It seems that CBD, or cannabidiol, has become a buzzword in the health and wellness industry at the moment. However, some people are still unconvinced as to its potential benefits. Does it offer any medicinal advantages? What does it do to your mind and body? Could it be dangerous? There are many questions that demand answers.
The reason for all this confusion stems from the fact that CBD is sourced from cannabis plants. This leads to concerns that taking it could make you feel high. There are also worries about legality. Yet, increased medical and public awareness of the potential healing benefits of cannabidiol has led to considerable scientific interest. Many studies have now been carried out and many more are ongoing. This is allowing medical professions to piece together a much clearer picture of how CBD and other cannabinoids can help relieve certain conditions.
Why CBD?
Many states have now legalized cannabis for medicinal use, and this has led to its use as an alternative medicine becoming more popular than ever before. However, contrary to popular belief, not every strain contains large amounts of the psychoactive component, THC. Some have a higher concentration of CBD which is not psychoactive and causes no high in those who take it. CBD has also now been associated with several potentially healing properties. It is also believed to be safe for use in most people, even when consumed in high doses. In fact, CBD can be derived from the hemp plant, part of the Cannabis Sativa plant family. CBD products derived from hemp plants contain little or no THC and are legal to consume.
The Types Of CBD
Not only can CBD be derived from either cannabis plants or hemp plants, but it also comes in different types. You can choose between CBD isolate, full-spectrum CBD, and broad-spectrum CBD. Knowing the differences between Full Spectrum CBD vs. Broad Spectrum CBD is important so that you can choose the correct product for you.
Full-spectrum products contain all of the compounds that occur naturally in the plant. This includes all essential oils, other cannabinoids, and terpenes. These compounds all work together, magnifying each cannabinoid’s potentially therapeutic benefits thanks to the “entourage effect” they create. While once it was believed CBD isolate was a more effective option than full-spectrum products, this theory has now been debunked.
Broad-spectrum CBD products, on the other hand, are somewhere between CBD isolate and full-spectrum CBD. Like a full-spectrum product, all of the compounds in the plant remain in the extract, but the THC is removed completely. This means you benefit from the entourage effect with no risk of a psychoactive high.
The Potential Therapeutic Applications Of CBD Products For Mind And Body
CBD has been demonstrated to potentially treat many physical and mental health conditions. Instead of antidepressants, many people suffering from mental health issues consider CBD for treatment. These include:
- Treating seizures in children with drug-resistant epilepsy
- Depression
- Psychosis
- Anxiety
- Relief of chronic pain conditions
- Alleviating cancer-related symptoms
These are just some of the possible benefits of taking CBD. There is more research ongoing into the possibility of CBD having neuroprotective properties, and into whether or not it can help to treat cancer. It has been linked to helping those who struggle with substance abuse to overcome their problems and could even help to ward off hypertension and diabetes.
With this in mind, and with no serious side effects, it’s no wonder that CBD products are becoming so popular among those who are keen to boost their own well-being. You should certainly consider adding it into your lifestyle if you’re seeking an alternative to more traditional medication options.