The Benefits of CBD: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

The health and wellness market has recently been flooded with CBD products. CBD, short for cannabidiol, is one of over 100 compounds found in cannabis plants. This beginner's guide will explain everything you need to know about CBD, its potential health benefits, safety, and how to use it.

What Exactly is CBD?

CBD is a naturally occurring chemical compound found in cannabis plants, including both marijuana and hemp. However, most CBD today is extracted from hemp rather than marijuana.

Hemp contains high concentrations of CBD and only trace amounts (less than 0.3%) of THC, the psychoactive compound that produces the "high" associated with marijuana. CBD products made from hemp are non-intoxicating and will not make users feel impaired.

Over the past decade, interest in the potential health benefits of CBD has exploded. Researchers are racing to keep up and understand how this trendy supplement works and what it could be used to treat.

How Does CBD Interact With the Body?

When taken, CBD enters the bloodstream and interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex cell-signaling network discovered in the 1990s.

The ECS helps regulate key functions and maintain homeostasis (balance) throughout the body. It's made up of endocannabinoids, receptors found in the brain, central nervous system, organs, connective tissues and immune cells, and enzymes that break down endocannabinoids after use.

Researchers believe CBD may influence this system to produce therapeutic effects and promote wellness. However, exactly how CBD interacts with endocannabinoid receptors is still under study.

Potential Health Benefits of CBD

The most common reason people take CBD is for relief from chronic pain, anxiety, sleep issues and other health problems. Here are some of CBD's most studied and suggested benefits based on available research:

Relief from Chronic Pain

Chronic pain affects over 50 million Americans. It can severely impact quality of life and place a heavy economic burden on individuals and society.

Pharmaceutical medications are often prescribed to manage pain, but they can cause negative side effects and even addiction or dependence.

Studies indicate CBD may be able to reduce chronic pain by impacting endocannabinoid receptor activity and reducing inflammation.

For example, a 2020 review looked at several clinical trials using CBD to treat chronic pain in humans. Researchers concluded there was significant evidence that CBD can safely and effectively reduce arthritis pain, neuropathic pain from multiple sclerosis, and fibromyalgia pain.

CBD may also benefit pain from cancer, headaches, sore muscles and other conditions, though more research is needed.

Reduces Anxiety and Depression

Up to 40 million Americans struggle with anxiety disorders like generalized anxiety, social anxiety, panic disorder, PTSD and OCD. Depression impacts over 17 million.

Pharmaceutical anti-anxiety and antidepressant medications often come with side effects like insomnia, agitation, drowsiness, headache and sexual dysfunction.

Research on CBD's ability to reduce anxiety and depression symptoms has ramped up in recent years. Studies indicate CBD may help reduce anxiety behaviors in disorders like:

• Generalized anxiety disorder

• Social anxiety disorder

• Obsessive compulsive disorder

• Post-traumatic stress disorder

• Panic disorder

CBD is also being studied as a potential non-intoxicating alternative to THC-rich medical marijuana for anxiety. One 2015 review noted that while high-THC strains can increase anxiety, CBD may have the opposite effect in some people. More research is still needed.

For depression, scientists believe CBD may positively modulate serotonin levels in the brain, similar to antidepressants. One animal study found that CBD exhibited antidepressant effects comparable to those of the prescription antidepressant imipramine.

Human trials are in early stages. A 2019 randomized trial administered CBD capsules to individuals for 8 weeks and saw promising results. Larger scale clinical studies are still needed.

Neuroprotective Properties

CBD is a potent antioxidant, even more so than Vitamins C and E. Antioxidants help neutralize damaging free radicals in the body and brain caused by factors like stress, poor diet, pollution and more.

By removing these free radicals, CBD may provide neuroprotective benefits that could support conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, both linked to free radical damage.

For example, one study gave CBD doses over 9 months to mice genetically predisposed to Alzheimer's. The mice receiving CBD experienced a reduction in cognitive impairment compared to mice given a placebo. More clinical trials are underway.

CBD may also help reduce inflammation in the brain. Chronic brain inflammation is suspected to contribute to Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, schizophrenia and other neurodegenerative conditions.

Due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, CBD shows promise but more studies are still needed.

Improved Sleep Quality

Over 70 million Americans suffer from sleep problems like insomnia, sleep apnea, narcolepsy and excessive daytime sleepiness. Lack of quality sleep can negatively impact overall health.

Some early studies show CBD may improve sleep duration and quality. CBD may increase overall sleep amounts, improve insomnia and help sleep issues related to anxiety, chronic pain and other conditions.

However, dosage is very important. Lower doses of CBD tends to promote wakefulness and have a mildly stimulating effect. Higher doses around 160 mg or more appear to increase sleep duration and perceived sleep quality.

More studies are underway, but CBD's relaxation-promoting effects may support improved shut-eye for many people struggling with sleep issues.

Skin Health and Healing

Emerging research shows applying CBD topically may reduce inflammation and alleviate pain/discomfort from skin conditions like acne, eczema and psoriasis.

CBD is a powerful anti-inflammatory - it helps suppress inflammatory responses from the body's immune system. This makes it useful for reducing redness, swelling, irritation and itching on the skin's surface.

When applied to the skin, CBD ointments and creams may help ease symptoms from autoimmune skin conditions, bug bites, joint pain and muscle soreness.

Some research also indicates CBD may support wound healing and skin repair by promoting cell growth and new blood vessel formation. It's a promising treatment for burns, cuts, scratches and other damage.

More clinical trials are still required, but topical CBD shows potential for treating a variety of dermatological issues.

Is CBD Safe to Use? Are There Any Side Effects?

Overall, research shows CBD has a relatively good safety profile, especially compared to pharmaceutical drugs. Many studies find CBD is generally well tolerated in humans.

However, side effects can occur. Reported side effects of CBD are typically mild and may include:

• Changes in appetite - CBD may suppress or increase appetite in different people.

• Fatigue - Higher doses of CBD may cause drowsiness and sedation.

• Diarrhea - High doses of CBD may activate the digestive system. Stay well hydrated.

• Changes in weight - CBD may affect metabolism and the digestive system.

• Dry mouth - CBD can reduce saliva production like other anticholinergic drugs. Drink fluids.

In clinical trials, child participants experienced more side effects and higher rates of liver problems from CBD use. Therefore, CBD is not currently recommended for anyone under age 18.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also avoid CBD until more research is done on potential effects to the baby.

If you take any prescription medications, speak to your doctor before trying CBD. It can potentially interact with blood thinners, benzodiazepines for anxiety, antidepressants, antihistamines and some other drugs.

To minimize side effects and risks, it's important to use high quality CBD products in carefully measured doses. Only purchase CBD products from reputable companies that provide third party lab test reports for purity and potency.

Always start with low doses of CBD oil and monitor any side effects. Gradually increase the dosage over time until the optimal dosage is reached. This helps your body get accustomed to CBD while minimizing side effects.

How to Take CBD: Methods and Products

CBD is incredibly versatile - there are countless ways to take it. Here are some of the most popular CBD methods and products:

CBD Oils and Tinctures

CBD tinctures and oils are drops of concentrated CBD extract usually suspended in a carrier oil like MCT or hemp seed oil. Oils come in glass bottles with a dropper for quick and convenient use.

To use a CBD oil or tincture, place drops under your tongue and hold for 30-90 seconds before swallowing. This sublingual method allows the CBD to absorb into the bloodstream faster.

CBD oils can also be mixed into drinks and foods for ingestion, but absorption will take longer. Tinctures are preferred for faster relief.

CBD Edibles

CBD edibles include gummies, candies, chocolates, baked goods, protein bars, tea, coffee and more. The CBD is infused during production.

Edibles need to be digested before CBD enters the bloodstream, so effects take longer but can last 4-6 hours. Flavored gummies and candies mask the earthy taste of pure CBD.

Measure your CBD dosage carefully with edibles - it's easy to overdo it! 5-10 mg per serving is a good starting point.

CBD Capsules

Like edibles, CBD capsules need to be digested before they start working. However, capsules produce more consistent absorption into the body for longer-lasting effects.

Capsules make dosing very simple and convenient. Just swallow them with water like any other pill.

Start with 10-25 mg CBD capsules first to assess your tolerance. Match strength to your needs.

CBD Vape Products

Inhaling vaporized CBD vape oils or e-liquids provides nearly instant effects. CBD enters the lungs then diffuses directly into the bloodstream.

However, vaping CBD can be rough on the lungs especially with long-term use. It's better suited to occasional use for faster relief when needed.

Use CBD vape pens and cartridges from reputable brands. Avoid vitamin E acetate and vegetable glycerin in vape fluids.

CBD Topicals

CBD topicals include lotions, balms, salves, oils and serums designed for external use on skin, muscles and joints. They provide localized effects where applied.

Massaging sore muscles with a CBD topical may relieve pain and inflammation without any psychoactive effects. However, absorption through intact skin is limited.

Use a liberal amount on clean skin and massage into the affected area for several minutes for best results. Reapply as needed.

Choosing the Best CBD Products

With an overwhelming number of CBD brands out there, it can be challenging to find quality CBD products that are safe and effective. Here are some tips for spotting top-notch CBD:

• Source organically grown USA hemp - imported or GMO hemp may contain toxins or THC.

• Extract CBD using supercritical CO2 - safer than solvent-based extraction.

• Ensure independent lab testing - certificates of analysis (COAs) confirm potency and purity.

• Research the company reputation - choose established brands with positive customer reviews.

• Avoid unrealistic health claims - CBD is not a cure-all miracle drug.

• Check the THC content - it should be under 0.3% to remain legal.

• Start with lower dosages - work up slowly to find the optimal dosage.

• Choose full spectrum CBD - contains beneficial cannabinoids and terpenes.

High quality CBD from reputable brands may not come cheap, but it's worth it. With so many fly-by-night CBD companies, put safety first and buy only the best.

Potential Risks and Precautions When Using CBD

While generally considered safe, CBD can carry some risks and precautions:

• May interact with certain medications like blood thinners, antidepressants, antibiotics, beta blockers and others. Check with your doctor about potential interactions and adjust dosages if needed. Start with lower CBD doses.

• Don't take CBD before surgeries or medical procedures as it may increase bleeding risk. Stop taking CBD 2-3 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

• Don't use CBD while pregnant or breastfeeding. There is little research on effects to the developing child. Consult your doctor first.

• Don't vape and smoke CBD flower long-term. Inhaling particulates can damage lungs over time. Use safer methods like oils, edibles or topicals when possible.

• Don't give CBD to children or teenagers except under medical supervision for approved conditions like epilepsy. Effects on developing brains and bodies are still unknown.

• Don't use CBD as a replacement for proper medical care. It should complement treatments, not substitute them. Speak to your healthcare team first.

• Don't drive or operate heavy machinery when first using CBD until you know how it affects concentration and cognition. Start low and go slow.

Stay informed and use common sense when trying CBD for the first time. Talk to your doctor, start with low doses and increase slowly while monitoring results. Doing your homework helps avoid issues.

Conclusion

As CBD's popularity continues to grow, consumers are using it to support general health, wellness and treat a wide range of conditions. However, remember that research on CBD is still in relatively early stages. There is still much to learn about its mechanisms, applications, and long-term effects.

While preliminary evidence is promising, CBD is not a miracle cure. Don't fall for the hype. Have realistic expectations and use it as one part of a healthy lifestyle. Work closely with your healthcare providers to find if CBD is right for you. Always focus on high quality, safety and appropriate doses - this helps maximize benefits while minimizing any risks.

With smart and informed use, CBD holds much promise. But approach it with sensible precautions until larger scale clinical trials in humans can further establish its therapeutic potential.