety, including post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and social anxiety disorder. Studies in mice and rats showed lower heart rates and less stress with CBD.
A recent study that used a simulated public speaking test to show anxiety levels in speakers showed significant promise that CBD can help reduce fears and anxiety associated with speaking in front of a group. Continued research is being done to see how CBD can manage various forms of anxiety.
CBD and pain
CBD has anti-inflammatory qualities and can reduce pain and even fully treat pain in some patients. It is also an antioxidant and can help reduce long-term inflammation. CBD oil contains cannabinoid receptors that can block chronic pain signals in the brain and trigger an increased immune response.
CBD and insomnia
CBD has been shown in research studies to help people fall asleep, stay asleep, and improve sleep quality. The endocannabinoid system has a part in maintaining several body functions, including sleep and regulation of circadian rhythms. CBD oil can offer a night of better sleep and thus a healthy lifestyle to follow.
CBD and epileptic seizures
The FDA approved a prescription-strength dose of CBD for severe epilepsy, Epidiolex oral solution, from GW Pharmaceuticals. Preclinical evidence proves that CBD oil has been shown to reduce seizures by activating the CB1 receptors. More research is currently being done on taking CBD oil for conditions like dravet syndrome and Lennox gastaut syndrome.
CBD oil’s effects: Does it cause liver injury or liver disease?
It has been concluded by a study from Validcare that CBD products do not cause liver damage when taken orally. The report provided an analysis of seven months where 839 participants were evaluated from the impact of CBD on liver health.
Common questions about CBD
Does CBD show up on drug tests?
CBD can show up on drug tests. CBD like THC is stored in the body’s fat cells and can be detected on drug tests for weeks after being used. Not every drug test will screen for CBD. Because many CBD oil products also contain THC, it is possible to test positive for THC when using a CBD product. Make sure to read labels of any CBD products before use to see what cannabinoids they contain.
Is CBD illegal?
CBD is legal in different formats in over half the states in the country. CBD derived from hemp is permitted at the federal level if it contains 0.3% or less THC under the 2018 US Farm Bill. State laws on CBD range from legal to carrying significant consequences and even jail time.
CBD derived from non-hemp varieties of cannabis Sativa is legal in some but not all states. So, the legality of CBD depends on one’s location and the type of CBD used. Individual states have different laws on the medical use of non-hemp-derived CBD oil and how they regulate CBD products in general.
What is the correct dose of CBD oil?
The right dose of CBD oil depends on many things. The product and level of CBD contained and the tolerance and experience of the individual all factor in. A person’s weight and body chemistry also play a role. It is always best to start small to see how your body reacts to a CBD product and reduce anxiety around trying something new. Smaller doses start around 20 mg of CBD daily and increase higher doses.
Consult a healthcare provider for questions about CBD and the proper dosage for you. Again, starting small and gradually increasing dosage is the best way to determine the correct dose.
What are cannabis strains high in CBD?
Cannabis strains that are high in CBD can vary by region. A few well-known strains such as Charlotte’s Web, Cannatonic, OG Kush CBD, and Harlequin are known for their high CBD content. Make sure to purchase CBD from a reputable and licensed dispensary and ask what strains they carry high in CBD.
Some strains will also have a high THC level, and others will not. These strains with higher levels of cannabidiol CBD are more likely to help with high blood pressure, multiple sclerosis, relieving anxiety, replacing antipsychotic drugs, and more.
Are there any adverse effects of taking CBD?
Though it’s usually well-tolerated by the human body, CBD oil can cause adverse effects like dry mouth, diarrhea, reduced appetite, and drowsiness. CBD can also cause adverse effects by interacting with other medications (blood thinners or blood pressure drugs) or dietary supplements you’re taking.
Cannabidiol reduces cigarette consumption.
A recent study was performed on smokers to see if CBD could positively impact addiction and desire to smoke:
“Over the treatment week, placebo-treated smokers showed no differences in the number of cigarettes smoked. In contrast, those treated with CBD significantly reduced the number of cigarettes smoked by ~40% during treatment. Results also indicated some maintenance of this effect at follow-up.”
Is CBD safe for pets?
CBD has been shown to have a range of health benefits for pets, such as chronic pain relief, anxiety disorder relief, and even help with muscle spasticity, seizures, and insomnia. More research is needed in this area, so discuss with their healthcare provider before using cannabidiol CBD oil or other CBD products on your pets.
Please stay away from drug interactions with THC in them and have your pets taking CBD oil and edibles meant for them only. Hemp-derived products are made for both cats and dogs. As with humans, the dosage for cannabis-derived compounds will be different for every pet, start small, and gradually increase.
What Are The Health Benefits of CBD and CBDA and How Do They Differ?
What is the difference between hemp CBD and cannabis-derived CBD?
Hemp-derived CBD
Hemp oil has a higher CBD content than marijuana, and many CBD products contain hemp-derived CBD. Hemp seed oil comes from the Cannabis Sativa family and has long been used to make clothing, paper, and cloth for medical purposes.
Cannabis-derived CBD
CBD is found in all strains of cannabis, both Indica and Sativa. Marijuana contains a much higher THC content than hemp and contains other chemicals that can aid and bolster the effects of CBD. Cannabis plants also have higher levels than hemp plants. The CBD molecule is the same regardless of where it is derived from; however, cannabis-based CBD products can contain higher levels of THC than the 0.3% hemp products have.
How do I take CBD oil and other products?
CBD products come in many forms. It can be ingested, taken sublingually, taken in pill form, used in a tincture, hemp oil, and smoked and vaporized.
CBD oil
CBD oil is a prevalent form of CBD. CBD is mixed with a carrier oil, often coconut or hemp seed. CBD oil can be taken in various ways; placed under the tongue, used in cooking, taken in a capsule, in beverages, etc. CBD oil can also be used as a topical. CBD oil usually starts to take effect in about half an hour unless mixed with food or directly swallowed, which will take longer.
CBD oil is relatively simple to make at home and is usually available anywhere that cannabidiol extracts sold online. It is one of the most valuable ways to gain health benefits and help combat symptoms of multiple sclerosis, regulate high blood pressure, or reduce anxiety.
CBD edibles
CBD edibles come in candy, chocolates, baked goods, savory snacks, gummies, beverages, and more. CBD oil-infused salad dressing, cooking oils, syrups, honey, CBD beer, and wine are available. This is a fast-growing market, so make sure to read the ingredients on any CBD edibles you purchase and remember they are not used as a dietary supplement.
CBD topicals and lotions
CBD topical and lotions are pretty popular. Some contain both CBD and THC; others are CBD only. There are many to choose from: salves, rubs, bath bombs, balms, and body oils. Topicals and lotions provide a fast-acting, temporary relief from pain, soreness, aches, and other physical symptoms.
CBD topicals can be as effective as taking CBD orally and can be used locally or on larger body areas. CBD topicals and lotions need a higher CBD content to be more effective than some other products.
CBD vapes
CBD can be vaporized and has become a trendy way to use CBD. Vaping is a way to experience the effects of CBD faster than ingesting it or using it sublingually. Results can be felt in ten minutes and last several hours. As with any other method, Vaping CBD should always start with a lower dose and gradually increase.
CBD flower
CBD strains of the cannabis plant can be smoked, just like those with THC. You can use a glass bong or pipe, roll a joint or a blunt, or use a small hand pipe. Most cannabidiol CBD manufacturers that sell flower will also direct you towards the best smoking tools for their buds.
In Conclusion
CBD can have a variety of health benefits for humans and pets. From pain management to helping with cancer symptoms and chemotherapy side effects, CBD is used in many different forms and settings. Research on CBD oil and its range of uses is ongoing. Remember to know your state medical marijuana laws, always purchase products from reputable dispensaries and consult a healthcare professional if you have questions or concerns.
Leafy Mate can help you navigate getting a medical card, connect you with providers in your area and find deals on top CBD products.
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