Why is CBD so popular?

What do makeup, sparkling water, and pet treats have in common? Well, you can buy them infused with CBD with just a quick internet search. In recent years, CBD products seem to have made an overwhelming entrance into many everyday personal care products and edibles. CBD (also known as cannabidiol) is a compound derived from the cannabis plant that is famed for its health benefits. CBD is often associated with its psychoactive counterpart, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), but does not induce a “high” state. Rather, it is known for its calming effects and is used in a variety of wellness products.

Why is it so popular?

Medical marijuana use has been a hot topic for years. Proponents have primarily used cannabis to relieve chronic pain and nerve pain, but it's also being tested as a treatment for PTSD and many other conditions. To achieve the proclaimed benefits of cannabis without feeling "high," CBD has been the subject of countless studies.

It's no wonder, then, that CBD is gaining traction among people suffering from chronic pain, particularly those looking for an alternative to traditional prescription and over-the-counter pain relievers. The following are some of the main reasons why CBD has become popular with the general public.

It has proven health benefits

CBD is primarily used for pain relief, muscle relaxation, treatment of insomnia and anxiety. A study has shown that increases in heart rate and blood pressure in individuals with social anxiety decrease when participants interact with others. For people with insomnia, taking high doses of CBD resulted in fewer awakenings and more sleep. In rats with arthritis, CBD use was also found to have anti-inflammatory properties and reduced joint swelling and pain.

Although more research is needed to provide more conclusive evidence on the long-term effects and benefits of CBD, the study results available so far have shown potential.

Cbd is considered a natural product

A “natural” product is generally defined as something that occurs in nature. Typically referred to as a natural remedy, CBD may appeal to those looking to avoid overly manufactured compounds. However, not every CBD product is 100% natural as CBD can also be produced synthetically. Additionally, the FDA does not classify cannabis products as safe or effective, with the exception of a single drug used to treat rare forms of epilepsy. There is limited evidence to suggest that CBD is safe, but it cannot be said to cure or prevent any disease. In many cases, the production of CBD is not regulated and product quality is not always guaranteed.

It seems to be readily available in many forms.

With the ongoing hype surrounding CBD, it is easy to find thousands of products online. A quick Google search will bring up thousands of websites that sell CBD products and ship them straight to your door. You'll find a similar situation on Amazon: thousands of CBD products will turn up when you search for them, and some even offer expedited shipping.

Possible side effects?

The FDA has determined that possible side effects of CBD consumption include drowsiness, mood swings, diarrhea, decreased appetite, and possible liver damage. With research still ongoing, more studies need to be done before there is definitive evidence on the benefits and consequences of using CBD. The long-term effects of CBD and its effects on the maturing brain are currently being studied. Due to the lack of extensive research and evidence, the lasting effects of early cannabinoid use on the central nervous system remain relatively unknown to date.

Is CBD right for me?

In most cases, CBD has been used to treat anxiety and sleep disorders, but more research needs to be done before there is comprehensive evidence for pain relief. Also, CBD can interact with other medications and alter their effects, so care should be taken when using CBD in conjunction with other medications. Given the endless variety of products and insufficient regulation, many products are prone to mislabeling and may not have been manufactured safely. Although CBD has great appeal, many products can hide information about the quality of the CBD, how it's processed, and any additives. If you think CBD could help you, you should be aware of the risks you may be taking with certain products. You should always research products before purchasing them and consult a doctor if you have any questions and/or are taking medication.