CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a chemical compound found in the Cannabis sativa plant. Despite its widespread popularity, navigating information about CBD can be challenging, especially when determining its proper usage. CBD is commonly incorporated into various products and has been shown to have versatile applications, from being added to coffee and skincare products to being sold in its pure form. Many individuals may wonder about the specific benefits of CBD and the most effective ways to use it.
Although CBD might appear to be a recent discovery, it has actually been utilized for centuries. According to a 2020 study published in Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience, cannabis seeds were being used nearly 12,000 years ago in Central Asia, following nomadic people and traders. Over time, humans have recognized the commercial and medicinal value of this plant.
What Is CBD?
BD naturally occurs in the Cannabis sativa plant, a herbaceous flowering plant. Cannabis comprises numerous compounds that can affect the body differently. There are two primary varieties of cannabis plants: marijuana and hemp. Marijuana contains higher levels of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and lower levels of CBD, whereas hemp contains higher levels of CBD and lower levels of THC.
Unlike THC, which induces a “high,” CBD is non-psychoactive, representing a significant distinction between the two compounds.
Will I Get “High” Using CBD?
In short, CBD does not produce a “high.” While cannabis plants contain hundreds of compounds, CBD and THC are the main ones. As Junella Chin, DO, an osteopathic physician and medical cannabis expert for cannabisMD, explained, “CBD is the non-psychoactive portion of the plant, so you won’t experience euphoric effects.” However, individual reactions to new supplements can vary, emphasizing the importance of using CBD under medical supervision, especially for first-time users.
Ensuring the quality of CBD products is crucial, given the lack of regulation by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for over-the-counter CBD products. Third-party testing is recommended to confirm the accuracy of product labels and to avoid potential discrepancies in potency or unintended THC content. While the FDA does not directly regulate CBD products, it does issue warning letters to companies found violating certain laws, such as those producing products containing THC or making false medical claims.
What Are the Health Benefits of CBD?
Although many people claim CBD has helped alleviate various health conditions, including pain, psoriasis, osteoarthritis, and even cancer, the only FDA-approved CBD medication is Epidiolex for treating certain types of epilepsy. Despite anecdotal evidence, there is limited unbiased research supporting the wide array of purported benefits of CBD.
Several unbiased studies suggest that CBD may offer potential benefits. For instance, a 2021 study published in the Journal of Cannabis Research found that CBD-rich treatments helped relieve moderate to severe pain, anxiety, and depression, while improving overall well-being in affected individuals. However, the study did not demonstrate significant benefits for individuals with mild symptoms.
Does CBD Help With Pain Management?
CBD’s effectiveness in pain management may vary depending on the type of pain, with evidence suggesting that combining CBD with a small amount of THC might yield better results for some individuals. Determining the appropriate dosage can be challenging, and it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating CBD or any new supplement into your routine.
Can CBD Help With Anxiety?
CBD may also be beneficial for managing anxiety symptoms by promoting a sense of calmness and relaxation. However, it’s essential to understand that CBD is not a cure-all solution, and seeking professional help from a mental health professional is crucial for addressing the underlying causes of anxiety.
The choice of CBD administration method should be guided by individual needs and preferences, whether for managing physical pain or anxiety symptoms. Some individuals may prefer topical CBD creams or ointments for targeted relief, while others may opt for ingestible forms such as tinctures or edibles.
Types of CBD
The best way for you to administer CBD should be guided by what needs to be treated, such as physical pain vs. anxiety, and your preference. Some people don’t want to ingest anything and prefer a topical CBD cream or ointment applied to muscles, joints, and ligaments for targeted relief.
CBD Types and Administration
| TYPE OF CBD | ROUTE OF ADMINISTRATION |
|---|---|
| Oil | Sublingual (drops under the tongue) or added to lotions, food, or beverages |
| Capsules | Pills that can be swallowed |
| Edibles | Infusion into food or beverages |
| Topicals | Added to creams, balms, and lotions that can be applied to your skin |
| Vapes | Inhaled via vape pens or e-cigarettes (not medically recommended) |
| Tinctures | Sublingual or added to food or beverages |
| Isolates | Pure CBD used for dabbing, making your own topicals, or adding or food or beverages |
| Patches | Adhesive patches applied to the skin |
| Suppositories | Capsule inserted rectally or vaginally |
When selecting a CBD product, it’s crucial to consider various factors, including your preferred method of consumption, desired effects, dosage, and the quality and source of the product. It’s also advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating CBD into your routine, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications, as CBD may interact with certain drugs.
When selecting a CBD product, it’s crucial to consider various factors, including your preferred method of consumption, desired effects, dosage, and the quality and source of the product. It’s also advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating CBD into your routine, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications, as CBD may interact with certain drugs.
What Should I Look for When Shopping for CBD Products?
Third-Party Testing:
Ensure that the CBD products you choose undergo third-party testing to verify the accuracy of the label. Look for a quality assurance stamp or certificate of analysis from a reputable independent organization. This helps prevent discrepancies between the labeled and actual CBD content.
Dosing:
Understanding the type of CBD formulation (e.g., isolate, full-spectrum, broad-spectrum) is essential when determining the appropriate dosage. Dosages vary from person to person, so consulting with a healthcare provider is recommended to ensure compatibility with other medications and individual health needs.
Claims of Curing Disease:
Be wary of CBD products that claim to cure diseases, as such claims may indicate a lack of compliance with regulatory standards. It’s advisable to avoid companies making unsubstantiated claims about the therapeutic benefits of CBD.
Batch Number:
Check for batch numbers on CBD products, which serve as indicators of good manufacturing practices. Manufacturers should provide a way to identify products in case of recalls, demonstrating their commitment to quality and safety.
Additional Ingredients:
Review the product label to identify any additional ingredients besides CBD, especially if you have specific dietary requirements or restrictions.
Potential Risks:
Be aware of potential risks associated with using CBD, including inaccurately labeled products, health considerations for certain populations (e.g., individuals with diabetes), and potential interactions with medications or supplements.
Appearance on Drug Tests:
Pure CBD should not result in a positive drug test, but be cautious of products containing trace amounts of THC, particularly if undergoing sensitive drug testing.
Use While Pregnant:
Due to limited research, it’s advisable to avoid CBD products during pregnancy or breastfeeding to mitigate potential risks to the fetus or infant.
Potential Drug Interactions:
Consult with healthcare professionals to assess potential interactions between CBD and any medications or supplements you are currently taking, as CBD may interact with certain drugs.
Areas of Further Study:
As CBD research continues, stay informed about emerging findings regarding its effects, dosage, and interactions. Discuss any concerns or questions with your healthcare provider to make informed decisions about CBD use.