CBD oil has soared in popularity in recent years. As the government eases its restrictions on medical marijuana, more and more people are waking up to the benefits of CBD.
But such a new product is not without its drawbacks. Like any medication, CBD oil can cause some side effects. Read on to find out everything you need to know about this increasingly popular medicine.
What is CBD oil?
Cannabis contains a number of chemical compounds, known as cannabinoids. When cannabis is consumed or smoked, these cannabinoids affect the body in various ways.
There are two primary cannabinoids in cannabis: CBD and THC.
THC refers to tetrahydrocannabinol, a psychoactive chemical that creates the ‘high’ feeling commonly associated with smoking cannabis.
CBD, on the other hand, refers to cannabidiol, a nonpsychoactive chemical. Rather than making a user ‘high’, CBD has a more subtle effect on the body.
CBD as a medical supplement can be consumed in a variety of ways: tablets, capsules, creams, gummies, and vaping. However, the most common way to take CBD is as an oil, placing a few drops under the tongue or on the gums.
Is CBD oil legal?
Much of the confusion around CBD and legal marijuana arises from the issue of CBD versus THC. Currently, CBD oil and other products are legal in every US state, as long as they are made with zero or low-THC.
A lighter form of THC to know is Delta 8 like in Delta 8 Disposables. When understanding the legalities of delta 8 gummies, their products are federally legal in the United States. It is always important, however, to read up on the laws in your state to be certain.
However, state lawmakers have the power to ban CBD products, so check with your local authority before buying or using CBD oil.
Remember, just because CBD oil is legal, it does not mean medical or recreational marijuana is as well.
Benefits of CBD oil
CBD oil, including Koi CBD, has a wide range of benefits, and has been shown to be effective at treating the following conditions:
Pain
Marijuana has been used to treat pain for thousands of years, a practice that continues today with CBD oil. Cannabidiol has been shown to alleviate chronic pain and reduce inflammation for a number of conditions including multiple sclerosis and arthritis.
Anxiety and depression
Anxiety and depression have previously been treated with synthetic medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). However, these often come with side effects such as drowsiness or stomach pains.
CBD is used as a natural alternative to antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications. It acts on the body’s serotonin receptors, regulating mood and reducing anxiety.
Cancer symptoms
Cancer patients are often treated with chemotherapy, a powerful therapy that causes debilitating side effects such as vomiting and nausea. Many sufferers have self-medicated by smoking marijuana.
Side effects of CBD oil
Of course, like any medication, CBD oil is not without its side effects. Some users have reported tiredness, appetite changes, and even diarrhea after taking CBD oil. Naturally, these side effects are more pronounced after taking more than the recommended dosage.
While CBD oil is completely natural, it still has an impact on your body. Consequently, CBD oil can interact with some medications.
If you are taking any medication (especially antidepressants, NSAIDS, or antipsychotics), consult with your doctor before you start taking CBD oil.
How to take CBD oil
CBD oil is simple to take, and it’s easy to increase or decrease your dosage according to your specific needs. Simply drop one or two droplets under your tongue, and let it absorb into your gums. For first timers, it’s worth taking it at the end of the day to begin with, as it can make some people drowsy.
CBD oil is often quite bitter. While it’s possible to buy flavored CBD with a sweeter taste, you can also combine it with honey on a teaspoon to lessen its bitterness.
Before you buy CBD oil, it’s important that you do your research on the benefits and side effects of CBD. If you are unsure, speak with your doctor or pharmacist for some personalized advice.
The best place to buy CBD oil is online, with suppliers offering a variety of strengths and flavors. If you are new to CBD oil, start at a small dosage and progress to a higher amount if you do not feel the benefits after a few weeks.
CBD oil has a range of benefits for the user, from mental health issues such as anxiety to physiological conditions such as chronic pain. There are currently no major health risks associated with CBD, but you should always consult with a medical professional before starting a course of CBD oil.