If you are new to cannabis Sativa-derived products, you may wonder, “What does CBD stand for in medical terms?” After all, many are talking about CBD and its health benefits. 

But what exactly is CBD? And why are CBD products popular?

The term CBD stands for cannabidiol, a chemical compound produced by the cannabis plant, and it is one of several beneficial chemical compounds found in marijuana and hemp. 

CBD can be found in various products, including beverages, food, and dietary supplements, both online and in stores.

 

CBD vs. THC: How Does CBD Work?

The cannabis Sativa plant has many cannabinoids, and CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) are the two most prominent. Though they are derived from cannabis plants, the two compounds have distinct properties that separate them. 

CBD oil is mainly known for its many potential health benefits without the intoxicating effects typically associated with other marijuana cannabinoids. It is important to note that THC is associated with the characteristic marijuana high and is still illegal in many states.

CBD products are thought to provide numerous potential health benefits by assisting the endocannabinoid system to run smoothly. The endocannabinoid system influences the central nervous system and how the body responds to internal and external stressors. 

Like THC, CBD interacts with cannabinoid receptors located on cell membranes. CBD collaborates with other cannabinoids to bind to cannabinoid receptors in the endocannabinoid system.

 

What are the Health Benefits & Effects of CBD?

The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported that CBD has no psychoactive effects on users. Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t make a person feel “high .” This property makes cannabis-derived CBD products an excellent choice if you’re looking for relief from pain and other issues minus the intoxicating effects of cannabis or other side effects of OTC drugs.

CBD oil has many potential health benefits due to its anti-inflammatory properties. People report that CBD helps with everyday issues like sleep, pain relief, brain health, anxiety disorders, and other health issues. 

CBD also supports active lifestyles by:

• Supporting muscle and joint recovery
• Providing better sleep
• Alleviating anxiety and stress

Side Effects of Hemp-Derived CBD Products

According to World Health Organization research, CBD rarely exhibits noticeable adverse effects, even when taken in substantial doses. WHO has said that “CBD was tolerated in all patients, with no signs of toxicity or serious side-effects.”

Any side effects detected were due to CBD interacting with another drug the person took simultaneously. There are no major health safety concerns when using CBD. 

However, it is still important to consult a physician if you consider taking CBD oils while taking other medications.

 

What is CBD Used For?

CBD products are increasingly popular in treating various ailments, including pain and anxiety disorders.

Below are some of the most common health conditions that CBD can help with:

• Anxiety: Research and clinical trials are looking into reports that CBD can help with anxiety.
• Sleep issues: Research suggests that CBD may aid in falling and staying asleep.
• Chronic pain relief: More research is needed to back up claims that CBD can help with pain management.

Studies into CBD benefits continue as some reports suggest that CBD products may be helpful as a stimulant and provide an energy boost.

Is CBD Legal?

CBD is widely available nationwide, though its legal status is unclear. It is legal across all 50 states, though with varying degrees of restriction. 

CBD products derived from the hemp plant are legal at the federal level but still illegal in some states. You’ll need to confirm the legal status of CBD in your state and any country you visit.

Cannabis-derived CBD products are widely available in states where it is legal. There are many CBD-contained products and other cannabidiol extracts sold online. You can find CBD-infused dietary supplements and beverages. 

Unlike THC, it does not give users a high, making it an appealing option if you only want to experience the therapeutic health benefits of CBD.

 

Conclusion

CBD products are known for their potential health benefits, including pain relief and sleep assistance. Plus, it may help treat joint pain and relieve stress and anxiety disorders. Research into CBD and its effectiveness in treating specific conditions is ongoing, and new uses will be unlocked as more studies are conducted.

Cannabis-derived CBD products are widely available in states where it is legal. However, hemp-derived products are generally legal nationwide for those of age.

Consult your doctor first if you want to try CBD products for pain relief, anxiety disorders, or other health benefits. They can advise you on whether adding a CBD product to your routine is a good idea and assist you in selecting the best product.

Lastly, make sure you buy CBD online from a trusted retailer like Keoni CBD.  The best way to be sure you get the full effects is with high-quality products tested to ensure purity, potency, and effectiveness. 

 

 References

1.     Peter Grinspoon, MD. “Cannabidiol (CBD): What We Know and What We Don’t.” Harvard Health, 24 Sept. 2021, https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/cannabidiol-cbd-what-we-know-and-what-we-dont-2018082414476.
2.     “How Does CBD Work?” CBD School, 5 Mar. 2022, https://cbdschool.com/how-does-cbd-work/.
3.     Kubala, Jillian. “6 Benefits and Uses of CBD Oil (Plus Side Effects).” Healthline, Healthline Media, 26 Nov. 2021, https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/cbd-oil-benefits.
4.     Cannabidiol (CBD) Critical Review Report – World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/controlled-substances/whocbdreportmay2018-2.pdf?sfvrsn=f78db177_2.
5.     Bradford, Alina. “What Is THC?” LiveScience, Purch, 18 May 2017, https://www.livescience.com/24553-what-is-thc.html.