The reputation of cannabis has fluctuated on both sides of the scale. Recently concluded research has confirmed the wide range of benefits that CBD provides an alternate treatment. From supplements to creams, oils, and edibles, an ever-increasing number of CBD-products are finding their way into the market.
While this change does represent an evolving trend, it can be confusing for a number of consumers. To help throw some light on the confusion, we’ve attempted to breakdown the basics of CBD and why you should adapt your wellness routine to include the benefits of CBD.
CBD or Cannabidiol is a naturally occurring compound found in the Cannabis Sativa L plant. While Cannabis is surrounded by a fair amount of misunderstanding, it needs to be called out that both hemp and marijuana are varieties of plants that are part of the Cannabis species. Also, both varieties of plants contain Cannabinoids or CBD.
At the time of this writing, Marijuana has been approved for medical and recreational use in 29 US states. While the legalization of the product is a major factor in the surge in popularity, a number of people are turning towards cannabis for its wellness and health benefits. Research today is focusing on the numerous health benefits of the plants.
How Does CBD Work?
A rarely known fact is that CBD is quite similar to endocannabinoids – a compound produced naturally by the body. Cannabinoids are not exclusively found in the Cannabis plant. They also naturally occur in plants such as broccoli and kale, however, Cannabis contains the most potent Cannabinoids.
Cannabinoids work by stimulating the body’s natural endocannabinoid system or receptors throughout the central nervous system touching almost all organs in the body. Cannabinoids act as keys to unlock these receptors that help with immunity, protect our mental ability, help manage stress, and ensure our bodies maintain homeostasis.
People are prone to think of CBD as a vitamin supplement similar to calcium or iron supplements. The misconception is that CBD needs to be taken as a supplement to replenish the natural reserves of endocannabinoids in our bodies as we age.
What Can CBD Be Used For?
Similar to other supplements or medication, the dosage and effects of CBD varies from person to person and is based on body chemistry, lifestyle, etc. That said, research has shown that CBD can help with pain relief, can act as an anti-anxiety, anti-oxidant, and anti-inflammatory as well as a neuroprotectant.
How Do Women, in Particular, Benefit from CBD?
Research has shown the CBD can benefit women, particularly in the following areas –
Headaches
Headaches occur often as an indication that the body isn’t as well as can be. They often occur as a result of hangovers or dehydration. Another common cause of headaches is problems associated with blood vessels, nerves, or muscles especially in the neck and head.
CBD can desensitize pain receptors in the nerves which can relieve pain.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
Hormonal imbalance is one of the reasons why a number of women undergo unpleasantness and discomfort during every month. CBD contains a number of essential fatty acids that help re-balance these hormones. AnytimeFarma’s CBD creams and Topicals can be applied directly to the abdomen for instant relief.
Pain Relief
Almost 1 in 3 Americans now suffer from pain, and sometimes acute pain. In most cases, inflammation is the underlying cause of pain. Given that CBD is a known anti-inflammatory and analgesic, it can help with pain relief.
AnytimeFarma’s pain relief CBD capsules can be taken daily to counter any inflammation and/or discomfort you may be experiencing.
Which is the Best Way to Consume CBD?
CBD comes in many forms and the method of consumption is based on individual preferences. Based on how it is consumed, CBD is absorbed by the body differently. Irrespective of the way it is consumed, CBD is not psychoactive i.e it does not lead to a ‘high’.
CBD Oils
Given that CBD oils are packaged with measured droppers, they make the consistent dosing of CBD possible. A few drops of CBD can be applied under the tongue, via the dropper. In this way the compound is absorbed directly into the bloodstream and leads to quick effects.
Smokables
Smoking CBD using cigarettes or vape pens is another way to quickly absorb CBD and observe its effects. This method of consuming CBD works the fastest and the vapor enters the body’s circulation almost immediately.
CBD Capsules
Consuming CBD orally via capsules or soft gels has the lowest absorption rate by the body. This is because of the natural digestion process. It needs to travel through the digestive tract, mix with enzymes that break down the CBD (and food), etc.
CBD Creams and Lotions
Being the largest organ in our body, the skin absorbs a lot more than what is given credit for. Now only can the skin absorb CBD, it can do so quicker and more efficiently than most other methods.
While the benefits of using CBD as a cream or lotion is the same as consuming other forms of CBD, there are additional therapeutic benefits that can be gained by using CBD Topicals.
Disclaimer
CBD products that are derived from Hemp and contain less than the prescribed .3 percent of THC are legal per federal law. However, certain state laws may still deem it illegal.
CBD products that are derived from Marijuana are illegal per federal law but remain legal under the laws of certain states.
It is advisable to check the appropriate state laws in case of travel. It is important to note that over-the-counter CBD products are not approved by the FDA.