Cannabis has been widely accepted in the ancient world as a medicinal plant. In Ancient China, the surgeon Hua Tuo is acknowledged to be the first person in recorded history to use marijuana as an anesthesia. Similarly, Ancient Indian texts list many medical applications for cannabis, including its use as a treatment for headaches, insomnia, pain, and gastrointestinal disorders.
Despite its popularity in ancient times, cannabis only started to see mainstream acceptance in recent years. Thanks to relaxed marijuana laws and widespread legalization around the world, more people are seeing the potential of cannabis. Many cannabis-related products have also sprouted as a result of the plant’s growing popularity, and one product is cannabidiol oil, or CBD oil. If you are thinking of using this product for the first time, here are four important things you need to know.
It Can Treat Many Health Problems
Marijuana owes its reputation as a medicinal plant to CBD, an active compound responsible for many of weed’s therapeutic benefits. The efficacy of CBD oil as a medical treatment made national headlines with the news of a little girl named Charlotte Figi who suffered from a rare and severe form of epilepsy known as Dravet syndrome. For years, Charlotte’s family tried various drugs and treatments to cure the girl’s seizures, but none of them worked. It was only after she was treated with a CBD-rich oil that her condition dramatically improved. Before the treatment, Charlotte suffered debilitating 300 grand mal seizures per week, but now her seizures only happen twice or three times per month and mostly while she sleeps. Today, CBD oil is recognized for its numerous health benefits, including its anti-inflammatory, anticonvulsant, and neuroprotective effects. It is also being used to relieve pain, aid sleep, manage weight, boost heart health, and improve appetite.
It Doesn’t Have Psychoactive Effects
One of the first things that people associate with marijuana is the notable high that comes from consuming it. This buzz is caused by tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), one of at least 113 active chemical compounds found in cannabis that interacts with the body, causing various effects including psychoactive ones. People who use cannabis recreationally seek out this buzz, but it can be unpleasant for those who only want to use marijuana for medical reasons. A study has found that THC stimulates neurotransmitters in the brain responsible for fight-or-flight responses that occur in stressful situations.
Unlike THC, CBD does not have any psychoactive properties and has shown to even ease anxiety and make one feel more relaxed. Many users also report that the effects of CBD oil were actually more subtle than THC products, and it helped them unwind and even sleep better.
It Won’t Show Up in Most Drug Tests
Most drug tests are designed to detect the psychoactive THC in marijuana and not CBD. Because of this, you don’t need to worry about failing a drug screening if you use CBD oil. There is also a persistent urban legend that says CBD can transform into THC once in the body, but this is actually not true because there are no known enzymes in the human body that can make this possible. If you are still concerned and want to make sure you pass any upcoming drug tests, you can opt to purchase a home drug-test kit and screen yourself in advance.
Know the Drug Laws in Your Area
Although medical marijuana is now legal in thirty-three states and recreational cannabis in eleven, drug policies vary, so it is important that you stay informed about the specific laws where you live. Drug tests are a standard practice in most companies, and although most drug screenings are not designed to detect CBD, it is still best to be on the safe side. Ask your employer or human resource officer about their policies regarding CBD so you can secure any medical documentation if needed. Read the label in the CBD oil to make sure that it does not contain any THC, and only purchase from reputable dispensaries. Don’t risk getting substandard products with potentially dangerous effects from shady dealers.
Although CBD oil is generally considered safe, it may have potential adverse effects on some people. Potential side effects listed in some studies include diarrhea, fatigue, and appetite changes. Similarly, consuming CBD oil may also interact with certain medications. Before you use CBD oil, make sure to consult your physician if you are using any drugs.
