WHAT IS CBD OIL? SHOULD YOU USE IT?

WHAT IS CBD OIL? SHOULD YOU USE IT?

CBD oil is becoming popular as it gains momentum in the wellness world. There have been scientific studies conducted to show its effectiveness. However, more research is still necessary. Read on to find out whether to use this product or not and much more.

What is CBD Oil?

CBD(cannabidiol) oil  is a product extracted from cannabis indica and cannabis sativa plants that make marijuana. CBD is a type of cannabinoid that does not have intoxicating effects hence it does not leave one feeling “high .”It is believed to have the same benefits as marijuana, only that it doesn’t interfere with one’s mental state. This means that CBD lacks psychoactive effects, unlike THC, the other type of cannabinoid.

CBD oil is made by extracting CBD from the cannabis plant then diluting it with a carrier oil, e.g., olive or coconut oil. Moreover, one can buy this product from a physical store or online. When the CBD oil is bottled, it is referred to as a tincture, and it is available in different concentrations.

Different people use CBD oil for different potential benefits. Unfortunately, the FDA has not approved it for medical use. This means that the consumer cannot be sure of what is contained in the product.

Is CBD Oil Legal?

CBD is increasingly gaining popularity. However, its legal aspect is still complex as it is not legal everywhere. In the US, for example, there are states where it is legal, but illegal in others. Moreover, in some states that have legalized CBD oil for medical use, an individual is required to have a special licensing.

Therefore, before buying CBD oil, remember to research the laws of your state, to find out if it is illegal or not. When traveling, confirm the laws of your destination first.

Should You Use CBD Oil?

You can use CBD oil, but that will depend on its prime purpose to the user’s body. Remember, the US hasn’t approved its use yet for any medical purposes. There are different ways of taking CBD oil. Either topically by applying it right to the skin and massaging it, or adding the oil in food or drink as an ingredient to be taken orally.

CBD oil is considered an effective medication for certain conditions. However, it is important to remember that its effectiveness is not yet conclusively proven in some cases as the scientific test results are mixed. CBD supporters claim that the product treats numerous conditions. The following are some of the people who can use CBD oil;

  • Individuals with anxiety
  • People with nerve pain
  • Depressed individuals
  • Those with acne
  • Individuals with insomnia.
  • People with substance addiction

Keep in mind that the available clinical studies supporting these uses are minimal. This means that some of the uses have more research done on them than others. However, when unsure of whether or not to use CBD oil for any condition, talk to a healthcare provider first to get the answer. Don’t begin taking this product before consulting with a physician, to avoid any problems and side effects.

On the other hand, there are groups of individuals who should avoid CBD oil. Such include;

Expectant Women

It is a good idea to avoid taking CBD oil to protect the unborn baby from experiencing problems with development.

Breastfeeding Mothers

They should not take CBD oil to avoid interfering with the baby’s milk.

People with Liver Disease

CBD oil might increase liver enzymes that could lead to inflammation. Therefore, consult with a doctor or do regular check-ups of blood liver enzymes.

Those Under Certain Medications

This includes individuals taking blood thinners like medication for epilepsy, anticonvulsants, antifungal drugs, migraine medication, immune-suppressive drugs, antipsychotic drugs, and so on. Avoid CBD oil because it may cause a mix-up with these drugs, making them either less effective or cause stronger effects.

Notably, it would help to inform a healthcare provider of the drugs you are undertaking or the condition you have to avoid experiencing side effects.

The Dosage

The dosage of CBD oil varies. Different research has different results on the dosage structure. This makes it difficult to know the appropriate dosage for a specific condition. However, the dosage will be recommended depending on the following factors;

  • Body weight
  • The concentration
  • The condition of the user or ailment

Therefore, talk to a healthcare professional to get advice on the right dosage. When choosing CBD oil, buy a quality one that has undergone third-party testing.

Side Effects

Many users do not experience the side effects of CBD oil as they can tolerate it. This does not mean that it’s impossible to experience them, as the side effects can be adverse in others. They include;

  • Dizziness
  • Hallucination
  • Depression
  • Fatigue
  • Insomnia
  • Irritability
  • Diarrhea
  • Change in weight
  • Nausea
  • Low blood pressure
  • Changes in mood
  • Changes in alertness
  • Loss of appetite
  • Dry mouth

In adverse cases, CBD might damage the liver, interfere with certain medications that the patient might be under. If you are taking blood thinners or some drugs for pain, seizure, or diabetes, consult the doctor before taking the CBD oil to avoid harm. Unfortunately, it is not yet clear how adverse CBD oil’s risks and side effects can be. Therefore, more studies should be conducted for a full understanding.

Conclusion

The usage of CBD oil is greatly gaining popularity. However, a few issues are involved; it is not legal in all states, there are no guidelines for the dosage, the FDA does not regulate it, and it can lead to certain side effects and risks. It is, therefore, important to inform a trusted healthcare provider before deciding to use this product. Expectant women and breastfeeding mothers shouldn’t use CBD oil.

Ieva Kubiliute is a psychologist and a sex and relationships advisor and a freelance writer. She's also a consultant to several health and wellness brands. While Ieva specialises in covering wellness topics ranging from fitness and nutrition, to mental wellbeing, sex and relationships and health conditions, she has written across a diverse range of lifestyle topics, including beauty and travel. Career highlights so far include: luxury spa-hopping in Spain and joining an £18k-a-year London gym. Someone’s got to do it! When she’s not typing away at her desk—or interviewing experts and case studies, Ieva winds down with yoga, a good movie and great skincare (affordable of course, there’s little she doesn’t know about budget beauty). Things that bring her endless joy: digital detoxes, oat milk lattes and long country walks (and sometimes jogs).

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