Cannabidiol, or CBD, is one of many molecules known as cannabinoids that are found in different varieties of the cannabis plant, including marijuana and hemp. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the compound that’s responsible for marijuana’s high, CBD is not intoxicating, even in large doses.
In recent years, CBD products have seen a surge in popularity—due in part to an increasing body of research on the cannabinoid’s potential benefits for body and mind. As a prescription medication (Epidiolex), CBD is FDA-approved to treat two severe forms of childhood epilepsy. Commercially, CBD is sold as oil, capsules, and topical creams, or added to foods and beverages. Many who purchase it seek to reduce inflammation, soothe pain, or ease anxiety .
CBD is well tolerated in most individuals—in contrast to THC, which can induce anxiety or psychosis -like symptoms. It’s also thought to be safe by most researchers who study it. But experts caution that some commercial CBD contains THC or other contaminants, either of which may trigger negative reactions.
CBD is one of the compounds found in marijuana, but it doesn’t deliver the high that people typically think about when discussing the drug. (That’s due to tetrahydrocannabinol or THC). CBD has no psychoactive properties, meaning that it doesn’t change how you think or perceive the world. Instead, it can instill a sense of calm and positive mood.
Key Takeaways
- CBD affects mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing
- Understanding cbd is the first step toward managing it
- Evidence-based approaches can significantly improve outcomes
- Building daily habits is more effective than one-time interventions
CBD and Mental Health
CBD has shown promising results as a potential treatment for a wide range of mental and physical ailments, including epilepsy, anxiety, opioid addiction, insomnia , schizophrenia, and chronic pain .
But evidence of its benefits is still highly preliminary, experts warn. More research is needed both to be sure of its effects and to establish appropriate dosing recommendations.
Cannabis has a long history as a sleep aid, reducing the time it takes to fall asleep and increasing time spent asleep. CBD specifically may also been found to help people fall asleep and stay asleep. The compound also eases anxiety, which may be another route that it can improve sleep.
CBD can relieve symptoms of anxiety, research suggests, and it may therefore help treat conditions such as generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and post- traumatic stress disorder. But scientists still don’t understand how exactly CBD affects the brain to deliver those benefits.
CBD holds promise for treating addiction by dampening drug cravings, according to a clinical trial of individuals addicted to heroin who took CBD once a day. The benefits lasted for a week after the last dose of CBD. The compound may also help with addiction by easing anxiety and stress.
Early research suggests that CBD might help treat schizophrenia down the road. A few small trials have found that CBD led to lower levels of psychotic symptoms, such as hallucinations, and improved cognition for those with schizophrenia. But another trial with lower doses of CBD found no difference in symptoms, so more research is necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is cbd?
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is one of many molecules known as cannabinoids that are found in different varieties of the cannabis plant, including marijuana and hemp. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the compound that’s responsible for marijuana’s high, CBD is not intoxicating, even in large doses.
Is cbd a serious condition?
CBD exists on a spectrum. While mild forms are a normal part of life, persistent or severe cbd can significantly impact daily functioning and quality of life. It's important to seek professional support if cbd is interfering with work, relationships, or wellbeing.
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