CBD is a popular alternative to traditional, over-the-counter treatments. With its ability to treat pain and discomfort, alleviate feelings of stress and anxiety, as well as improve our quality of sleep, many of us are turning to CBD to improve our wellbeing.
The list of CBD-infused products on the market is growing, so whether you’re looking for a cream to treat external injuries, or oils to take orally to give you a sense of calm, there is something suitable for all needs, even sweet treats like CBD gummies and CBD chocolate uk!
CBD can be misunderstood, due to the fact it is a substance that is present in the cannabis plant, which leads people to think it is dangerous to use – however, this is could not be further from the truth. Read on to find out more…
What is CBD?
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CBD is an abbreviation for cannabidiol, a chemical that has become more popular over the last few years within the health and wellbeing world. It is a natural substance that comes from the cannabis plant and can be used to treat many health issues such as physical pain and inflammation, as well as symptoms of stress and anxiety.
It can also help us to relax and feel calmer and can help us to drift off to sleep more easily. It comes in a range of different products that we can implement easily into our daily lives, from CBD oils and capsules to be taken orally, to creams and lotions that can treat pain externally.
CBD interacts with the nervous systems and receptors around the body to produce a natural anti-inflammatory effect and modify the way they react to pain. It can help to balance various issues around the body, like the production of serotonin in the brain, too little of which can cause low mood and depression and manage the production of cortisol which is the chemical that leads us to feel stressed.
How is it produced?
CBD is produced by brands all over the world, but how do they do it? First, they must grow hemp, which does not contain THC, the chemical responsible for the ‘high’ feeling we all associate with cannabis as a drug.
After this, they must extract the CBD from the plant – a few processes can be used but the most common is CO2 extraction, it is then distilled a few times to ensure any remaining THC or other nasty components are no longer present. After this, it can be mixed with its carrier – another natural substance for CBD oil or infused in a cream or capsule.
Is it dangerous?
All the CBD products on the shelves of pharmacies and health stores must be rigorously third-party tested so that they are fit and safe for consumption. CBD brands and manufacturers must adhere to strict guidelines if they want their products to go on sale!
Quality control will also take place before the products make it to the shelves, so if you’re buying from a reputable brand or store, you can be sure that your product is safe to use and tested. You can also check the ingredients listed on the product to double-check, as well as a brand’s website, as this should specify and allow you to view any lab results.
Does it have side effects?
CBD is not said to cause any serious side effects. Whilst the results you feel with CBD may be different for everyone, if you find your correct dose by starting small and seeing how your body and mind feel, you shouldn’t have any issues with using CBD products. If you take too much CBD, it can cause nausea – but this is very rare.
It is popular with health professionals for this very reason – it doesn’t impact blood pressure, heart rate, or body temperature, so you can use it with added peace of mind.
