The use of hemp-derived products such as CBD oil has become increasingly popular in recent years. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound found in cannabis plants, including both hemp and marijuana varieties. The potential health benefits of CBD oil have made it a popular natural remedy for many ailments. However, it is important to understand what exactly CBD oil is and how it impacts your health before attempting to use it for medical purposes. Here, we will explain exactly what CBD oil is and discuss its possible effects on your overall health.
CBD oil is an extract from the leaves, flowers and stems of the hemp plant that contains high concentrations of cannabidiol (CBD). It can be taken orally or applied topically, depending on the individual’s needs. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), another cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant, CBD does not produce a psychoactive effect or ‘high’. This makes it an attractive option for those who wish to benefit from cannabis-derived compounds without feeling altered in any way.
How does it work?
CBD works by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS helps regulate various bodily functions, including pain sensitivity, inflammatory response, mood, sleep cycles and more. When cannabinoids such as CBD are introduced into the body through ingestion or topical application, they interact with receptors located throughout the ECS to affect different areas of function. This interaction can influence the symptoms associated with certain conditions or diseases by modifying the body’s response to them.
Potential benefits of using CBD oil
The potential benefits associated with taking CBD oil vary greatly depending on the individual and their condition(s). Some people use it for general wellbeing, while others use it as part of their treatment plan for medical conditions such as anxiety, chronic pain syndromes, insomnia and even seizures caused by epilepsy. Early studies suggest that regular consumption of high quality CBD oil may help reduce inflammation, control stress levels, improve sleep quality, promote mental clarity, support cardiovascular health, relieve nausea/vomiting, stimulate appetite, improve skin tone/texture, treat skin irritations & problems (eczema/psoriasis), reduce symptoms of depression & anxiety, relieve muscle spasms & cramps; among other possible benefits. Of course, these results are largely anecdotal at this point, but further research may reveal more promising findings regarding the therapeutic use of CBD.
Is taking CBD safe?
When considering anything to do with your health, you need to make sure you are doing it safely. Fortunately, when it comes to taking properly sourced, high-quality, full-spectrum organic oils, there appear to be very few, if any, major side effects. Most users report no adverse reactions from taking higher doses than recommended, but as always err on the side of caution when trying something new! Also, just because something is natural doesn’t mean there aren’t risks involved, so talk to your healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
What types of products can I take?
There are several types available, in forms ranging from tinctures, drops, capsules, edibles, creams, ointments, patches, gums, bath bombs, sprays, vapes, teas etc. The choice ultimately depends on personal preference, but make sure that whatever product you choose contains only pure ingredients, with no added fillers or synthetic compounds!
Conclusion
Now that we understand what exactly is meant by “CBD”, we can begin to explore all of its potential therapeutic uses! As previously mentioned, due to its interactions within our endocannabinoid system, many believe that ingesting small amounts on a daily basis could help keep our bodies functioning optimally while also providing relief from certain ailments when needed. With proper sourcing and usage guidelines, these products could prove beneficial to a wide range of individuals – young and old alike!
