As CBD oil continues to increase in popularity throughout the wellness, pharmaceutical, and beauty markets, consumers are clamoring to know what exactly this cannabis-derived substance is and how it functions. Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound that is derived from the Cannabis sativa plant, has risen to global prominence as a result of its described ability to mitigate everything from pain and anxiety disorders to epilepsy and inflammation.Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the cannabinoid that causes the “high” in marijuana, CBD has no intoxicating properties. The therapeutic potential of CBD, Medical News Today asserts, is its capacity to work in harmony with the body’s natural processes without affecting one’s state of mind. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has licensed only one CBD-derived drug (Epidiolex for seizures), yet researchers are now investigating its effectiveness for the treatment of a wide variety of diseases.
What is CBD oil and how does it work
CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of more than 100 phytochemicals referred to as cannabinoids contained in the cannabis plant. It is mainly derived from hemp, which is a variant of Cannabis sativa containing less than 0.3% THC, guaranteeing non-psychoactive characteristics.According to Healthline, CBD oil is a combination of CBD extract and a carrier oil such as hemp seed oil, MCT oil, or olive oil. It comes in several formats such as tinctures, capsules, edibles, vape liquids, and topical products, each having varying rates of absorption.CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS)—a system of receptors (CB1 and CB2), enzymes, and neurotransmitters that assists in controlling essential processes such as mood, sleep, appetite, immune system response, and pain perception. CBD does not bind directly to CB1 or CB2 receptors like THC, but rather boosts the body’s natural cannabinoids and also engages with other non-cannabinoid receptors such as serotonin (5-HT1A) and TRPV1 associated with pain and inflammation reactions.
Why CBD oil is used
CBD oil is commonly used for its medicinal properties and is being adopted by individuals looking for non-addictive, natural products as a substitute for pharmaceutical medications. The following are the most typical reasons why individuals use CBD oil:1. Pain relief
- CBD is extensively utilized for the management of chronic pain, such as that due to arthritis, nerve damage, and multiple sclerosis. As per Healthline, CBD’s analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects could stem from its action on ECS and pain modulating neurotransmitter systems.
2. Anxiety and depression
- Research quoted by Medical News Today indicates CBD’s effect on the serotonin receptors is likely to control mood, which makes it useful for individuals with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), PTSD, and depression. It is not a replacement for psychiatric care, but it can be an adjunct treatment.
3. Sleep disorders
- CBD is utilized in treating insomnia and sleep issues as a result of stress, pain, or anxiety. CBD can enhance sleep without inducing dependency, unlike pharmaceutical sedatives, according to Healthline.
4. Controlling epilepsy and seizures
- Epidiolex, the first FDA-approved CBD medication, is prescribed for Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, two rare and severe types of childhood epilepsy. The compelling clinical evidence here renders CBD’s anticonvulsant effect one of the most studied advantages.
5. Neuroprotection
- Early lab research indicates CBD can delay the course of neurodegenerative illnesses such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. In a 2020 review in Frontiers in Pharmacology, CBD holds hope in minimizing inflammation and oxidative stress but awaits human trials.
6. Skin health
- CBD is becoming increasingly popular in skin care as an anti-inflammatory and oil-balancing agent. It’s now a mainstay in creams and serums employed to manage acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
Is CBD the future of medicine? Experts call for more research
Although anecdotal accounts remain a driving force in public interest, scientific investigations are still ongoing. As per the Frontiers in Pharmacology 2020 overview, CBD has great therapeutic potential but does not have large-scale clinical trials for the majority of uses. Additional peer-reviewed human studies must validate its safety and efficacy in a broad spectrum of conditions.
Is CBD oil legal?
Under the 2018 Farm Bill, as quoted in Medical News Today, CBD products from hemp (which contain less than 0.3% THC) became legal at the federal level. There is a wide range of state-level laws, though. Some states permit CBD for use in food and drink or as over-the-counter medicine, whereas others place restrictions, especially around marketing or on THC content.Buyers must always check local legislation before buying or using CBD oil to avoid noncompliance.
CBD oil possible side effects and factors
CBD is safe overall, but some people might experience:
- Dry mouth
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Diarrhea
- Appetite changes or weight changes
- Interference with medications, including seizure medications and blood thinners
Both Healthline and Medical News Today suggest caution for pregnant women or breastfeeding women, and suggest opting for CBD products that have been third-party tested to prevent contaminants like pesticides or heavy metals.