What is CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound found in the cannabis plant that has recently gained popularity for its potential health benefits. Unlike its more well-known counterpart, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD does not produce the “high” commonly associated with cannabis use. This characteristic makes it an attractive option for those looking to experience the potential benefits of cannabis without the psychoactive effects. Instead, it’s known to interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates various functions such as mood, appetite, and sleep.
Potential benefits of CBD
Various studies have focused on the potential benefits of CBD; here are some of the findings.
- Pain relief: CBD may have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it a possible option for managing pain.
- Anxiety and depression: CBD may impact the brain’s serotonin receptors, which regulate mood and anxiety.
- Epilepsy: The FDA has approved a CBD-based drug called Epidiolex for treating seizures associated with certain rare forms of epilepsy.
- Skin conditions: CBD has been studied for its potential benefits in managing skin conditions such as acne and eczema.
How is CBD used?
There is a variety of ways in which CBD can be consumed, including:
- Take them orally in the form of capsules, tablets, or oils.
- Apply them topically in the form of lotions, creams, or balms.
- Inhale them in the form of vapor or smoke.
- Take them sublingually (under the tongue) in tinctures or oils.
It’s important to note that CBD is not a cure-all, and its effects can vary from person to person. Talking to a healthcare professional before using CBD is essential, particularly if taking other medications.
CBD Dosage
CBD dosage can vary depending on the individual, the reason for use, and the method of consumption. It’s essential to start with a low dose and gradually increase it as needed. Talking to a healthcare professional is also necessary to determine your appropriate dosage.
Can CBD cure insomnia?
Some studies have shown CBD to help with insomnia, but the exact mechanisms by which CBD affects insomnia are not fully understood. CBD is known to interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates various functions such as mood, appetite, and sleep.
CBD is also known to have an impact on the brain’s serotonin receptors, which are involved in regulating mood and anxiety. CBD may improve sleep quality by reducing anxiety and promoting a sense of calm.
A study conducted in 2019 on 72 adults with anxiety and poor sleep found that taking 25mg of CBD daily for a month reduced anxiety symptoms significantly and improved sleep quality. Other studies have also shown CBD effectively reduces insomnia associated with chronic pain, PTSD, and other conditions.
It’s worth noting that CBD’s effects can vary from person to person, and it’s important to talk to a healthcare professional before starting to use CBD, particularly if you are taking other medications. Additionally, CBD can have some side effects, such as dry mouth, drowsiness, and changes in appetite, that can be related to insomnia.
It’s also important to note that CBD is not a sedative, it doesn’t make you fall asleep, but it helps to reduce the factors that prevent you from falling asleep, such as anxiety, pain, or stress.
Pain Management
CBD has been studied for its potential benefits in pain management.
The exact mechanisms by which CBD affects pain are not fully understood. However, it is understood to interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates various functions such as pain perception, inflammation, and mood. CBD may also have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which may be responsible for its pain-relieving effects.
A study conducted in 2016 on 57 men and women with chronic pain found that taking CBD as an oral spray reduced pain and improved sleep. A review of studies conducted in 2017 also found that CBD effectively reduced chronic pain, particularly neuropathic pain, and chronic inflammation.
CBD may also effectively reduce pain associated with multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, and rheumatoid arthritis.
It’s worth noting that CBD’s effects can vary from person to person, and it’s important to talk to a healthcare professional before starting to use CBD, particularly if you are taking other medications. Additionally, CBD may interact with certain medications, so it’s essential to know the possible drug interactions.
Is CBD Legal?
The legal status of CBD is complex and can vary by location. CBD derived from hemp is federally legal in the United States, but laws vary by state. CBD derived from marijuana is legal in states where marijuana is legal but is still illegal at the federal level. It’s essential to check your local laws and regulations regarding the use of CBD.
The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp-derived CBD at the federal level if it contains less than 0.3% THC. The passage of this bill means that hemp-derived CBD is legal to buy, possess, and use in all 50 states. However, some states may have laws regarding hemp-derived CBD, so it is essential to check with your local authorities.
It’s important to note that the FDA has yet to approve CBD as a medication, and it has issued warning letters to companies that sell CBD products making unproven or false claims about the effectiveness of CBD for treating certain medical conditions. The FDA has also issued warning letters to companies for selling CBD products containing unsafe levels of contaminants or mislabeled.
Which cannabis strains are high in CBD?
Cannabis strains can vary in the amount of CBD they contain. Strains high in CBD typically contain less than 0.3% THC, the compound responsible for the “high” associated with cannabis use. Here are a few examples of cannabis strains that are known to be high in CBD:
- Charlotte’s Web: This strain is known for its high CBD and low THC content. It is named after a young girl, Charlotte Figi, who used this strain to control her seizures.
- Harlequin: This strain is a Sativa-dominant hybrid with a 5:2 ratio of CBD to THC. It is known to provide a clear-headed and energizing effect.
- AC/DC: This strain is high in CBD and low in THC, typically containing around 20% CBD and less than 1% THC. It is known to provide relief from pain and inflammation.
- Cannatonic: This strain is high in CBD and low in THC, typically containing around 12% CBD and 6% THC. It is known for relieving pain and anxiety without psychoactive effects.
- Sour Tsunami: This strain is a hybrid bred specifically for its high CBD content. It typically contains around 10% CBD and less than 1% THC.
- Valencene is also a high CBD strain known for its lemon-like aroma.
It’s worth noting that the exact CBD and THC content of cannabis strains can vary depending on the grower and the growing conditions. It’s also important to note that the strains mentioned above may not be available in all areas. The availability and legality of cannabis strains can vary greatly depending on the location.
It’s also important to remember that CBD is not the only compound that can be beneficial in a cannabis strain; other compounds, such as terpenes, can play a role in how the strain can help. It’s always a good idea to consult with a professional or budtender to help you find the right strain for your needs.
What is the difference between hemp-derived CBD and cannabis-derived CBD?
The main difference between hemp-derived CBD and cannabis-derived CBD is the source of CBD and the amount of THC present in the plant.
Hemp is a strain of the cannabis plant specifically bred to contain high CBD and low THC levels. The definition of hemp in the US is a cannabis plant containing less than 0.3% THC. This definition makes CBD products derived from hemp legal at the federal level as long as they have less than 0.3% THC.
On the other hand, cannabis-derived CBD comes from strains of the cannabis plant that contain higher levels of THC. In the United States, cannabis-derived CBD is only legal in states where marijuana is legal. In these states, cannabis-derived CBD products may contain higher levels of THC, which means that they may produce psychoactive effects.
It’s important to note that the CBD content can vary between hemp-derived and cannabis-derived CBD products. Additionally, cannabis-derived CBD may have a broader range of other compounds, such as terpenes, flavonoids, and other cannabinoids, that can enhance the effects of CBD.
In summary, hemp-derived CBD is legal at the federal level and contains less than 0.3% THC. At the same time, cannabis-derived CBD is only legal in states where marijuana is legal and may have higher levels of THC. Both can provide similar benefits, but the products’ legality and composition vary greatly. Always check your local laws and regulations and consult a healthcare professional before using any CBD product.
Can CBD make you feel high?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant that does not produce the “high” commonly associated with cannabis use. CBD does not bind to the same receptors in the brain as THC, the compound responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis. Instead, it is known to interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates various functions such as mood, appetite, and sleep.
While CBD does not produce a “high,” it may have other effects, such as relaxation or calm. CBD may also impact the brain’s serotonin receptors, which regulate mood and anxiety. CBD may improve sleep quality and reduce pain and inflammation by reducing anxiety and promoting a sense of calm.
It’s worth noting that some people may experience side effects from taking CBD, such as dry mouth, drowsiness, or changes in appetite. These side effects are usually mild and short-lived.
It’s also important to note that while CBD is non-psychoactive, it can still interact with certain medications, and it’s always a good idea to talk to a healthcare professional before starting to use CBD, particularly if you are taking other medications.
In conclusion, CBD does not produce the “high” associated with cannabis use and is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not affect your cognitive or psychomotor functions. While CBD may have other effects, such as a sense of relaxation or calm, it is not psychoactive and won’t make you feel “high.”
