CBD is quickly gaining traction as the chemical compound in cannabis that can reduce anxiety, pain, inflammation, and more without the psychoactive high. CBD stands for cannabidiol and it’s only one of over 480 different chemical compounds found in cannabis. Of these 480 compounds, over 80 are found exclusively on the marijuana plant. These unique compounds are called cannabinoids.
For many years, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) was the most popular cannabinoid among breeders, growers, manufacturers, and consumers. More recently, however, CBD-rich flower and products have become increasingly popular among cannabis users.
How Does CBD Affect The Body?
Cannabinoids in marijuana interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, a network of cell receptors that regulate vital biological functions. Cannabinoids like CBD interact with these cell receptors to alter biological processes affecting pain sensitivity, appetite, memory, and metabolism. CBD can cell receptors to regulate mood and reduce pain, nausea, and inflammation.
CBD can also reduce the negative effects of THC like drowsiness, paranoia, and dry mouth. The higher the percentage of CBD in a product, the less psychoactive effects a person will feel. Many medical and recreational users will choose CBD-only or CBD-heavy products to reduce or avoid intoxicating effects. CBD has a host of positive benefits to help reduce the following:
- Pain sensitivity
- Anxiety and depression
- Symptoms related to cancer treatment like nausea and vomiting
- Acne
- Neurological disorders
- High blood pressure
- Epilepsy
Side Effects Of CBD
While CBD has been touted as the non-mind-altering compound, it doesn’t mean that everyone can benefit from CBD. Before beginning a treatment regimen with CBD, patients should ask their doctor about negative drug interactions and allergies. Apart from interacting negatively with certain medications like blood thinners, CBD can cause adverse reactions. CBD side effects include anxiety, nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, and dry mouth.
Types of CBD Products
With the advent of innovative extraction equipment, manufacturers have been able to introduce CBD into different products including tinctures, sprays, oils, lotions, pills, patches, edibles, concentrate, and flower. Tinctures offer fast-acting effects through a discreet consumption method. Concentrates provide a potent dosage for serious relief. Topicals like salves and lotions can improve skin and directly treat affected areas. There’s a CBD product for everybody.
For users looking for a non-hallucinogenic experience, CBD is the answer. CBD can also reduce the psychoactive effects of THC like paranoia. Although not everything is known about all of the effects CBD has on the body, it’s shown to be a valuable and worthwhile therapeutic tool for many users. CBD is a promising cannabinoid that has helped countless individuals to relax, unwind, and focus.