Why Is CBD So Popular?
If you think you're seeing different types of CBD products all over, it's because you are. CBD product sales have snowballed thanks to the U.S. Farm Bill passage in 2018 legalizing industrial hemp, and the state-level legalization of recreational and medical marijuana use. But, what is CBD exactly, and why is it so popular all of a sudden?
What Is CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the two most prevalent cannabinoids in cannabis. While CBD is an important component of medical cannabis, it's actually derived from the hemp plant — the cannabis plant's cousin. Although CBD is a component of cannabis, it doesn't cause a "high" by itself. In fact, a World Health Organization report stated in humans it doesn't exhibit any effects that indicate dependence or abuse potential. As of today, there isn't any evidence showing any public health-related issues linked with pure CBD use.
CBD interacts with your body's endocannabinoid system (ECS). This is a regulatory system consisting of naturally occurring cannabis-like molecules known as endocannabinoids. They work like neurotransmitters, sending messages throughout your body to help maintain homeostasis. THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids interact with your ECS at your CB1 and CB2 receptors.
Why Is CBD So Popular?
CBD is easily obtainable in pretty much most of the U.S., although there are some restrictions in legal status in some places. Plus, although the federal government continues to see CBD as in the same class as cannabis, it doesn't enforce against it habitually.
CBD has been touted for a large array of health problems such as:
- Seizures
It's strongest scientific evidence proving its effectiveness is for how it treats childhood epilepsy syndromes like Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) and Dravet syndrome, which usually don't respond well to anti-seizure medicines. In a number of studies, CBD not only reduced the number of seizures, but also was able to stop them altogether in some cases.
- Anxiety and Insomnia
CBD has been shown to help with insomnia whereby it can help you fall and stay asleep, and in addressing anxiety.
- Pain
CBD could be a treatment option for various forms of chronic pain. One study, using an animal model, showed CBD helped lower arthritis-related inflammation and pain when applied to the skin. Another study showed how CBD inhibits neuropathic and inflammatory pain which are both hard to treat. There still needs to be more studies in humans in order to confirm CBD's effectiveness in pain control.
Wide Variety of CBD Products
CBD comes in many forms. The products you choose will ultimately depend on your specific needs and preferences. Different CBD products will affect your body in different ways, and also affect how quickly it works.
- Oils and tinctures: These are processed and concentrated CBD forms you typically place under your tongue with a dropper, allowing the oil to absorb through your bloodstream.
- Edibles: These are a broad range of CBD products you consume like chocolates, cake, cookies, smoothies, or gummies.
- Capsules and pills: You take these by mouth. They look like supplements or vitamins you'd buy at a drugstore. They're typically made with CBD isolate or CBD oil.
- Vaping: Vaping is much like e-cigarettes, involving you inhaling the vaporized liquid containing CBD oil. Usually, nicotine isn't present when CBD is, although some do mix them.
- Topicals: These are CBD-infused creams, oils, and lotions you apply directly on your skin, nails, or hair. They treat localized pain effectively, but you can also use them as hair care, skincare, and massage oil.
Beware of those CBD manufacturers who make indefensible claims like CBD being the cure-all for cancer. While it does help with cancer-related symptoms, it doesn't cure it. However, CBD might prove to be a treatment option to manage insomnia, anxiety, chronic pain, and other ailments. Before trying CBD for yourself, you may want to consult with your doctor, especially if you're taking other medications.
Interested in CBD Products? Try CBD-Infused Pillows
We all need sleep, and most everyone uses pillows. Why not use a CBD pillow, so while you're getting that good night's sleep, you're also receiving all the benefits CBD has to offer. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, stress, pain, or insomnia, a CBD-infused pillow can help alleviate your symptoms, so you can sleep better and feel better.