As a medical expert, I have witnessed the growing popularity of cannabidiol (CBD) over the years. CBD is a compound found in marijuana, but it can also be derived from hemp or other plants. However, there is a lot of confusion and misinformation surrounding CBD, so it's crucial to understand its composition and effects. Hemp is defined as any part of the cannabis sativa plant that contains no more than 0.3% of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive substance in marijuana. This means that CBD derived from hemp will not produce any mind-altering effects.
On the other hand, CBD oil derived from cannabis can contain higher levels of THC and may have mind-altering effects. Despite its association with marijuana, CBD has gained popularity as a natural remedy for various ailments. It has been praised for its pain-relieving and relaxing properties without any mind-altering effects. You may have seen it being promoted as an add-on to your morning shake or coffee after training. CBD can be found in a variety of products, including dietary supplements, baths, drinks, and foods. People use CBD to treat a wide range of physical and mental problems, such as pain, nausea, addiction, and depression.
However, it's important to note that these effects could be due to the interaction of CBD with other medications. For example, CBD can interact with clobazam and other drugs by competing for liver enzymes that break them down. While some studies have shown that CBD may improve certain cancer-related symptoms in some people, current research results are conflicting. More research is needed to determine if CBD should be used more regularly in the treatment of cancer symptoms. Additionally, CBD can increase the level of anticoagulants and other medications in the blood, which can be dangerous if not monitored closely. In the United States, the prescription drug Sativex, which uses CBD as its active ingredient, is approved for muscle spasticity associated with multiple sclerosis and for pain caused by cancer.
However, CBD-infused alcoholic beverages have recently appeared on the market, causing some to question the safety of combining CBD and alcohol. It's also worth noting that the Farm Bill has eliminated all hemp-derived products, including CBD, from the Controlled Substances Act. This means that CBD is no longer considered a controlled substance and is legal in most states. However, it's important to check your state's laws before purchasing or using CBD products. Studies have shown that CBD can help reduce chronic pain by attacking the activity of endocannabinoid receptors and reducing inflammation. It can also interact with neurotransmitters, which may contribute to its calming effects. If you're considering using CBD for physical or mental problems, it's important to let your doctor know.
This is especially crucial if you're taking any other medications, as CBD can interact with them and potentially cause adverse effects. It's always best to consult with a medical professional before starting any new treatment. Currently, many people obtain CBD online without a medical marijuana license. While this is legal in most states, it's important to purchase from reputable sources and ensure that the product has been tested for quality and purity. In a randomized controlled trial, CBD-rich oral cannabis was found to induce a clinical response in patients with Crohn's disease. However, it did not produce an endoscopic response.
This highlights the need for more research on the potential benefits and risks of using CBD for various conditions.
