CBD is rapidly gaining popularity among people due to its potential health benefits. Many believe it is a magic bullet to treat various ailments. A survey conducted in 2019 indicates that one in seven Americans (around 14%) use at least some form of CBD in their life.
While most of the research studying the medicinal benefits of CBD remains at an infant stage, people have become curious about it. Unfortunately, the misconception and hype are the downsides of the therapeutic cannabis derivative. Due to such wrong ideas regarding CBD, many new users have become confused.
For a canna-curious consumer or medical patient looking for an alternative pain relief option, getting the correct information is the key to an informed decision. To make this quest easier, here are some of the facts you need to know.
1. Lack of Regulation
FDA has not regulated CBD oil. Hence, the products available on the market may not contain the suggested levels of CBD. It means you may not experience the benefits. According to a study in 2017, out of ten CBD products, seven do not contain the necessary levels of CBD promised on the label. Around 43% of the products consisted of very little CBD, while 26% had too much. Higher or lower doses may not offer users the effect they hope for. With many states struggling to impose regulations, it is up to the users to buy authentic products from reputed sources such as DailyMarijuana dispensary in Canada to get the results.
2. Hemp-Derived CBD Has Legality
The legality of CBD is a murky topic. The lawful status of CBD has become a topic filled with confusion due to the recent reforms. When combined with misinformation, many people have a skewed understanding of the legality of CBD. To summarize, in a nutshell, the legality of CBD depends on the state or province you stay in. While CBD from marijuana and hemp has a lawful status for recreational and medicinal use in Canada, in the US, it may differ. After the Farm Bill passage in 2018, CBD derived from hemp with less than 0.3% THC is legal. But, CBD derived from marijuana or hemp with more than 0.3% THC comes under controlled substances. Since laws differ from state to state, you need to double-check it.
3. CBD Has Presence Of Psychoactive Substance
While CBD and THC are compounds derived from cannabis, CBD has gained popularity due to its non-intoxicating nature. But, it does not mean CBD is free from psychoactive effects. It can have a direct impact on your cognition and mood. Due to this feature, it may have moderating effects on the following mental issues such as
- Depression
- Psychosis
- Anxiety
- Memory
- Seizures
- Appetite
But, it may not make a person feel stoned like THC. THC is a psychoactive substance that can leave users temporarily impaired. On the other hand, CBD has non-intoxicating qualities and therapeutic effects that may make people think of it as a non-psychoactive cannabinoid.
4. CBD Works Better When Used With Other Cannabis Compounds
According to a study conducted by the Hebrew University of Israel, CBD can work better when combined with other cannabis compounds. This study documented the potency of CBD-rich extract and the single-molecule CBD. A CBD-rich extract contains cannabinoids and terpenes that together have an entourage effect. It means that the cannabis compounds (avoiding THC) can work synergistically to offer therapeutic effects. While you can choose CBD isolates for specific conditions, the CBD-rich extract can work in tandem to provide positive results without the undesirable effects of THC. Studies indicate entourage effects can reduce paranoia or cognitive impairment.
5. CBD Oil May Interact With Different Systems In The Body
Many people believe CBD offers a magical cure to many problems. While evidence regarding the claims remains unclear, CBD can interact with the different systems in the body through the ECS (endocannabinoid system). Why is ECS significant? It is the internal system in the body made of endocannabinoids or endogenous cannabinoids. Cannabinoids in CBD oil can bind with the receptors of ECS and can elicit diverse effects. The effect observed depends on the receptors activated by the CBD or other phytocannabinoids.
Can CBD oil ease pain? According to research, CBD can lower absorption of the pain-regulating endocannabinoid, anandamide in your body. Hence, using CBD oil may offer pain relief. Studies on rodents indicate that CBD can suppress chronic pain and inflammation as it may target alpha-3 glycine receptors. Research also shows the possible reduction of epileptic seizures when CBD inhibits the release of neurotransmitters. CBD products can also elicit the therapeutic response in the body via the non-ECS receptor pathways. Furthermore, it may offer relief from depression and anxiety as studies indicate that CBD can activate serotonin receptor 5-HT1A in animals.
Conclusion
While CBD has attracted people’s attention, the prevalence of misinformation can become a deal-breaker for a newbie. Therefore, it requires more guidelines and educational resources to convince an average consumer. But, never go out to get CBD oil, thinking it will solve all your health issues. To make the right decision, you can seek assistance from a professional with knowledge regarding CBD and its potential benefits. With the right monitoring and managing the use of CBD by an expert, you can include it for pain relief and get the results without any side effects.
Disclaimer:
Opinions expressed in this article are those of the guest author and not necessarily WeSay.
Many people say that pain is inevitable. Indeed, feeling the pain cannot be avoided; however, we can always use something to lessen the pain. Some people have found that CBD helps their pain. However, we should still take into consideration the situation of the person that will take the CBD. You’re also correct about never going out to get CBD oil, thinking it will solve all your health issues. Thus, it’s necessary to consult a doctor or an expert before using CBD for the pain to avoid any untoward side effects.
– Joy | Joy Organics
Many people say that pain is inevitable. Indeed, feeling the pain cannot be avoided; however, we can always use something to lessen the pain. Some people have found that CBD helps their pain. However, we should still take into consideration the situation of the person that will take the CBD. You’re also correct about never going out to get CBD oil, thinking it will solve all your health issues. Thus, it’s necessary to consult a doctor or an expert before using CBD for the pain to avoid any untoward side effects.
– Dan White | Joy Organics