CBD is everywhere. Here’s a brief overview on what we know — and still don’t know — about it.
The latest health craze has come to Lakeland: CBD. CBD, or cannabidiol, is an increasingly popular natural remedy used to treat a variety of common ailments. It is one of 104 cannabinoids found in cannabis or marijuana. Unlike its common relative THC — or tetrahydrocannabinol — CBD is not a psychoactive substance. This means CBD users do not experience the “high” sensation. The lack of mind-altering effects has made CBD an attractive option for individuals who are looking for natural treatments for pain, anxiety, and a variety of other symptoms. CBD appears to have an ever-growing list of health benefits. Some of these benefits include pain relief, reduction of anxiety and depression, alleviation of cancer-related symptoms, acne reduction, neuroprotective properties, and increased heart health.
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a specialized system in the body that is involved in regulating bodily functions such as sleep, appetite, pain, and immune system response. Endocannabinoids are neurotransmitters that bind to cannabinoid receptors in the nervous system. By impacting endocannabinoid receptor activity, reducing inflammation, and interacting with neurotransmitters, CBD has shown to reduce chronic pain.
Perhaps the most appealing characteristic of CBD is its supposed impact on anxiety and depression. According to the World Health Organization, depression is the single largest contributor to disability worldwide, while anxiety disorders are ranked sixth. The common method of treatment for these mental illnesses is pharmaceutical drugs which include a variety of side effects as well as addictive qualities. Studies have shown that CBD has reduced anxiety around public speaking. Additionally, it has been used to treat anxiety and insomnia in children who suffer with post-traumatic stress disorder. These effects have been linked to CBD’s ability to act on serotonin receptors which regulate mood and behavior.
Many individuals have questioned the legality of CBD due to its relation with THC, which is illegal in most states. Frankly, it’s hazy — pun intended. Federally, CBD is classified as a Schedule I drug, which is defined as a drug with no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. On the state level, there are three states that have made cannabis completely illegal: Idaho, Nebraska, and South Dakota. However, the legality of cannabis in other states may vary.
There is a large variety of ways to consume CBD. This includes oils, creams, capsules, edibles, and vaping. Each method can take anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour to take effect. This does not include vaping. When vaping CBD oil, the substance is almost instantly transferred from the lungs into the bloodstream. When determining an appropriate dosage, the amount varies amongst all individuals.
As with any new supplement, it’s important to do the research yourself and to ask your doctor before incorporating a new treatment regimen to wellness practice.
Local Sources for CBD
SURTERRA
1222 South Florida Avenue, Lakeland, FL 33803
863.225.8600 | surterra.com
YOUR CBD STORE
3145 South Florida Avenue, Lakeland, FL 33803
863.937.3195 | cbdrx4u.com
LAKELAND CBD WELLNESS
225 North Kentucky Avenue, Lakeland, FL 33801
863.606.6115 | lakelandcbdwellness.com