What is CBD? The short answer? CBD stands for cannabidiol. It’s found in the cannabis plant and has been touted as a cure-all for everything from anxiety to pain. Celebrities have been using it for the past few years, and evidently the Chinese have been using it for centuries. In this post, we’re going to break down this compound for you and give you the skinny on all of its benefits — and possible side effects.
CBD Effects: Marijuana Without the High
If you really want to know what is CBD, it’s basically cannabis without THC. CBD has become so popular in the past few years because it offers all the health benefits of marijuana without the ‘high.’
One of the most popular components of cannabis is its psychedelic effects. It relaxes you, makes you feel good and distorts your vision and thought process. Some people absolutely love the psychedelic effects of marijuana. Others, not so much.
For the latter, there’s CBD. It’s been known to ease anxiety and pain — without the altered state of reality.
What Is CBD Used For?
CBD has been used for everything from pain management to anti-anxiety medication to treatment for autism and seizures. The better question might be what is CBD not used for?
Since it has been touted as a cure-all for so many conditions, it’s not a bad idea to view CBD through a critical lens. While most people do experience great results with it, there’s still more research to do before we can definitely say if it has positive effects on every health concern it’s supposed to cure.
The good news? The anecdotal evidence is overwhelming. And if it works for you? We won’t judge you for doing what feels good.
Is CBD Legal?
Yes! The extra-good news is that CBD is now legal. What you need to watch out for is CBD that’s sold in stores that might not have jurisdiction to sell it — such as bodegas and other corner stores.
It has so little THC (most CBD anyway) that retailers are even allowed to sell it to residents of states where cannabis hasn’t been legalized yet.
How to Take CBD
CBD comes in a variety of forms. You can eat it, drink it and absorb it. Its most popular form is in CBD oil, which you can use in many ways. Food-grade CBD oil can be added to edibles, baked goods, coffee, cocktail and juices.
You can even get a CBD massage with topical oils. You’ll also find it in lotions and patches, too.
CBD Oil Side Effects
Nothing is perfect. Some people experience some light side effects with CBD oil and other forms of CBD. Fatigue and dry mouth are two of the most common reported CBD side effects.
Our advice? Try taking it at night first — and always tell your doctor or naturopath before starting a CBD regimen.
Where Can You Buy CBD?
CBD is now available in dispensaries, grocery stores and even online (isn’t everything available online?). We can ship CBD to all U.S. states, and it comes in a variety of forms.