People who struggle with debilitating health conditions like chronic pain, cancer related symptoms, overwhelming anxiety and difficult-to-treat neurological conditions are often hoping for a miracle cure. CBD oil and its varied benefits are touted by many as just the solution we have been looking for. Although the effectiveness and possible side effects of CBD are still being researched, many are more than willing to give the ‘miracle cure’ a try!
What Exactly Is CBD?
CBD or cannabidiol is a derivative of the cannabis sativa plant. It is just one among the 100 or more active compounds derived from the plant. THC or tetrahydrocannabinol is another derivative of the same plant used to induce a feeling of euphoria in its users. CBD, however, has been proven to have no such psychoactive properties and is hence considered safer to use than other cannabis derivatives.
Pure CBD is extracted from the hemp plant that contains none or just trace amounts of THC. The CBD extract is mixed with carrier oils such as olive oil and coconut oil to manufacture CBD oil, a product commonly used for consumption and application in people suffering from health conditions that can reportedly be alleviated with CBD use.
CBD is legally allowed for use under federal law if the CBD product satisfies specific criteria including a THC content of not more than 0.3%. The usage and distribution of CBD products are still penalized in some states that have independent laws governing the production and consumption of cannabis products. In addition to this, there are not many CBD or other cannabis products that are approved by the FDA for safe usage.
Benefits Of CBD Use
The use of CBD has been seen as beneficial in the management of many medical conditions and associated symptoms that are otherwise difficult to treat. For example, studies have shown the pain-relieving effects of topical applications containing a good amount of CBD. Also seen as beneficial is the consumption of a restricted quantity of oils and tinctures containing optimal levels of CBD in the treatment and management of symptoms related to chronic pain, seizure and some neurological and mood disorders. The effectiveness of products containing CBD is attributed to their beneficial influence on the endocannabinoid system of our body.
The pros and cons of using CBD use as a therapy in many major health issues are being debated and studied continuously. Even in the absence of inconclusive evidence regarding its effectiveness, CBD products continue to gain popularity among a huge percentage of the general population.
