CBD (Cannabidiol) has gained popularity in the past few years for its medicinal benefits. Today, they’re used by many for mental illnesses, pain, anxiety, and insomnia. Touted as safe for use, affordable, and natural, CBD products are also being used extensively as an adjunct therapy to many chronic illnesses like Parkinson’s.
Despite all its health benefits, many people may not know what CBD is, why it’s beneficial, and how can it be used.
This article is a basic guide to understanding CBD for beginners.
What Is CBD?
To start with, it’s important to first know what exactly is CBD. CBD is only one of the numerous compounds found in the cannabis Sativa plant. Its counterpart, THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol), is also another compound found in the cannabis plant. The latter is known for its psychoactive properties or the reason why you’ll get high.
However, CBD is non-psychoactive, hence consuming it doesn’t get you high yet still provide the same medicinal benefits as THC. CBD is being investigated as a treatment for epilepsy and multiple sclerosis, and it’s also being studied for treating anxiety, depression, epilepsy, muscle spasms, and many other ailments. In fact, the compound has been used to manage certain types of cancer, as well as anorexia and obesity.
The compound is also thought to have many anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties, so it could be very useful in managing more common conditions. To know more about CBD products, check Charlotte’s web CBD review.
How Does CBD Work?
The Cannabidiol compound inherits several of its medicinal properties from the cannabis plant. What makes it so effective is the ability of the compound to interact with the nerve receptors in our body.
The endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis in your body. Homeostasis refers to the ability of the body to maintain a stable internal state, despite the changes outside. When you become stressed, your body releases a hormone called cortisol. Though cortisol is beneficial in a flight or fight situation, prolonged release of it can lead to several health issues.
To counter this, endocannabinoids are released in your system to help bring balance, leading to stress relief and relaxation. Thus, when you take CBD products, they enhance your natural levels of endocannabinoids and also influence several other receptors, leading to feelings of calmness.
Several studies have looked at how CBD works on the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine, which are important for muscle relaxation and mood regulation. These results showed that the levels of neurotransmitters were significantly increased when patients took CBD during treatment.
Other studies that have looked at the role of the CBD on the Endocannabinoid Systems have shown that it has significant anti-inflammatory properties as well. The reason for this is that CBD reduces the activity of a protein called NFκB in inflammatory cells. NFκB is thought to play a role in a number of diseases and is also believed to play a role in the development of cancerous tumors. Therefore, CBD is the center of research for scientists that are interested in learning how CBD is related to the Endocannabinoid System.
Ways To Take CBD
With several options available in the market today, you may take CBD in several forms–ranging from CBD tinctures and oils, gummy bears, or pills. You may also use it topically in the form of lotions and creams.
Below, we look at some of the most popular ways of taking CBD:
- Oils And Tinctures
To take CBD oils and tinctures, place a few drops under the tongue with a dropper or put a few drops of CDB oil in your coffee. Since the oral mucosa is filled with tiny capillaries, it easily absorbs the compound. This is ideal for those who aren’t comfortable taking pills.
- Pills And Capsules
CBD pills and capsules are used when you’re following a systematic treatment plan. CBD pills are often given to patients suffering from seizures. One of the drawbacks of taking pills is that the CBD’s effects may take a while.
- Lotions And Creams
CBD-infused lotions and creams are popular for managing muscle and joint pain. You may also use it to manage skin conditions like eczema.
Conclusion
Cannabis has been known for its medicinal properties and has recently gained popularity for its ability to aid several illnesses. CBD is a compound found in cannabis that has several health benefits. Due to its non-psychoactive properties, CBD provides all the health benefits of the cannabis plant without getting you high. CBD may be effective due to its ability to interact with the body’s receptors.
You may take CBD in several ways like pills or tinctures. You may also apply CBD-infused creams topically for pain relief.
However, it’s important to note that CBD cannot replace your prescribed medication and should be taken after consulting a doctor, especially if you’re under treatment.