CBD is a relatively new way to stay healthy. Although people have used the cannabis plant for thousands of years, mysticism has surrounded the reasons why it contains magnificent healing properties. Science has proven exactly why the cannabis plant has the effects that it does, clearing the smoke for many common questions. Although a fair amount of data on this subject is available, many myths and misconceptions are still prevalent among the general population. When dealing with any product, it is important to separate the real from the fake in order to make fully informed choices. This is especially the case when it deals with health and wellness. All types of misinformation surround CBD, so lets clear the smoke regarding the myths and facts about CBD.
Myth #1: Hemp and marijuana are the same
The reality of this myth is relatively understandable. In recent history, a very close association has been made between hemp and marijuana. The two varieties of the cannabis sativa plant do have similar characteristics, but the chemical composition is much different.
Hemp and marijuana are in fact two distinct varieties of the cannabis plant. Traditionally, hemp was used for medicine, food, and for its fiber. Marijuana, on the other hand, has traditionally been smoked or ingested for religious, recreational, or medicinal applications. Marijuana is the variety of cannabis that people will use to get “high”. The active ingredient in marijuana is known as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
THC is one of many phytocannabinoids. Phytocannabinoids are compounds contained within the cannabis plant that interact with our brains and body. We have an endocannabinoid system, and cannabinoids mimic our naturally occurring endocannabinoids to fit into these receptors like a key into a lock. It is this mechanism that allows cannabis to have a wide variety of benefits.
From a legal viewpoint, marijuana is classified as a cannabis plant that contains well over .3% THC, and that is typically used for medical or recreational use. Marijuana plants produce relatively low amounts of CBD, making cultivation for CBD oil commercially unviable.
Hemp on the other hand is classified as a cannabis plant that contains less than .3% THC. The hemp plant typically contains at least 10% CBD, making them a valuable crop for CBD oil production. There are many myths and facts about CBD, and thinking it is the same as marijuana is a common one.
Myth #2: CBD gets you high
As previously mentioned, hemp and marijuana often get categorized together. It is a common misconception for people to think CBD will get you high. This is simply not the case, as CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid.
The psychoactive cannabinoid THC does get people high. For many, full spectrum products such as tinctures are preferred due to the small amount of THC that is present. When THC and CBD are used in conjunction with each other, a phenomenon called the entourage effect takes place. The entourage effect is when cannabinoids work synergistically with each other to exasperate one another, rendering the product more effective.
Although the small amount of THC within full spectrum CBD products is not enough to get anyone high, many people prefer a product with zero THC. Any product from OC Wellness Solutions that is labeled as “broad spectrum” or “isolate” is guaranteed to have zero THC. This is important to people for a variety of reasons.
CBD on its own can not create a high. CBD is believed to help with anxiety, seizures, pain, and sleep, just to name a few. Although CBD will boost the mood and relieve anxiety, it does impair people like THC does.
Myth #3: All CBD is the same
Among the myths and facts about CBD, this is one of the most important. As with anything, the quality of CBD varies from company to company. A Penn Medicine researcher conducted a study, and discovered that 70% of CBD brands were either mislabeled or did not offer lab testing. This is concerning, and can also be damaging.
Among myths and facts about CBD, this is the most concerning. It is true that all CBD brands are not the same. OC Wellness Solutions has gone to great lengths to third party test all products we produce and sell.
Myth #4: CBD is sedating
Early information on cannabis suggested strains that were predominately CBD high strains had a sedating effect. We now know that this is far from the truth. It has been shown that CBD in fact can make one feel more alert. THC can potentially be sedating, and CBD is often used to offset the sedating effect produced from THC. THC can also cause a bit of a “hangover” the next day, and CBD is known to combat this as well.
The basis of this misunderstanding is based in the chemical composition of the plant. Terpenes are compounds found throughout the plant kingdom which are responsible for the well known aromas found in cannabis. Myrcene, a terpene often found in cannabis and mangos, has been found to be potentially sedating.
CBD won’t keep someone awake, and is often used to promote relaxation at night. The terpene myrcene is often found in cannabis cultivars with large amounts of CBD present. It is now widely believed that the levels of myrcene are the a large differentiating factor that dictates the effect of certain types of cannabis. In the past, the basis for these effects were usually judged by indicia vs sativa, however this is now outdated. The way a cannabis plant or extract will effect you is largely due to the concentration of certain terpenes.
Myth #5: There is no proof that CBD oil works
The way things currently are, CBD is somewhat in limbo from a regulatory standpoint. Although there are guidelines with any product such as the pure food and drug act, the CBD market is still in its infancy. It is because of this that some people disregard CBD by comparing it to a “health fad” or marketing hype.
Those who discredit CBD for this reason are simply ill informed that a particular pharmaceutical solution of CBD has been researched and approved by the FDA. The prescription only Epidiolex was recently given the green light to treat several childhood seizure disorders. Dozens of other studies are currently being conducted to test the efficacy of CBD to treat other disorders as well. Politicians and policy makers are also pushing to have more funds allocated to the FDA for CBD research.
However, with that said, many people are taking CBD oil for health reasons that currently do not have scientific evidence backing how effective it is. Although that may be the case, anecdotal evidence is enough for many people to continue to use CBD in their health and wellness routines. CBD as a compound was found to be safe, but is still not fully regulated to treat issues other than particular seizure disorders. It is extremely important to know the difference between myths and facts about CBD.
Myth #6: CBD has no side effects
Although minimal, anything that someone consumes can have some sort of side effects. With CBD, these are extremely rare. It would be false to state that CBD has absolutely no potential side effects. Each person has a unique biological and chemical make up. Whether this is caused by certain pharmaceuticals, or by an abnormally high dose, some side effects can be possible.
An important aspect to this statement is understanding that CBD can affect the way our bodies metabolize certain prescription drugs. Before starting CBD, it is important to talk to your doctor. This is especially the case if you are taking any medications such as warfarin, anti-epileptics, HIV antivirals, chemotherapy, or others such as drugs that warn against consuming with grapefruits. It is extremely important to talk to a health professional if you are taking prescription medication and would like to start a CBD regimen.
Many companies selling CBD will claim that no side effects are possible with CBD. At OC Wellness Solutions, our goal is to promote health and wellness. Transparency and accurate information is crucial when it pertains to a subject as important as health.
Abnormally high doses can create side effects such as tiredness, or digestive changes. In a study, children took the equivant to an adult consuming 1000 mg of CBD a day for over 3 months. Several of the children experienced drowsiness, change in appetite, and changes in digestion. However, these side effects were completely eliminated when that dose was cut in half. Keep in mind the dosage these children were consuming were astronomically high, and it is inadvisable to consume 1000 mg as a single dose.
To summarize, CBD can have side effects, but are typically only experienced when way too much is taken, or when combined with certain prescription medications. CBD is considered a safe and healthy choice for the average, healthy adult. If you are experiencing side effects, it is imperative to talk to your doctor.
Conclusion
The new and fascinating world of CBD doesn’t need to be confusing. Although many misconceptions exist, scientists and activists are researching and publishing new information daily. Only the tip of the iceberg has been discovered regarding the benefits of CBD. The smoke may not be cleared completely yet, but we are making progress. Many cold, hard facts are available in regards to CBD. The most important point to take away from all of this is find a CBD brand that is transparent, and knowledgeable. OC Wellness Solutions has made it our mission to provide the highest quality CBD, and at the best available price. When it comes to health and wellness, there are no shortcuts.
