Cannabidiol (CBD) is frequently reported in the news, and it’s commonly promoted as a supplement to your post-workout smoothie or morning coffee. But exactly what is CBD, and why is it so popular?
How is cannabidiol distinct from marijuana, cannabis, and hemp?
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is the second most common active component in cannabis (marijuana). CBD is an essential element of medical marijuana, but it is derived directly from hemp plants, which are relatives of marijuana. CBD, which is one of the hundreds of marijuana substances, does not cause a “high” by itself. According to the World Health Organization, CBD has “no indications of abuse or dependence potential in humans.” There is currently no evidence that using pure CBD poses public health risks.
Is cannabidiol legal?
CBD is readily available in most parts of the United States, although its legal standing has been up and down. The FDA relaxed the regulatory criteria in December 2015 to allow researchers to study cannabis more easily. Hemp became legal in the United States in 2018, making it nearly impossible to keep CBD illegal. It would be like if oranges were legalised but orange juice was banned.
CBD is lawful only if it comes from hemp, not cannabis (marijuana). Many people now obtain CBD online without a medical marijuana license, which is lawful in most states.
The evidence for cannabidiol health benefits
The strongest scientific evidence suggests that CBD may help with a number of health problems, but it’s best known for its therapeutic value in treating some of the most severe epileptic syndromes, such as Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS), which are resistant to anti seizure medications. CBD has been shown in many studies to reduce the number of seizures and, in certain cases, even to prevent them. Epidiolex, a CBD-rich drug, is the first cannabis-derived medicine licensed by the FDA for these uses.
How can CBD be taken?
CBD is available in a variety of forms, including oils, extracts, capsules, patches, vapes, and topical lotions for skin use. Products such as CBD-infused drops from Vitabiotics CBD, lotion, or cream – or even a bath bomb – may be the best way to alleviate muscle and joint discomfort if you want to reduce inflammation. Alternatively, a CBD-containing cream, tincture, or spray may be placed under the tongue to directly enter the circulation.
Is CBD safe?
CBD has several adverse effects, including nausea, tiredness, and irritability. CBD competes for liver enzymes that break down medicines in the bloodstream, possibly increasing the number of blood thinners and other medications eliminated by your body. Grapefruit has a similar blood thinner effect.
CBD may cause abnormalities in liver-related blood tests in people who consume large amounts of it. Many non-prescription medicines, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), have the same impact. If you use CBD on a daily basis, you should notify your doctor.
