As CBD oil is firmly thrust into the spotlight and more products and celebrities touting the benefits of CBD oil, it raises the question: What exactly is it, and what exactly can it assist in?
CBD (cannabidiol) oil has recently made its way into the mainstream. As per the Cannabis Trades Association UK, the number of people who use CBD oil has risen dramatically, going up from 125,000 users from 2017 up to 250,000 by the year 2018. Attracting the attention of a variety of industries , from cosmetics to medicine Why has there been an increase in CBD products and oil?
One of the main reasons for the growth of CBD oil is believed to be due to the latest research and studies that have highlighted its benefits, such as anxiety and stress relief, and also promoting better sleep. As per the World Health Organisation (WHO), CBD may have beneficial effects in treating symptoms related to Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s, MS, cancer and diabetes-related complications and also anxiety, pain, and depression. CBD is becoming increasingly sought-after with people who are looking for products that can ease joint pain and inflammation, as well as other symptoms and conditions.
What exactly is CBD?
CBD, also known as cannabidiol is one of the 104 chemical compounds called cannabinoids found in hemp and cannabis plants. It is a naturally occurring chemical that can be extracted and then mixed with carrier oils like coconut or hemp seeds to make CBD oil.
Having no narcotic effect (none of the euphoric highs associated with Cannabis and THC – also known as tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD is believed to have a range of health benefits. It is legal to buy as well as use within the UK provided it does not contain any THC. CBD is now more widely available as an oil, in cosmetics, chocolate and even as an ointment for the skin.
It has been used as an treatment alternative and complementary for a number of thousands of years, research studies are only just beginning to identify the potential benefits and adverse effects that CBD oil could bring. While it is believed to possess significant therapeutic benefits however, researchers are still trying to disprove or prove some of the claims that surround the usage of CBD oil.
What is it that CBD oil be used to help?
Skin issues
Initial studies suggest that skincare products that contain CBD oil could be able to combat certain skin issues like Psoriasis and eczema. The use of CBD-based facial moisturisers has also been successful in reducing acne and oily skin. Experts warn that the amount of CBD oil could affect the effect these products be able to have, and many experts insist that more research is needed to understand the degree to the extent that CBD can affect skin-related conditions.
Stress, anxiety, PTSD , and insomnia
According to a YouGov study, 74 percent of UK adults are overwhelmed or are unable to manage because of stress. The symptoms range from anxiety-like feelings to sleeplessness and muscle tension, experts have attributed recent increases in sales of CBD products to the growing desire to discover alternative or complementary ways of unwinding and relaxing. After a long day of looking at screens, about 30 percent of us are believed to suffer from sleepiness.
CBD oil may aid users in achieving an easier night’s sleep, increasing the total quality of sleep and decreasing the risk of falling asleep. Studies have shown that CBD could interact with serotonin (which is a key part in our mood and anxious) as well as GABA (calming excessive activity and encouraging relaxation) receptors, but more research is needed. It is believed to be because of CBD’s anti-anxiety properties CBD helps to relax, which allows to have a better night’s sleeping.
The majority of evidence of CBD’s effects on anxiety comes from studies on animals. Although more human-based trials are needed in general however, early studies have shown that CBD could be beneficial in helping reduce social anxiety. Additional studies have looked into the effects similar to antidepressants CBD could have on people and have shown improvement in the symptoms of people suffering from PTSD (post-traumatic anxiety disorder).
Management of pain
Many people have reported the beneficial effects CBD oil can have on reducing chronic pain, and also workout-related discomfort and aches. In general the scientific community has stated that there must more thorough study to understand the security of CBD oil. Before making use of CBD oil for the management of pain, it is advised to seek advice from a doctor.
Research has suggested that CBD could be beneficial for people suffering from arthritis to assist in managing their pain. According to research, patients saw a significant reduction in inflammation as well as signs of pain, without having any adverse negative effects. A small number of studies also suggest that there is evidence that CBD could be helpful in reducing inflammation and pain.
Additional research suggests CBD could have anti-inflammatory properties. Numerous studies have demonstrated that CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system of many organs in the body, aiding in reducing inflammation throughout the body.
Stop smoking
According to a study from 2013, CBD may be an effective tool for reducing smoking or stopping. The study found the fact that, when CBD was utilized as a component of an inhaler, the participants decreased the amount of cigarettes they smoked every day by 40 percent.
How do I use CBD?
CBD can be utilized in many different ways. It is available in a variety of products, some of the most popular ways to make use of CBD products are:
Cosmetics and products for beauty – A wide range of body and beauty products that are based on the benefits from CBD is now on sale. From online to the high-street in shops like Holland & Barrett, these products include body washes with refreshing scents which claim to help energise and hydrate the body; oils for the body to stimulate and relax; intense moisturisers for dry skin as well in balms for muscles to relax.
Oils – Available for purchase at the store and online, CBD oils ranging from to as low as 33% concentration of cannabidiol as high as 11% is easily accessible on the street. Most commonly, you can take them orally by placing the CBD under your tongue for a couple of seconds prior to swallowing the oil. Topical oils and ointments are also readily available. They can also be added to water, bought as capsules, or sprayed directly under the tongue or bought as liquid for vape device.
Although a variety of forms of CBD can be purchased at health stores It is important to note that the vast majority of clinical studies highlighting the advantages of CBD were focused on the use of CBD oil, not as part of a cosmetic product.
Does CBD cause any adverse consequences?
Potentially. Certain studies have suggested CBD oil usage can cause changes in mood and appetite. Other possible side effects include dizziness, feeling tired nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, and lower blood pressure. Although there aren’t many users who report adverse side effects, experts have pointed out that there is a need for longer-term impacts of CBD to be investigated because certain aspects (such as hormone-related effects) are not yet studied.
Although the media has extensively promoted the use of CBD oil in children suffering from seizures as well in a variety of other ailments Experts do not currently suggest CBD oil use for children. This is largely due to the lack of research studies on CBD oil and the majority of studies focused on the effects it may be having on adults, rather than the brains that are developing in children. Similar to this, it is not advised to use in conjunction with breastfeeding or use while pregnant.
Although CBD is believed to be beneficial and provide benefits to users in a variety of areas however, further research is required to understand the benefits it may have in the short- and long-term. If you have any health issues or concerns it is highly advised to consult an expert medical professional or doctor before beginning any alternative treatments. Alternative therapies should be utilized in conjunction with (rather than in lieu of) other treatments suggested by experts.