You’ve probably heard about CBD oils and other CBD products and wonder what they are, where they come from, and if it’s legal to use CBD. We’re going to explore these interests and list four of the greatest benefits you can receive from using CBD oil.
What Is CBD Oil and Is It Legal?
Yes, CBD products that contain less than 0.3% THC are legal. Cannabinoids (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are both found in cannabis or marijuana plants. THC is the compound that gives users the feeling of being high while CBD is non-psychoactive and you shouldn’t get high when you use CBD products. THC comes from the Cannabis indica and Cannabis sativa plant while CBD strictly comes from a variety of Cannabis sativa known as hemp.
In 2018, the United States passed the Farm Bill which took hemp seeds and flowers off of the Drug Enforcement Agency’s controlled substance list allowing farmers to legally grow hemp for industrial use. Companies that make CBD products legally, use hemp that only has less than 0.3% THC in it. While hemp growers and businesses that make CBD products that follow these federal regulations are legal, each state can regulate the sale of CBD and hemp products differently. You can use the National Cannabis Industry Association’s state-by-state policy map to see the rules of each state.
Brings Pain Relief
One of the top benefits of CBD oil is pain relief, both acute and chronic. CBD has anti-inflammatory properties that can help lessen pain from arthritis, pre-menstrual syndrome, back pain, and headaches.
Reduces Anxiety
Using CBD can help reduce activity in the amygdala; part of the brain. The amygdala is responsible for emotional processing and the flight-or-fight response we experience when we perceive a threat. People with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) often find that they can relax while using CBD products. If you find yourself getting anxious before social events or when experiencing a panic attack, consider using CBD to help calm the amygdala.
Treats Epileptic Seizures
In 2018, the Federal Drug Administration approved a drug called Epidiolex, which has CBD in it, to treat epileptic seizures for people who have the rare forms of Dravet Syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome. For someone who has these genetic diseases, Epidiolex helps them have fewer seizures so they can live a more normal life.
Helps With Skin Problems
CBD helps to activate the body’s endocannabinoid system which regulates many bodily functions such as metabolism and the immune system. While the body makes its own healing properties within the endocannabinoid system, using CBD products can activate the healing process. Using CBD may help to reduce the effects of scars, heal acne, and help with eczema.
CBD oil and other CBD products can give you relief from pain and anxiety without getting you high. If you want to start using CBD products, schedule an appointment with your doctor to make sure that CBD doesn’t interfere with any medications you take and to help you determine if using CBD is beneficial for your particular situation.
