Cannabidiol (CBD) is the second-most prominent cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant (next to THC). Over the last few years, it has seen a meteoric rise in the wellness market for offering a wide variety of purported health benefits without causing intoxication or side effects. Despite this growing popularity, there is still a fair amount of misinformation surrounding this non-intoxicating cannabis compound. To help you on your path toward making an informed choice, we put together a list of 5 science-based facts that every potential and current CBD consumer should know.
CBD is therapeutic.
Often the side effects of standard pharmaceuticals can diminish or even outweigh their intended benefits. CBD is considered non-toxic and almost completely side effects free so, for some it may be able to take the place of other medications.
CBD is legal.
CBD is a natural product that can be derived from hemp plants. Though the legal use of some cannabis (specifically THC) is different depending on the state, CBD is free from these regulations due to the minuscule THC content that hemp plants contain (less than .3%).
CBD works well for pain, anxiety, and depression.
A 2018 survey in Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research states that over 60% of cannabidiol (CBD) users reported they were taking CBD to treat a medical condition. The most prevalent conditions these users reported were pain, anxiety, and depression.
We naturally produce cannabinoids in our bodies.
Our endocannabinoid system (where these cannabinoids are produced) is in control of affecting multiple bodily processes such as mood, appetite, pain, and varying cognitive functions. One of the most beneficial endocannabinoids is anandamide (the bliss molecule). Anandamide is important because it activates our CB1 receptors. These receptors can help with everything from relieving depression to lowering inflammation in the body (and so much in between).
These 5 facts provide even more evidence that CBD could be the natural pharmaceutical substitute that so many have been looking for.