First of all, what is CBD?
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is an active ingredient of the cannabis plant (Cannabis sativa). It’s a form of cannabinoid, the many chemicals found in marijuana plants. The oil is made by extracting CBD from the plant, before diluting it with a carrier oil like coconut or hemp seed oil.
Is it different from marijuana?
The other main player in the cannabis plant is THC. This is the psychoactive substance of the plant, which is what gets you ‘high’. CBD is a non-psychoactive substance, and since it contains no THC, you won’t get the same effects by consuming CBD.
Benefits of taking CBD oil
CBD is mainly used for medical purposes, as it imparts a feeling of calm and relaxation. There is growing awareness of the health benefits of CBD oil. Some of the main ones are:
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Pain relief
CBD oil affects brain receptors and helps the body to reduce chronic pain in diseases including multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, muscle pain and spinal cord injuries.
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Reduces anxiety and depression
One of the main pulls of CBD oil is the fantastic effects it has on anxiety and depression. Pharmaceutical drugs prescribed to treat these mental health problems can cause many unwanted side effects. CBD oil has been shown to reduce anxiety and depression without nasty side effects.
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Alleviates cancer-related symptoms
Although still in its early stages, research is showing the positive effects that CBD has on cancer patients. CBD may help to alleviate the side effects of cancer treatments, such as nausea, vomiting and pain.
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May treat epilepsy
CBD is a possible treatment for epilepsy. Studies have shown that adding CBD to anti-epilepsy medications can cause fewer seizures. Currently, there is one cannabis-based medicine in the UK that has been licensed for treating epilepsy. You can read more about it here.
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Reduces acne
Does your skin get you down sometimes? You may want to try using CBD to treat your acne. CBD does this by reducing inflammation in the body and skin. It can also reduce sebum production, an oily substance in the skin that causes pimples if too much is present.
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Has neuroprotective properties
Although research into this is still new, evidence shows that CBD can have a positive effect on the brain’s health. CBD may be able to help people with neurodegenerative disorders which cause the brain to deteriorate over time. CBD oil shows promising effects on diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
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Good for heart health
CBD also has great benefits for heart health. The relaxing properties of CBD help
has the ability to lower high blood pressure, which in turn reduces the risk of strokes and heart attacks.
What’s the best way to consume CBD?
There are different ways you can get your dose of CBD. Whether you ingest it by drops, gummies or capsules depends on your preference. Take a look at our different products to see which one is best for you.
Are there any side effects?
There aren’t any major risks to taking CBD oil. However, there are some side effects if consumed in excessive amounts. These include:
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Low blood pressure
- Withdrawal symptoms, including irritability and insomnia
- Changes in appetite
- Changes in mood
- Diarrhea
- Dry mouth