A brief introduction into the wonders of CBD.
Marijuana. Weed. Ganja. This particular plant has many different names and has carried a lot of negative stereotypes for decades but as of recently, many states have legalized the use of marijuana. With the legalization of marijuana, many people have become interested in CBD products to help treat their symptoms. These symptoms can range anywhere from arthritis to Parkinson’s Disease. Within the past several years, many individuals are opting to treat their symptoms through a more natural means compared to pharmaceuticals.
What is CBD?
The cannabis plant contains 2 compounds, delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is the compound that creates a psychoactive experience, usually mind altering, when an individual smokes or uses it when they cook. Unlike THC, CBD does not alter the mind or gives off a “high” but rather produces significant changes throughout the body. CBD has been known to be a natural pain reliever as well as having anti-inflammatory properties. This compound is derived from the hemp plant, the least processed part of the cannabis plant itself (Johnson, 2018).
Benefits
Chronic Pain
Inflammation
Epilepsy
Acne
Alzheimer's
Parkinson’s Disease
Anxiety
Sleep Disorders
Is it Legal?
As of recently, there has been a lack of FDA regulation on CBD products. The real question is, is it legal? All 50 states have some sort of regulation or restriction regarding CBD. The legality of these products depends on certain states. For example, in South Carolina, patients diagnosed with Dravet Syndrome or Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome need to obtain a written certificate from their physician for CBD oil only if other medicines have not helped them (South Carolina Legal Information, 2019). On the other hand, California’s laws regarding CBD is in the gray area and as of now, anyone over 21 can enter into a dispensary and purchase any marijuana products, including CBD. If an individual is 18-20 then they need to obtain a medical marijuana card. The laws pertaining to CBD are still not as concrete as we would like them but hopefully in the following years it will be legal for all to use.
How to Use
CBD can be used in a variety of different ways but it is the most effective in oil form. This can then be administered through creams, mixed into drinks or food, made into a capsule, or simply take the oil itself orally. The dosage depends on the individual and the product itself. At this time, there is a lack of regulation from the FDA towards CBD products and any questions regarding these products should be taken to a medical health professional (Johnson, 2018).
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