You’ve probably heard of CBD by now. Perhaps you have heard your friends talking about it, maybe you’ve seen it advertised in the local health store, or you may have even seen it listed on the cocktail menu at your favorite bar. CBD has taken the wellness world by storm. So what exactly is this new health craze all about? Before you try CBD for yourself, here is a breakdown of the basics.
CBD: Some Basic Info
CBD, otherwise known as cannabidiol, is an extract from the hemp plant. It is one of 113 identified cannabinoids that are found in the cannabis plant and is the second most prevalent active ingredient in cannabis. Although it is a component of marijuana, CBD doesn’t cause a “high” or psychoactive side effects like marijuana does as it only contains trace amounts of THC. Keep in mind that while cannabidiol doesn’t contain much THC, some products contain small amounts. Full-spectrum CBD products contain low levels of THC, while CBD isolates are THC-free. There are also different strains of CBD, which will result in varied effects, some making you feel happy and relaxed while others are quite a bit stronger.
Even though CBD products have been become popular, they still haven’t received FDA approval. That means some products may include harmful chemicals or other additives. Make sure to conduct research on reputable platforms, such as CBD Nerds, to brush up on your knowledge and find reviews of reputable brands and products that are best suited for your needs.
How CBD Works
In recent years, cannabidiol has slowly gained popularity as a natural, low-impact remedy for a wide range of mental and physical ailments. There are many potential benefits of CBD, which include reducing inflammation, relieving pain, fighting nausea, alleviating anxiety, and boosting the immune system. As such, many people use CBD products to address symptoms related to depression, alleviate chronic pain, and improve sleep. They have even been used to address childhood epilepsy.
Research is still being conducted to fully understand the potential applications of CBD and the aforementioned benefits are still not fully understood. What is thought to be known, though, is that CBD activates the TRPV-1 receptor in the body, which is responsible for your perception of pain and the body’s inflammation response. Many studies also suggest that CBD activates the 5-HT1A serotonin receptor, which has anti-depressant effects on the body.
Types of CBD Products
There are many CBD products on the market. To choose which one is right for you, first determine why you’re using the product. CBD products are available in the form of topicals, like a CBD muscle rub, which can be used to soothe sore muscles, in the form of edibles like gummies or tinctures, which can help with insomnia or anxiety, and in the form of CBD oil and flowers, which can be vaped or smoked.
Topical products are best to help alleviate pain. Traditional muscle rubs and lotions, containing natural, anti-inflammatory ingredients like peppermint, menthol, aloe vera, and Vitamin E, are infused with CBD. These CBD muscle rubs and creams can be applied topically to provide relief from an injury, swollen joints, or skin irritation with a cooling or warming sensation. Edibles are another common product, in which gummies and chocolates are infused with CBD. You can also ingest CBD oil or tinctures, available in many fruity flavors, by placing the desired dosage on your tongue. CBD oils are a great product to take for anxiety, as they enter the bloodstream quickly.
Regardless of which product you choose, consult a doctor before using it. Medical professionals can help guide you in selecting an appropriate strength and dosage, as well as educate you on potential side effects you may experience depending on pre-existing conditions. When you are first using CBD products, start off with a lower strength product. Once you gain a better understanding of how your body reacts to CBD, you can start experimenting with a range of strengths and dosages to maximize the benefits.