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Who hasn’t heard about CBD oil lately? What is this stuff and does it work? Why would someone want to take it? There are so many questions, let’s work through a few of them.

CBD, or cannabidiol, started gaining widespread use about 25 years ago as a potential beneficial substance for our health interests. Although not a lot of research was done prior to this time, CBD and its benefits have been known for hundreds of years.

Perhaps one of the misconceptions regarding CBD is due to its cannabis family tree. Unlike THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, CBD does not induce intoxicating effects. CBD is derived from hemp plants and any remnants of THC are extracted out in the purification process that leads to CBD oil.

Cannabidiol works in the body in amazing ways. Medical research has shown there is a complex network of receptors in our bodies that affect every cell and our entire nervous system. We naturally synthesize chemical messengers that interact with these receptors and have positive effects on our nervous system and immune system. Scientists discovered that ingesting CBD has the same effects as our naturally synthesized chemical messengers. These same scientists discovered a dysfunction in this messenger system can cause problems with our nervous and immune system. CBD oil has been shown to relieve dysfunctions in our messenger system.

There is a vast array of CBD products available and confusion is natural. Here is a brief review of some of the main CBD products available today:

1. CBD Oils: CBD oil are usually the most potent and unprocessed form of cannabidiol. In full spectrum CBD oils, you are getting all compounds that are found naturally in the hemp plant. You can usually find CBD oils in a bottle with a dropper so that it can be used by mouth. This is one of the easies and most convenient ways to take CBD.
2. CBD tinctures: Technically, a tincture has CBD that’s been extracted with alcohol or another solvent and they are generally less potent than CBD oils. Tinctures are typically taken by mouth as well.
3. CBD capsules: CBD capsules are available as a convenient way to take cannabinoids orally. These capsules are convenient for people that may not want to taste the CBD oil and are more comfortable swallowing a capsule.
4. CBD Powders: CBD powder can be added to water, juice, tea or a smoothie. This is another easy way to take CBD orally and it allows accurate dosing.
5. CBD Edibles: Edibles, like gummies and chocolates containing CBD are popular because they are easy to use on the go.

The anecdotal claims for CBD seem to be never-ending and cover almost all aspects of human health. While more research will help with the full understanding of cannabidiol, there is no doubt the benefits are many. We are just starting to develop understanding of all the positive aspects of making CBD a regular part of our health regimen.

- Dr. Sterling