There has been a lot of buzz in recent months about cannabidiol (CBD), but this buzz has also been surrounded by much confusion about what exactly it is and why and how it is used. This article addresses those basic questions and gives a good baseline knowledge of Hemp CBD.
What is CBD?
CBD is one of more than a hundred different chemical compounds found naturally in the cannabis, or marijuana, plant. Perhaps the most well known of the compounds is Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the compound that has psychoactive properties that produce a stoned or “high” effect. CBD contains only trace amounts of THC, while still containing many of the health benefits from the cannabis plant. The result is that CBD potentially offers a myriad of health benefits without the concern of the mind-altering effects that come from THC.
There are two different types of CBD – CBD from marijuana and CBD from hemp. CBD from marijuana is harvested from cannabis buds, whereas CBD from hemp comes from its stalk and leaves. To be considered Hemp CBD, there must be less than 0.3% THC. While all CBD has low levels of THC, by definition Hemp CBD has only traces of THC, far too little to cause any psychoactive effects. As a result, CBD products derived from hemp are legal in all states.
Why is CBD Used?
CBD has grown in popularity in recent years because of the belief that it is a safe and natural remedy for a number of medical issues, from seizures to chronic pain. While research is still ongoing as to the exact benefits that it can provide, the initial studies are encouraging showing potential links between CBD and (1) pain relief; (2) a decrease in anxiety and depression; (3) some alleviation of cancer-related symptoms; (4) a reduction in inflammation (5) a decrease in acne; (6) neuroprotective properties; (7) antipsychotic effects; (8) treatment of substance abuse problems; (9) anti-tumor effects; and (10) prevention of diabetes.
CBD is also gaining popularity as a remedy for pets, as it produces many of the same benefits for them that it does for humans. Several CBD products are now being produced to treat pain, seizures, and inflammation in dogs and cats.
Despite ongoing research, CBD is a popular natural remedy, especially for those suffering from chronic pain, anxiety, or seizures.
How is CBD Used?
CBD can be used as an oil, a lotion, a capsule, in an edible form, or in a vaporized form. CBD oil is perhaps the most popular way to use it. CBD oil is created by extracting CBD from the cannabis plant and diluting it with a carrier oil, such as coconut or hemp seed. Because hemp CBD is legal in all states, you can purchase CBD oil anywhere you would get natural supplements or vitamins.
While we are still learning much about how and when CBD works, there is ever-growing evidence that CBD can produce many of the same natural health benefits associated with marijuana without the concerning side effects caused by THC. As a result, it is becoming a popular remedy for many seeking natural ways to combat medical issues and pain.
Sources
Adams, Mike. (July 18, 2018). What’s the Difference Between Marijuana CBD and Hemp CBD? Retrieved from https://www.thegrowthop.com/cannabis-health/cannabis-medical/whats-the-difference-between-marijuana-cbd-and-hemp-cbd.
Havens, Andrew. (June 21, 2018). 10 Things You Need to Know Before You Buy CBD Oil. Retrieved from http://nationalpainreport.com/10-things-you-need-to-know-before-you-buy-cbd-oil-8836542.html.
Johnson, Jon. (Jul. 27, 2018). Everything You Need to Know About CBD Oil. Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/317221.php
