CBD Oil Benefits & Uses – A Complete Guide (Plus Side Effects)

Consumers continue to seek out natural health options regardless of promoted mythologies. CBD has been a mystery, kept out of the mainstream knowledge base. Let’s explore the real possibilities this plant-based option has for your health. Truly, it’s so much more than folklore!

What Exactly is CBD

The scientific name for CBD is cannabidiol. Found in both cannabis and hemp, it’s one of over 100 phytocannabinoids. CBD has a positive effect on your body’s nervous system. You do not become intoxicated from CBD, rather it promotes homeostasis in your body.

The cannabis plant has a unique scent which is due to the aromatic terpenes. This viscous resin is produced by glandular structures in the cannabis plant called trichomes. CBD makes up about 40% of the plant resin extract.

How CBD Works In Your Body

Scientists have discovered cannabinoid-like chemicals inside the human body. These chemicals respond with receptors that make up the endocannabinoid system^[1]. It’s important to note that this physiologic system is one of the most pivotal involved in establishing and maintaining your health.

CBD responds to these receptors. Ingesting CBD orally, or applying it topically activates these receptors within your body. They are found in your nervous system and immune system. Cannabidiol can be extremely helpful for keeping these important systems in balance.

Explaining The Endocannabinoid System

Found within your endocannabinoid system (ECS) are the CB1 receptor and CB2 receptor. CBD1 receptors are found primarily in your central nervous system. CBD2 receptors are found in your peripheral nervous system, predominately in your immune cells.

CBD can bind easily to either one. The healing effect depends on where the receptor is located within your body.

We do know that ECS is connected to the following bodily processes:

• Sleep
• Mood
• Appetite
• Digestion
• Chronic Pain
• Memory
• Metabolism
• Inflammation
• Motor Control
• Cardiovascular system
• Stress
• Reproductive system
• Bone remodeling
• Liver function
• Muscle formation

Two Types of CBD

When you read labels on CBD products you will find that it is either an isolate or full spectrum. The isolate means that it contains solely the CBD. The processing has gone further creating a purified form.

Full-spectrum or broad-spectrum means that compounds including THC and other cannabinoids are all present. All the compounds will be available which are naturally in the plant. It’s been noted that full-spectrum has powerful potential. This is due to cannabis having a compounding effect when they are used together.

What Products are Available

Choosing a product can be confusing. Many companies brag that they have the best product out on the market. New products come out on the market every year. Below is a list of products that are available for purchase.

• Oral CBD Tinctures
• CBD Oil
• CBD Powder
• Consumable/Edible CBD
• Vape CBD
• Topical CBD
• Oral CBD Tinctures

Oral CBD is a tincture typically removed using alcohol. CBD that’s been extracted using solvents are generally less powerful than pure CBD oil. Tinctures are taken in your mouth, sometimes held under the tongue.

CBD Oil

This oil is removed from the entire hemp plant including stem, flowers, and seeds. This is why it is formidable and called full-spectrum. All the cannabinoids will be present, creating the compounding effect in your body – previously noted. It’s powerful.

This oil is commonly found in small glass bottles with a dropper. Like the tincture, it too can be administered by the mouth, holding it under the tongue for maximum absorption, then swallowing.

CBD Powder

You might be familiar with protein powders – CBD comes in a similar form. You can easily add CBD powder to your favorite blended smoothie. Adding it into water, juices, yogurt, and tea are common.

Consumable/Edible CBD

These are products made by a manufacturer in the form of capsules, gummies, or candy. I’ve also found edible CBD in the gumdrops, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, and lemon drops.

RELATED: McHudson Farms CBD Extract

Vape CBD

Vape pens are all the rage today, especially among the younger generation. Using a vaping pen makes following a CBD dosage extremely difficult. I would not recommend this method for a beginner.

Topical CBD

Topical CBD is found in lotions and creams. It goes directly onto your skin like you would use common body butter.

ALSO READ: R+R CBD Products: A Closer Look At The CBD That Works

Possible Side Effects of CBD

While side effects are rare, there is always a possibility that you might have a negative reaction. First and foremost, make sure your CBD is purchased from a reputable manufacturer. If you are unsure of product investment, I suggest that you contact a nutritional professional to assist you.

Side effects may occur depending on the dosage and purity of the product. Other considerations are your age, weight, previous medical conditions, and any medications you might be taking. Do not use CBD if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Children should not use CBD in any form. There has not been research enough done on either of these demographics to suggest CBD would be safe.

Do consult your physician if you experience any of the following:

• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Dry mouth
• Low blood pressure
• Fatigue

Final Thoughts

Look for a reputable CBD oil sourced from hemp, not marijuana. Check the manufacturer’s reputation by asking questions, calling them directly, or inviting your health professional to assist you in a purchase decision. Ask for a certificate of analysis (COA) and a product that lists all the ingredients on the label. Lastly, look at online product reviews such as Phytocet CBD Oil

Remember, a general rule is to start slow with a lower dose than you might think. You can always increase the dosage gradually until you see the benefit. One rule of thought is to take 1 drop of CBD oil per 20 pounds of body weight.

CBD might be the miracle health solution your body has been longing for. Your incredible endocannabinoid system is the reason CBD is a powerhouse. It’s far from hype and is incredible!

Laurie Chocholous, NTP

Laurie Chocholous, NTP is a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner. Laurie is a graduate of the Nutritional Therapy Association. She is a con... [Read Full Bio]