Delanie Dickens
Reporter
Cannabidiol, typically known as CBD, is a substance that has become increasingly popular over the last decade. CBD is an active ingredient of cannabis, derived directly from the hemp plant. CBD can be used for a number of health benefits including epilepsy, anxiety and chronic pain.
CBD is one of over 60 cannabinoids that come from the plant. Not all cannabinoids lead to psychoactive effects, despite public controversy. CBD can be ingested without experiencing the effects from other sources such as THC.
Experts have developed ways to safely extract the benefits of CBD. In most cases, users will place a small drop of oil under their tongue. This oil can also be added to food and drink or applied directly to areas affected by pain as ointments or balms. Many people inhale CBD by vaping or smoking the product, though this method is not recommended by professionals.
Reasons for using CBD may vary. The oils target endocannabinoid receptors in the brain and throughout the body. These receptors are responsible for feelings of fatigue and chronic pain. CBD is believed to restore the balance in these receptors.
Amidst the growing opioid crisis, CBD has been proven to,“decrease inflammation and prevent neuropathic pain in ways that traditional medicine has failed,” said Peter Grinspoon, M.D. at Harvard Medical.
Mental health professionals have also considered the benefits of CBD as many physicians already prescribe CBD and other natural treatments to their patients.
“ The effects of antidepressants can be much more toxic than the symptoms they are treating.” said Heather D. Eckhart, MSW, LCSW, a psychology professor at Crowder.
There are indisputable effects from using antidepressants for an extensive period of time. Psychotherapy and other natural remedies like CBD may be a better alternative.
While CBD is becoming more accessible, more research is needed to understand the nature of this product. The side effects of CBD use may include, “nausea, fatigue and irritability.” said Grinspoon. Like any substance, CBD can be overused if not it’s properly regulated.
A recent article published by KODE-TV explains that although, medical marijuana is now legal in the state, Crowder fears that allowing cannabis on campus would restrict federal funds in the future.
CBD is federally legal, as long as it does not contain high amounts of THC. Most CBD users are under the age of 34, meaning that campuses nationwide will see an increase in CBD use as long as statistics continue to prove the products benefits.
Despite concerns over the legality of cannabis related products, CBD the health community continues to study CBD along with new methods of treatment for various conditions. CBD has the potential to be a life altering medicine in the near future.
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