CBD Oil Benefits: A Complete Guide

April 25, 2022 9 min read

All three CBD Tinctures.

When you start to explore the world of CBD and its respective products, you may find yourself both fascinated and entirely overwhelmed.  There is simply too much information about CBD's benefits, dosage, products, types...the list goes on and on.  And trying to sift through all of it is just downright overwhelming!

We've decided to write a basic CBD benefits guide that can answer most of your questions about CBD in an easy-to-digest way.  This way, you can read through this info and gain a general understanding of what CBD is and how it can help you enjoy life just a little bit more!

Studies have indicated that CBD, or cannabidiol may have the potential to manage symptoms related to a myriad of different issues we all experience in one shape or another.  This includes, but is not limited to: stress and anxietychronic paininflammationinsomniaepilepsy, and more.  Although we cannot possibly talk about every benefit aspect of CBD (this guide would quickly turn into an extensive series of books!), we can help you to get your feet wet when it comes to the fascinating world of CBD.  Keep reading to learn all about the benefits this non-psychoactive cannabinoid holds!


BEFORE WE START

Please keep in mind that this article exists to help you gain an understanding on how CBD as a compound can be used to elevate your wellness routine.  These benefits are inherent properties of the cannabinoid itself; and as such, the finished products you'd normally find as part of CBD brand is likely not approved by the FDA to be used as an actual treatment of an ailment.  Please fact-check everything stated in this article under the supervision of your doctor or medical professional.

With that out of the way, let's get on with it!


WHAT IS CBD?

CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of over 60 cannabinoids sound in the cannabis Sativa plant.  Cannabinoids are active, biological compounds that bind to cannabinoid receptors in the body.  Picture this: cannabinoids are like keys that interact with locks (cannabinoid receptors) in the body's endocannabinoid system.  And depending on the shape of the key (cannabinoid), it causes certain things to happen in the body.

This is where the many potential benefits of CBD come in.  When CBD interacts with the cannabinoid receptors, it causes various effects on the body.  As one example, CBD is known for potentially inspiring a feeling of calm and relaxation - possibly allowing for improved sleep.  We'll dive deeper into the many benefits of CBD soon.


When most think of cannabis, they typically imagine getting high - however, the cannabis plant has so much to offer than just its psychoactive effects.  many of the cannabinoids, including that of CBD, doesn't possess an intoxicating effect.  THC, on the other hand, is another popular cannabinoid that can cause that psychoactive "high."  This is the compound in the marijuana plant that causes that all-too-familiar intoxication when you smoke or ingest it.

Thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, CBD products legally sold on the market must be derived from hemp (a plant in the cannabis Sativa species that has a high concentration of CBD and a very low concentration of THC).  Products must not contain more than 0.3% THC.  This miniscule amount of THC will not cause intoxication.  This means you can enjoy CBD's benefits with a clear mind!

WHAT IS CBD OIL?

If you've decided to give CBD a try, the first thing you must decide is what product to buy.   There are several options, including salves and creams, gummies, capsules, tinctures, and more.  Although all options are great, many start with the CBD Tincture Oil.

Our CBD Tincture Oils contain sustainably-sourced American hemp, full plant extract oil, coconut oil, and naturally-derived fruit essential oils.  They are also available in various CBD concentrations and flavors.  It's important to note that not all CBD oils are created the same.  Some companies are dishonest about the concentration and quality of ingredients used.  Make sure to only purchase CBD oil that is regularly tested by an independent, third-party testing laboratory.


WHAT ARE CBD OIL'S BENEFITS?

Now, let's dive into the world of CBD oil's benefits!

As we mentioned before, there are several benefits people report when taking CBD consistently.  It is important to note that taking the same dose of CBD consistently is crucial to having the best experience.  It can take time for your body to get acclimated to the cannabidiol, so it's best to take your CBD daily for at least a couple weeks for the best results.  While you may experience some benefits immediately, others may take time.


IMPROVED SLEEP

One of the most popular benefits CBD offers is it potential to improve the sleep function in our bodies.  You've probably heard of people taking CBD before bed to wind down and get to sleep easier.  This is because many people report feeling more relaxed after taking their daily dose.  One of the most characteristic effects of CBD is a feeling of calm, after all.  This may lead to an easier time falling asleep and a more rejuvenating rest overall.

Although more studies are needed, the research that we do have shows promising results for CBD oil and its relationship to sleep.  This large case series on Cannabidiol in Anxiety and Sleep documents the effect of CBD on 103 adults.  It found that anxiety was decreased and sleep improved for the patients. This is likely because sleep issues frequently go hand-in-hand with anxiety.  When anxiety is reduced, sleep typically improves and vice-versa.

The study pointed out that not only is CBD a great potential treatment for sleep issues, but is is also safe enough to take consistently with little-to-no potential for abuse.

MANAGING STRESS & ANXIETY

Another one of the most popular reasons people take CBD is its potential to manage stress and anxiety levels.  As we mentioned above, a large case study was done on CBD and its relationship to both anxiety and sleep; and its results looked very promising.  The patients in the study reported decreased anxiety and improved sleep after consistent doses of CBD were administered.

Another study states that "current evidence indicates CBD has considerable potential as a treatment for multiple anxiety disorders, with need for further study of chronic and therapeutic effects in relevant clinical populations."  The study does on to say that CBD may interact with certain receptors in the human endocannabinoid system (ECS) that exhibit anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) effects.

This recent study in the Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology also showed great results regarding CBD's effect on social anxiety.  Although the study was small, the results show that CBD might potentially reduce some symptoms of anxiety - specifically anxiety caused by public speaking.  Overall,  this helps us to understand how CBD can help feeling of anxiety in stressful situations.  Although there have been several studies on CBD and anxiety, it's very important to note that a lot more research is needed before we understand just how effect CBD is at managing these symptoms.


MITIGATING THE RISK OF EPILEPTIC SEIZURES

Currently, cannabidiol is the main active ingredient in a medication for epilepsy called Epidiolex.  It is the only FDA-approved prescription medication that is used to treat seizures in patients with certain forms of epilepsy.  Many studies, including this one, concludes that patients with seizures who use CBD experience both a reduction in seizure frequency and intensity.


PAIN MANAGEMENT

A lot of the pain we experience stems from inflammation in the body.  Although inflammation is designed to help the body heal, too much inflammation can be very painful.  As we mentioned above, CBD possesses fantastic anti-inflammatory effects.  This may lead to overall improved pain management.

This 2020 study analyzed the interaction CBD has with various receptors, transporters, and enzymes in the body to reduce the pain response.  Scientists believe that CBD may potentially reduce neuropathic pain, inflammatory pain, and arthritis-related pain.  More studies, however, are needed before we have a better understanding of how CBD itself can effectively manage pain symptoms and to what extent.


REDUCTION OF INFLAMMATION

This recent review states that "CBD is not psychoactive and shows numerous advantageous pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties."  The review discusses the effects of cannabinoids on inflammation in various conditions.  It then goes on to cite recent studies with evidence of THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids having anti-inflammatory properties.

CBD's anti-inflammatory properties may help relieve certain skin conditions and may reduce pain as well.  However, we need more studies before we can gain a better understanding of CBD's full effect on inflammation.


IMPROVED SKIN HEALTH

The skin houses several cannabinoid receptors, allowing cannabinoids like CBD to have an impact on various skin issues.  Cannabinoids may decrease the production of certain harmful substances on the skin.  These cannabinoid receptors may also promote balance in the various systems that support the skin as well.  CBD has been studied for potentially treating psoriasis, dermatitis, acne, and more.

To put it simply, CBD may interact with receptors in the skin to help keep it healthy.  Also, thanks to anti-inflammatory effects the cannabinoid is known for, it may also treat skin inflammation as well.


TOO MANY OTHER BENEFITS TO LIST!

If we kept listing all of the benefits CBD may hold, we would go on and on and on and on!  A few other examples to note include CBD's potential to lessen the symptoms related to nausea, IBS, and to stabilize your mood against depression.

You're probably sick of hearing this by now, but it's important to understand that regardless of the studies that have been done, we simply need more research on each of these subjects before anyone can claim with certainty that CBD can treat or cure any ailment.

While many people have experienced improved overall health and wellness by taking CBD regularly, more studies need to be done to provide a clearer picture of how beneficial the cannabinoid truly is.

HOW DOES CBD HELP WITH SO MANY DIFFERENT ISSUES?

Many people are naturally skeptical about CBD because it seems like everyone claims the cannabinoid as a cure-all.  How can one cannabinoid help in so many different ways?  To put it simply, CBD can help so many different areas of the body thanks to the system it interacts with: the endocannabinoid system (ECS).

The ECS is a regulatory system present in all mammals, including humans.  The main function of this system is to provide stability to biological systems like sleep, pain response, mood, appetite, and even reproductive aspects as well.  The ECS regulates these systems by responding to stress or anxiety with a release of endocannabinoids (cannabinoids created naturally inside the body).  When the body's natural production of endocannabinoids are disrupted or unbalanced, it can lead to several issues as we've listed above.  Cannabinoids such as CBD may be able to help regulated and rebalance the ECS.  Since the receptors CBD interacts with are located all over the body, the effects are likely to be experienced everywhere!


HOW DO I TAKE CBD OIL?

CBD oil is easy-to-use; and it usually provides quick and long-lasting effects.  Most people take CBD oil sublingually with a CBD Tincture oil - simply put, apply the drops under your tongue and feel its effects within minutes!

If you use one of our CBD Tincture Oils, the easy instructions are as follows:

  • Shake well before opening
  • Place half a dropper's worth of oil under your tongue for 30 to 60 seconds before swallowing
  • Effects should start to set in around the 15-20 minute mark and can last for up to 6 hours.  For best use, enjoy twice daily or as needed throughout the day.

You can also add a few drops of CBD oil to your favorite food or drink.  Many enjoy adding some CBD to a cup of tea before bed!


WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT "SPECTRUMS" of CBD?

Before we end this article, let's briefly chat about the main types of CBD.  You've likely heard of CBD referred to as "full spectrum," "broad spectrum," or "CBD isolate."  What do all of these mean?

These labels are provided to help consumers understand what ingredients are in the CBD products.  Some products are made with JUST CBD, while other have a variety of other cannabinoids, terpenes and plant parts.  Let's explore the tree different "spectrums" of CBD:

  • Full Spectrum CBD:This type of CBD contains all cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids that are found in the hemp plant, including both THC and CBD.  The different compounds work together to provide a holistic and balanced product.  Due to federal regulations, full spectrum CBD products can only contain trace amounts of THC.  We take this regulation seriously and ensure that all of our Envy CBD products contain less than the mandated 0.3% THC.
  • Broad Spectrum CBD:This other type of CBD product contains all cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, EXCEPT THC.
  • CBD Isolate:This last type is made entirely of CBD.  Nothing else remains from the hemp extract except this cannabinoid.

It's important to understand the different types of CBD because each can have potentially different effects.  For example, many prefer full spectrum CBD because of a theory called the "entourage effect."  According to some studies, the full spectrum of cannabinoid and other plant parts work better together, rather than when they are separated into individual components.  They are all present in the cannabis plant together, and instead of keeping only the CBD and discarding the rest, the other cannabinoids and terpenes are kept as they may enhance the effects.


CONCLUSION

CBD may help the human body in numerous ways.  This is thanks to its interaction with the endocannabinoid system (ECS).  Studies have shown that CBD may help reduce pain, improve sleep, reduce symptoms related to anxiety, improve skin function and much more!  Hopefully, as research continues to shed light on these benefits, we can gain a better understanding of how exactly CBD leads people to an increased quality of life.  Until then, consider taking CBD regularly to experience the potential benefits of CBD for yourself.

Be sure to speak with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about adding CBD into your daily routine.



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