You might have heard of cannabidiol, or “CBD”, in the health field. It’s become so popular that the CBD oil market size is projected to reach 3782.32 million U.S. dollars by 2024. But what exactly is cannabidiol? And what does it do for your health?
We’re taking a look at five different health benefits offered by this hemp-plant derivative to give you a better understanding of why it’s generated so much media hype.
Cannabidiol: Defined
First, we should clarify by stating that cannabidiol is one form of naturally occurring cannabinoids found in cannabis plants (otherwise known as hemp or marijuana). Scientists have identified over 100 different cannabinoids in marijuana. Nearly all of them offer health benefits to the human body, which evolved to form natural cannabinoid receptors throughout our nervous system.
That means our bodies actively and readily engage with these chemical compounds extracted from marijuana and helps explain why it has such a huge effect on our overall well-being.
Cannabidiol: Differences
CBD products may be labeled as “full-spectrum” or “isolate”. Full-spectrum CBD means that it contains all (or nearly all) cannabinoids and therefore offers greater therapeutic benefits. Some scientists believe that, when consumed together, they create an “entourage effect” that strengthens the efficiency of the body’s endocannabinoid system, so we can more readily absorb these plant-based compounds.
An isolate product contains CBD in its purest form—typically containing 98-99% CBD, and 0% THC, the chemical known to cause inebriation of the feeling of being “high”. Patients can find very strong doses of CBD isolate that offer highly effective medical treatments.
Cannabidiol: Treatments
The media sensationalizes CBD with a focus on the compound itself, rarely venturing into the many different treatments that are available to consumers—most of which require no medical prescription and can be purchased legally, even where recreational use of marijuana is illegal.
You can choose a CBDfx CBD oil tincture that’s dropped under your tongue and absorbed for 60 seconds for fast-acting effects, or you can consume it in the form of gummies, edibles, beverages, and more. There are also some flower strains of 100% CBD that you can smoke, although the stress smoking places on your lungs may detract from the health benefits offered by other forms of treatments.
Cannabidiol: Health Benefits
And now, without further ado, here are the top five CBD health benefits that have made it become so popular in recent years.
- Relieved Pain
One of the most common uses of CBD is to alleviate pain. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, it effectively treats chronic pain, arthritis symptoms, and post-workout soreness. Compared to over-the-counter pain pills like Tylenol, this offers consumers a healthier, holistic alternative. It’s also far-less habit forming and does not lead to dependency issues as we frequently see with prescription opioid medications such as Vicodin.
- Reduced Nausea
Another fantastic benefit offered by CBD is its ability to block nerve receptors in our stomach that trigger nausea and vomiting—which can be especially problematic for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. CBD soothes these nerves and helps to settle that “sick to your stomach” feeling.
- Stimulated Appetite
Many cancer patients also struggle to give their body the nutrition they need to stay healthy and strong because they lack an appetite, in addition to being unable to keep food down. CBD can stimulate an appetite while calming the stomach, helping patients consume critical calories.
- Improved Sleep
Whether you struggle with diagnosed insomnia or occasionally have trouble falling asleep at night, CBD can promote relaxation that helps you drift off to sleep. Lack of sleep poses serious consequences on our physical and mental health, so taking CBD as an alternative form of sleep aid medication can naturally help your body achieve the rest it demands.
- Enhanced Mood
Finally, proponents of CBD applaud its ability to reduce the production of cortisol (the body’s stress hormone), relieve anxiety, treat depression, balance brain chemistry, stabilize emotions, and enhance mood. It’s found to be a very effective treatment for those who struggle with OCD, PTSD, and bipolar disorders, as well as a generalized solution that helps put stressed, anxious, and sad minds at ease.
As more research is published regarding the use and efficacy of CBD, we’ll be sure to keep you informed.
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