Are you feeling stressed out or anxious? Do you experience pain and inflammation? If you answered yes to either of the above questions then you should definitely know about CBD, one of nature’s most powerful healing remedies.
The Healing and Health-Boosting Magic of CBD
If you’ve never heard of it before, here’s a quick introduction to what CBD is and the research behind this amazing compound. CBD (which stands for cannabidiol) is a natural compound found in the cannabis and hemp plants (don’t worry it won’t get you high, but it makes most people feel good for other reasons), and there is a growing body of scientific research showing that cannabidiol can be beneficial for a variety of uses (from reducing social anxiety to helping reduce pain and inflammation) with more and more evidence cropping up every day.
According to medical cannabis expert, Leonard Leinow, “at least ten randomized, controlled trials on over one thousand patients have demonstrated the efficacy of cannabinoids for neuropathic pain of various origins.” In addition, pre-clinical research has shown CBD to have a range of effects including antioxidant, neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and anti-anxiety properties. And a 2012 research review of several international studies concluded that CBD has been effective for reducing anxiety, particularly social anxiety. [1-2]
Many people report that taking CBD oil causes them to experience a pleasant and powerful reduction in anxiety and a noticeable lift in mood, which is often described as feeling a wave of calm or bliss washing over their bodies, which is consistent with CBD’s reported effects at 5-HT receptors that control the release of many important neurotransmitters (particularly serotonin) that affect stress, anxiety levels, and mood.
But before you run out and buy some, there’s a few important things to keep in mind when navigating the many different types of CBD products on the market. Here’s our guidelines for what to look for as well as a few of our favorite products.
Full-Spectrum CBD vs. CBD Isolate
We recommend choosing a full-spectrum CBD product, like Just CBD’s organic full-spectrum CBD tincture. Full-spectrum means that the extract contains a range of other helpful cannabinoids and terpenes that naturally occur in the plant itself. These compounds (along with the vitamins, minerals, and amino acids found in the plant) work in a synergistic manner to enhance the effectiveness of the CBD.
Dosage
Another aspect to keep in mind when looking for CBD is the strength of the product. If you’re new to taking CBD, you’ll want to start with a smaller dosage and work your way up. We particularly like Just CBD’s full-spectrum tincture because it comes in a variety of doses ranging from 1.66mg to 50mg of CBD per milliliter. Most people will generally use between 10mg to 50mg of CBD per dose; however, smaller amounts can be used more frequently throughout the day and even for pets, as there’s a growing body of research that’s showing CBD may be useful for helping alleviate anxiety and pain in cats and dogs as well.
Organic and Natural
As with most herbs and supplements, we always recommend seeking out organic and all-natural products whenever possible. Organic CBD ensures that there are no harmful chemical pesticides or GMOs used during growing.
In addition to their organic full-spectrum tincture, Just CBD (a leading brand in the CBD space) has a few other natural products that are super versatile and effective. Their CBD coconut oil is a lovely, balancing addition to a Bulletproof-style coffee and has a number of other uses such as a vegan substitute for butter or a body moisturizer and massage oil. If you experience any aches and pains that you use a topical cream for, you may want to try out their CBD infused pain cream, which has a ton of rave reviews from their customers.
As for myself, I’ve been using Just CBD’s full-spectrum organic CBD tincture for a few weeks now and have experienced some incredible benefits. These last couple of weeks for me have been filled with deadlines and near-constant travel, along with the hustle and bustle of the holidays, yet I’ve felt a lot less stressed and much more calm and focused than I normally do with this much going on.
To try Just CBD’s for yourself, visit their website justcbdstore.com
References
[1] Volkow, Nora D. “Cannabidiol: Barriers to Research and Potential Medical Benefits.” Drug Caucus Hearing on Barriers to Cannabidiol Research, United States Senate Caucus on International Narcotics Control. June 24, 2015 Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov/about-nida/legislative-activities/testimony-to-congress/2016/biology-potential-therapeutic-effects-cannabidiol
[2] A. R. Schier, N. P. Ribeiro, A. C. Silva, J. E. Hallak, J. A. Crippa, A. E. Nardi, and A. W. Zuardi, “Cannabidiol, a Cannabis sativa Constituent, As an Anxiolytic Drug,” Revista Brasileira de Psiquiatri 34, suppl. 1 (2012): S104–S110. PubMed PMID: 22729452.
Disclaimer
The statements made in this article have not been evaluated by the FDA. Any products recommended are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease. No claim is made or implied whatsoever as to the effects of any recommended products or their effects on health.