What is cannabidiol (CBD)?

Cannabidiol, or CBD, is one of about 540 cannabinoids that are found in the cannabis Sativa plant, which includes hemp and cannabis (marijuana). Many people are familiar with, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which causes the sensation of being “high.” Because hemp-derived products contain 0% or low levels of THC, people typically do not experience the mind-altering effects, like euphoria and paranoia, that occur while using cannabis. 

What is the scientific research that supports what CBD is good for?

Research is looking at whether CBD can help with a variety of physical and mental health conditions. Current research on CBD has found that it can help with the following conditions:

  • Insomnia: There is evidence to suggest that CBD can help improve sleep in people with insomnia.

  • Addiction: Studies have found that CBD may alleviate cravings for alcohol, opioids, stimulants, and cannabis. 

  • Chronic pain

  • Anxiety: There is evidence to suggest that at high doses, CBD can help alleviate anxiety in people with chronic pain and also help decrease social anxiety.

  • Depression: Preliminary studies on CBD suggest that it could be helpful for depression. Like antidepressant medications, it appears to alter serotonin levels in the brain.

  • Epilepsy: CBD is effective for treating seizures associated with certain forms of epilepsy that don’t respond well to other medications.

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