You’ve likely heard about CBD before, but understanding how it works in the body and its benefits is useful to know more about.
Cannabidiol, or CBD for short, is a natural compound from the cannabis plant and doesn’t cause a high, unlike its THC counterpart.
CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system to promote balance, typically coming in the form of oils, edibles, and topicals. It has many known benefits, and despite there not being a ton of research into it, there are certainly many who now swear by it.
In this guide, we’ll take a look at how CBD works, its benefits, and how to get the most out of it as a beginner.
How CBD Works in the Body
CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, as mentioned briefly above. This system is a network of receptors that spread throughout the entire body, controlling some of our most vital life functions as a result.
The ECS was first discovered by researchers who were looking to understand how THC in cannasbis affected the body. Researchers found that the body naturally produces cannabinoids, which acts as messenger cells throughout the body.
While scientists are still learning more about the complexities of the system, it’s believed to be crucial in regulating bodily functions from mood, to sleep, appetite, immune response and stress.
CBD is considered a good use for supporting the endocannabinoid system function and aiding the body’s ability to maintain balance for healthy function biologically.
Common Uses and Benefits
There are a number of common uses and benefits with using CBD products. While there’s still some research required to provide verified proof of it working for patients, many already claim it has helped with a variety of ailments.
Pain and inflammation
Many find that CBD has helped to reduce inflammation and pain from various chronic conditions and arthritis by interacting with ECS receptors. Topical CBD shows a lot of promise for joint pain in particular.
Anxiety and stress
With many people struggling with their mental health, having alternative options to over-the-counter or prescribed medication is helpful. Some users have reported that CBD has helped reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression and potentially improving mood and sleep quality. Again, more research is required to prove these claims.
Sleep disorders
Talking of sleep improvement, some users of CBD have reported improvement on their sleep quality, especially when it’s linked to anxiety. This may be helpful for those who deal often with insomnia.
Epilepsy
FDA- approved prescription CBD (Epidiolex) is currently used for treating seizures from severe epilepsy.
Skin health
One of the popular ways in which CBD is used, is through topicals which have been helpful for those looking to improve their skin health. Topical CBD may help those with acne by reducing sebum producton and calming irritated skin due to both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Multiple Sclerosis
Evidence supports the use of CBD for reducing muscle spasms and pain in MS.
There are some important considerations to make when it comes to the common uses and in particular, the benefits. A lot of the research is ongoing ,with robust scientific evidence needed for many of the uses mentioned above. Regulation can also vary, which leads us naturally on to the legal status of CBD.
Legal Status of CBD
In the U.S. CBD from hemp, so ≤0.3% THC, is federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill. However, it’s useful to know that this varies depending on which state you’re in. Some states have restricted the use of CBD or banned it in some cases.
The FDA also hasn’t approved CBD for food/supplements and only for a prescription seizure drug mentioned above called Epidiolex. That does create regulatory gaps that means many products are made available but not all of them might be safe to use, especially when it comes to THC content.
Potential Side Effects
Are there potential side effects to CBD? CBD in general, seems to be well-tolerated but there are a number of side effects that have been reported that are worth mentioning. Of course, with more research, the safety and side effects known to come with CBD will be made more apparent.
Some common side effects include the following:
- Gastrointestinal – You may experience nausea, diarrhea, upset stomach or abdominal pain.
- Alertness/Energy – Drowsiness, fatigue, sleepiness and even insomnia might be a side effect experienced.
- Appetite/Weight – A decreased or changed appetite, including weight changes might occur with the use of CBD.
- Mood – Changes in mood such as irritability, agitation and increased anxiety are often reported by users.
- Other – Dry mouth, dizziness and lightheadedness are some of the other common side effects that occur.
There are some potential risks to using CBD, which are also worth being aware of. CBD can affect liver function, which therefore required regular monitoring especially for those with high dosages or using it with other medications.
Talking of drugs, CBD can interact with other medication such as blood thinners or seizure medications. This may also increase side effects.
Unregulated CBD products may also contain harmful contaminants so it’s important to be aware of where the CBD is coming from and making sure it’s being produced by a legitimate company.
Approach CBD with research and caution
It’s important that as a beginner to CBD, that you explore the potential through research and an air of caution. The lack of research means any claims aren’t fully validated. Yes, there seems to be many benefits of it’s use with current users, but not everyone might have the same experience.
Hopefully in the future, we’ll get more information on the true benefits and usage of CBD as more R&D is conducted.
FAQs
1. Will CBD make me high?
No, it’s beneficial to know that pure CBD oil doesn’t make you feel high because it lacks the significant amount of THC needed for the psychoactive effects to take place. Users will often report feelings of calm, relaxation or reduced pain.
However, it can also cause drowsiness or alertness changes depending on the dose and product type you have.
2. How much CBD should I use?
There’s no right amount of CBD to use as the amount can vary from one person to the next. As a beginner, a common recommendation to start with a small amount of CBD and gradually increase it as required.
Consulting with a healthcare professional is also advised, especially for those with existing health conditions or those taking other medications.
3. Is CBD bad for you?
CBD isn’t inherently bad and is typically considered safe for most people. However, it’s not risk free, so knowing the side effects and risk is improtant.
