Cannabidiol (CBD) is among the over 80 cannabinoids present in the cannabis plant. According to recent research, the compound has been identified as a natural commodity for managing various ailments. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2018 approved the use of CBD oil, Epidiolex, for the medical management of epilepsy.
What is CBD Oil?
Source: observer.com
CBD oil is prepared by extracting CBD compounds from the cannabis plant and diluting the extract with either hemp seed oil or coconut oil. The compound, unlike Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), is free from psychoactive properties. Generally, CBD oil has few THC traces, and it is federally legal for brands to sell CBD oil with a THC percentage of less than 0.3%.
Most brands prepare CBD oil in different concentrations. You can consume CBD oil through different methods such as:
- Sublingual
- Topical
- Inhalation
- Ingestion
What are the Main Types of CBD Oil?
Source: cannabisofecuador.com
There are multiple types of CBD oil available in the market and primarily vary depending on the concentration of cannabinoids. Broadly CBD oil can be classified into three major classes:
1. Isolate (CBD)
CBD isolate, also known as pure CBD oil, contains only CBD obtained from the cannabis or hemp plant. The manufacturer excludes other types of cannabinoids, fats, or terpenes that are present in the plants. Typically, after extraction of the cannabinoids, the CBD compound is isolated from other compounds through a process of winterization.
CBD isolate oils have zero traces of THC and will not cause any psychoactive effects to the user. The product is also cheaper compared to other forms of CBD oils. Since it is the purest form of CBD products, it is ideal for beginners. Consequently, it is a refined product with no odor or irritating taste.
However, according to a study, the CBD isolate may have less potency, and you may require higher doses to attain a specific therapeutic effect.
2. Full Spectrum CBD Oil
Full-spectrum CBD oil contains THC traces, cannabinoids, terpenes, and other essential nutrients from the hemp or marijuana plant. But the FDA requires that brands produce compounds with not more than 0.3% of THC. The little trace of THC is not powerful enough to cause any psychedelic effects to the user. This type of CBD oil is more potent and has greater therapeutic effects due to the chemical compounds and cannabinoids.
3. Broad Spectrum CBD Oil
Broad-spectrum CBD oil, which botanicam.com sells, contains all types of cannabinoids, terpenes, fatty acids, and other useful compounds. However, there is an exclusion of THC in the processing of the compound. This type of CBD oil is very effective in managing common ailments as it has an entourage effect.
What are the Medical Benefits of CBD Oils?
Management of Epilepsy
Source: openaccessgovernment.org
Doctors are using Epidiolex in the management of seizures in epileptic patients. FDA approved the drug after doing rigorous research. However, there is no clear information about how CBD oil manages seizures, but some studies claim that it influences receptors involved in seizures and reverses their effects.
Anxiety
Anxiety disorders are quite common in people of different ages. The disorders affect more than 31.1% of adults living in the U.S. CBD oil is a plant-derived natural compound with anxiolytic properties. The compound has a high affinity for cannabinoids receptors present in the brain that regulate anxiety and fear behaviors to cause counteractive effects.
CBD oil is generally effective in managing anxiety in the following disorders:
- Social anxiety disorder
- Panic disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Generalized anxiety disorder
Pain-relieving Effects
The endocannabinoid system in your body is important in controlling various physiological activities such as pain, sleep, or appetite. CBD oil binds to the receptors on the endocannabinoid system and causes some alteration. The oils may relieve chronic pain in cancer patients or arthritis patients by impacting the endocannabinoid receptors and causing anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects.
Neuroprotective
Source: cen.acs.org
CBD oil has great anti-inflammatory properties, which is beneficial for people with neurodegenerative symptoms. However, research about its potency in managing neurodegenerative disorders is still in its early stages of research. Still, it is believed to influence CB1 receptors, thus preventing nerves and brain deterioration.
Common neurodegenerative disorders include:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Stroke
- Multiple sclerosis
- Parkison’s disease
Anti-acne
CBD oil is a known acne management agent. The oil blocks the activity of sebaceous glands, which are responsible for producing sebum on the skin. If your skin produces exaggerated levels of sebum, acne will erupt. CBD oil prevents the overproduction of sebum, thus preventing acne. Consequently, it has anti-inflammatory effects and will reduce inflammation on your skin.
Cancer Treatment
National Cancer Institute (NCI) claims that CBD oil can help alleviate some symptoms and effects of cancer. However, there is little evidence that medical marijuana is a cancer treatment regimen. CBD oils enhance better uptake of cancer drugs. According to a 2019 study, medical cannabis can slow down cancer tumors’ growth, minimize tumor invasion, and initiate cancerous cells’ death.
Increase Libido
Source: daveasprey.com
There are certain endocannabinoid receptors on testicles and the brain. CBD oil increase libido since it reduces anxiety and consequently increases confidence during sex. In women, CBD oil has a calming effect during sex and increases sex drive. Women will respond better to erotic cues.
If you have anxiety problems or negative body image during sex, CBD oil can help alleviate those problems. Generally, medical cannabis is effective in helping men and women feel lustier and have better sexual experiences.
Key Takeaway
CBD oil is a restricted product and is not legal in a few states. However, most states have legalized CBD oil for medical uses, but the product should contain less than 0.3% THC content. Also, there are certain medical conditions that the FDA has approved that medical cannabis can manage.
It is paramount to check your state’s law before purchasing CBD products from online marijuana dispensaries. The FDA only allows the purchase of marijuana products prescribed by a licensed medical practitioner. Additionally, ensure the products are properly labeled and have a valid certificate of analysis (COA) from an authentic third-party laboratory.
