CBD has become something of a cultural fad over the past decade or so. Hailed for its enormous health benefits and wellbeing boosters, it is important to get clued up if you want to truly benefit from its unique medicinal qualities.
What Is It… and Will it Get You High?
CBD stands for cannabidiol, an ingredient that is found in the hemp plant. It is also well known for being an active ingredient in the cannabis plant. Contrary to popular belief, CBD will not get you high. It is often mistaken for THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) which is the psychoactive ingredient found in marijuana. CBD will have no mind-altering effects.
However, varying forms offer different potencies and it is possible to buy strains that contain the legal limit of THC (0.3%). Certain wholesalers provide bulk CBD hemp seeds which contain the optimum level of CBD, whilst still remaining within the federal THC limit. These can then be turned into oils, powders and various products that you can buy in certain stores and on the internet.
What Are the Benefits?
CBD has shown to be a unique and natural remedy for a variety of ailments including arthritis; it can help alleviate the symptoms of anxiety, including insomnia; and has even proven to help children who suffer from seizures. Although CBD is not yet considered a ‘medicine’ and there are a lot of scientific tests that need to be done, it is often used as a supplement and can be added into your life in a variety of ways.
How Do I Introduce It into My Diet?
There are a number of different ways that CBD can be bought and introduced into your life. It is always important to check the supplier, as in the US only certain states have legalized its use.
CBD oil can be applied to your skin in the form of lotions and balms which target inflammation and joint swelling. It can also be bought in the form of edibles, which may relieve symptoms of anxiety and depression. Erin Magner suggests that one of the best ways to administer the product is to pop the oil under your tongue, as the body absorbs it faster and you will feel the effects quicker. This may be a good option for people who are about to enter a stressful situation such as flying.
Please note: It’s always best to consult a health professional before purchase.
Is it Safe?
Despite its growing reputation for being the go-to source for natural remedies, there are still a multitude of scientific tests that need to be done. Small studies have found possible side-effects to be: fatigue, diarrhea and appetite and weight change. Vaping has its own side-effects and is not recommended for people wanting to try CBD.
It is comforting to know that there has been no evidence that the product can cause physical or psychological dependence. What we have seen from this substance has mostly been positive and it perhaps offers a natural step towards alternative treatment for certain health conditions.
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