A Beginner’s Guide to CBD: Understanding Its Uses and Effects
Are you a newbie eager to try CBD products or someone simply curious about CBD? Whichever the answer is, you have landed on the right page! Hopefully, at the end of this article, you will understand whether CBD is ideal for you and how it can help you improve your lifestyle.
The whole hype around CBD is well-deserved considering the loads of science-backed health benefits it brings. Here is an ultimate beginner’s guide on what CBD is, its uses, its advantages, and its side effects. Our 5-step guide to CBD has all that you need to know about CBD products and how to get started with CBD to enhance your well-being.
Introduction – What exactly is CBD?
The Cannabis Sativa plant is a herbaceous flowering plant having more than 120 compounds, out of which Cannabidiol or CBD is one. Research in the past as well as ongoing research show that Cannabidiol isn’t addictive and has myriad wellness and health benefits. This non-intoxicating naturally occurring chemical is found in the Cannabis plant.
Apart from CBD, the cannabis plant also contains THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) which is a psychoactive component but has promising therapeutic potential such as anti-inflammatory properties, painkilling properties, and antioxidant properties. CBD products can be formulated with THC (less than 0.3%) or without THC.
From where CBD is sourced?
CBD is extracted from hemp plants having high concentrations of CBD and low levels of THC. Hemp plants specifically imply industrial hemp that is organically grown. The CBD component is then isolated and extracted from the plant and is used for the manufacturing of CBD products.
In the Cannabis plant, CBD compound is present in the seeds, stalks, flowers, leaves, and roots. The common extraction methods that are mostly used to isolate and collect CBD from plant materials are CO2 extraction, solvent-based extraction, and ethanol extraction.
One thing to be noted here is that hemp plants are not to be confused with marijuana. Both are different Cannabis plant species. Although CBD is also present in marijuana, THC levels are extremely high and hence, are subject to legal restrictions in many countries.
What is CBD used for?
As mentioned earlier, CBD offers a load of health advantages and this is one of the reasons for all the buzz around it. Its usefulness is not only limited to humans but also to pets. Studies on CBD reveal that this naturally occurring chemical has been shown to aid in multiple ailments.
The most common health conditions for which CBD products are used are –
Chronic pain management – CBD works as an anti-inflammatory compound and interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system to regulate pain sensation. Most CBD pain relief creams contain camphor, menthol, essential oils, and medicinal herbs, which have pain-relieving properties. They help in reducing inflammatory responses and leave a soothing sensation in the targeted area, thus providing rapid relief.
Reducing stress and anxiety – CBD is also believed to have potential benefits in lessening anxiety and stress by controlling stress responses and emotional receptors. It interacts with serotonin which is responsible for regulating mood or anxiety in a human being. By influencing the level of serotonin, CBD promotes feelings such as relaxation and calmness.
Improving sleep – While exploring the usefulness of CBD, it has also been observed that CBD aid in improving your sleep quality. It interacts with the neurotransmitters in the body and helps you relax and unwind so that you fall asleep easily. It is effective in regulating sleep-wake cycles and promotes a healthy sleep pattern where you fall asleep and stay asleep easily.
Reducing depression – Although the research on CBD on reducing depression is in its early stages, it holds high potential as a natural non-medicinal approach to treat depression. However, to understand the optimal dosage of CBD, it is crucial to take advice from a healthcare professional.
Best ways to use CBD
CBD comes in a variety of forms and so, it becomes easy for you to pick the one that works best for you. Whether you want to use CBD straight-up in the form of oil or are looking for a topical use, CBD has a solution for everyone.
CBD oil – Also known as CBD tinctures, it is the raw and best form of CBD. It is usually taken sublingually where you squeeze a drop or two under your tongue and hold it for a few seconds before swallowing. You can also apply other methods of consumption like mixing it in your favorite drinks or food preparations.
CBD topicals – It is perhaps the most popular and easiest-to-use CBD product. Especially, if you get your hands on the best pain relief CBD cream, you can manage pain easily and improve your life. Besides providing you with quick relief from pain and inflammation, it lets you enjoy a hassle-free method of application.
CBD gummies – These are candied edibles infused with CBD and are also in trend these days. The things that make gummies so lovable by people are – tasty, affordable, easy to carry, and offer a fast way for CBD distribution in the body.
CBD capsules – CBD capsules are the best alternative to CBD oil and are mostly used by those who are uncomfortable with the raw and earthy taste of tincture drops. The recommended dosage for both oil and capsules is directed by the manufacturer on the product label. However, it’s best to consult with your doctor to determine the exact dosage.
Does CBD have any side effects?
CBD products are unlikely to cause any side effects and are believed to be predominantly safe. As per WHO’s critical review report in 2018, there is no evidence of adverse health outcomes associated with the use of pure CBD.
However, please note that the use of CBD is not recommended for individuals under the age of 18. For women who are pregnant or breastfeeding and adults taking medication, or have any underlying medical conditions, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using CBD products.
Summary
The world is rapidly embracing the power of CBD with millions of people using CBD in one or the other way. For those who haven’t started yet or given it a thought, this article is for them. It will help you gain knowledge about CBD and why you should incorporate it into your everyday life right away. If you have trouble dealing with pain or inflammation, then buy 1000mg CBD pain relief cream from Nature’s MD to soothe the pain and lead an enthusiastic life.
Hope you find the information helpful! Thanks for reading.
