The cannabis industry is massive, with a current market share of over $27 billion, and is estimated to grow to more than $82 billion by 2027. Out of this market share, the biggest player is the healthcare sector. Medical cannabis is popular globally, as many experts reveal the therapeutic effects of CBD.
CBD is a natural compound that is extracted from the cannabis hemp plant. It has healing properties and is infused in many products. Even the WHO confirmed that CBD is a natural product and doesn’t cause any harm to users. Fortunately, you can buy CBD oil drops and other CBD products in a licensed cannabis dispensary.
But is CBD oil entirely safe for human use? Read on to learn more about how CBD oil drops work, their benefits, and their side effects.
What Is CBD Oil?
CBD (cannabidiol) oil is an ingestible product extracted from hemp plants – a THC-low variety of weed. It is a natural compound that forms part of the weed plant’s cannabinoid profile. Although CBD comes from cannabis, it is not an impairing ingredient like THC. Users don’t get intoxicated with any CBD pure oil drops.
Most CBD products contain zero THC, while some come with minimal THC levels of 0.3% or less (these are usually full-spectrum CBD varieties). Thus, such products don’t produce psychoactive effects on users. You can only experience relief, relaxation, and uplifting effects after taking CBD.
In addition, the medical sector is at the forefront of promoting the use of CBD-infused medications to treat certain illnesses. Expert researchers have scientifically proven the analgesic effects found in CBD and highly recommend CBD for managing stress, depression, and insomnia.
Types of CBD Oil
Oral CBD oil drops are available in different types.
Full-spectrum
Oils with full-spectrum CBD contain healthy compounds from the cannabis herb. They offer wholesome benefits to users because of the minimal THC content. Full-spectrum CBD also contains other organic constituents – natural terpenes and flavonoids. Thus, this CBD type promotes full body and mind wellness.
Broad-spectrum
The broad-spectrum CBD oil doesn’t have any THC, though it preserves most cannabinoids and terpenes from hemp. The effects are similar to the full-spectrum CBD, giving users high potency and desired results. So, it is a great option if you don’t want a product with THC content.
CBD Isolate
CBD isolate is pure CBD; it doesn’t contain any other cannabinoid compounds. Thus, this oil will only give relaxing and uplifting effects without triggering a high feeling.
How to Take CBD Oil?
As mentioned above, CBD oil is extracted from the cannabis plant. It is combined with other organic cannabinoids like terpenes, MCT, or flavors and added to gels or creams. The final mixture is then placed in capsules or packaged in a bottle.
However, the method of consumption largely depends on the reason for use. For instance, you can take CBD oil by placing the recommended number of oil drops under your tongue for faster results. Other options include swallowing a capsule, vaping the liquid, or applying it as a topical balm. You can also add a few drops to your smoothie, coffee, or salad.
Therefore, you must seek advice from your doctor before taking CBD oil. It is better to know your condition’s severity and the recommended dose to ensure safe consumption and proper CBD oil choice.
How Does CBD Oil Work?
When you take CBD oil, it gets absorbed into the bloodstream and interacts with the brain receptors. The CBD compound directly impacts the central nervous system and can alter your mood or bring relief. That is why the compound is popularly used in pain management and helps treat neurological disorders.
Studies show that CBD has healing properties and supports human wellness. As a result, many people are now embracing CBD as an alternative to mainstream drugs. Patients with chronic pain, depression, or sleep disorders turn to CBD products for effective relief without addictive effects.
Uses of CBD Oil
With the rising popularity of CBD, studies reveal that hemp-derived products have numerous benefits. Many users can enjoy the analgesic effects of oral CBD oil drops. Let us explore the variety of therapeutic uses of CBD-infused oil.
Anxiety Relief
If you are battling any form of anxiety disorder, CBD is a proven remedy to help you manage the condition. Studies show that CBD alters the receptors in your brain cells responsible for receiving chemical messages. As a result, the body cells respond differently to cannabis stimulation.
Thus, CBD might help lessen anxiety levels by:
- Reducing stressful episodes
- Decreasing anxiety symptoms like a fast heart rate
- Promoting sleep quality
- Reducing PTSD symptoms
Anti-seizure Effect
CBD is well-known for treating epilepsy. In 2018, the Epidiolex drug infused with CBD was approved for epilepsy treatment. It reduces the frequency of seizures in patients. Although the research is still ongoing, many patients responded positively to CBD treatment, which makes CBD oil suitable for managing seizures.
Neurological Conditions
Today, the medical sector uses hemp-derived cannabis to manage neurological conditions. The hemp compound lessens the inflammation in the brain and manages the symptoms. As mentioned above, CBD affects the receptors in the central nervous system and makes the cells react differently to stimuli. So, doctors use CBD drugs to protect people suffering from neurodegenerative disorders.
Some of the conditions you can address are:
- Stroke
- Multiple sclerosis
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Parkinson’s disease
Pain Relief
Another health benefit of using CBD oil is managing pain-related conditions. Research reveals that cannabis has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties useful in managing certain illnesses such as:
- Arthritis
- Muscle pain
- Multiple sclerosis pain
- Migraines
Acne Management
Since CBD oil reduces inflammation in the human body, it can also help in acne management and prevention. People with acne have sebaceous glands that produce a lot of sebum. So, CBD oil reduces sebum production, leaving the skin soft and well-hydrated.
However, it is imperative to seek medical consultation with a dermatologist before taking CBD oil for any skin conditions.
Cancer Treatment
Another use of CBD oil edible drops is cancer treatment. Today, cancer is a rampant disease affecting people of all ages. Studies show that CBD can prevent the growth of cancer cells. Even though the research is inconclusive, experts say that CBD lessens the symptoms and helps reduce pain, discomfort, and nausea after chemotherapy.
Side Effects of CBD Oil
Despite the many health benefits of CBD, it also has some downsides. Many people react differently to cannabis compounds. What works for another cannabis user might not necessarily work for you. So, here are a few common side effects that some users report after taking CBD oil:
- Loss of appetite
- Drowsiness
- Diarrhea
- Negative impact on liver enzymes
People with existing medical conditions may experience severer side effects of CBD use, such as:
- Prolonged seizures
- Pneumonia
- Impaired cognition
- Psychosis and hallucinations
Sometimes, users are not keen when purchasing CBD oil or might consume high doses, resulting in such repercussions. Thus, if you experience any of the above effects after taking CBD oil, stop using it and consult a healthcare expert immediately.
Moreover, avoid driving or operating heavy machines after consuming CBD, especially if you are a beginner. Remember that some oils contain traces of the THC compound, which can adversely affect your body and mind.
Factors to Consider When Choosing CBD Oil
When purchasing CBD oils, you need to check a couple of quality parameters. Today, the risk of buying counterfeit CBD products is very high. So, unless you are keen, you might fail to notice the subtle differences between the original and fake products or identify an unethical manufacturer. We recommend paying attention to the following quality markers.
Source of CBD
You must know the CBD source before you purchase the product. It is imperative because the source will determine the quality and purity of CBD oil; it’s better to buy products using organic, US-grown hemp.
Manufacturer
Another vital aspect is the manufacturer of the CBD oil you want to purchase. You must look for reputable manufacturers with good reviews in the market. So, conduct your due diligence and check customer testimonials before buying any CBD product.
Purpose
Understanding the main purpose of use will guide you in purchasing the right CBD oil. Some products deal with insomnia and pain or give you uplifting effects. So, it’s advisable to choose the CBD oil type fitting your health needs and delivering the expected results.
Price
Price is another crucial factor when choosing CBD oil. The cost is not dependent on the product quality; it’s all about marketing. You might buy an expensive product and get low-quality CBD oil or opt for a cheap product and receive an optimal price/quality ratio. So, work within your budget and conduct thorough research before settling on a particular CBD oil option.
Conclusion
CBD oil is becoming more popular among cannabis enthusiasts. It has numerous health benefits that medical experts can no longer ignore. Besides, cannabis legalization has made it easier for people to access CBD products freely in licensed dispensaries and online. Use the tips we’ve shared here to buy an ideal CBD product that will meet your health needs.