CBD, or Cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound derived from cannabis and can be absorbed by the body. This compound can be used to address various wellness-related issues.
Integrative medicine can provide relief for anxiety and improve symptoms of schizophrenia when combined with prescribed medications, and help decrease seizures in those living with certain forms of epilepsy.
Choose a high-quality product
CBD is an all-natural wellness supplement widely utilized by those looking for ways to ease anxiety, promote relaxation and increase focus. Not all CBD products are created equal, however; for optimal results it’s wise to opt for high-quality third-party tested and sourced items from trustworthy brands like Bluebird Botanicals in order to maximize your experience.
There is very limited evidence that CBD treats any specific medical conditions, with the exception of some forms of pediatric seizures (see this article for more). Furthermore, the FDA has taken action against several companies who made unfounded health claims about CBD; thus it’s vital that you conduct your own investigation prior to making any purchases.
When selecting a CBD product, look for one grown organically and free from pesticides. Broad-spectrum CBD over isolate is most beneficial since our bodies recognize full spectrum cannabinoids more quickly. For immediate relief use a vape pen/vaporizer/oil drops in food. Otherwise use topical creams/tinctures which provide consistent sublingual relief.
Start with a low dose
Varying Onset Times and Durations CBD products may take time to take effect, which could influence how they make you feel. Tinctures taken sublingually typically begin working about 30 minutes later while those with higher concentrations of CBD may take effect quicker.
Track your experiences with CBD over time in order to evaluate if it’s helping or hindering your condition. A journal or notes app on your phone may assist in this effort.
CBD was recently found to help reduce treatment-induced psychosis among those being given L-DOPA, which elevates brain dopamine levels and can cause hallucinations and delusions. More research is necessary to understand how and why CBD might have this impact, while it remains unknown whether it could help with other forms of seizures that cannot be treated using Epidiolex (GW Pharmaceuticals). Other applications for pain, anxiety and sleep problems could benefit from CBD but larger trials must first take place to confirm it as being effective.
Be patient with your first experience
CBD affects everyone differently. Your weight, body chemistry and medication all play a part in determining what dosage you need to take and for how long. Furthermore, product choice also has an impact – edibles must pass through your digestive system for absorption whereas topicals can be absorbed directly through skin surface absorption within an hour or less of administration.
Users often report feeling relief from everyday aches and pains, such as those brought on by rigorous workouts or sitting all day at work. They also claim CBD helps with concentration and focus, clearing away brain fog so it becomes easier to stay on task.
Providers reported that patients and families frequently inquired about CBD use as an aid for managing pain or mental health symptoms, while many interviewees indicated they felt anxious to disclose it out of fear of stigma and suspicion that their physician would disapprove.
Keep an open mind
CBD has proven its effectiveness in treating certain conditions, although more research needs to be conducted. For instance, CBD may reduce nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy treatments; moreover, according to 2022 research it appears helpful with pain and muscle spasticity related to multiple sclerosis.
Evidence indicates that CBD might help with anxiety. Unfortunately, however, data is currently scarce and inconclusive. One study conducted on people taking CBD 90 minutes prior to an public speaking exam felt less anxious compared to those given a placebo pill.
Before beginning to take CBD, it’s essential that you consult with a healthcare provider first, especially if taking other medications. CBD may interact with certain drugs including warfarin (Coumadin) and certain antidepressants like Elavil, Mirtazapine Remeron and Celexa; furthermore it could possibly interfere with liver enzymes which would necessitate more frequent liver function testing; additionally it might alter how well you sleep.
