CBD: A Promising Avenue for Improved Health and Wellness
While not a miracle cure, scientific research suggests CBD oil benefits a variety of ailments.
If you have heard of CBD but have not formally been introduced to it yet, you may have a few questions:
- Is it legal?
- Is it a miracle cure?
- Will it get me high?
- Will I fail a drug test if it is found in my system?
- Are the products safe?
While those are excellent questions, the answers to which we will address in this article, there are other questions you should add to the list to aid in your understanding of exactly what CBD is. It’s been highlighted in the news frequently over the past year or so and has been gaining considerable traction in the health and wellness arena. But if you are uncertain as to what it is or how it can possibly benefit you, then you have come to the right place. While the information in this article is not meant to cure or treat any specific disease, illness or health condition, it will serve as a source of education and information. As with anything regarding your overall health and wellness, it is important to also discuss any questions and concerns you might have with your health care provider, as well. Doing your research and being informed are crucial aspects of maintaining good health.
So, what exactly is CBD?
In a nutshell, cannabidiol is a popular natural remedy used for many common ailments. Known as CBD, it is one of the 104 chemical compounds referred to as cannabinoids which are found in the cannabis, or marijuana plant. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the main psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis and is responsible for the “high” sensation associated with marijuana. CBD, however, is different from THC in that it is not psychoactive. Therefore, CBD is an attractive option for those who desire relief from pain and other ailments without the concern of the mind-altering effects associated with marijuana or even certain pharmaceutical drugs.
So, how is CBD made?
It is made by extracting CBD from the cannabis plant. It is then diluted with a carrier oil, usually in the form of hemp seed oil or coconut oil. As it gains popularity within the health and wellness industry, some scientific studies have confirmed it may help with a variety of conditions, such as anxiety and chronic pain.
What are the main benefits of CBD oil backed by scientific research and evidence?
The list here is pretty comprehensive and perhaps somewhat eye-opening. While there is no scientific research to prove that CBD oil in any form can cure disease, there have been countless case studies and testimonials patients who claim the products have helped them with many conditions: anxiety, arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, asthma, cancer, chronic pain, depression, glaucoma, insomnia, multiple sclerosis, obesity, PTSD, schizophrenia and more.
Ok, I confess. You have my attention now. But how does it work?
CBD draws upon the medicinal properties of cannabis – the anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiolytic – which allows it naturally provide relief from pain, anxiety and stress. What allows this aid in so many conditions, as well as maintain health and wellness in the body, is how the cannabinoids found in the CBD interact with the receptors throughout the body.
Scientists have discovered certain systems in our bodies that are wholly dependent on their interaction with cannabinoids. In fact, our bodies were made to work with cannabinoids. One could argue CBD is essential to our overall health and well-being.
Is CBD legal?
This is where the rubber meets the road. Regarding the legality of CBD, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has yet to make it legal. However, at the state level, each state has its own laws on the matter. Some states go so far as to have laws that differentiate between CBD derived from hemp oil versus medical marijuana. However, hemp-derived CBD is 100% legal, and, thankfully, most CBD products are hemp-derived.
“Cannabidiol can legally have THC up to .3%,” explained Mike O’Hara, owner of Green Grove CBD on the Country Club Plaza. “There is the full spectrum CBD that has all cannabinoids, including THC. However, the THC is so trace its considered CBD, but can you fail a drug test while using it? Absolutely. Broad spectrum CBD, on the other hand, has all of the cannabinoids less the THC. In other words, you are taking the THC out in the extraction process so there is no feeling of getting high and you cannot fail a drug test while using it.”
O’Hara emphasized the benefits of THC, however, in that it has been known to effectively treat chronic pain with a wide range of patients.
“With that added into CBD, specific patients can you get the best of both worlds, as it can be more effective,” he noted.
What type of products contain CBD?
CBD can be taken in tinctures, vape pens (for a higher absorption rate), soft gels, isolate form (pure powder to mix in food and drinks), gummies, lotions, salves, creams and face masks. Even pets can benefit from CBD with capsules, treats and tinctures. There are many applications and vehicles through which the benefits of CBD can be obtained.
“We have teamed up with a local coffee shop to infuse tea blocks, coffee blocks and chocolate bars,” said O’Hara, who anticipates offering workshops to educate people on how to incorporate CBD into their lifestyles.
Are CBD products safe?
O’Hara warned not to purchase any CBD product that are not third party tested.
“Ask for lab results and make sure the batch number matches the bottle number. Our bottles have QR codes which you can scan and go to the mycbdtest.com site for more information. Every bottle should have a batch number on it. If not, be wary,” he cautioned.
Is there age restrictions using CBD products?
“We like to tell people our products are for infants to elderly,” said O’Hara. “Of course, in our store we prefer parental consent for anyone underage. We legally don’t have to do that, but we feel it is the right thing to do.”
How do you know what the correct dosage is?
There is no one-size-fits all approach to using CBD. There is no recommended dosage. The idea is to find your sweet spot and go with that. Assess how you are feeling after a dropperful and take more if you need it.
“Some people will take 100 mg a day, while others may just need 5 mg a day,” stated O’Hara.
What is the future of CBD?
General opinion is beginning to shift in a positive direction, but only time will tell about the lasting impact CBD will have on society.
“I think the pendulum will swing back to natural and organic products for treating pain and other issues,” stated O’Hara. “There is a benefit for everyone with CBD, and some people may have to take it all the time while others only on an as-needed basis.”
Any adverse reactions at all?
Generally considered safe, CBD can cause adverse reactions in some individuals, such as diarrhea and fatigue. It can also interfere with certain medications. Research on the potential health benefits of CBD is on-going and new uses for this natural product are still being discovered. Yes, there is still much to be learned about its efficacy and safety, but recent studies continue to support that CBD may provide a safe and powerful natural treatment for a vast array of health issues.
For more information on CBD in Kansas City, contact Mike O’Hara with Green Grove CBD at 816-605-5480, or mike@greengrovecbd.com
Sources: healthline.com, marijuanabreak.com, medium.com.
