The Complete Guide to CBD Oil: Benefits, Uses, Safety & More
Cannabidiol (CBD) oil is a popular natural remedy used for many common ailments. This comprehensive guide provides an overview of everything you need to know about CBD oil.
What is CBD Oil?
CBD oil is an oil extracted from the cannabis plant. CBD is one of over 100 compounds known as cannabinoids found in cannabis. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive compound in cannabis, CBD is non-intoxicating. This means it does not produce the “high” associated with marijuana.
CBD oil can be derived from both hemp and marijuana, but products labeled as CBD oil online are required by law to contain less than 0.3% THC. CBD does not have any addictive properties or cause harm, so it is a safe option for many people.
How Does CBD Oil Work?
CBD produces effects through multiple molecular pathways in the body. It interacts with the endocannabinoid system, a regulatory system that controls functions like sleep, appetite, pain and immune response. CBD also indirectly affects the brain’s receptors for serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood and social behavior.
Through these complex interactions, CBD displays both anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. It can also improve sleep, reduce anxiety and alleviate cancer-related symptoms. However, more research is still needed on CBD’s potential benefits.
Potential Benefits of CBD Oil
Here are some of the ways CBD oil may provide health advantages:
Pain relief – CBD has demonstrated powerful analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects without the negative side effects of over-the-counter pain medication like acetaminophen.
Reduced anxiety and depression – By positively influencing serotonin receptors, CBD can help reduce symptoms linked to anxiety and depression.
Improved sleep – CBD can help increase sleep duration and reduce insomnia. It produces relaxing effects.
Neuroprotective properties – CBD may protect the brain and nervous system, reducing neuronal damage and degeneration.
Anti-acne – The anti-inflammatory properties of CBD could help reduce breakouts and redness linked to acne.
Benefits for cancer patients – CBD may relieve common cancer symptoms like pain, nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy.
However, more large-scale human research studies are needed to confirm CBD’s preliminary health benefits. CBD is not a cure or treatment for any disease or condition. Always talk to your doctor before using CBD.
Is CBD Oil Safe?
Most experts consider CBD oil safe to use, but it may cause side effects in some people. The most common side effects include:
Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
Changes in appetite
Fatigue
Irritability
CBD can also interact with some medications, so be sure to discuss CBD use with your doctor. Avoid using CBD if you are pregnant or breastfeeding as the effects on fetuses and babies are still unknown.
There are also some risks if CBD oil contains high levels of THC, which is illegal in many states. Poor quality or synthetic CBD oil can be contaminated or contain undisclosed amounts of THC. Only purchase CBD from licensed dispensaries that provide lab reports.
How to Use CBD Oil
If you decide to try CBD, here are some effective methods of taking it:
Oral – The most common way to take CBD is through tinctures or capsules taken orally. This allows the CBD to enter the bloodstream for distribution throughout the body.
Edibles – CBD edibles like gummies or baked goods are a tasty way to get a dose. Food slows absorption compared to tinctures, so effects take longer to set in but last longer.
Vaping – Inhaling vaporized CBD oil through a vape pen provides fast relief. However, vaping can cause lung damage, so oral options are safer.
Topical – CBD creams, lotions and balms are rubbed directly onto the skin. Topicals work for localized pain relief and skin conditions like acne because they don’t enter the bloodstream.
Sublingual – CBD oils and tinctures taken sublingually get absorbed under the tongue. This is faster than ingesting CBD orally.
Always start with the lowest dose on the product label and increase slowly as needed. Talk to a doctor about the appropriate dosage based on your symptoms and health history.
Conclusion
Early research suggests CBD offers promising health benefits for pain management, anxiety, sleep, cancer symptoms and neurological conditions. However, human studies are limited, and CBD is not regulated by the FDA. Talk to your doctor before taking CBD, especially if you take any medications as drug interactions are possible. When purchasing CBD, ensure it is third-party tested and derived from hemp, not marijuana, to avoid THC. Start with a low dosage and increase gradually to find the most effective amount for your needs.
Tips for Offsetting Anxiety and Depression
Anxiety and depression are common mental health issues that can negatively impact daily life. While medication and therapy are often necessary, making certain lifestyle changes can also help offset symptoms of anxiety and depression.
This article explores evidence-based tips that may provide relief for those dealing with mild to moderate anxiety or depression. However, these tips should not replace any treatment plans recommended by a mental health professional.
Establish a Consistent Sleep Routine
Getting adequate, quality sleep is crucial for mental health. Adults should aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night. To help achieve this:
Go to bed and wake up at consistent times, even on weekends
Limit screen time for 1-2 hours before bed
Create an optimal sleep environment that is cool, dark and quiet
Avoid stimulants like caffeine, nicotine and sugar before bed
Try relaxing activities like light yoga, reading or meditation before bed
Research shows that poor sleep increases the risk of psychiatric conditions like anxiety and depression. So optimizing sleep hygiene practices can help reduce symptoms.
Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise positively impacts both physical and mental health. Ideally, aim for 30-60 minutes of moderate exercise at least 3-5 days per week. This could include brisk walking, cycling, strength training or yoga.
Studies demonstrate that exercise reduces anxiety and depression by releasing endorphins, distracting from worries and boosting self-esteem. Start slowly and work up to an exercise routine that is manageable.
Eat a Nutritious Diet
A healthy, balanced diet provides the body and brain with essential nutrients that enhance mood. Focus on incorporating:
Whole grains, fruits, vegetables and lean proteins
Foods rich in omega-3s like salmon, walnuts and chia seeds
Vitamin D from fatty fish, eggs and fortified foods
B vitamins from legumes, dairy, poultry and nuts
Probiotics like yogurt, kefir and kombucha
Limit processed foods, refined carbohydrates, trans fats, added sugars and excessive caffeine and alcohol. Staying hydrated is also important. Making dietary improvements can boost energy levels and overall mental wellbeing.
Practice Mindfulness and Gratitude
Mindfulness and gratitude practices can help lower stress and anxiety while enhancing mood and happiness. Try to incorporate:
Guided meditation using apps, videos or audio files
Yoga and breathwork
Daily journaling of things you are grateful for
Regular time outdoors appreciating nature
Mantras, affirmations and positive self-talk
Research finds that mindfulness meditation and expressing gratitude combat negative thinking patterns that contribute to anxiety and depression.
Seek Social Support
Loneliness and isolation tend to make anxiety and depression worse. Spend quality time nurturing relationships through:
Regular socialization with friends and family
Joining community groups or classes
Volunteering or helping others in need
Calling friends or using online platforms to connect
Human interaction increases oxytocin, serotonin and endorphins. It also provides emotional support. If in-person interactions are challenging, virtual social connection is beneficial too.
While these lifestyle tips cannot cure clinical anxiety or depression, incorporating them into your routine can help manage and offset symptoms. Always discuss severe or worsening mental health issues with your healthcare provider. With professional guidance and self-care, you can overcome challenges with anxiety and depression.
Effective Treatments for Common Epilepsy Syndromes
Epilepsy is a neurological condition characterized by recurrent seizures, which are sudden surges of electrical activity in the brain. There are various types of epilepsy syndromes that may require different treatment approaches. This article explores effective therapies for some of the most common epilepsy syndromes.
Childhood Absence Epilepsy
Childhood absence epilepsy causes frequent staring spells in school-age children between ages 4-10. These brief 5-10 second seizures involve a lapse in awareness often mistaken for daydreaming. The preferred initial treatment is ethosuximide, an anticonvulsant medication that suppresses seizures with few cognitive side effects. Valproic acid is another first-line drug. If the first medication fails to control absence seizures, a second medication may be added, such as lamotrigine or topiramate.
Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy
Juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME) emerges in preteens and teens, characterized by myoclonic jerks of the upper body that often occur shortly after waking up. These teens may also have generalized tonic-clonic seizures. The most effective treatment for JME is valproic acid taken daily which prevents myoclonus and tonic-clonic seizures in about 75% of patients. Levetiracetam or topiramate can be added if valproic acid alone is inadequate. Minimizing sleep deprivation and stress is also recommended to control JME seizures.
Infantile Spasms
Infantile spasms are clusters of rapid, stiffening muscle spasms that begin in infancy between ages 4-8 months. Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) injection is the first-line treatment, rapidly controlling spasms in over 50% of infants within 2 weeks. Oral steroids like prednisolone are also effective. Second-line options include the anticonvulsants vigabatrin and valproate. Prompt treatment is essential since ongoing spasms can contribute to developmental delay.
Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome
Starting between ages 3-5, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome causes multiple seizure types including tonic seizures involving stiffening and twisting motions. Because many seizures types can occur, polytherapy with two or three anticonvulsants is needed, such as valproate, lamotrigine and topiramate. Felbamate or rufinamide add-on therapy may also control seizures. About 20% of cases benefit from the ketogenic diet, limiting carbohydrates and increasing fats. For some, surgical resection of abnormal brain tissue brings seizure relief when medications fail.
Dravet Syndrome
Dravet syndrome emerges after the first year of life with prolonged, fever-related seizures, often followed by other seizure types as the child develops. Sodium channel blockers are the primary medication class used, specifically stiripentol or clobazam added to valproate. The ketogenic diet also helps control seizures in two-thirds of Dravet syndrome patients. Seeking care from a neurologist who specializes in genetic epilepsies benefits long-term prognosis.
While many epilepsy conditions cannot be cured, the right medications and lifestyle approach tailored to the syndrome type can help most patients achieve good seizure control. But when seizures become uncontrolled, surgery or devices like vagus nerve or responsive nerve stimulation may be options. Ongoing care with an epilepsy specialist is key for treating these complex seizure disorders.
How to Protect Your Brain Health and Prevent Neurological Disease
Neurological diseases like dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and stroke can severely impact your quality of life. While you can’t change genetic risk factors, adopting certain lifestyle habits can help lower your odds of developing neurological conditions.
Quit smoking. Smoking cigarettes raises your risk of stroke, vascular dementia, and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. The toxins in cigarettes damage blood vessels in the brain. Quitting improves blood flow and lowers inflammation.
Follow a Mediterranean style diet. A Mediterranean diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, nuts and olive oil has been shown to benefit brain health and reduce dementia risk. Antioxidants in these foods protect neurons from damage while omega-3 fatty acids support brain function.
Exercise regularly. Getting at least 150 minutes per week of moderate intensity exercise, like brisk walking or cycling, can help prevent cognitive decline and improve thinking skills. Exercise boosts blood flow, triggers neuron growth, and decreases inflammation.
Stay socially and mentally active. Pursuing mentally stimulating activities like learning a language, playing puzzle games and having an active social life help build cognitive reserve to prevent mental decline. Social isolation and inactivity are risk factors for neurological diseases.
Manage cardiovascular health. High blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol and obesity in midlife raise your risk of stroke and dementia. Eating healthy, exercising, lowering stress, and taking medications as prescribed keeps your heart and blood vessels healthy to optimize brain function.
Limit alcohol. Drinking in moderation, if at all, is recommended to avoid alcohol’s toxic effects on brain cells. Excessive alcohol is strongly linked to impaired thinking skills and dementia later in life.
Prioritize sleep. Getting 7-8 hours of high quality sleep each night allows waste removal in the brain and consolidates memories. Chronic sleep deprivation is associated with neurological issues.
While you can’t entirely control whether you get a brain disease, adopting a brain-healthy lifestyle can significantly lower your risk and prolong your cognitive health. Consult your doctor about specific ways to reduce your risk.
The Growing Use and Legality of CBD Products in the U.S.
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a compound derived from cannabis plants that does not produce the “high” caused by THC. CBD has grown increasingly popular in the United States in recent years due to its potential therapeutic benefits.
A 2018 survey by Brightfield Group found that around 40 million U.S. adults currently use CBD products. The market research firm expects the market to reach $24 billion by 2023. CBD is widely available in various forms like oils, edibles, topicals and vaporizers.
The 2018 U.S. Farm Bill legalized hemp-derived CBD products on a federal level as long as they contain no more than 0.3% THC. However, some state laws still prohibit CBD. It’s legal in most states but remains in a gray area in others that haven’t defined its legality.
Many users claim CBD helps relieve pain, anxiety, insomnia and more. However, there is limited research on effectiveness and safety. The FDA has not approved CBD products except one prescription drug for childhood epilepsy. More studies are underway.
Since CBD products are largely unregulated, quality and ingredients can vary. A 2017 study found only about a third of CBD products were accurately labeled. Some contained pesticides, metals, or too much THC. The FDA warns against using untested CBD oils with unproven medical claims.
Consumers should look for “Certificate of Analysis” showing third-party lab test results. Only purchase CBD from reputable companies that provide transparent information on sourcing, manufacturing and testing processes. It is safest to use hemp-derived CBD rather than marijuana-derived products.
Talk to your doctor before trying CBD, especially if taking medications, as drug interactions are possible. Be cautious with dosage and watch for side effects like diarrhea, fatigue and irritability. More research on the benefits, risks and long-term effects of CBD is needed.
Deepening Your Knowledge of CBD and Cannabis
CBD and cannabis are complex topics with a long history and emerging science. Those interested to learn can deepen their knowledge through authoritative resources providing context, medical research, legal analysis, and responsible perspectives.
Investigating the history of cannabis use throughout different cultures and time periods helps explain the plant’s modern status. Reputable sites like the National Museum of American History explore the complex past of cannabis in America.
To understand cannabis botanically, sources like the Cannabis Reports break down the taxonomy, chemical composition, and genetic lineage of cannabis plants. This includes the differences between strains like Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis.
For medical information, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine offer an extensive, cited report on the health effects of cannabis and cannabinoids. This reviews current evidence on using cannabis to treat conditions like chronic pain, chemo side effects, MS, and epilepsy.
To stay up to date on laws, the National Conference of State Legislatures tracks the rapidly changing legal status of cannabis and CBD across each state. Also read federal analysis from agencies like the FDA, which regulates cannabis-derived products.
For a measured perspective, Harvard Medical School delivers balanced overviews explaining CBD and risks associated with cannabis use. TED Talks feature doctors exploring medical marijuana.
While cannabis remains controversial, quality education from non-biased sources helps empower informed, responsible decisions regarding if or how to use cannabis-derived products. Take time to thoroughly research before forming conclusions.
Finding Your Optimal CBD Oil Dosage
With growing popularity, many new CBD users are unsure how much CBD oil to take. There are no official guidelines, so CBD dosage depends on individual factors. Finding your optimal dosage takes research and trial and error.
Most CBD products list a suggested serving or dosage. For oils, this is usually 1⁄2 dropper, or around 15 drops, with recommended frequency. Start on the low end taking 10-15 mg of CBD once or twice daily. Give it 2-3 weeks to notice effects before adjusting dosage.
Increase your dosage slowly by 5-10 mg at a time weekly. Track your results in a journal so you can determine the ideal dosage to address symptoms without undesirable effects. Stop increasing when symptoms improve or if you notice side effects.
Dosage varies based on body weight, CBD concentration, and reason for use. Higher concentrations around 30mg/mL require smaller doses. Larger individuals may need higher doses for the same effect.
Chronic conditions like pain or anxiety typically require higher, more frequent doses between 25-100 mg. Milder issues like sleep troubles may respond to lower doses between 10-40 mg. Only take CBD for approved medical reasons.
If needed, consult a doctor experienced in using CBD clinically for guidance on dosage and to rule out interactions with other medications.
Be sure to purchase quality CBD from reputable brands who provide third-party testing showing the actual CBD and THC content to avoid toxicity. Only use CBD derived from hemp, not marijuana, to comply with legal THC limits. Start low and take note of your body’s response to find the right dose to optimize wellness.
Finding Your Optimal CBD Oil Dosage
With growing popularity, many new CBD users are unsure how much CBD oil to take. There are no official guidelines, so CBD dosage depends on individual factors. Finding your optimal dosage takes research and trial and error.
Most CBD products list a suggested serving or dosage. For oils, this is usually 1⁄2 dropper, or around 15 drops, with recommended frequency. Start on the low end taking 10-15 mg of CBD once or twice daily. Give it 2-3 weeks to notice effects before adjusting dosage.
Increase your dosage slowly by 5-10 mg at a time weekly. Track your results in a journal so you can determine the ideal dosage to address symptoms without undesirable effects. Stop increasing when symptoms improve or if you notice side effects.
Dosage varies based on body weight, CBD concentration, and reason for use. Higher concentrations around 30mg/mL require smaller doses. Larger individuals may need higher doses for the same effect.
Chronic conditions like pain or anxiety typically require higher, more frequent doses between 25-100 mg. Milder issues like sleep troubles may respond to lower doses between 10-40 mg. Only take CBD for approved medical reasons.
If needed, consult a doctor experienced in using CBD clinically for guidance on dosage and to rule out interactions with other medications.
Be sure to purchase quality CBD from reputable brands who provide third-party testing showing the actual CBD and THC content to avoid toxicity. Only use CBD derived from hemp, not marijuana, to comply with legal THC limits. Start low and take note of your body’s response to find the right dose to optimize wellness.
The Effects and Risks of Excessive CBD Intake
As CBD use increases, some users are curious about potential effects of taking higher than recommended doses. While not generally dangerous, taking too much CBD may cause some undesirable effects.
CBD is considered very safe at regular doses. However, side effects like drowsiness, nausea, diarrhea and irritability can occur with excessive CBD intake, especially when first starting use. These effects stem from CBD interacting with the endocannabinoid system and digestive system.
High doses of CBD may amplify side effects from medication interactions. CBD inhibits certain liver enzymes, so combining high doses with other drugs metabolized by the liver can increase side effects and toxicity. Talk to your doctor about potential interactions.
Another concern with extremely high CBD doses over 1,500 mg per day is the inhibition of hepatic drug metabolism. This may cause too much medication to accumulate in the body when taken simultaneously, leading to potential overdose. Monitoring by a medical professional is advised.
While not common, very high doses of CBD could potentially cause diarrhea, vomiting or nausea severe enough to result in dehydration or other complications. CBD may also modestly lower blood pressure, so excessive intake may cause lightheadedness or dizziness.
To avoid unwanted effects, follow dosage directions and start low with CBD. Increase gradually while observing effects. Consult a doctor about ideal dosage and any medical concerns. Seek emergency care if experiencing adverse reactions that may indicate overdose.
When used responsibly under medical guidance, CBD is very safe. But improper dosing raises risks. To stay safe, educate yourself about CBD products and their effects.
How CBD May Help Alleviate Arthritis Pain and Inflammation
Arthritis causes joint inflammation and pain that can greatly reduce mobility and quality of life. Some research indicates CBD may help provide arthritis pain relief and reduce inflammation associated with arthritis.
CBD impacts the endocannabinoid system, which regulates pain and immune system function. Studies on rats found that CBD can reduce inflammation and pain from conditions like osteoarthritis. CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties may also help suppress joint inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis.
Human clinical trials on CBD and arthritis are limited. But one 2016 study on CBD use for rheumatoid arthritis found it reduced disease activity and joint pain compared to a placebo. However, more human research is still needed.
CBD is available in many forms, like oils and topicals. Topical CBD products like balms penetrate the skin to directly target sore joints. Oral tinctures taken under the tongue may provide overall pain relief. Start with a low dose and increase gradually as needed.
While promising, speak with your doctor before trying CBD, especially if taking other medications. CBD may interact with certain arthritis drugs. Your doctor can also advise on safe, effective dosing based on your symptoms.
Currently CBD is not FDA-approved for arthritis. Additional large-scale studies must further evaluate CBD’s efficacy and safety for arthritis. Self-treating any medical condition with CBD has risks. Follow your doctor’s treatment plan and use CBD cautiously under medical supervision.
While more research is needed, current evidence indicates CBD holds promise for managing arthritis pain when used responsibly alongside standard treatment. Discuss with your doctor if it may be an appropriate part of your pain management plan.
Using CBD Safely and Effectively for Arthritis Symptoms
Arthritis causes joint pain, stiffness and swelling that can limit mobility. Some research indicates CBD may help reduce arthritis symptoms like pain and inflammation. When used cautiously, CBD may be a helpful addition to standard arthritis treatment plans.
Speak with your doctor first before trying CBD. Make sure to disclose all medications and supplements to check for interactions. Your doctor can also advise you on safe, effective dosing based on your symptoms and medical history.
Look for high-quality CBD products from reputable brands that provide third-party lab testing showing the CBD and THC concentrations. Oral tinctures, capsules and topicals like balms are common ways to use CBD for arthritis.
Start with a very low dose like 5-10mg daily and increase slowly every few days if needed to manage symptoms. Track your dosage and results. Report any side effects like dizziness or diarrhea to your doctor promptly.
Apply topical CBD products directly to painful joints. CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties may help ease localized pain when used this way. However, research is still limited on topical CBD’s effects.
Do not stop or change arthritis medications without medical guidance. CBD should be used to supplement, not replace, doctor-approved treatments. Avoid any CBD products that make unproven medical claims.
Monitor for medication interactions and worsening side effects when starting CBD. Check for drug interaction warnings. Combining CBD with arthritis drugs may require adjusting medication dosage.
While early research is promising, more studies are still needed. Use CBD cautiously under medical supervision as an addition to conventional treatment. Work closely with your rheumatologist to find the safest way to incorporate CBD into your arthritis management regimen.
The Potential of Cannabis for Treating Chronic Pain
Chronic pain affects over 50 million adults in the United States. As opioid misuse continues to rise, many are interested in safer alternatives like cannabis for pain relief. The compounds CBD and THC in cannabis engage with receptors in the body that influence pain perception. Some research indicates cannabis may help relieve certain types of chronic pain when used responsibly under medical guidance.
Small studies have found cannabis effective at reducing neuropathic pain related to neuropathy, multiple sclerosis, and other conditions. The cannabinoids in cannabis may interrupt pain signals sent to the brain. However, human research is extremely limited.
Cannabis may complement traditional pain medications by allowing lower opioid doses. But using cannabis with other pain drugs also increases risks of side effects. Never alter prescribed medication doses without first consulting your physician.
While cannabis shows promise for pain, side effects include impaired cognition, anxiety, and faster bone density loss. The FDA has not approved cannabis products for pain. Marijuana remains federally illegal, while hemp-derived CBD is legal in some states. Discuss legal and ethical concerns with your doctor.
If considering cannabis for pain management, choose reliable products from licensed dispensaries that provide third-party testing. Work with a doctor experienced in cannabinoid therapy to find the lowest effective dose. Your doctor can also monitor for drug interactions and side effects.
More high-quality human studies on cannabis for specific pain conditions are urgently needed. For now, cannabis should not replace proven treatments. Use under medical supervision as an adjunct therapy only after weighing the risks and potential benefits.
The Complete Guide to CBD Oil: Uses, Benefits, Risks, and More
Cannabidiol (CBD) oil is becoming an increasingly popular natural supplement used to treat a variety of health issues. This comprehensive guide answers common questions about CBD oil.
What is CBD Oil?
CBD oil is derived from cannabis plants but contains little to no THC, the psychoactive component that produces a “high.” Instead, CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system involved in regulating functions like sleep, pain, immune response, and more.
CBD can be extracted from both marijuana and hemp plants. Hemp-derived CBD containing less than 0.3% THC is legal on a federal level. CBD does not have addictive properties or cause harm, though research is still limited.
What is CBD Oil Good For?
While studies are ongoing, CBD oil may provide certain therapeutic benefits:
Reducing seizures in epilepsy – CBD may help reduce seizures in treatment-resistant epilepsy. The FDA has approved one CBD drug to treat severe childhood epilepsy.
Easing anxiety and depression – Research shows CBD may lower anxiety levels and aid in depressive disorders. CBD boosts serotonin levels which can improve mood.
Relieving pain – CBD activates receptors involved in regulating pain and inflammation. Studies have shown CBD can alleviate chronic pain.
Aiding sleep – CBD may help increase sleep duration and reduce insomnia through its calming effects.
Improving skin health – The anti-inflammatory properties of CBD may help reduce acne, oil production, and skin redness.
Managing substance abuse – Early research shows CBD may help reduce cravings and withdrawal in substance abuse disorder.
However, more research is still needed to confirm CBD’s preliminary benefits. CBD is not a cure-all and should not replace doctor-approved treatments.
What are the Downsides of CBD Oil?
While generally safe, CBD oil can cause side effects in some individuals including:
Diarrhea
Changes in appetite
Fatigue
Dry mouth
Drowsiness
Nausea
CBD may interact with certain medications, so discuss CBD use with your doctor. Avoid CBD if pregnant or breastfeeding, as effects on the fetus are unknown. Also avoid vaping CBD due to health risks. Purchase high-quality, certified products from reputable brands only.
Where Can You Buy CBD Oil?
There are many options for where to buy CBD oil:
Online retailers – Buying directly from a reputable CBD brand online offers convenience and price savings. Check for third-party lab reports.
Dispensaries – Legal cannabis dispensaries offer lab-tested CBD products derived from marijuana plants. These contain trace THC levels.
Pharmacies or drugstores – Some major chains now carry CBD products in certain states. Availability is growing.
Health food stores – Natural food markets like Whole Foods or vitamin shops will stock various CBD supplements. Verify quality before buying.
Gas stations or vape shops – Less ideal due to risks of contaminated products. Avoid CBD e-liquids for vaping.
Research brands thoroughly before purchasing CBD. Seek companies that follow FDA guidelines for manufacturing processes and provide Certificates of Analysis showing third-party lab test results.
How Do You Take CBD Oil?
CBD oil can be taken in various forms:
Tinctures/oils – Drops taken sublingually (under the tongue) for quick absorption into the bloodstream. Easy to adjust dosage.
Edibles – CBD-infused foods like gummies or baked goods. Slower onset but longer lasting effects.
Vaping – Inhaling vaporized CBD oil using an e-cigarette pen. Fast acting but may be unsafe.
Topicals – Creams, lotions, salves. Applied directly to the skin for localized relief. Useful for pain and skincare.
Capsules – Easy to swallow CBD caps provide effects similar to tinctures/oils. Dosage is pre-measured.
Always start with the lowest dose based on product instructions to assess your response. Increase gradually as needed. Consult a doctor for guidance on proper dosing and efficacy.
Is CBD Good for Joint Pain?
Early research suggests CBD may help relieve joint pain from conditions like arthritis and injury recovery. The anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties of CBD may be beneficial for managing chronic joint pain.
In studies on rats, CBD reduced joint swelling and slowed progression of inflammatory arthritis. For humans, more clinical trials are needed to confirm CBD’s effects on joint pain. Topical CBD products like balms may provide localized pain relief when massaged into sore joints.
However, be sure to discuss using CBD for joint pain with your doctor first. Do not stop any treatments or alter medication to try CBD. Use it as a complementary therapy under medical guidance.
What is the Best CBD Oil?
With many CBD oil brands to choose from, it can be hard selecting a high-quality product:
Choose organic CBD oil whenever possible to avoid pesticides or solvents.
Only buy directly from brand websites, licensed dispensaries, or reputable stores to ensure authenticity.
Seek broad or full spectrum CBD oils for maximum benefits from cannabinoids and terpenes.
Check third-party lab test reports to verify purity and CBD/THC levels.
Avoid cheap products that seem too good to be true which may have dangerous additives.
Select a suitable concentration for your needs. Ranges from 8mg to over 100mg per serving.
Product quality varies greatly. Research a brand’s manufacturing process and read reviews to determine reliable CBD suppliers before purchasing. High-grade CBD oil delivers optimal results.
Seizures
Clinical trials show CBD helps reduce seizure frequency in people with treatment-resistant epilepsy. The FDA has approved the first CBD pharmaceutical Epidiolex to treat rare childhood seizure disorders like Dravet syndrome. Research is ongoing for other forms of epilepsy.
Anxiety
Studies indicate CBD may lower anxiety levels by boosting serotonin activity in the brain and reducing stress hormone levels. Results show potential for treating generalized anxiety and social anxiety.
Addiction
Emerging evidence demonstrates CBD may help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms in people recovering from addiction. CBD may ease opioid, tobacco and cannabis addiction, but more research is needed.
Schizophrenia
While not a cure, CBD may help improve schizophrenia symptoms when used alongside antipsychotic medications. CBD may reduce psychosis and normalize brain function.
Common Side Effects
Most people tolerate CBD well, but possible side effects include diarrhea, fatigue, dry mouth, nausea, appetite changes, and irritability. CBD may also interact with certain medications. Talk to your doctor before trying CBD.
Severe Side Effects
High doses of CBD may inhibit drug metabolism. This can cause excess medication to build up with potential overdose if combining CBD and pharmaceuticals. Liver injury is also a risk with extremely high CBD doses over 1,000 mg daily. Discontinue use if adverse reactions occur.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) Is CBD legal?
Federal law allows CBD derived from hemp containing under 0.3% THC. CBD legality varies between states.
2) Will CBD make me high?
No, CBD products contain little to no THC, the psychoactive compound that produces a high.
3) How long does CBD last?
Effects may be felt within 30 minutes and can last 4-6 hours or longer depending on the dose and delivery method.
4) Can you fail a drug test from CBD?
A: Full spectrum CBD may trigger a false positive due to trace THC levels. Broad spectrum CBD without THC will not cause failed tests.
Food Sources of CBD Oil
Some foods naturally contain small amounts of CBD, such as:
- Hemp seeds
- Black pepper
- Cacao beans
- Hops
- Rosemary
- Tea leaves
However, the CBD quantity in these foods is too low to provide medicinal benefits. Taking concentrated CBD oil provides effective therapeutic dosing.
CBD Oil Products
There are endless product options including:
– Tinctures
– Gummies
– Capsules
– Vapes
– Topical balms, creams, lotions
– Bath bombs
– Pet treats
– Infused coffee and teas
Research different product types and CBD brands to find the best fit for your health needs and lifestyle.
In summary:
CBD oil offers many potential benefits and few risks when used responsibly under medical guidance. Talk to your doctor to see if CBD might be a good addition to your wellness routine.