How Does CBD Work?

Please note: the use of cannabis for medial or recreational purposes may be illegal in your country. Healthiack.com does not encourage the use of this substance.

You may have heard about CBD, which is the shortcut for cannabidiol, a substance taken from hemp or cannabis plants. Cannabidiol is reportedly showing promise as treatment for some medical disorders.

The problem, though, is that not everyone knows how CBD works, which may explain why CBD use may be illegal in some countries.

Let us first understand what CBD is and how it works.

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CBD oil; Image source: imgur.com

The Science Behind CBD

CBD can be taken from marijuana, which is sourced from the cannabis plant. There has been some furor over marijuana because of parties that claim it has the potential to become a medical treatment for various illnesses such as chronic pain, hence the term “medical marijuana.” However, the marijuana derivative of CBD doesn’t supply the “high” that marijuana gives—it is the other marijuana derivative called delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) that induces the “high.”

In the US, it is illegal to grow or sell marijuana according to federal law. But there are states that allow CBD to legally be sold to the public because the substance doesn’t induce that “high.” Anecdotal testimonies claim that CBD has proven effective at providing relief from symptoms of various illnesses.

Legal CBD is technically sourced from the hemp plant (a relative of the cannabis plant). That is another reason that CBD can be legally sold to the public. CBD is a cannabinoid, which the human body also produces. Current research claims that CBD works by inducing the human body to process its own cannabinoids, and this is the explanation for the “successful use” of CBD to treat various human illnesses. However, more research has to be done before medical researchers can claim that CBD can really “cure” or treat the symptoms of human illnesses.

Illnesses CBD Is Used For

Since there are testimonies that CBD can relieve some symptoms of illnesses, let us see which medical problems CBD has been used for lately:

  • Childhood Epilepsy – The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the use of a CBD-based product named Epidiolex for two rare types of childhood epilepsy. At this point, this is the only CBD-based product that has the sanction of the FDA.
  • Smoking Addiction – Some claim that they are able to smoke less cigarettes by using CBD. The urge to smoke is allegedly diminished.
  • Relief from Substance Abuse Symptoms – Some symptoms experienced due to substance abuse seem to also be reduced when CBD is used instead.
  • Halts Spread of Cancer – There is one claim that the progression of cancer is slowed or even stopped when CBD is taken. But, at this point, no one has stated that CBD can definitely halt cancer.
  • Relieves Chronic Anxiety Disorders – People with chronic anxiety might have relief from their symptoms with the use of CBD.

How To Use CBD Safely

One of the biggest issues with use of CBD is its safe use as a form of therapy. One source states that the volume of CBD taken daily (based on anecdotal evidence) ranges between 20 mg to 1,500 mg. It is also hard to predict the time it takes for CBD to work, because of the wide range of volume use, as well as the many ways that CBD is consumed (gummy, capsule, pill, drops, etc.). There is also no regulated measurement of the content of CBD supplements yet, so anyone who buys CBD will not be certain if they are taking the correct or safe amount.

It is best to consult your doctor if you have a medical condition and plan to try CBD as a form of relief or therapy for your illness. The doctor may guide your consumption and observe if there are side effects or if the supplement helps. It is not advisable to self-medicate with CBD in case of overdose or side effects.

Known Side Effects of CBD

CBD may cause some side effects when used by humans such as:

  • Fatigue
  • Changes in appetite
  • Diarrhea

Risk Factors of CBD Use

One major risk that you may face with CBD use is possible liver damage, especially when the dosage is not regulated or is erratic. This is actually a known risk with prescription drug use so CBD supplements follow that same path.

Another risk is adverse interaction with current medication. This means if you are already under some medication, you should refrain from CBD use, unless your doctor assures you that the risk of adverse drug interaction is minimal or zero.

Final Thoughts

You may be wondering how CBD works, especially if you have some medical issues or illnesses that you are seeking help with. Legal CBD is available but it is recommended that you seek medical advice first and refrain from self-medicating with CBD.

There are some known side effects, plus CBD is not yet regulated by the FDA, so be cautious first before you attempt to take the supplement to address your health issues.

 

 

 

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