A Complete Guide to Using CBD for Best Results: Potential Health Benefits

There are many kinds of cannabinoids found in cannabis plants. Researchers have only just started studying them, but one in particular has shown some promises in offering health benefits. This compound is called CBD or cannabidiol. Unlike the other popular cannabinoid THC or tetrahydrocannabinol, CBD is non-intoxicating and will not get you high. rnResearch on CBD is still ongoing, but some studies have shown that it is anti-inflammatory and can protect nerves from damage. It is also helpful in managing various conditions like pain and anxiety. It has even shown potential as a treatment for Alzheimer’s disease. Although CBD has many uses, note that some forms of CBD are more readily absorbed by the body than others. rnLearning the nuances of CBD can be confusing and overwhelming, especially if you have very little experience with it. This guide will give you more information about each method of consuming CBD to help you figure out the best one that will fit your needs. CBD Edibles rnEdibles offer a discreet way to consume CBD. They come in many forms, including gummies, mints and truffles. There are a few caveats with consuming edibles, though. For one, you are subjected to the “first pass effect.” Because the CBD will have to first be broken down by the digestive tract and liver, it can take up to two hours for the it to kick in. Also, you will only absorb about 20 to 30 percent of the CBD you consume. CBD Sublingual Products rnMany edibles contain preservatives and sugar, so sublingual products are a good choice if you want to avoid additives on your CBD. As its name suggests, these products are designed to be absorbed under the tongue, and can come in the form of tinctures, lozenges, oils and sprays. They take effect much faster compared to edible products. Go with these product if you want to experience the effects of CBD immediately. CBD Topicals rnDesigned to be applied directly on the skin, CBD topicals are available in lotions, creams, salves, balms and transdermal patches. Topicals are a good choice if you are looking to treat localized pain or conditions like eczema and even arthritis in a discreet way. Using infused topical products that contain additional analgesics like camphor, menthol and capsaicin might being even more therapeutic potential to the mix. CBD Vapes and Smokes rnYou can smoke CBD flower in a joint, inhale CBD concentrates with a vape pen, or use a vaporizer that contains CBD oil. Vaping and smoking allow the CBD to go directly into the bloodstream, so you will absorb 34 to 56 percent of the CBD in 10 minutes or less. Remember that smoking cannabis can expose the user to carcinogens, so this might not be the best choice for people with respiratory problems. rnNumerous studies have documented all the potential benefits of CBD. This cannabinoid has shown to help with muscle pain, insomnia, fibromyalgia, eczema, psoriasis, Crohn’s disease and migraines. It can also help patients suffering from ADD and ADHD, as well as offer relief on certain cancer-related issues. rnCBD can relieve oxidative stress on the heart and blood pressure, and lower eye pressure. It can also act as a mood stabilizer and help with stress and anxiety, as well as in epilepsy and seizures. More research are still being conducted on cannabis and CBD, so we can only expect this list of health benefits to grow more. rnThere are many ways to take CBD, but there is no right or wrong way to do it. Try out the different methods and see what works for you. Before trying CBD, make sure that you consult your doctor first, especially if you are currently taking any medication. CBD can interact with these drugs and cause problems.