CBD oil: benefits, uses and risks
CBD is the short form of Cannabidiol. It is extracted from the cannabis Sativa plant also known as marijuana either in the form of powder or oil. In the recent past, CBD oil has gained a lot of popularity. If the use of CBD is legalized in your state, then you must have noticed its enormous demand. These days, you can comfortably access CBD oil in coffee shops, get a CBD oil facial or body massage and so on. Everyone is just eager to get their hands on this wonder drug. Does it really deserve all the attention? This article shares its health benefits, uses and possible side effects to help you make informed choices that will not be followed by regrets.
Uses of CBD oil
Although CBD oil has become a household name, there are still many people who find the whole issue a little confusing. Most people want to know if the product they are buying is legit and the right way to use it. The naturally occurring substance is majorly used in oil products and edibles. It is believed to give the user a calm or relaxation feeling.
CBD oil can be used in various forms. Some of those ways include:
- Swallowing capsules
- Mixing with food or a drink
- Massaging the paste on the skin
- Spraying it under the tongue
- Taking it with a dropper
The reason for using CBD oil, bodyweight of an individual and the concentration of the product are the determining factors when it comes to the CBD oil dosage recommendation.
Benefits of CBD oil
People use CBD oil for various reasons. Unlike its counterpart, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) which is psychoactive, CBD is not psychoactive. Meaning, it cannot give the user the sensation of a “high” feeling. This is one quality that has made CBD oil the most sort after drug. Here are a few of its many benefits.
Can relieve pain
Some people see CBD as a natural alternative to relieve pain and stiffness in their bodies. Interestingly, this is not without scientific support. Some studies have shown that certain components of marijuana which include CBD help to relieve pain. More so, according to several human studies, a combination of THC and CBD is effective in treating pain related to arthritis and sclerosis. This has seen several countries approve the use of Sativex, an oral spray made from a combination of CBD and THC to treat multiple sclerosis-related pain.
Reduce acne
People who have dealt with acne will agree that it can be bothersome and it has even lowered some people’s self-esteem. Acne can be caused by several factors such as genetic underlying inflammation, an oily secretion made by sebaceous glands, overproduction of sebum and bacteria. Due to CBD oil ability to reduce sebum production and its inflammatory properties, CBD oil is believed to offer a solution to people with acne. One test-tube study showed that CBD oil can prevent activation of pro-acne agents such as inflammatory cytokines and prevent sebaceous gland cells from secreting excessive sebum-culprits of acne. Similar findings from yet another study found that CBD oil can be used to treat acne. However, more human studies are needed if CBD is going to be used to treat acne in the long term.
Reduce anxiety and depression
While anxiety and depression are known to be treated with pharmaceutical drugs, the various side effects involved with these medications such as agitation, sexual dysfunction, drowsiness and headaches are making many people look for alternatives. This is where CBD oil comes in because it is viewed as a natural remedy to these conditions. Cbd oil has shown a positive effect in the treatment of insomnia and anxiety in children with post-traumatic stress disorder. A study consisting of 24 people living with an anxiety disorder were given 600 mg of CBD or a placebo before a public speaking test. The group which received the CBD oil had greatly reduced nervousness, discomfort, anxiety and cognitive impairment as compared to the placebo group. Further, in several animal studies, CBD oil showed antidepressant-like effects. All these studies were linked to the fact that CBD has the power to impact the brain’s receptors, a neurotransmitter whose work involves the regulation of human social behaviour.
Alleviate cancer-related symptoms
These days, a lot of people have been affected by cancer-related issues. That’s why CBD oil has been seen as a great relief to the many people suffering from cancer. Cbd oil is believed to reduce the side effects associated with cancer treatment such as pain, nausea and vomiting. It is also believed to offer great relief to cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. It significantly reduces vomiting and nausea associated with chemotherapy. Unfortunately, more research is needed to assess its safety and effectiveness when it comes to treating cancer or managing cancer-related symptoms.
Possible side effects of CBD oil
While CBD oil is considered safe to use and is generally tolerated well by most people, it also has some side effects. For instance, some concerns have been raised on the increased use of CBD oil which could lead to inflammation or liver damage. Another concern is the fact that if the CBD oil you are using contains THC as well, it could impair your ability to operate machinery or drive. This could lead to a fatal accident. Other side effects of CBD oil usage may include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Nausea
- Change of appetite (eat too much or too little)
- Dry mouth
- Fatigue
- Drowsiness
- Change of mood
- Dizziness
Although CBD oil is known to interact well with several medications, make sure you consult with your doctor before using CBD oil. This will protect you from potentially harmful interactions. Also, to avoid an overdose which can have not so good side effect, begin with a low dose and take some time before taking another dose. Remember CBD oil can last for several hours before you start to feel the effect.
Conclusion
Cbd oil is a well-tolerated drug and it has a lot to offer to humans. However, before you start looking for it, make sure your doctor has given you a go-ahead. Also, ensure you take the right dosage and most importantly, check with your country if it’s legal to use it.
