CBD, or cannabidiol, is an extract from hemp plants that has been used increasingly in treating certain medical conditions. It is not the same substance as medical marijuana. Hemp is a cousin to the marijuana plant, and does not contain THC, the chemical which makes a medical marijuana user feel “high.” While CBD must continue to be studied, as does medical marijuana, results so far in the use of CBD to treat some medical conditions are promising. Here are five things to help you understand CBD even more.
How Legal is CBD?
Since CBD is not the same as medical marijuana, it is available in many parts of the United States. One other difference between medical marijuana and CBD is how it is sold, as well. Since CBD is sold as a dietary supplement, it is categorized differently than medical marijuana. Since hemp was made legal in the United States in 2018, it does make CBD’s existence that much safer, which should also allow for more studies to be conducted on its effects.
What Can CBD Be Used to Treat?
People use CBD for many different conditions, but it has been shown to be quite effective in treating some childhood epilepsy syndromes. It is also used, with varying effect, to treat:
· Insomnia
· Chronic pain
· Anxiety
· Addiction
Does CBD Have Side Effects?
You should always consult with a physician before starting any kind of new treatment, including a supplement you aren’t familiar with. Any new chemical introduced to your body is something to take seriously. Side effects of CBD are less common than with medical marijuana, and include:
· Fatigue
· Nausea
· Irritability
CBD can compete with the enzymes in your liver that typically break down blood thinners and other medicines, which increases the levels of those drugs in your blood. Similarly, CBD can potentially cause liver-related blood tests to show abnormalities, which is a similar effect to what acetaminophen (Tylenol) can do to you.
What Form does CBD Take?
Unlike medical marijuana, CBD is not always ingested or inhaled. In fact, it is often used as a topical application, in oils, patches, and other preparations. It can be found in “edibles,” as well, the use of which can make CBD particularly potent, similarly to what can happen with medical marijuana. You can also purchase sprays or tinctures which are intended to be applied under the tongue to make absorption of the CBD quicker. It can also be vaporized and inhaled, though anything you inhale could potentially cause lung damage, which is something you should be aware of if vaporizing, using a vape pen, or smoking any substance.
Does CBD Require a Prescription?
Since CBD is not a drug, it does not require a prescription, however, since research is still being conducted on its usefulness in treating medical conditions, consulting with a physician before taking it can’t hurt. What it isn’t is a cure-all, but it might help you if you are suffering from certain conditions, like anxiety or chronic pain.