I have been using CBD for a number of years and am often asked by my family and friends why I use it. Given how positive my experiences have been with various CBD products, I wanted to take time to explain a pretty straight forward question with a deeper and more meaningful answer. Simply put this short explanation answers why I use and enjoy CBD.

First, some relevant background. CBD can relieve anxiety, depression, pain, inflammation, improve sleep and has other health benefits. There are even a few well-conducted studies to support these claims, and these studies (and the advice of my doctor) show that CBD has many other health benefits.

Secondly, when I say CBD let me clarify what substance I am talking about. CBD refers to a non-intoxicating cannabis extract that does not possess the psychoactive properties of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Over 200 different substances, known as cannabinoids, can be extracted from the cannabis plant, and CBD and THC are just two of these substances. CBD oil contains a variety of cannabinoids, such as cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), as well as other cannabinoids. I do not use THC products.

CBD oil relieves pain, reduces anxiety and stimulates appetite, just like marijuana. Except that it is fully legal across the US. CBD oil drops are one of the most popular ways to take cannabidiol (CBD), and it is a cost effective and convenient way for people to experience all the possible benefits that CBD oils can offer. Given that it is low cost and fully legal, why not give it a try?

If you suffer from chronic pain, anxiety, depression or insomnia (as I did for many years) or just want a wellness boost, CBD drops are a great option. Some of the most commonly reported effects of CBD are pain relief, relief from anxiety and depression, and a reduction in blood pressure. I didn’t have high blood pressure so this was not my issue. But the other benefits are well recognized and certainly helped me.

If you are new to CBD oil or CBD products, you may be wondering what to think of your drops. So here is all you need to know as you explore your options and try to decide which CBD oils and drops are right for you. Each droplet has different strengths so you may want to experiment to get the dosage right. Your doctor can likely help in this department.

Hemp CBD oil does not normally contain enough THC to reach a high level, but it does produce a strong sense of calm, in contrast to the paranoia and other side effects that people experience with marijuana. As such, I never use marijuana. 

CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system to offer a number of benefits, the most notable of which is the reduction of inflammation and pain relief. My doctor told me to look for these benefits and I certainly have. CBD reduces pain and inflammation and can speed up healing when muscles and joints are exhausted after intense exercise. This is particularly true as I recover from intense athletic outings.

How to Use CBD in a Helpful and Healthful Manner

Topical products such as oils and ointments can be used for pain treatment, but also the application of the oil to the skin reduces pain and tinctures are used effectively. Depending on the type of pain to be treated, some patients may prefer a topical cream to get CBD into the bloodstream more quickly. My doctor points out that ongoing preclinical studies in animals have shown that CBD reduces pain and inflammation, and studies on CBD in humans have shown that it is well tolerated and has few negative side effects. There is no evidence that regular use can lead to dependence. With the passage of the Farm Bill 2018, hemp – derived from CBD – was removed from the Controlled Substances Act. If you are like me, you have probably noticed how quickly the acceptance of this once controversial substance has spread. CBD products are legal in states everywhere, and medical providers even sell them to patients seeking a non-surgical approach to pain relief. Medical studies have become replete with evidence that CBD has helped people cope with everything from anxiety to chronic pain.

While pain management is the main reason for using CBD products, CBD is also useful in the treatment of anxiety disorders. In fact, I prefer to use CBD over other types of drugs, such as benzodiazepines, because medically prescribed anxiety medications can form habits – and carry the risk of addiction.

Learn more about how CBD helps me.