What We Actually Know About CBD

Cannabidiol, or CBD, is one of the two major components of marijuana. Unlike its counterpart, THC, CBD is not psychoactive and shouldn’t have much of any noticeable effect on one’s conscious mind. However, just because it doesn’t get the user “high” like THC doesn’t mean it isn’t effective. With all the hype in the media about CBD, THC, and marijuana in general, in can be difficult to figure out what CBD actually does. Many claim it cures practically everything, from muscle aches to cancer. Some think it dos nothing at all. The truth is, of course, somewhere in between. Here are a few things that we can say with reasonable confidence about CBD. Keep in mind that new research is always being done and some of these points may change with new discoveries.

Its Safe for Children

While everyone would agree that we shouldn’t be giving drugs to children without a very good reason, there are some cases where CBD has dramatically changed the lives of young people and their families. CBD is incredibly effective at treating childhood epilepsy, a debilitating illness that causes some people to have dozens of seizures on a daily basis. Not only is this a horrific and life threatening burden for these kids, but their families have to revolve their lives around taking care them 24 hours a day. In many of these severe cases, daily administration of a few drops of CBD oil placed under the child’s tongue virtually eliminated future seizures.

It May Help Anxiety

Most people hate public speaking. Its among the most common fears among adults. Luckily, some studies have been conducted displaying that many people feel measurably less anxious when giving a public talk after taking CBD. There is also limited evidence suggesting that it may help with daily anxiety more generally, and may be useful the millions of people that suffer from anxiety disorders.

Its a Sleep Aid

We all love sleep, don’t we. Most people can’t get enough of it, which is why persistent insomnia can be one of the most frustrating conditions to have. Many people use CBD as a way to fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. For the many people struggling with sleep-deprivation on a regular basis, CBD might provide some much needed relief. In fact, many veterans use CBD as a way to cope with post traumatic stress disorder.

The Downside

While the benefits of CBD are very real, we should be honest about its limitations. Everyone reacts to every substance differently, and each person needs to make up their own mind regarding trying CBD. Those who are unsure should consult a doctor before attempting to self-medicate. CBD can react badly with other medications, particularly those that are psychoactive. It also has negative side-effects in some people. Some people report feeling more tired and irritable than usual. Some describe feeling more irritable. However, the same can be said about any drug. The important thing is making an informed decision.