CBD oil has been gaining more popularity over the last few decades. But what is this supplement and why should you care about it? That’s what we are here to tell you! Keep reading to learn what CBD oil is and why you might want to start using it.
What is CBD Oil?
So what exactly is CBD oil? CBD, or cannabidiol, is an active ingredient found in hemp plants. Hemp is not the same thing as mirajuana, but these plants are closely related. It should also be noted that there is either no THC (tetrahydrocannabinol, the psychoactive ingredient in mirajuana that produces a high) or trace amounts (less than 0.3%) in all CBD products. CBD is extracted from the hemp plant and typically placed with a carrier oil or in another product that helps the body absorb it better.
Most CBD oils are sold as tinctures with droppers so people can place the oil under their tongue, put it in or on food, or mix it into drinks. You will also find lotions and creams for skin absorption, and there have been even more unusual products with CBD, like an infused sports bra.
Is CBD Legal?
Now you know what CBD oil is, but you may wonder if it is legal. Since the plant CBD comes from is so closely related to a plant that is illegal in many states, you may wonder if CBD itself is legal. All 50 states have laws that legalize the oil to various degrees, and that is due to the Farm Bill that was passed in 2018. This bill removed hemp-derived products from the Controlled Substances Act.
Why Use CBD?
People use CBD oil for a variety of reasons. Before we get into those, we want to tell you how it works in the body.
Humans have several systems that help regulate bodily functions, including one called the endocannabinoid system. It is critical to almost every part of our well being since it controls sleep, temperature control, pain control, appetite, etc. The endocannabinoid system is a huge network of signals and receptors that regulate all of the previously mentioned functions. To get this system to work, our body produces endocannabinoids to cause certain reactions, like making us hungry and helping us fall asleep. Similar structures to endocannabinoids are found in the molecules of CBD, so they can enhance how well this system works.
Some of the most common uses of CBD include:
- Managing anxiety symptoms
- Preventing symptoms of specific childhood epilepsy syndromes
- Lessening the effects of PTSD
- Alleviating symptoms of ALS
- Reducing severity of chronic pain
Now you know what CBD oil is and why you might want to use it. Still have questions about this supplement and if you can find it in our pharmacy? Reach out to us, and we will be happy to answer any questions you have!
