CBD oil is among the most popular natural wellness products around. Proponents say it has numerous benefits, from easing inflammation to managing seizures. Many people also use it to relieve the symptoms of mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. But is there any evidence to support these uses? This article will explore the potential benefits of CBD oil for mental health and how to find a quality product. But first, we’ll explain what CBD is and how it affects the body and mind.
CBD oil is a liquid form of cannabidiol, one of the many active compounds produced by cannabis plants, including hemp. It is non-intoxicating but has various effects on human health, thanks to its interaction with an innate biological system called the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The term “CBD tincture” is sometimes used interchangeably with “CBD oil.” However, there are subtle differences in how the two are manufactured. CBD oil consists of hemp extract suspended in a carrier oil, such as MCT oil from coconuts. Meanwhile, CBD tincture is made by infusing hemp directly into a solvent such as alcohol or glycerine. Despite these minor differences, people use CBD tincture and CBD oil in the same fashion. The most common method is holding a few drops under the tongue, allowing the actives to absorb via the rich supply of blood vessels there. It is also possible to mix the liquid with food or beverages.
Although it does not cause an intoxicating high, users report feeling an increased sense of calm and well-being after taking CBD oil. They also say it helps them manage symptoms such as pain, sleep disorders, anxiety, and more. This broad range of effects is thanks to CBD’s effects on the ECS. The system regulates many essential physiological functions, including mood, sleep, appetite, immunity, and more. CBD enhances activity in this system by boosting our levels of natural signalling chemicals called endocannabinoids. It also affects the serotonin system, which significantly impacts our moods and emotions.
Several studies have shed light on CBD’s potential benefits for mental health. For example, a 2015 paper published in Neurotherapeutics by Blessing et al. highlighted the compound’s therapeutic potential for several conditions, including:
As a result, many have turned to CBD oil to alleviate the symptoms of anxiety and related disorders. There is less evidence relating to how CBD could help depression, but animal experiments suggest it could have rapid and sustained antidepressant effects. Furthermore, most people can take CBD oil without significant side effects, unlike many traditional antidepressants and anti-anxiety medicines. Therefore, it is an attractive option for those wishing to avoid the pharmaceutical route and try more natural options instead. That said, while CBD is generally well-tolerated, it can interact with numerous other drugs. Individuals taking prescribed or over-the-counter remedies should consult a healthcare provider before using CBD to ensure it is safe for them.
The hemp industry is not well-regulated at present. Finding high-quality CBD oil and CBD tincture in a market saturated with products of varying standards can be challenging. Therefore, consumers need to perform due diligence before making a purchase. The best brands use organic ingredients, clean extraction methods, and provide third-party lab reports for all of their items. The latter is a critical way that prospective buyers can guarantee they are getting a product that is potent, effective, and free from contaminants. Sometimes known as “certificates of analysis,” this documentation should be readily available on the company’s website. It is also necessary to purchase a CBD oil with enough of the active ingredient to be efficacious. A 1000mg CBD oil 30ml bottle is a good starting point for most people. These products are usually supplied with graduated droppers, so it is easy to start with a small dose and steadily increase it as needed.
CBD oil has many potential benefits for mental health, although it is essential to purchase high-quality, reliable products. Therefore, buyers should choose a well-established brand with a good reputation and plenty of positive reviews. New users should also consult a knowledgeable healthcare professional before taking CBD oil for the first time.
CBD is known for its many benefits as it does have the capacity to directly affect your mind and body. Because of these benefits today over 60% of Americans use CBD products to reduce their pain symptoms. If you want to know more about how much CBD has impacted people, read these stats https://cfah.org/cbd-statistics/.