CBD is a natural compound that can offer pain relief, reduce anxiety and ease the symptoms of certain medical conditions. But before you start using it, there are a few things you need to know.
CBD is safe and well tolerated, but it can interact with some existing medications. Also, it can cause liver problems if taken in high doses.
What is CBD Oil?
CBD oil is an extract of cannabidiol (CBD), which is the non-psychoactive component of cannabis plants. It is legal in many states, though not all. It can be taken orally (placed under the tongue with a stopper), and it can be applied topically to the skin.
It is a popular treatment for anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Some studies have found that CBD reduces anxiety and helps people sleep better, too. However, it is important to note that these findings are only in small samples.
The majority of the CBD oil products sold in the market are not standardized, meaning that they can vary significantly in their levels of cannabidiol or other plant compounds. This makes it difficult for consumers to know what they are getting.
Some CBD products can also contain harmful additives, such as terpenes and pesticides. For this reason, you should always look for certified third-party lab testing to ensure that the product you are buying is safe and free of contaminants.
Most CBD products are derived from hemp, a type of marijuana that is low in THC. Although it is illegal to grow hemp in most states, it can be legally produced and sold in some places.
There are some studies that suggest that CBD can help treat epilepsy. It can also be used to treat other conditions, such as muscle disorders, pain, and Parkinson’s disease.
It is recommended that you seek advice from your doctor before using CBD. This is particularly important if you are taking any medications, as you should check with your GP to see whether it is safe for you to use CBD.
Another reason you should speak with your GP is that CBD can interact with certain drugs and medicines. This is especially true if you are taking blood-thinning medication or calcium channel blockers, as CBD may inhibit their effectiveness.
You should also avoid CBD if you are pregnant or breastfeeding as it could affect the baby. It may also interact with hormones in the body and cause side effects.
How to Take CBD Oil
You can take CBD oil in a variety of ways. However, one of the most popular methods is to ingest it orally. This method allows the CBD to enter your bloodstream quickly and efficiently. It also helps the body absorb the active ingredients in CBD oil.
To use this method, simply place a drop of CBD oil under your tongue and hold it there for up to 90 seconds. This process may feel odd at first, but once you get used to it, it’s fast and convenient.
It’s also a good idea to use a dropper that you can position accurately so you know how much CBD oil is being consumed. This ensures that you’re getting the maximum amount of CBD in each dose and avoids any excess CBD being wasted.
Once you’ve mastered this method, it’s a good idea to start with a low dosage and increase it gradually over time until you find the right balance for you. If you have a chronic condition or a serious health problem, it’s best to consult with your doctor before starting any new treatment.
Many people find it easiest to take their CBD oils in the morning. This way, it can act as a natural energy boost and help you feel more alert.
This can also be a great way to take CBD if you’re suffering from insomnia. As a side note, CBD can also be taken in the evening to relieve stress and help you unwind.
Another common way to take CBD is by vaping. This method is not as effective as taking it orally because the oil must pass through a broader range of barriers to reach your bloodstream.
If you’re considering trying this method, make sure to choose a high-quality product that has been tested for safety and efficacy by third-party laboratories. Look for brands that make their results available on their website.
You should also look for a company that is transparent about its manufacturing process and source of hemp. This will give you peace of mind knowing that you’re getting the purest and most potent CBD oil on the market.
Side Effects of CBD Oil
The side effects of CBD oil can vary depending on the type, dose, and quality of the product, as well as individual factors such as health and tolerance. As with any new treatment, minimizing the risk of side effects is important to ensure an effective, safe experience with CBD.
Some people may experience drowsiness or fatigue when taking CBD. This is typically only a temporary effect and usually passes within minutes. This is because CBD does not have the same sedative effects as benzodiazepines like Klonopin (clonazepam), Ativan (lorazepam), and Valium (diazepam).
While many people have reported experiencing dry mouth after taking CBD, this is actually quite common, especially when taken with other products that contain caffeine or other stimulants. This is because CBD can alter the way your body metabolizes caffeine.
It’s also possible to experience low blood pressure when you take high doses of CBD, although this isn’t common and is usually only a temporary effect. This can occur in people who have a preexisting medical condition and/or are taking medications for low or high blood pressure.
Other side effects of CBD oil can include nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. Nausea and vomiting can be common symptoms of certain cancer treatments, and CBD is thought to reduce these effects by affecting the release of an antiemetic drug that treats chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.
As with all types of supplements, dosing varies from person to person. If you’re unsure about how much CBD to take, talk to a professional.
Generally, the dosage that’s right for you will depend on your age, weight, and health. Experts recommend starting with a low dose and increasing it gradually.
When it comes to anxiety, some studies suggest that CBD can help. For example, a 2019 study found that men who took 300 mg of CBD before a public speaking test had less anxiety than those who took placebos.
Using CBD oil is a great option for individuals who are looking for natural relief from anxiety. However, more research is needed to understand how best to use this treatment method for a wide range of conditions.
Benefits of CBD Oil
CBD oil is an increasingly popular way to treat a variety of health conditions. The natural substance has been shown to be safe and effective for treating pain, anxiety, and addiction, among other things. But it’s important to understand the benefits and risks of using this compound before you start using it.
The anti-inflammatory properties of CBD may benefit people with chronic pain, arthritis and nerve damage (peripheral neuropathy). In one four-week trial, people who suffered from severe pain in the lower half of their body reported a significant reduction in their symptoms after applying topical CBD.
There are also several studies that show that CBD oil may help with PTSD and other mental health disorders, such as depression. This is because the oil interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain and helps regulate mood and social behavior.
In addition, it has antipsychotic properties and can be used to treat schizophrenia and other mental health conditions. Moreover, it may be useful for those with substance use disorder, as it reduces cravings for a number of drugs.
Lastly, CBD has been found to be helpful for people with high blood pressure, a condition that increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. In a small study, 9 healthy men took 600 milligrams of CBD oil and experienced a smaller increase in their blood pressure than they did when taking a placebo.
However, more research is needed to determine how much CBD oil is safe and effective for treating high blood pressure. It’s best to consult with a doctor before starting any new treatment, especially if you have high blood pressure or another health condition.
While CBD is known to be a good pain reliever, more research is needed on its long-term effects on the body. This is particularly true for people with inflammatory or chronic pain, as more studies are needed to determine how this compound impacts the entire body.
It has also been found to be helpful for those who suffer from anxiety, including PTSD and insomnia. Unlike pharmaceuticals, which can cause side effects such as drowsiness and agitation, CBD oil has no known negative effects.