Is CBD Oil Healthy? Is CBD Safe to Use?

What Is CBD Oil? 

CBD oil is extracted cannabidiol (CBD.) Cannabidiol is one of the many active ingredients in the cannabis plant. Both hemp and marijuana contain CBD, but hemp tends to contain CBD in higher concentrations than most strains of marijuana.

CBD vs. THC 

When many people hear “cannabis,” they back away. Cannabis and marijuana have been damned for decades due to the War on Drugs. Marijuana has been painted as a dangerous drug that can melt your brain. It’s not correct to say the same about CBD and CBD oil. CBD won’t get you high – that’s what THC does.THC is another active ingredient in marijuana. CBD, on the other hand, offers a lot of benefits that have celebrities, moms, and health and wellness experts raving.

Not All CBD Oil Products Are the Same 

CBD oil isn’t pure CBD. It is typically blended with an oil (coconut oil or MCT oil are two common choices.) Manufacturers may also add terpenes, essential oils, amino acids, or other additives to enhance the effects of their product. Check all of the ingredients on the back of a CBD oil bottle before you buy it.

How Does CBD Oil Work? 

As scientists were looking at the effects that cannabis has on the body, they discovered an entire system running through the nervous system and other parts of the body. It’s called the endocannabinoid system. The endocannabinoid system helps the body maintain homeostasis or balance.

Our body produces its own cannabinoids, which bind to receptors within the endocannabinoid system. Once that bond is made, neurotransmitters are sent to different areas of the body with messages that it is time to complete certain functions.

Phytocannabinoids, like CBD, also encourage the release of neurotransmitters throughout the body. CBD can play a role in a variety of functions that take place in the nervous system, joints, and digestive system.

CBD and Pregnancy 

Moms are hopping on the CBD train in droves – and so are moms-to-be. CBD has become a hot alternative to antidepressants and other medications that may cause side effects to the baby. Meanwhile, CBD can address a number of symptoms of pregnancy, including hormone-induced acne and high stress.

But should it be on the list of things that women should avoid while pregnant?

We’re not sure yet. There just isn’t enough research on CBD and pregnancy to give a definitive answer.

There is research on smoking marijuana during pregnancy, and the results aren’t good. Smoking weed while pregnant can lead to delays in brain development and low birth weight. The THC can make its way right into the placenta. The CDC says just don’t do it.

CBD and Other Medications 

Have you ever heard that you shouldn’t eat grapefruit while on certain medications? Some studies suggest that CBD could have similar effects to grapefruits. CBD blocks a set of liver enzymes that grapefruits inhibit. This means that if you are on medication, you could find yourself with more of that medication running throughout your bloodstream.

Does this mean you should stay away from CBD altogether? Not necessarily. CBD oil taken under the tongue does increase your risk of CBD interacting with your medication – more CBD reaches the bloodstream. However, CBD edibles or topical products may be completely safe while taking medication.

Talk to a medical professional about whether or not you should take CBD oil while on certain medications.

There Is Still Research to Be Done on CBD Oil 

Unfortunately, there are a lot of unanswered questions about CBD oil. Researchers have a lot of work to do and consumers may feel left in the dark for many years. But for now, CBD oil consumption is broad.  Continue to conduct research on CBD oil and use it with caution. Start with small doses and work your way up if needed. Remember to read reviews of CBD oil products and buy from trusted retailers in order to guarantee that you are getting a pure, organic product without THC.