Even if CBD is not quite mainstream worldwide, you have probably read about it or know someone who is taking it for chronic conditions like anxiety. Many big countries such as the US, UK, and few other European countries are legalizing medical and recreational cannabis. CBD is now available in various forms but many people do not know yet what CBD really is, how it can help with their condition.
Before trying any type of medication, it is best to learn the maximum you can about it to avoid any type of unwanted side effects, know what to expect, and even read about those who experienced it already. Hopefully, this CBD guide will answer the questions you may have as well as clear up the misconceptions about CBD in general and how it is used.
What is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a natural compound derived from the cannabis plant. It is one of over 100 cannabinoids found in the plant, along with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is the psychoactive compound responsible for the "high" associated with marijuana use. Unlike THC, however, CBD is non-psychoactive and does not produce the same mind-altering effects.
CBD is typically extracted from the hemp plant, which is a variety of cannabis that contains very low levels of THC. This makes it legal in many countries, including the United States, as long as it contains less than 0.3% THC.
CBD interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is a complex network of receptors and neurotransmitters that helps to regulate many different bodily functions, including mood, appetite, pain sensation, and immune function. The ECS has two primary types of receptors: CB1 receptors, which are primarily found in the brain and central nervous system, and CB2 receptors, which are primarily found in the immune system and peripheral tissues.
CBD interacts with both types of receptors, although it has a stronger affinity for CB2 receptors. It can also interact with other receptors in the body, such as serotonin receptors, which may help to explain some of its potential therapeutic effects.
Research into the potential health benefits of CBD is ongoing, but it has shown promise for a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, chronic pain, inflammation, epilepsy, and more. However, it's important to note that the FDA has not approved CBD for the treatment of any medical conditions, and more research is needed to fully understand its potential benefits and risks.
Where did CBD originate from?
Cannabis has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years, and historians believe that it has been used in various parts of the world since at least 4000 BCE. The earliest recorded use of cannabis as a medicine comes from ancient China, where it was used to treat a variety of conditions, including pain, inflammation, and digestive issues. The Chinese also used cannabis for recreational purposes, as well as in religious ceremonies.
Cannabis use spread to other parts of the world over time, including the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. In the Middle East, cannabis was used for both medicinal and religious purposes, and it was also used as a recreational drug. In Europe, cannabis was used primarily for medicinal purposes, and it was a common ingredient in many over-the-counter remedies.
In the United States, cannabis was initially used as a medicine in the 19th century, and it was commonly used to treat conditions such as pain, epilepsy, and anxiety. However, concerns about its potential dangers and addictive properties led to increased regulation, and it was eventually classified as a Schedule I drug in the 1970s, which made it illegal to use or possess in the United States.
CBD was first isolated and identified as a distinct compound in the 1940s, and research into its potential therapeutic effects began in the 1960s. However, it wasn't until the 1990s that researchers discovered the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is a complex network of receptors and neurotransmitters that helps to regulate many different bodily functions, including mood, appetite, pain sensation, and immune function. The discovery of the ECS helped to shed light on how CBD and other cannabinoids interact with the body and led to increased interest in their potential therapeutic effects.
With the legalization of hemp and the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill in the United States, the use of CBD has become more widespread and accessible, and research into its potential health benefits is ongoing. While more research is needed to fully understand how CBD works and its potential therapeutic uses, it has shown promise for a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, chronic pain, inflammation, epilepsy, and more.
Is CBD legal worldwide?
The legal status of CBD varies by country, and it's important to note that laws and regulations are constantly changing. However, here are some countries where CBD is currently not legal or where its legality is restricted:
- Japan: CBD is not legal in Japan, and possession or use of CBD can result in severe penalties.
- Singapore: CBD is illegal in Singapore, and possession or use of CBD can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines.
- South Korea: CBD is heavily regulated in South Korea, and only certain types of CBD products are legal.
- Thailand: While medical marijuana is legal in Thailand, CBD is still considered a controlled substance and its use is heavily restricted.
- United Arab Emirates: CBD is illegal in the UAE, and possession or use of CBD can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines.
It's important to research the laws and regulations regarding CBD in any country or region where you plan to use it to ensure that you are in compliance with local laws.
