If you’ve been keeping up with the latest wellness trends, you’ve probably heard about CBD. But what exactly is it, and why is everyone talking about it?
What Is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a natural compound found in the cannabis sativa plant. CBD is derived from hemp, species of cannabis that have 0.3% or less THC, the compound behind the “high” associated with marijuana. Unlike marijuana, CBD doesn’t have any psychoactive effects. Instead, it’s popular for its potential benefits, from promoting relaxation to supporting healthy skin.
Important: Research on CBD is still evolving. It’s always a good idea to consult a medical professional before you begin using it. That’s especially true if you’re pregnant, nursing, or taking prescription medications. Learn more about CBD from the FDA.
10 Potential Benefits of CBD
It’s hard to miss CBD these days – it’s everywhere! And that’s not without a reason. It seems research into the promising benefits of cannabidiol makes the news regularly. But before you start thinking of CBD as a new treatment for anything that ails you, it’s important to remember that the scientific community is still learning about CBD. Here’s what some of the research suggests CBD might be able to help with.
1. Enhance Your Workout Recovery
When you exercise, your muscles experience microscopic damage, which can lead to inflammation and soreness. Many fitness enthusiasts have started turning to CBD as a natural post-workout aid. Research suggests that CBD may help reduce muscle soreness and inflammation by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system. This can potentially lead to faster recovery times after a workout, which can in turn lead to improved performance when you hit the gym.
2. Calm Your Mind and Boost Your Mood
How can you calm your frazzled nerves when you’re stressed out? CBD has shown promise in easing anxiety and stress in both animal and human studies. Some research has even demonstrated CBD’s potential to enhance your mood by interacting with serotonin receptors in the brain. This could make CBD a valuable natural tool in managing stress and promoting mental well-being.
3. Sleep Better
CBD may help improve sleep. Research has shown that CBD can potentially regulate the sleep-wake cycle, helping you get more restful and rejuvenating sleep. CBD may also help reduce nightmares associated with PTSD.
Related: Job Stress? Sleep Better According to Research
4. Promote Healthy Skin
Researchers are looking into the benefits of the topical use of CBD on skin disorders like eczema, psoriasis, and other types of inflammatory skin conditions. Its potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may help soothe irritated skin. CBD-infused skincare products like creams and serums are becoming increasingly popular for their potential to nourish and revitalize the skin.
5. Support a Healthy Heart
Preliminary research suggests that CBD may contribute to cardiovascular wellness by reducing inflammation and promoting healthy blood pressure levels. While more research is needed, these findings hint at CBD’s potential role in supporting heart health.
6. Improve Focus and Mental Clarity
CBD has shown promise in improving brain function by helping two parts of the brain (the frontal and striatal regions) communicate better with each other. And we already talked about its potential to reduce anxiety symptoms. By promoting a sense of calm, CBD could help you maintain better focus throughout your day.
7. Wake You Up
Incorporating CBD into your daily rituals, such as adding it to your morning coffee or smoothie, may help you feel more awake. While CBD’s exact mechanisms for promoting energy are still being studied (are you sensing a theme here?), anecdotal reports suggest it may help you feel more alert and ready to tackle your day.
8. Relieve Everyday Aches and Pains
CBD has been studied for its effectiveness in reducing pain. With its potential anti-inflammatory properties, CBD may provide relief from everyday aches and pains without the need for over-the-counter medications. CBD appears to turn down the psychological noise that comes with pain. Although it may not completely eliminate pain, it may make your experience of it less unpleasant.
9. Boost Your Immune System
CBD’s potential to support immune function is a growing area of interest. Some studies have suggested that CBD may help regulate immune responses by suppressing an overactive immune system. That’s important, especially for people with autoimmune diseases or excessive inflammation. While more research is needed, CBD could play a role in maintaining a strong and healthy immune system.
10. Reduce Nausea
Studies have shown that CBD may play a role in regulating nausea and vomiting. This research has helped cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy and may also help with other causes of nausea like motion sickness.
Is CBD Right for You?
As we’ve seen, CBD offers an array of surprising benefits that can help elevate your lifestyle. From workout recovery to immune support, this natural wonder may be the key to unlocking a healthier and happier you.
To date, CBD has FDA approval only for the treatment of some rare seizure disorders. As of January 2023, the FDA is working with Congress toward new regulatory guidelines for CBD products. It’s important to remember that the health claims made by some companies that produce CBD products haven’t been evaluated by the FDA. It’s up to you and your doctor to decide what’s best for you and your health needs.
