Cannabidiol or CBD oil is an oil extracted from the cannabis or hemp plant and it is rapidly gaining attention as a wellness supplement because of its various health benefits.
But what exactly are these benefits? Why do people take CBD oil for pain? How do you take CBD oil? What is the right CBD oil dosage?
CBD and the endocannabinoid system
The different compounds found in cannabis, including CBD, interact with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is a network of receptors that creates a communication line between your brain and your body. The ECS regulates the body's physiological and cognitive processes and homeostasis functions, including appetite, temperature, mood, pain sensation, memory, sleep, metabolism, muscle movement, and immune response.
In other words, the ECS is what keeps our body in balance. However, because of various factors like injury, stress, or illness, the body may not be able to produce enough endocannabinoids to maintain a healthy balance.
Studies have found that CBD and other cannabinoids found in cannabis are able to mimic the actions of the body's endocannabinoids or naturally occurring cannabinoids. It was also found that these compounds can restore and supplement balance to the endocannabinoid system.
What makes CBD special?
Cannabinoids in general interact positively with the endocannabinoid system. And there are more than 80 cannabinoids in cannabis.
However, CBD is one of the most abundant of cannabinoids. And unlike another abundant cannabinoid called tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD is does not create a high when consumed, it does not have any mind-altering effects, and it does not cause a euphoric sensation.
Health benefits of CBD
Preliminary studies on CBD and trials on animal models suggest that it has the potential to alleviate symptoms and medical conditions associated with body functions and processes that are supposedly regulated by the ECS. Some of these conditions may include epilepsy and seizure disorders, inflammation and chronic pain from rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, anxiety and mood disorders, Alzheimer's disease and dementia, multiple sclerosis, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, insomnia and sleep disorders, Parkinson's disease, Fibromyalgia, and HIV/AIDS, among many others.
It is, however, very important to note that clinical studies and trials are still needed to support the effectiveness of CBD when it comes to treating these conditions and symptoms.
CBD oil administration
CBD oil products involve CBD extracts being combined with your carrier oil of choice. Carrier oils include almond oil, olive oil, and virgin coconut oil, among others.
CBD oil can be taken in various ways. Most CBD oil products come in bottles with droppers. You can administer it sublingually or under your tongue, which method allows for faster absorption. There are CBD oil products that are contained in capsules and can be swallowed directly. CBD oil can also be mixed in cooking or baking food, like cookies and brownies.
Another quick and efficient way to take CBD is through vaping. Yet another way to use CBD oil is by applying it as a topical. This means mixing it with lotion, cream, balm, or ointment and applying it directly onto the skin. Balms are an effective way of using CBD oil to relieve muscle pains.
Proper dosage
Quality CBD oil products from reliable manufacturers always have a dosing suggestion included in the label. It is recommended that you follow instructions on the label.
However, if it is your first time and you are still hesitant, it is said that microdosing is the safest way to know what amount works best for you. Take the smallest dose possible on a daily basis for a week, and observe how your body reacts. You can then gradually increase the dose each week until you get the desired effect.