CBD gummies are ubiquitous in the wellness industry, with CBD being the most utilized compound in wellness products. Because of this CBDA is often confused by consumers and they wonder what experiments support the claim that CBDA works with the body. Because of CBD's omnipresence, this article is meant to inform consumers about the current state of research on CBD and what there is to support the claim that CBD works with our body. With the oversaturation, it can be difficult for consumers to know what is legitimate and what is marketing hype, which is what this article aims to help with.
CBD is short for Cannabidiol, which is a chemical that is produced by the cannabis plant. More specifically, it is produced by the hemp variety of the cannabis plant. All forms of cannabis and hemp include a set of compounds that are called phytocannabinoids. All phytocannabinoids are designed to work with the Endocannabinoid system, which is a set of receptors, neurotransmitters, and proteins that is designed to help regulate stress, immune response, pain response, and sleep. CBD is a phytocannabinoid and works with the ECS, but it does not work directly with the ECS receptors. Instead of helping trigger the body receptors, it is designed to inhibit receptors, which is what is believed to help with the non-intoxicating and tolerable side of CBD.
CBD can be ingested or treated with oil, which is designed to work with the ECS receptors. When ingested, the CBD needs to be processed by the liver before it is able to go into circulation. Because of this processing, it is common for users to experience a delayed response compared to using oil, but there is often longer lasting effects compared to using the oil.
What Does Research Show Regarding CBD and Stress and Anxiety?
Of all CBD's researched potential uses, treating symptoms of anxiety is among the most researched.
A few reviews and human studies conclude that CBD can assist with anxiety, social anxiety, and anxiety caused by stress. In some studies, those who received CBD reported a more significant decrease in anxiety post stress tasks than those who received placebo.
Some researchers attribute these outcomes to CBD's influence on serotonin and the stress response system.
Gummies have not been the subject of any studies as a means of delivery, but the calming effects of some orally consumed CBD support the idea that dosages of CBD taken by mouth may provide calming effects when calmed.
Research on CBD and Sleep
Support for sleep is another of CBD's significant areas of potential uses.
Some studies suggest that sleep quality may improve with CBD use particularly in those who have sleep problems related to chronic pain or anxiety. In some studies, researchers found that a number of CBD users reported that they slept better as a result of using CBD.
Findings vary. Some individuals are more alert at lower doses, and more relaxed at higher doses. Thus, illustrating the need for individual dosing.
Due to their gradual and prolonged effects, CBD gummies are favored by many as a part of their bedtime routine.
Research on CBD for Pain and Inflammation
For some time now, scientists have been looking at how CBD may impact the way people process pain and whether it has any impact on the multiple inflammatory processes in the body.
Some studies have shown that people suffering from chronic pain, neuropathic pain, and inflammation related to other diseases may have some relief from the discomfort that these diseases may be causing. There has been some research on animals that has shown that CBD might have some properties that help to reduce inflammation.
It has been suggested that CBD might help balance out inflammatory signals and that it may be able to interact with some pain receptors in the nervous system.
While capsules and oils have been the primary focus of most studies, it is possible that the same biological effects can be achieved with CBD infused gummies, because they contain the same active constituents.
CBD and Neurological Conditions
Certain rare forms of seizure disorders have shown the most clinically relevant evidence for the use of CBD.
In several countries, a medication that contains a refined form of CBD has been sanctioned for use with certain forms of epilepsy. There have been clinical studies that have shown some positive results with respect to seizure frequency in comparison to a placebo.
In addition to epilepsy, it is possible that CBD may be of benefit in the treatment of Parkinson's, multiple sclerosis, and other neurodegenerative disorders, as evidence is beginning to emerge, albeit some is preliminary.
Although CBD may be beneficial in aiding a variety of neuro disorders, evidence is still growing.
CBD and Mood Regulation
CBD may have the ability to impact a person’s mood, and it may do this through the interaction of the neurochemicals of serotonin and dopamine. Research in this area is early stage and as a result, the impact of CBD on a person’s mood is yet to be fully understood.
Some studies with small sample sizes suggest a decrease in depression symptoms, particularly if depression is related to anxiety or stress. Animal studies support having similar symptoms when using antidepressants.
Despite some positive findings, CBD does not substitute for traditional mental health therapies. CBD can be an adjunctive therapeutic measure with mental health professionals.
CBD for Inflammation-Related Skin Conditions
CBD is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, and so is CBD-containing skin products.
Preliminary studies suggest that CBD can potentially be used for skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and skin inflammation due to its anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties.
Before drawing final conclusions, more studies must be conducted.
What Research Says About CBD Safety
CBD is a product that is typically well-tolerated.
CBD does appear to have some mild side effects that can occur. They include:
- Fatigue
- Dry mouth
- Increased or decreased appetite
- Stomach issues
CBD does not appear to be habit forming.
CBD does interact with some medications, especially those that are metabolized in the liver. Those individuals taking medications need to discuss this with their physician before taking CBD.
Currently Available Research
Though current research gives promise to potential benefits of various applications of CBD, there are still a number of challenges to further substantiating the efficacy of these products:
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Most CBD research studies are comprised of very few participants.
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Research is still ongoing pertaining to some of CBD's possible long-term side effects.
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Optimal dosing ranges have not yet been established.
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Standards pertaining to the quality of a CBD product are subjective.
As CBD products are poorly regulated compared to other types of pharmaceuticals, these factors can greatly influence the outcomes of a given product.
The Importance of Product Quality
The majority of research studies pertaining to CBD rely on studies that involve a thorough investigation of the applicability of various types of purified CBD preparations. More affordable CBD products may not have the correct concentration of CBD and may also contain other unwanted and hazardous ingredients.
When selecting CBD gummies, these attributes are incredibly valuable:
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Evidence of third-party quality testing
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Information on the total amount of cannabinoids present in the product
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Minimalistic ingredient list
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Quality manufacturing processes
Manufacturers who produce higher quality CBD gummies typically produce higher quality CBD products in their other product offerings. For more information, feel free to explore the various CBD products.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have CBD gummies been scientifically validated?
While there is ample evidence to support the potential benefits of CBD, there is also evidence to support the misconception that CBD gummies are a form of self-therapy via the actual consumption of gummies, as the therapeutic efficacy lies in the CBD, not the gummy.
How long does it take for CBD gummies to take effect?
The onset of effect depends on a number of factors, such as individual metabolic rate, and the amount of CBD consumed. Generally speaking, the average individual can expect to wait for approximately one hour for any effect to begin, with a maximum wait time of 90 minutes.
Is CBD capable of curing diseases?
CBD is not a cure. CBD does not cure anything. CBD can only be used to help relieve some of the symptoms associated with certain conditions.
Is CBD safe for long-term use?
CBD is thought to be safe for most people, including long-term use, but studies evaluating long-term use are still being conducted.
Conclusion
Although scientific research about CBD is still developing, it is clear CBD may be useful for managing stress, assisting with sleep, modifying pain, and managing some neurologic disorders. Although CBD gummies are not the subjects of most clinical studies, the CBD they contain has value, and research has shown that it has a reasonable chance of having a positive effect.
If CBD gummies are used as a wellness supplement, as they are intended, consumers should select a supplement of higher quality and use it with care.
As research continues, more of CBD's capabilities and limitations will be revealed.
If you are new to hemp wellness, learning about CBD oil in India can help you make informed choices.