WHAT IS CBD (CANNABIDIOL)
After hearing about CBD on the news, you may have noticed all the new CBD products in the stores. With a focus on total wellness, CBD products are not only about physical health; they are also about improving emotional health as well. CBD previously known for reducing pain and inflammation is now rapidly emerging as a natural avenue for reducing stress, anxiety, and sleep difficulties as well.
HISTORY OF CBD
While not new, CBD has, over the past few years, emerged as a therapeutic agent in numerous medical conditions. But it was not until the 1980s that studies indicated that CBD could alleviate certain types of pain, anxiety, and discomfort. In 1998 a pharmaceutical company began to cultivate cannabis for medical trials. It believed that cannabis plants rich in CBD could be used for medicine. Cannabis strains began to be grown with low levels of mind-altering THC and high levels of CBD. The use of industrial hemp, which does not contain THC, became a popular source for pure CBD.
HOW DOES CBD WORK?
CBD is one of more than 80 active cannabinoid chemicals in the hemp and marijuana plant. CBD does not produce euphoria or intoxication. When applied to the skin or taken orally, CBD binds to the body’s own CB2 receptors. Once it connects with these receptors, CBD has stress-reducing, pain-relieving, and anti-inflammatory effects on the body. CBD is known to ease symptoms of arthritis, anxiety, and chronic pain. Because it does not interact with the brain to create any psychological effect, CBD in not mind-altering or habit-forming. There is growing evidence that CBD also acts on other brain signaling systems, and this action may be an essential contributor to its therapeutic effects.
Having a good safety profile, some use CBD alone and others have been able to use it in addition to their pain medications. Non-mind-altering and not habit-forming, it can be used whenever you need it without worrying about side-effects. It is advised to consult your healthcare provider before beginning a CBD regimen.