CBD is one of the most popular and effective natural supplements in the world. Its “non psychoactive” factor has made it appealing to users who want to benefit from the plant's health properties without getting high. As a result, CBD is promoted as a wonder drug that helps relieve anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress and sleep disorders, and many other conditions. For people wishing to incorporate it into their lifestyle and transform their health for the better, CBD has become a highly tempting and legal option.
What is CBD?
Even though many of us have heard the term “CBD”, we are still not quite sure what it means. So, to understand the benefits of CBD, let’s start by learning what CBD stands for.
CBD stands for cannabidiol, a chemical compound derived from the Cannabis sativa plant, also known as hemp. The Cannabis sativa plant contains more than 80 cannabinoids, also referred to as psychoactive substances. The most well-known component of cannabis is THC, which is responsible for producing the "high.” However, CBD doesn't contain this side-effect. THC at its core is a toxin, a defence mechanism employed by the plant to ward off attacks.
What are the differences between CBD and THC?
There are key differences between the two compounds. These are:
Psychoactive properties
The brain's receptors are affected differently by CBD and THC. Because of this, CBD normally has no psychoactive effects, so it won't get you high.
THC, on the other hand, does have some psychotropic properties. The “high” that most people associate with marijuana is caused by this chemical.
Chemical Structure
The molecular structure of CBD and THC is the same as that of the body's endocannabinoids. Endocannabinoids are neurotransmitters that act in the brain. Neurotransmitters play crucial roles in processes like pain, immunological response, stress, sleep, appetite, and mood.
Accordingly, the tiny difference between CBD and THC is caused by the way the atoms are placed on your body, which explains the differing effects.
Sources
While CBD can be made from either hemp or marijuana, it is frequently produced from hemp to reduce the number of THC concentrations present.
On the other hand, most THC comes from marijuana.
Pain Relief
Both CBD and THC have pain-relieving properties. The euphoric properties of THC may result in more rapid pain alleviation. However, one benefit of using CBD is its long-term effectiveness
Legality
You should be able to purchase CBD in jurisdictions where cannabis is accepted for either medical or recreational use. On the other hand, medical cannabis with high THC levels is still limited to certain regions of the globe.
Side effects
Even in high dosages, CBD is well tolerated. Any negative effects from using CBD are most likely the consequence of the compound interactions with other prescription drugs you may be taking. CBD’s side effects may include:
- appetite changes
- fatigue, drowsiness, and sleepiness
- weight loss
- dizziness
- diarrhea
- increased suicidal thoughts
In the case of THC's side effects, these are related to the compound´s psychoactive factors. They may include:
- increased heart rate
- coordination problems
- dry mouth
- red eyes
- slower reaction times
- memory loss
- anxiety
- tiredness
- confusion
- distress
- low blood pressure
- seizures
What are the health benefits of using CBD?
A wide variety of research studies in humans and animals, as well as self-reports, have shown that using CBD offers benefits for different health conditions. Here are several ways in which CBD can improve your health:
Offset Anxiety and Depression
CBD can reduce anxiety and depression as it provides a calming effect.
Treats Insomnia
CBD can improve your health by treating sleeping disorders. It may help with both falling asleep and staying asleep.
Treats Select Epilepsy Syndromes
Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome are two extremely rare types of childhood epileptic seizures that have been successfully treated with CBD, according to studies.
Treats addiction
CBD may be used to treat individuals with opioid, alcohol, heroin, tobacco, and stimulant dependency.
Improves ALS Symptoms
Those who suffer from Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a disease that causes nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord to deteriorate, have found that CBD helps to ease muscle tightness and stiffness symptoms.
Relieves chronic pain
When applied to the skin, CBD may help reduce arthritis-related pain and inflammation. Additionally, it can reduce painful conditions like neuropathic pain.
Eases diabetic complications
The consequences of high blood glucose levels on cells in the body, which frequently come before the onset of diabetes and its associated problems, are lessened by CBD.
Protects Against Neurological Diseases
Because of CBD´s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, it provides significant neuroprotection against numerous pathological disorders. Some studies show that CBD may even help with Alzheimer's disease or Parkinson's disease as well
Protects against other health issues
Other benefits of using CBD include treating migraine, nausea, cancer, allergy and asthma, cluster, and lung conditions.
What are the most common types of CBD?
If you’re a CBD beginner, you need to know about the different types of CBD products available on the market and which one is better for you. Here is a list of the most common types of CBD:
CBD Oil Tinctures
These are the simplest, most efficient, affordable, and widely used methods of consuming CBD. The benefits of tinctures should be felt within 15 to 30 minutes of ingesting them, and they normally last 6 to 8 hours.
CBD Isolates
They are available in wax, powder, and crystal forms so you can create your tinctures, edibles, or waxes. Isolates do, however, have a significant drawback. The significant benefits of consuming CBD in its natural condition are lost when the CBD is purified.
CBD Topicals
Some of the CBD topicals that are advertised include deodorants, shampoos, and lotions. When you apply a topical to the targeted area of your skin, the topical penetrates the skin's layers and interacts with CBD receptors.
CBD Capsules
Given that they are made with incredibly exact dosages, CBD capsules are quite simple to take. These products are available as pills and soft gels. However, CBD capsules work slowly and may not be as potent as tinctures. It may take up to two hours to feel the full impact.
CBD Edibles
Gummies, baked products, chocolates, drinks, gum, mints, and energy chews are some examples of CBD edibles. Edibles don't work quickly or last a long time.
CBD Patches
Patches allow CBD to enter your bloodstream by penetrating the skin's layers. The only disadvantage is that they are not as discrete to the eye because you must apply them close to your veins.
CBD Vapes
Because CBD vape products work by inhalation, one puff will produce a result in just a few minutes.