Cannabidiol (CBD) is a chemical component of marijuana and is often formulated into oil for ingestion. CBD oil will not give you the "high" associated with taking marijuana, as it does not contain tetrahydrocannabinol, which is the psychoactive chemical in marijuana that produces an altered state when taken. State laws on the use of CBD oil vary, but it's becoming a popular choice for symptom management for those living with a range of chronic health conditions. Your doctor can advise you on approved uses of CBD oil in your state.
What Is It Used For?
Clinical studies on the benefits of CBD oil for health are limited, as CBD oil is a relatively new product. However, clinical studies are now happening due to increasing interest in the benefits of CBD oil and user feedback in relation to symptom relief. CBD oil is becoming a popular alternative treatment for some types of epilepsy, and some patients experience a marked reduction in seizure activity when taking CBD oil regularly. CDB oil is also used by those who experience anxiety, muscle pain, inflammatory bowel disease, and certain neurological conditions, such as Parkinson's disease. If you're interested in trying CBD oil for the relief of symptoms associated with a health condition, discuss the suitability of the product with your doctor.
How Does It Work?
CBD oil is often used to reduce pain and balance mood, and it works by preventing a chemical in the brain, which contributes to mood, brain function, and pain receptor function, from breaking down and entering the bloodstream. Taking CBD oil is also thought to block some of the effects of a chemical in your body called delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, which has psychoactive effects and can contribute to inflammation.
How Is It taken?
CBD oil is often taken sublingually, meaning a few drops are placed under the tongue and held there for your body to absorb. It can also be applied topically as a muscle rub or to reduce inflammation. You can apply it neatly to your skin or add it to a carrier oil, such as almond or olive oil, and massage it onto your skin. CBD oil can also be added to food, so if you want to take it internally and don't like the taste of it on its own, try adding it to a smoothie.
Are There Side Effects?
As previously mentioned, the uses and benefits of CBD oil are still being studied and this means there's limited information about potential side effects. Some users have reported potential side effects that include dizziness, low mood, low blood pressure, and irritability, while others have not felt any negative effects from taking CBD oil.
In some states, your doctor can prescribe CBD oil, while in others you can purchase CBD oil from a CBD store and no prescription is necessary. If you decide to try CBD oil, discuss appropriate dosing an application method with your doctor or take advice from an experienced seller.
If you'd like to learn more about CBD oil, reach out to a local CBD shop.