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CBD is the hot new trend on everybody’s lips, and the last six months have seen an explosion of products containing CBD, ranging from haircare to jelly sweets. But realistically, many of us are still in the dark about what CBD is and what the potential benefits of it are.
The truth is, there are some seriously impressive scientific discoveries being made surrounding CBD for specific applications. While in some areas, the effectiveness of CBD remains to be seen, in others, both research and testimonials are showing us that CBD can have a wide range of benefits.
What is CBD?
CBD is a molecule taken from the hemp plant which is a strain of the Cannabis sativa plant species. While cannabis comes from the same plant species, CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid and will not get the person taking it high. Hemp is actually a very useful and environmentally friendly crop, and its fibres can be used to make a number of materials.
While CBD has been known to have benefits for many years, it has only been in the last few that hemp was made available to farm industrially in the US, hence the surge in CBD products and popularity.
Why Does it Help?
Recent research suggests that our bodies make their own cannabinoids in what is known as the endocannabinoid system. It is thought that this system is responsible for a variety of processes, including mood, memory, appetite and pain sensation. CBD may help to ‘top-up’ or stabilise the endocannabinoid system.
What are the Benefits of Taking CBD?
There are several known direct and indirect benefits of taking CBD. Direct benefits are known to have an impact on the problem or issue at hand. In contrast, indirect benefits may involve broader lifestyle improvements which, in turn, have an overall positive effect.
NB – It is important to seek advice from a health professional if you are worried about your mental or physical health.
Many people are turning to CBD to help them deal with chronic pain or injury, either alongside or instead of traditional medicines. Little is known about what causes Chronic Pain Syndrome (CPS) but often suffers experience symptoms for years, and the condition can be life-changing. There is a large amount of evidence to suggest that CBD can help to reduce pain symptoms.
Furthermore, it is thought that people who suffer from joint pain and arthritis may benefit.
Professional athletes, gym-goers and bodybuilders use CBD to speed up muscle recovery after workouts. Since the World Doping Agency removed CBD from its list of banned substances, more athletes are beginning to endorse products. Not just for professionals; however, if you are a fan of exercise, CBD may help you to train, which in turn offers you the full range of mental and physical benefits of exercise.
Mental Health Disorders
Testimonials reveal that CBD can help to improve symptoms of mental health problems such as depression and anxiety. Several small studies have been completed regarding the topic, and in in 2015 an overview of these studies concluded that CBD is a promising treatment for numerous forms of mental anxiety.
While more research is needed, early predictions suggest that CBD may help to ease the symptoms of those suffering from neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, such as agitation and aggression.
Sleep and Insomnia
Research suggests that CBD may help those who have difficulty sleeping or improve the quality of sleep. Small studies have looked into the effectiveness of CBD as a sleep aid, either by reducing pain or anxiety or improving sleep cycles, most with positive results.
What is the Best Way to Take CBD?
There are a variety of CBD products available; however, it is suggested that CBD oil or capsules are the most effective way to consume it. Unfortunately, there are companies out there who offer cheap CBD products that contain little or no active ingredient, meaning benefits will be minimal. The best advice is to research the company you’re buying from and take a look at their customer testimonials to see if they are genuine. If in doubt, contact them; a reputable company will be happy to share authenticity certificates and independent test results with you.