Cannabidiol (CBD) products are becoming increasingly popular in recent times. While most people are still skeptical about the benefits of CBD, others are already fond of these products. Luckily, CBD goodies come in various forms – from oils and tinctures to topical creams and even vegan cookies.

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What is Cannabidiol (CBD)?

Chemically, CBD is one of the 113 compounds (cannabinoids) of the Cannabis plant. It is found in hemp and marijuana – both belonging to Cannabis sativa species. In contrast to the hemp plant, marijuana contains a higher amount of THC (another one of the 113 elements).

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) may cause a psychoactive effect on our brains among other bodily responses. Both marijuana and hemp contain CBD and THC. Hemp, in general, contains much less THC than marijuana.

CBD contains traces of THC, too. Nevertheless, most products made of CBD contain very small amounts of the THC compound which are proven to be non-psychoactive. In places where marijuana has been legalized for recreational use, CBD products may contain a higher amount of THC.

CBD Interactions With Our Organisms Explained

CBD mainly interacts with the receptors of the Endocannabinoid system (ECS). These receptors are spread throughout the human body – our internal organs, brain, and even skin. Naturally, endocannabinoids bind to the receptors to indicate that ECS has to take an action.

Similar to endocannabinoids, cannabinoids also interact with the receptors of ECS. According to recent work, THC binds well with receptors in the same way as most endocannabinoids. Depending on the amount of THC in a given CBD product it may foster beneficial effects on our organisms.

Currently, there is little clarity on the interactions between CBD and ECS. According to some research, it does not connect to any ECS receptors at all. However, others claim that it interacts with receptors that have not been discovered yet.

Regardless of the lack of research on the interaction between CBD and ECS, the proven benefits of CBD products are more than its drawbacks. CBD may support internal body functions such as metabolism, anxiety, and heart functions. Also, it may help in curing acne by its ability to reduce sebum production.

The Legalization of CBD Around The World

Is the use of CBD products legal? The short answer is – “Yes, it generally is”.

“That is not a drug. It’s a leaf” – Arnold Schwarzenegger

CBD Products in Unites States

The final version of the 2018 Farm bill allowed entrepreneurs across the United States to legally market CBD products containing less than 0,3 % THC. This law also permitted the cultivation of hemp across the country. All of this, however, comes with some major restrictions.

CBD Products in Europe

In Europe, the legislation of CBD varies by country. Similar to the US, most European Union member countries consider that it is legal to market CBD products containing less than 0,2 to 0,3% THC. However, there are some exceptions such as Ireland, Finland, and Iceland. In some of these countries, people will need a medical prescription to purchase CBD products.

A nationwide ban on CBD products exists in countries like Russia, Serbia and Slovakia.

CBD Products in Asia

In general, China restricts the production of hemp albeit it lets a few local provinces grow hemp. Also, Chinese officials state that it is legal to market products containing less than 0,3% THC. However, they ban the use of CBD as a food additive and food ingredient.

Regardless of the current legal status of CBD around the world, laws for CBD usage constantly change. Therefore, it is wise to keep an eye on any updates about the status of different countries.

CBD Lifestyle? Why Not?

Producers of CBD goodies market their creations in many different forms. Nowadays, one of the most popular forms of CBD is CBD oil. Natural oils (coconut, macadamia, or jojoba oil) and cannabinoids are mixed in the creation of one of the most successful CBD products on the market today.

Another interesting form of CBD is food products or food additives. For example, hemp cooking oil is a very popular healthy substitute for traditional cooking oils. Also, online shops offer CBD sweets, wine, and there are even vegan options.

The benefits of CBD oil revisited

Let’s state some of the main benefits of CBD:

• Metabolism booster
• Hearth functions backer
• Anxiety and depression killer
• Pain reliever
• Acne terminator

The side effects of CBD

Regardless of the numerous benefits of CBD, there are a few drawbacks that we should consider when choosing and using CBD products. This is because people often may experience side effects from any CBD product if they take it incorrectly. These side effects mainly relate to medical CBD products such as oil or pill supplements.

First, it is really important to not blend CBD products with other medications. Before doing so, it is wise to research the potential side effects or even consult a doctor. Second, it is vital to not mix CBD products with alcohol.

The side effects of CBD products, if not taken correctly, are drowsiness, lightheadedness, and dry mouth. Products containing a high amount of THC could cause light psychoactive effects, too. These products, however, are only permitted in certain places where cannabis for recreational use has been legalized.

To sum up, the recent legalization of cannabis for cosmetic and medical use let many enthusiasts tap into the huge potential of this plant. CBD products ranging from cooking oils to luxury cosmetics attract an increasing number of consumers in the USA, Europe, and Asia alike. If you decide to give it a try, please post a comment to share your impressions of these products below.