The various applications of CBD oil have suddenly come to the attention of lawmakers, doctors and the general public in recent years. What was once considered at best taboo (and at worst highly illegal), is now hitting the mainstream market with some force. Over the counter, CBD oil products are becoming a popular alternative to traditional treatments. Physicians are prescribing medical grade CBD oil to treat what was previously thought untreatable. CBD oil seems like magic. Is there truth in all this? Should you be supplementing CBD oil?
What is it?
Cannabidiol, or better known as CBD, is the non-psychoactive group of chemicals contained in the marijuana plant. CBD does not induce the “high” that most people associate with the smoking of the reefer. When separated from THC, CBD is more like a vitamin than a drug.
What is its legal status?
CBD oil is not strictly legal nor is it strictly illegal. That’s because there is disagreement between state and federal legislation regarding the compound. It also matters where the CBD came from. CBD that comes from Hemp, a widely used cousin of marijuana, is legal across all 50 states. But if the CBD comes from the marijuana plant, its legality would depend on the legislation of the state that you’re in. Either way, these are laws that apply more directly to the production of CBD. So, for all intents and purposes, its consumption is legal.
Is it safe?
There are little to no side effects of using CBD oil. Users may experience sleepiness or drowsiness but it’s unclear whether this should be considered a side effect considering it would be better classified as the direct and desired effect. Overdosing on CBD oil is practically impossible. Overconsumption has led to dry mouth and diarrhea in some case.
Is it for me?
In June 2018, the Food and Drug Administration approved CBD oil as a treatment for seizures associated with severe forms of epilepsy, giving it federal clearance for medicinal use. That doesn’t mean if you’re not having seizures you should write off CBD. It is reported to relieve anxiety, depression, insomnia, pain, and multiple other ailments.
Is it too good to be true? The research supports the claims, but if you are still skeptical, try it.
