No, not actually real weed… but a derivative of weed called CBD. There have been some misunderstandings about CBD, such as the fear that it would be able to make you high or addicted. But really, when the myths and misconceptions around CBD are debunked, it can really open up a new approach to pain relief and other benefits that come along with this supplement.
My Personal Story
I have been on a personal journey of going medicine-free (as much as is possible at least). My interest in a holistic lifestyle also asked for a more holistic approach to healing and with that, my choice of medication. Instead of going for over-the-counter meds at the drugstore, I started doing research about home remedies to help with nausea, stress, headaches, cuts, and other ailments. As I started gaining more knowledge about nutrition and herbal supplements, I was able to incorporate changes in the way I dealt with my health. Slowly I started swapping my tummy tabs for ginger tea and eczema salve for calendula (a flower known for its soothing properties) infused coconut oil. However, the paracetamol still seemed like a staple in my medicine cabinet and I wasn’t sure how to replace it. After all, herbal remedies may soothe but they weren’t really pain-relief medication, right? Since I was dealing with terrible PMS cramps, I was unsure how to do without any painkillers in my cabinet. Still, I felt like I had made such great changes in my lifestyle, and using a simple painkiller just didn’t seem to fit within my lifestyle anymore. I felt like I needed something more natural and effective. When I started doing more research, I stumbled upon CBD oral supplements and decided to give them a try. I felt like I hit the jackpot!
Why I Would Recommend Making the Swap
CBD is an active ingredient in marijuana, though medical-grade CBD is derived from the hemp plant. CBD, unlike THC (the psychoactive component in marijuana), does not cause a high feeling. Instead, CBD is used as an aid with problems such as nausea, pain, headaches, anxiety, inflammation, insomnia, and many more. Whilst THC may be addicting, CBD is non-addictive and non-intoxicating.
The benefits of CBD, and why you should consider using it:
1. Stress and anxiety relief: CBD interacts with the body to achieve a state of equilibrium which improves stress response and decreases feelings of anxiety. It targets the issues at the root instead of producing sedative effects (like allopathic painkillers such as paracetamol). Research shows that CBD can help with various types of anxieties such as general, social, PTSD and OCD. Therefore, it is also a possible substitute for anti-depressants.
2. Anti-inflammatory: this can either work topically as an aid for acne, as well as internally for symptoms such as IBS and arthritis. CBD interferes (and even decreases) with inflammatory substances which cause symptoms such as pain and swelling.
3. Sleep disorders: insomnia can be caused by depression or stress and in these cases, CBD may also help with insomnia or other sleeping disorders. CBD communicates intracellularly and so coaches the body to calm its nervous system.
A final note: In my opinion, CBD or any other supplements are only meant as an aid. Eventually, a healthy lifestyle is the key to feeling good. This means incorporating good nutrition, sleeping habits, meditation, and movement.
Disclaimer: Do your research and ask your (naturopathic) healthcare provider for information on the dosage and quality of the CBD product. Do not take this article as medical advice.
Sources used for this article:
https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/cannabidiol-cbd-what-we-know-and-what-we-dont-2018082414476
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/consumer-health/expert-answers/is-cbd-safe-and-effective/faq-20446700
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