If you live with ADHD or pain caused by arthritis or other chronic health conditions, chances are you have most likely heard of CBD and its counterpart medical marijuana. But what exactly is CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is derived from the hemp plant and does not contain the THC that is associated with that "high" feeling you get from medical marijuana.
CBD is typically consumed in an oil or capsule form, although some companies offer it as a vaping product for smokers.
Taking CBD oil orally is generally the best way to benefit from the product since vaping can be harmful to the lungs.
For oil consumption, you simply place a few drops under your tongue, or you can take the CBD as a capsule. There are even some companies that offer CBD-infused gummies and other edibles, but the price can be quite high for a small amount of product.
CBD may help control ADHD symptoms such as anxiety, hyperactivity, and irritability. It may also help ease the pain associated with arthritis and other chronic health conditions like cystic fibrosis.
While the side effects are not permanent, CBD may cause drowsiness, so it's best to start in small doses when using the product. Once your body has adjusted to the CBD, you can begin increasing your dosage gradually.
If you are concerned about getting that "high" feeling, you won't with a good quality CBD product.
While CBD isn't the same as medical marijuana, some companies do produce CBD products like oil, that may contain trace amounts of THC, the component that gives you that feeling of high.
If you are concerned whether the CBD product you are interested in purchasing contains even a trace amount of THC, the information should be listed somewhere on the packaging. If you are still not sure, contact the company's customer service department.
You will also want to make sure that CBD is legal within your state and at your job since the laws do vary. And if you are planning to travel out of the state or country, check with the laws of the area you plan to visit before you pack your CBD oil.
If you do decide to give CBD a try, treat it like you would any new medication. Don't drive, swim or operate machinery until you know how CBD affects you. You should not expect overnight success using CBD.
Just like any medication, your body will need to adjust to the CBD's benefits before you will feel and see it working to its full potential.
