Using CBD oil can be a confusing topic. You may be wondering a lot of things: Is it legal where I live? Is it safe to use? What can I use it for? Does it have side effects? Does it work?
Path to better health
CBD is short for cannabidiol, a chemical found in the Cannabis sativa plant. There are two types of this plant: the marijuana plant and the hemp plant. CBD oil does not produce a high because it contains little to no delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the mood-altering chemical in marijuana. CBD oil that comes from the marijuana plant should contain 0.3% or less THC. CBD oil that comes from the hemp plant does not naturally contain THC. It is also not possible to become 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, such as tablets and capsules, chewables, chocolate, or creams and gels. The amount of cannabidiol oil present in these products varies from product to product and from 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 seizures from tuberous sclerosis complex.
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 the same state. Therefore, always check the laws before making any purchase.
Uses
Early studies have shown that CBD oil may help treat certain medical conditions. However, there are still no credible research studies proving or showing 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 him or her about all the over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements you’re taking. Also remind him or her about all the prescription medications you take. Some medications don’t work as well as they should if taken with CBD oil. Your doctor will be able to advise you.
Things to keep in mind
Do not use cannabidiol oil or products containing it 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 lower. However, keep in mind that the CBD industry is unregulated, meaning there is no guarantee of product safety and labels are not required 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 liver problems.
Questions to ask your doctor about CBD oil
- Is it legal in our state?
- Is it safe to take?
- Would it react with my medications?
- What types of side effects might I have?
