Using CBD oil can be a confusing topic. You may be wondering many things: Is it legal where I live? Is it safe to use? What can I use it for? Are there side effects? Works?
Path to better health
CBD is short for cannabidiol, a chemical found in the Cannabis sativa plant. There are two types of this plant: a marijuana plant and a hemp plant. CBD oil does not make people feel “high.” This is because it contains little or no delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the chemical in marijuana that alters people’s mental state. CBD oil that comes from the marijuana plant should contain 0.3% or less THC. CBD oil that comes from the hemp plant naturally contains no THC. You also cannot get addicted to cannabidiol oil because the THC level is very low or non-existent.
CBD oil can be used alone. It can also be added to other products, including pills and capsules, chewables, chocolate, or creams and gels. The amount of cannabidiol oil found in these products varies from product to product and manufacturer to manufacturer.
Legal concerns
At the federal level, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Both consider CBD in all its forms to be illegal. There is one notable exception. In 2018, through the Farm Bill, the FDA approved the use of CBD oil in a prescription medication. It is used to treat epilepsy and tuberous sclerosis complex seizures.
At the state level, many states also allow the sale of CBD oil. But laws vary from state to state, even from county to county within a state. Therefore, always check the laws before making any purchase.
Uses
Early studies have shown that CBD oil can help treat certain medical conditions. However, there are still no credible research studies that prove or demonstrate that it works. Medical conditions that may or may not respond to cannabidiol oil include:
Some studies have also shown that CBD oil can help smokers successfully quit using tobacco products. And some cancer patients say it reduces nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy. However, much more research is needed before CBD oil can be legally used to treat any of these conditions.
If cannabidiol oil is legal in your area and you want to try it, talk to your doctor first. Tell them all the over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking. Also remind them of all the prescriptions you take. Some medications do not work as they should if taken with CBD oil. Your doctor will be able to advise you.
Things to consider
Do not use cannabidiol oil or products containing cannabidiol if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Before purchasing a cannabidiol product, read the label carefully. If the oil comes from the marijuana plant, make sure the THC level is 0.3% or less. However, keep in mind that the CBD industry is unregulated, meaning there is no guarantee of product safety and labels do not need to list all ingredients.
Also be wary of products that make medical claims, such as promising to cure a disease. Making claims is illegal, even in states where CBD oil is legal.
You may experience side effects after taking CBD oil. Some people who take it may lose their appetite, have diarrhea, or feel tired and irritable. You may also develop problems with your liver.
Questions to ask your doctor about CBD oil
- Is it legal in our state?
- Is it safe for me to take?
- Would it react to my medications?
- What kind of side effects could it have?
