Cannabidiol, or CBD, is one of two main cannabinoids found in cannabis and hemp plants. The other main cannabinoid being, of course, tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC. Both THC and CBD are being extensively studied for their medicinal and therapeutic applications. However, unlike THC, CBD is not psychoactive, so there is no ‘high.’
Because there is no high, users can reap all of the benefits without impairment and little to no chance of side effects. This is why CBD is becoming an increasingly popular therapy for a multitude of health conditions, such as epilepsy, arthritis, fibromyalgia, and even cancer.
Here are 19 facts about CBD, as well as its medical potential.
1. CBD counteracts the effects of THC.
Not only is CBD non-psychoactive, it has been found actually to counteract the side effects of THC, such as anxiety, paranoia, and memory impairment. While there is no known lethal dose of either THC or CBD, most users prefer CBD in the balancing of symptoms, due to the lack of side effects.
2. More than 113 cannabinoids are found in cannabis/hemp plants.
Generally, when most people think of cannabis and hemp plants, they think of THC and CBD. However, these plants actually have more than 113 cannabinoids. The reason the other cannabinoids don’t receive much attention is that THC and CBD generally are present in the highest concentrations. This is why most growers, when breeding new strains and selecting plants, primarily focus on the THC and CBD content.
3. CBD does not directly stimulate CB1 and CB2 receptors.
The reason CBD is not psychoactive is because the molecules do not actually bind to the CB1 and CB2 receptors found in the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Instead, they signal the body’s naturally occurring cannabinoids to activate the receptors to do more of what they normally do.
4. CBD has numerous medicinal properties.
Initial studies have found that CBD offers a multitude of medicinal benefits, including: [1]
Antiemetic (reduces nausea and vomiting)
Anti-inflammatory
Antioxidant
Antipsychotic
Anticonvulsant (suppresses seizure activity)
Anti-tumoral/anti-cancer
Antidepressant
Anxiolytic (combats anxiety)
Analgesic (relieves pain)
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5. There are several ways to administer CBD.
CBD can be administered in a number of ways. Some products are applied topically, while others are ingested orally or placed sublingually (underneath the tongue). Product categories include balms, oils, tinctures, and more.
6. CBD is safe for pets.
Another popular CBD application CBD is for pets suffering from health conditions such as arthritis/joint pain, epilepsy, skin problems, and anxiety.
Most people prefer CBD over THC for their pets, due to the lack of side effects. In fact, THC is not recommended for pets, due to its psychological effects.
7. Marijuana-derived CBD is still illegal.
At the federal level, CBD derived from marijuana is illegal. The local laws vary by state, so before purchasing any marijuana-derived CBD products make sure it’s legal in your area.
8. Hemp-derived CBD is legal in all 50 states.
On the other hand, hemp-derived CBD is legal in all 50 states. It still must be extracted from industrial hemp outside of the United States, but it is legal for importation and consumption. Hemp plants contain far less THC than cannabis plants, which is why they are legal.
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9. Extraction method matters.
When purchasing a CBD product, it’s important to research how it was extracted from the plants. For example, CBD extracted by heat will have lost the majority of its health benefits. However, CBD extracted by way of carbon dioxide (CO2), will maintain its integrity.
10. CBD dosage is not a one-size-fits-all.
Because everyone metabolizes compounds such as CBD differently, the proper dosage also will vary for each individual. The best way to find your proper dosage is to start low and increase slowly. Remember to keep your dosage the same for a few days before increasing it.
11. Organic is best.
Another important factor when choosing a CBD product is the growing conditions. When it comes to CBD, organic is best. This is because hemp plants absorb whatever nutrients and chemicals are present in the soil, good or bad. So, if the plants are grown using herbicides, pesticides, and other harmful chemicals, those same chemicals will be present in the finished product.
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12. CBD can work in conjunction with other medications.
Several studies have shown that CBD can work successfully with other medications to relieve various symptoms.
However, you always should consult with your doctor or another health professional before adding CBD to your treatment regimen.
13. CBD can assist in the treatment of acne and other skin problems.
Due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, CBD can help treat a multitude of skin conditions, such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Its anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce any redness and swollen areas. The antioxidants help neutralize any free radicals in the body and skin, which reduces signs of aging, among other things. CBD also has been found to inhibit the excess synthesis of lipids, which cause excess oil in the skin.
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14. CBD can assist in the treatment of addiction.
Several studies have shown that CBD is a promising therapy for many addictions. One study found that nicotine users encouraged to use CBD anytime they craved nicotine reduced the total number of cigarettes they smoked by more than 40 percent. Another study was conducted with opioid users, with similar results.
15. Withdrawal symptoms can be alleviated with CBD.
In addition to assisting in the treatment of addiction, CBD also can be beneficial for alleviating withdrawal. CBD can help alleviate various symptoms including nausea, mood swings/irritability, anxiety, and pain.
16. CBD can increase appetite.
Individuals suffering from eating disorders, such as anorexia and bulimia, can benefit greatly from CBD’s ability to increase appetite. In addition, not only does CBD increase appetite, but it also reduces nausea. This can be incredibly helpful for individuals with conditions such as morning sickness, or those going through a particularly intensive treatment, such as chemotherapy.
17. Insomnia can be treated with CBD.
CBD can help treat anxiety, which is often a root cause of insomnia. It can help to reduce heart rate and blood pressure, allowing the body to fall asleep faster.
CBD also promotes an elevated mood and more relaxed state, which helps with falling asleep as well.
18. CBD may improve heart health.
Another benefit of CBD’s antioxidant properties is their ability to reduce vascular tension and reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. Both of these components often contribute to various cardiovascular diseases. In addition, CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties may reduce strain on the heart, as well as dilating arteries and reducing blood pressure.
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19. CBD works with the serotonin system, too.
In addition to the ECS, CBD also works with the serotonin system. It stimulates various receptors, similar to how THC activates the CB1 and CB2 receptors. This may be the reason CBD is effective in combatting anxiety and depression.
Overall, CBD is a very powerful compound, with many health benefits and a multitude of medicinal properties. Studies have shown it to be an effective treatment aid for numerous health conditions. For more information about all of SOL✿CBD’s products, click here.
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References:
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22625422
http://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acs.jnatprod.5b00949>
https://www.leafscience.com/2017/10/11/10-facts-cannabidiol-cbd/
http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/mary-biles1/cbd-the-myths-and-facts_b_14103666.html
https://cbdoilreview.org/cbd-cannabidiol/10-cbd-facts-you-need-to-know/
https://honestmarijuana.com/cbd-oil/?age-verified=cc56e1062b
https://quantum9.net/15-surprising-facts-about-medicinal-cbd-oil-treatment/
