CBD or cannabidiol is a natural extract from the Cannabis sativa plant. The health benefits of CBD products stem from the effect that cannabidiol has on the nervous system through the endocannabinoid system in the body. Since CBD does not have any psychoactive effects on the body, it can be safely consumed without the ‘high’ associated with marijuana. CBD is also not addictive.

It is important to note that CBD products contain little to no THC, which is the substance that causes the high or psychoactive effect of marijuana. However, like most therapeutic agents, it is important to understand both CBD benefits and side effects.

CBD has been found to be beneficial for many health conditions and is commonly used to treat the following:

Anxiety and Depression

CBD has been found to help in relieving anxiety by altering serotonin levels. This effect on serotonin levels is linked to CBD’s ability to bind to receptors in the central nervous system. This means that people who suffer from conditions such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), social anxiety and other types of anxiety disorders, and depression may benefit from using CBD products.

One of the other key benefits of CBD products is in combating insomnia due to the relaxing or soothing effect of CBD.

Pain Relief

CBD is also widely used for pain relief. CBD helps to relieve pain by regulating the release of neurotransmitters in the brain and other parts of the nervous system. This helps in reducing and alleviating pain, which is why CBD has been found to be beneficial for people dealing with chronic pain conditions.

Inflammation

CBD has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties in the body through its impact on the central nervous system. CBD products such as topicals, tinctures and oils can all contain the anti-inflammatory properties of cannabidiol.

Epilepsy and Seizures

CBD has been found to have a positive effect in the treatment of certain neurological disorders such as epilepsy. The positive effect of CBD in neurological conditions is linked to its ability to activate CB1 receptors in the nervous system. The FDA has approved the use of CBD in the treatment of two rare forms of epilepsy and tuberous sclerosis complex.

Digestive Health

CBD has been found to be beneficial for digestive health. Some of its properties include alleviating heartburn, relieving nausea (especially in patients undergoing chemotherapy) and easing symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). CBD can also help with diarrhea since it has been found to slow down digestion.

CBD Side Effects

Before you start taking CBD, it is important to understand both CBD benefits and side effects. While CBD is a natural extract that is well tolerated by most people, some of the side effects may include:

·         Dizziness

·         Drowsiness

·         Dry mouth

·         Loss of appetite

·         Mood swings

·         Diarrhea

It is recommended that people who are on medication consult with their physician before they start taking CBD. This is a safety precaution to avoid any negative drug interactions that may cause adverse side effects. It is also important to not use CBD as a substitute for medical treatment unless it is prescribed by your doctor.