What Is Cannabidiol, or CBD, and Is It Right for Me?

Most individuals are using CBD in the United States with its legalization. Some use it as a reactional product, while others use it for health benefits. CBD is seen to have some beneficial properties when used. This article explains CBD and whether it is a better product for individual consumption.

Hemp cultivation was legalized in 2018 by the federal government and allowed commercial use of hemp-based CBD products. With its legalization, there rose many CBD-related products that individuals can use. They are used for different purposes as CBD is a safe product per the FDA. Although the FDA has not regulated CBD use, individuals need to know that all CBD products are not regulated. On purchase, one should avoid any unstandardized products or those from unlicensed companies. There are no known side effects when consuming CBD, and individuals are advised to be keen on the amount of CBD to prevent any adverse effects from CBD consumption.

Overview on CBD

CBD is a short form of cannabidiol, one of the many cannabis components. CBD is extracted specifically from the hemp plant, which contains more CBD than THC. THC is one of the hemp plant components, like terpenes and flavonoids. During extraction, pure CBD isolate is obtained free from any other compound. Kogan et al. (2019) stated that unlike hemp plant CBD, individuals are not advised to consume marijuana-based CBD products as they contain a higher THC level than CBD. Manufacturers produce many CBD-related products in the United States for their customers. Products can be accessed in different forms, potencies, and concertation. It gives an individual a wide range of products according to their preferences and choices.

Benefits of CBD

There are many benefits of CBD and its related products. Individuals have associated CBD with several benefits like health and recreational uses. It is known to provide relief in various conditions for a consumer. Although the researches are anecdotal, CBD is rapidly gaining popularity. Bailey et al. (2019) explained that individuals use it to reduce anxiety disorders and manage post-traumatic stress disorder and addiction, among other benefits. Also, it is used for some physical conditions. When consumed, CBD may help manage a wide range of pain ranging from mild to chronic pain. It can be arthritis-related pain or chronic pain, among others. CBD is associated with the ECS system of an individual interacting with both CB1 and CB2 receptors. It helps manage inflammation like joint pain and other related swelling injuries can cause. Perucca (2017) explained that CBD has also been able to treat cases of epilepsy in small children, a rare condition. It helps counter seizure disorders and any related epileptic conditions and signs. The FDA has only regulated the consumption of Epidiolex, a drug manufactured from CBD, used in treating epilepsy. CBD is used as an anticancer where it helps fight some cancer cells, which can manifest in the form of swelling, pain, or other appearance. More research is needed on CBD to treat physical and mental health conditions.

How To Consume CBD

Manufacturers have made CBD in several formulations allowing users to consume CBD in different modes and methods. Users can consume CBD as follows; Learn more about how do i choose a cbd?

Tinctures and Oils

CBD is directly absorbed into a person's bloodstream within one hour. It is mainly CBD infused with oil. They are the most effective form of CBD and are primarily placed under the tongue by a consumer using a calibrated dropper. Under the language, there is the sublingual membrane that contains the oral mucosa, which is full of capillaries. Individuals who are uncomfortable with capsules and pills can use tinctures and oils.

Lotions and Cream

One can apply CBD cream to treat joint and muscle pain. It is mainly creams, and lotions infused with CBD and are topically applied to the area affected. Users can also treat skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema by using lotions on the affected area. Unlike oils and tinctures, CBD lotion and cream do not get into an individual's blood. When applied to the skin, they interact with the ECS receptors found on the skin without getting into the bloodstream.

Pills and Capsules

Epidiolex is one of the FDA-approved drugs that contain a high potency of CBD and help treat seizures. It is infused with CBD making an individual consume CBD without feeling the earthy taste of CBD. They are used systematically in treating digestive and stroke disorders issues. Unlike other forms, there is a lot of time for the onset of the CBD effect to be felt by a person.

Edibles

It is one of the most popular ways a person can consume CBD, as it can be infused in gummies and other edibles. There is the least guesswork associated with CBD edibles as one can destroy the exact dose needed. They are discrete, affordable, and tasty.

Vaping

It is the consumption of CBD and its products through E-cigarettes inhalation as the CBD is vaporized in a pen-like device and then vaped. On inhalation, the lungs can absorb CBD directly into the bloodstream. It is one of the fastest ways one can experience CBD effects. Learn more about is cbd psychoactive?

CBD Dosages

It is advised that individuals consuming CBD should start with a low CBD consumption as they increase the dose gradually. Different CBD products contain different amounts of CBD content. When starting a new product, be cautious when switching dose forms. Low dosages are advised as one increases gradually to allow the body to adjust. Although CBD consumption is safe and effective, more research is needed on an individual's effectiveness and health safety. Consumers should use CBD products recommended by the doctor to prevent any side or adverse effects associated with CBD consumption.

Side Effects

Some of the side effects of using CBD products are;

• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Change in appetite
• Weight loss
• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth and lips

Conclusion

CBD is a safe and effective product that is legalized and approved for human consumption. Individuals are advised to be keen on using the product to prevent any adverse effects. CBD is used for different purposes, which range from recreational to health benefits. It is associated with treating various health conditions like relieving pain and acting as an anti-inflammatory. Overdose and overconsumption of CBD are not advised as they can lead one to suffer uncertain effects.

References

Bailey, K., Trevillion, K., & Gilchrist, G. (2019). What works for whom and why: A systematic narrative review of interventions for reducing post-traumatic stress disorder and problematic substance use among women with experiences of interpersonal violence. Journal of substance abuse treatment, 99, 88-103.

Kogan, L., Schoenfeld-Tacher, R., Hellyer, P., & Rishniw, M. (2019). US veterinarians' knowledge, experience, and perception regarding the use of cannabidiol for canine medical conditions. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 338.

Perucca, E. (2017). Cannabinoids in the treatment of epilepsy: hard evidence at last. Journal of epilepsy research, 7(2), 61.

Working, W. S. C. S. (2022). How Much CBD Should I Take the First Time? Sign, 62.