Is there any truth to the rumors that CBD oil is a miracle cure for everything from cancer to depression? And how can we tell if it’s safe to use? What are some of the most common side effects? And what’s going on with legal issues surrounding CBD? Let’s talk about it!
I want to start off by saying I’m not an expert in this area. I’ve had no formal training. I just wanted to share my experience as someone who uses full spectrum hemp oil daily. I also work at a dispensary selling CBD products. So I have first-hand knowledge of what they look like, where they come from, and how they’re made. I’ll do my best to answer all your questions about CBD oil below.
Why would anyone take CBD oil?
Because it works. And there’s evidence for it.
In 2017, the FDA approved Epidiolex, a drug containing cannabidiol (CBD) for two rare forms of epilepsy: Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome. These are both severe forms of epilepsy that can cause hundreds or even thousands of seizures per day. For people with these conditions, CBD has been shown to reduce seizure frequency by as much as 80%.
There are many other studies showing that CBD can help treat anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health disorders. Many patients report that their symptoms improved significantly after taking CBD.
How does CBD work?
We still don’t fully understand exactly how CBD works. However, there are several possible mechanisms of action.
It binds to receptors throughout our bodies, which means it interacts with every organ system in our body. This includes the brain, nervous system, immune system, reproductive organs, and more.
The endocannabinoid system regulates the body’s functions. It maintains homeostasis by keeping things running smoothly. When your endocannabinoid system doesn’t function correctly, you may experience pain, inflammation, and other symptoms. The endocannabinoid system also plays a role in regulating appetite.
One theory suggests that when CBD binds to CB2 receptors, it produces anti-inflammatory effects. Other theories suggest that CBD acts directly on serotonin receptors or GABA receptors.
Research suggests that CBD can reduce activity in the amygdala, which plays a role in emotional responses. This could explain why so many users report feeling calmer after using CBD.
So, in short — it affects almost every organ system in the body.
And it seems to work pretty quickly too. One study found that CBD was effective within 30 minutes.
Side effects of CBD
CBD is generally considered to be very safe. Most of the time, CBD will only cause mild side effects like drowsiness, dry mouth, or nausea. There are some exceptions though. Some people experience vomiting or diarrhea. Others get heartburn or stomach cramps. Still others have trouble sleeping.
However, CBD is known to interact with certain medications. Talk to your doctor before combining CBD oil with any prescription drugs. Also make sure you’re not allergic to anything that might be included in CBD oil, such as propylene glycol, soybean oil, or hemp seed oil.
Legal issues around CBD
A lot of people are concerned about the legality of CBD.
According to the U.S. government, CBD isn’t really illegal. But the DEA classifies cannabis extracts containing less than 0.3% THC as Schedule 1 substances. That means it’s illegal under federal law.
But that’s not true everywhere. In fact, only six states and Washington, DC allow medical marijuana dispensaries to sell CBD-based products. A handful of states have legalized CBD in general.
There are also lots of local laws that vary across the country. For example, the city of Denver decriminalized possession of small amounts of marijuana in 2014. Now, residents can carry up to an ounce of marijuana without facing criminal charges.
But what about CBD oil? Will it get me arrested?
If you live in Colorado, California, Maine, Massachusetts, Nevada, Oregon, or Vermont, then yes. If you live anywhere else, this depends on your particular state’s laws. You should check with your local authorities to find out what the rules are.
Will CBD get me addicted?
Again, this varies by state. If you’re living in one of those six states mentioned above, then you probably won’t get addicted to CBD oil. At least, not unless you’re also abusing alcohol or other drugs.
Most people don’t become addicted to CBD because it’s actually physically addictive. Instead, you feel mentally and emotionally dependent on it. Once you stop using it, withdrawal symptoms can lead you to crave it again.
That said, there are some people who can become addicted to CBD. If you’re among them, know that it’s not necessarily your fault. Addiction happens because of the way our brains respond to stress. CBD can lower your stress levels, so you may feel less anxious.
As a result, you may start craving it more often. Eventually, you may need more and more to feel satisfied.
Is CBD good for pets?
Yes! Studies show that CBD oil can improve the quality of life for many animals.
For example, CBD oil has helped dogs with arthritis, anxiety, and other ailments. And cats seem to enjoy it too. There are also anecdotal reports of CBD helping dogs and cats who suffer from seizures, cancer, and other diseases.
Of course, you shouldn’t give CBD oil to your pet if it hasn’t been tested on animals. Always consult your veterinarian before giving CBD oil to your pet.
Doesn’t everyone know about CBD?
Unfortunately, not everyone knows about CBD.
This is partly because of the stigma associated with marijuana. People don’t always realize that CBD oil is totally different from weed. They think “marijuana” refers to the whole plant rather than a single compound.
Another reason is that many companies market CBD products as “natural,” even though they contain synthetic compounds. So while CBD oil certainly isn’t dangerous, it can confuse consumers into thinking that it must be safer than something produced by humans.
To avoid confusion, always make sure that you buy a 100% organic product that contains nothing but CBD.
Do you recommend CBD oil? Or does it just sound cool?
No matter what you choose to believe, there’s no harm in trying it if you’d like. Just keep in mind that it’s only safe if you follow proper dosage guidelines. Make sure you discuss your concerns with your doctor before starting.
Also, remember that CBD is still relatively new. Your mileage may vary. You never know until you try it.
Can I get high from CBD oil?
Probably not.
While CBD can interact with certain medications, it usually doesn’t produce psychoactive effects. This means you won’t feel stoned or even slightly buzzed.
You can, however, feel relaxed. Or you may notice increased feelings of well-being.
Are there natural ways to increase CBD levels in CBD oil?
Not really. But don’t worry! Even if you don’t get your desired results immediately, you can still use CBD oil safely and effectively over the long term.
That said, if you’re looking to boost the amount of CBD in your oil, you can add activated charcoal. Activated charcoal is a great absorbent, so it can bind extra CBD molecules. Simply mix it with your oil in a ratio of roughly 50/50.
How can I use CBD oil to lose weight?
CBD has been shown to regulate metabolism. It helps the body burn fat instead of storing it.
Some people claim that taking CBD reduces hunger pangs and cravings, making it easier to stick to a diet. But there aren’t any solid scientific studies backing this up yet.
Still, if you’re interested in losing weight, it’s worth experimenting with CBD oil. Just make sure you consult your doctor first.
How can I use CBD oil for sleep?
CBD oil can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. It can also reduce daytime sleepiness and improve moods.
Again, talk to your doctor first before trying CBD oil for sleep.
Can I use CBD oil to relieve anxiety?
Absolutely! CBD has been used to treat anxiety for decades. Several studies have shown that it can reduce anxiety-related symptoms.
There’s even anecdotal evidence that it can treat generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, panic attacks, and obsessive compulsive disorder.
But again, you should always consult your doctor before taking CBD oil for anxiety.
Can I combine CBD oil with other substances?
Yes! In fact, many people take CBD along with coffee or tea. It can also be mixed into smoothies.
You can also combine CBD oil with prescription medication. In some cases, CBD can make medications more effective. In other cases, it can interfere with their effectiveness. Consult your doctor before combining CBD oil with any prescription drugs.
How can I buy CBD oil online?
Numerous trustworthy brands sell CBD oil in advantageous bundles through true sites. What’s more, you can normally find limits and advancements for mass requests.
However, since there’s no normalized naming framework, it tends to be hard to discern whether CBD oil you buy online is unadulterated.
Ensure you purchase CBD oil from a believed brand and that you use it appropriately. Understand audits, clarify some pressing issues, and make sure to client support in the event that you really want assistance.