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It’s not addictive and it won’t get you high. Experts are still trying to understand exactly how it works.
So, what is cannabidiol? Is it safe?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a chemical extracted from a cannabis plant. It’s primarily available as an unregulated supplement. You can get it in capsules, oils, topicals and food. You can even vape it.
There is a small amount of quality medical research on CBD. Some studies have found that CBD combined with THC can be effective for some types of chronic pain. Other studies found topical CBD on its own can help ease joint pain. Early study results also find CBD might help reduce anxiety and help you sleep.
However, questions remain about its effectiveness.
In this episode, host Mark Gomez, MD, and his guest, Aaron Weiner, PhD, ABPP, dig into details on cannabidiol, how it works and whether it could be beneficial to your health.
Guest
- Aaron Weiner, PhD, ABPP - Licensed clinical psychologist, board-certified in counseling psychology and master addiction counselor; owner and founder of Bridge Forward Group, LLC; host of the “Let’s Talk” webcast on LinkedIn.
Myths vs. Facts
“CBD has not been scientifically proven to help any health conditions.” – Myth
CBD has been FDA approved and scientifically found to help some things, but it hasn’t been found to help as many conditions as it’s rumored to be helpful for.
“If you are considering taking CBD, consult with your doctor first to find out if it is right for you.” – Fact
Your doctor would want to make sure CBD wouldn’t postpone or delay medical treatment for a diagnosis that could be serious. Your doctor would also be able to determine whether CBD would interact with other medications you’re taking.
“CBD has a psychoactive effect.” – Myth
It can be helpful for issues like anxiety. But it doesn’t have a psychoactive effect directly.
“CBD oil does not cause side effects.” – Myth
They’re rare, but there are potential side effects, such as dry mouth, fatigue and changes in appetite.
“Lab tests have revealed that many of the CBD-labeled products sold on the internet have little to no CBD in them.” - Fact
Validate your source of CBD, research is important to verify a high-quality product.
“Keep in mind that non-prescription CBD products are not FDA-approved and may be inaccurately labeled.” – Fact
You’ve got to be careful whenever you’re buying something that hasn’t been strictly quality tested or produced in a uniform way. Do your research.
“CBD research is still in its early stages. As more studies are published, we will learn more about the specific health benefits of CBD.” – Fact
More information about CBD is coming out every day.
“CBD produces fast results.” – Myth
But it can be a little bit of both. It depends on what you’re taking it for. Generally speaking, give it some time.
Listener healthy OH-YEAH!
“For some reason this spring, after a lifetime of being a ‘never runner’ and spending 2020 on an elliptical, I decided to see if I could run. On my first outing about a month ago, I could not make it a half-mile without walking. Today I ran farther than I ever have: 1.39 miles before taking a break!” – J.H.
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