CBD (Cannabidiol) is one of dozens of cannabinoids that can be extracted from cannabis plants, such as marijuana or hemp. CBD was first discovered in the 1940s and has recently been soaring in popularity in the Canadian wellness community because of its all-round benefits and minimal side-effects.
The notability of CBD is that it contains very few psychoactive elements, unlike other cannabis extracts such as tetrahydrocannabinol (better known as THC). CBD won’t get you high, but you will still be able to receive medicinal benefits. CBD is an easy, healthy and legal way to pursue the soothing effects of cannabis without experiencing the mind-bending aspects of the drug.
CBD can be taken in various ways and has spawned a great diversity of products. CBD oil for example is a mix of CBD extract with a traditional carrier oil. It can be applied directly to the skin in the form of CBD creams and topicals, or ingested thanks to CBD sprays, CBD capsules or CBD tinctures.
Another popular product is CBD isolate, a powder that contains upwards of 99% pure CBD. Most Canadians mix it with their foods or drinks, or simply ingest it as is. It can also be smoked or vaped, like many other cannabis concentrates.
CBD products may vary in quality, potency, flavor, texture, and price depending on the plant that the CBD was extracted from. Hemp will not produce the same kind of CBD extract as marijuana. Some products also mix CBD with other active compounds, such as trace amounts of THC, which can produce different levels of intoxication if ingested. It is recommended to double-check on the label for the presence of psychoactive elements when purchasing CBD in Canada.
CBD use is not restricted to humans either. Oil products for dogs and cats are becoming increasingly popular across Canada. Similarly, some brands are now offering foods and treats infused with CBD as healthy, organic care for their house pets.
Studies have now confirmed the beneficial effects of CBD on people’s physical and mental health. Here are some of the benefits of CBD that are backed by scientific evidence.
Chronic Pain and Inflammation Relief
One of the most fundamental benefits of CBD is the way it helps reduce chronic pain and inflammation, especially in the joints. It can also alleviate the symptoms of more serious diseases. People suffering for arthritis or sore knees have expressed intense relief after using CBD oil. Similarly, people afflicted with multiple sclerosis have also indicated that the violence of their muscle spasms was greatly reduced.
Relief from Anxiety and Depression
Another reason for CBD’s current popularity is its effectiveness against symptoms of anxiety and depression, two of the most widespread mental disorders in Canada. CBD oil has been found to decrease levels of stress and provide people with a soothing sense of confidence. Research has also shown CBD’s ability to ease symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and social anxiety disorder.
Treatment of Epilepsy and Seizures
Clinical trials have found that CBD can reduce about 50% of convulsive seizures in children afflicted with Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, two specific kinds of epilepsy. CBD has also been known to alleviate convulsions in epileptic pets.
Alleviation of Cancer Related Symptoms
CBD may help reduce symptoms related to cancer and side-effects related to cancer treatments such as chemotherapy. CBD has been noted to relieve nausea, vomiting and pain to patients for whom traditionally prescribed drugs have been ineffective.
Skin Care
Acne is a common skin problem that CBD oil may help treat due to its anti-inflammatory properties. CBD oil, once applied directly to the skin, prevents the over-production of sebum, an oily secretion made by sebaceous glands in the epiderma that is one of the leading causes of acne.
Most people tolerate the ingestion of CBD well, but its possible side-effects include tiredness, diarrhea, changes in appetite, weight loss or weight gain. It is also important to note that using CBD with other forms of medication may have an impact on the medication’s effectiveness.
CBD is an easy, healthy, and organic way for one to alleviate symptoms of physical or mental discomfort without experiencing any of the psychoactive elements traditionally associated with cannabis.
