What is CBD?
Cannabidinol, better known as CBD, has become one of the most popular health aids on the market today. Scientific studies emphasize its wide range of benefits, from managing chronic pain, to an aid in dealing with anxiety. But what is CBD, exactly?
Cannabis has over 100 active compounds that make it the plant we love. One of those compounds is CBD. However, while CBD is a component of Cannabis, it doesn’t cause the same “high.” Not only is CBD non-psychoactive, it doesn’t cause any recorded harmful effects According to a report from the WHO, “to date, there is no evidence of public health related problems associated with the use of pure CBD.”
Benefits of CBD
Through a robust body of research, CBD has shown to be capable of treating or alleviating a number of conditions, from chronic inflammation to anxiety disorders. One of the most popular uses for CBD oil is utilizing it’s natural pain and inflammatory relieving qualities.
In a 2016 study, the anti-inflammatory properties of CBD were tested on rats with arthritis. The study found that both inflammation and pain-related behaviors were diminished, without any evident side-effects.
The anxiety-reducing benefits are another popular aspect of CBD. In a study from 2011, researchers found that 600 mg of CBD helped those suffering from anxiety feel “significantly reduced anxiety, cognitive impairment and discomfort” when delivering a simulated public speech.”
CBD has also been shown to have strong neuro-protective benefits. It has been shown to have the capability to promote healthy cellular functioning and age-related molecular processes in the human brain. This includes reducing oxidative stress and promoting neurogenesis, or the growth of new neurons.
Other potential benefits of CBD include:
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Combating seizures and epilepsy
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Helping mitigate drug withdrawal
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Assisting those trying to quit smoking
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Reducing the effects of neurodegenerative diseases
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Potentially combating type 1 diabetes and cancer
While the hard science is still being done, it’s clear that CBD has a wide-range of benefits that yield themselves to many, with very little risk or side-effects.
Potential CBD Side Effects
While most people tolerate CBD products well, it’s always important to be aware of potential side effects. These side effects tend to be mild, but could include fatigue, diarrhea, changes in weight and/or changes in appetite.
Additionally, using CBD oil while using additional medications, could impact the effectiveness of those medications. With this in mind, it’s important to speak with a doctor in order to understand any possible interactions between CBD and prescription medications.
Summary of CBD
While there is still much work to be done in the scientific realm in terms of understanding the mechanisms of CBD, there is strong research-backed evidence that demonstrates its overall positive impact on health. From chronic inflammation to anxiety, CBD shows a wide-range of benefits.
However, even though the potential side-effects of CBD are relatively mild, it’s important to speak to a doctor if you are concerned about any potential interactions with prescription medication.
Want to learn more about CBD? Contact our knowledgeable team at Therapeutic Healthcare Collective, and check out our range of CBD products!