CBD – the second-most widely recognized cannabinoid of the cannabis plant after tetrahydrocannabinol. Cannabis/Marijuana contains more than 113 cannabinoids. Unlike THC, CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, meaning it does not create a high effect or any form of intoxication.
The non-psychedelic properties of CBD make it an appealing option for those looking for pain relief and other mental health problems without the mind-altering effects of marijuana.
You may have noticed a recent influx of CBD products on the market. There are CBD oil, edibles, topical products, vape CBD, and more. However, most people prefer to choose sublingual CBD mixed with carrier oils. There are many health benefits attributed to CBD oil, from alleviating stress to reduce inflammation and anxiety.
So, why use CBD oil? Read on to learn all the facts about thriving cannabinoid – CBD.
How does CBD Oil Work?
Cannabidiol – the extract from Cannabis Sativa plant with non-psychoactive properties. CBD interacts with our body’s endocannabinoid system that regulates various body functions. The ECS controls sleep, appetite, pain, memory, reproduction, and fertility. The core components of the endocannabinoid system are:
- Endocannabinoids – that receive stimulus
- Cannabinoid receptors – that binds to endocannabinoids
- Enzymes – breakdown endocannabinoids once they carried out their function
All cannabinoids produce effects in the body by interacting with cannabinoid receptors – CB1 & CB2. CB1 receptors present throughout the body, particularly in the brain. However, CB2 receptors are primarily present in the immune system. CBD stimulates these receptors to produce cannabinoids – natural endocannabinoids [2].
Health Benefits of CBD Oil:
Here are some health benefits of blossoming cannabinoid – CBD, backed by scientific evidence.
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CBD Oil may help manage Pain:
The effects of CBD oil brain receptors may help to alleviate pain. CBD interacts with the natural endocannabinoid system that regulates pain and may help manage pain. Preclinical studies by the National Institute of Health – NIH shows that CBD may help with [3]:
- Arthritis pain
- Chronic pain
- Multiple Sclerosis Pain
- Muscle pain
- Chronic joint pain
Another study found that Sativex – a combination of THC & CBD may improve pain during movement and sleep quality in people with rheumatoid arthritis [4].
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CBD Oil may reduce anxiety & depression:
Depression is the single largest contributor to disability worldwide. CBD oil may be able to reduce anxiety symptoms. Researchers think that CBD may change your brain receptors’ response to serotonin – a chemical linked to mental health [5].
CBD oil is a natural and safe remedy to deal with anxiety and depression. Unlike pharmaceutical drugs, CBD does not cause any adverse effects. Another study shows that CBD may help relieve anxiety symptoms by [6]:
- Reducing stress
- Improving Post-traumatic stress disorder – PTSD symptoms
- Inducing better sleep
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CBD might have Neuroprotective Properties:
The interaction of CBD with the endocannabinoid system and brain receptors may provide benefits for those with neurological disorders. Researchers are studying the use of CBD oil for [7]:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Multiple sclerosis
- Parkinson’s disease
- Stroke
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CBD may reduce Acne:
CBD oil may help reduce acne that results from various factors, including genetic, bacteria, and inflammation. The anti-inflammatory properties of CBD oil may help reduce inflammation and redness.
One study found that CBD oil may prevent the overproduction of sebum by controlling the sebaceous gland activity [8]. Also, CBD oil may be an efficient and safe way to reduce acne on the skin.
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CBD oil may alleviate cancer-related symptoms:
CBD may be effective in alleviating cancer treatment symptoms like nausea and vomiting. People often use drugs for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting that are sometimes ineffective and lead people to seek alternatives.
One of the most effective and natural alternatives for these distressing symptoms is CBD oil. A study of 16 people undergoing chemotherapy found that a combination of CBD & THC reduces chemotherapy symptoms better than standard treatments [9].
Top Reasons to Use CBD Oil
You might have seen numerous people talking about the therapeutic health benefits of CBD oil. Also, there are countless CBD products available in the market. Have you ever thought about why people choose CBD oil? Here are some top reasons to use CBD oil.
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It is entirely legal:
CBD oil is legal in almost all US states. Most companies use cannabidiol derived from the hemp plant that contains less than 0.3% THC. You can purchase CBD oil from food shops like health food supplements. However, the legal status of CBD oil is complex. Before buying, make sure to check your state’s marijuana laws and travel destinations.
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Finding the right dose is very easy:
Usually, CBD oil comes in the form of tinctures. Whether you are an avid cannabis consumer or a beginner, you can use a few drops of CBD oil. You cannot go overboard with CBD oil as it is not psychoactive. Moreover, you can start with a lower dose of CBD oil and increase the dose to get the desired effects.
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There are countless ways to take CBD:
CBD is the most prominent among all other CBD products. You can use CBD sublingual oil to feel the earthy or grassy taste of natural cannabinoids. Moreover, you can add CBD oil to your meals and favorite food. Other ways to incorporate CBD products into your daily life regime are edibles, topicals, cosmetics, and more.
Ways of using CBD products include:
- mixing them into food or drink
- taking them with a pipette or dropper
- swallowing capsules
- massaging a paste into the skin
- spraying it under the tongue
The Takeaway:
CBD oil is safe and effective to use without any adverse effects. CBD oil has been studied for its potential benefits in easing symptoms of some common health ailments. Research on its therapeutic effects is ongoing. For now, people should ask a healthcare professional to ask about how much to take and which product to use.
While there are many therapeutic and pharmaceutical treatment options to help ease anxiety and its symptoms, it’s always worth looking into new options. For some, CBD oil has been a wonderful addition to their treatment toolkit.
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