What is CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is an active ingredient in cannabis derived from the hemp plant. It is one of over 80 naturally occurring compounds called cannabinoids found in cannabis plants.
CBD is an appealing option for those who are looking for relief from pain and other symptoms without the mind-altering effects of marijuana or certain pharmaceutical drugs. Unlike the marijuana plant, hemp plants have little to no THC, so there are no psychoactive effects.
Let’s trace back a little and learn more about our body’s own endocannabinoid system, the human body’s system for processing and even creating its own cannabinoids. The ECS is the largest system in the body, having more receptors than any other in the body. It is found throughout the brain and nervous system and promotes homeostasis across all of our systems. It affects everything from sleep, appetite, pain, inflammation, memory, mood, and reproduction. When the Endocannabinoid System is functioning properly, all our various body systems are maintained in a state of dynamic equilibrium, or homeostasis.
CBD cannabinoids are anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antispasmodic and they enhance circulation and cellular regeneration. As a topical agent, CBD oil can be directly applied to certain areas of the body as an effective means of relieving pain and soreness, reducing inflammation, and soothing inflammatory skin conditions such as psoriasis, dermatitis, and eczema.
CBD in topical form is a useful alternative for those who would like options besides the over-the-counter steroid-based creams typically used for arthritis, joint pain, and similar ailments.
Most users find that regular application provides an analgesic effect that significantly reduces localized discomfort. Even though CBD is most often taken for pain relief, research is showing it to be beneficial in relieving, cramps, headaches, and psoriasis. CBD’s effects can increase the natural levels of pain-relieving endocannabinoids, decrease inflammatory responses, and desensitize pain receptors. CBD can also be effective in helping with anxiety and depression symptoms.
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SIDE EFFECTS:
Though CBD is generally well tolerated and considered safe, it may cause adverse reactions in some people.
Drowsiness
Nausea
Diarrhea
Changes in appetite
Dry mouth
Dizziness
Vomiting
Psychosis
Anxiety and depression (If you have high anxiety and depression, CBD can help OR worsen the condition.)
What effect could CBD have on other medications?
Consult a doctor before ingesting.
If you are told not to have grapefruit while on your medication, you should not mix CBD with it.
This means that, when ingested, CBD has a much-reduced efficacy with being taken in by the body. This is because it is chiefly metabolized by CYP3A4, one of the enzymes that helps metabolize many different medicines. Most interestingly, this enzyme is the reason why you should avoid grapefruit when taking antibiotics or other body altering drugs, as those substances can limit CYP3A4’s ability to work, preventing the breakdown of medicines and causing a much larger amount to be broken down at a later time.
It would be prudent therefore if you are taking CBD alongside certain other prescribed drugs, to inform your doctors so they can look for any changes in the levels of medication in your blood, as an adjustment in dosing regime might be necessary