CBD Oil and Gummies-Good or Not?

CBD oil and gummies are everywhere these days, including the corner store and at Grandma’s house.  CBD or Cannabidiol is a component of the hemp plant (Cannabis Sativa).  Initial research shows that CBD is safe and effective for a myriad of health conditions such as pain relief, reducing inflammation, easing anxiety, and as a sleep aid.  CBD is mainly used as a holistic or alternative medicine treatment to help balance the body’s internal systems.  Hemp seed, on the other hand, is a nutritious source of omega 3, and mainly sold as food and in skincare products.

A small amount of THC makes CBD work better, but without the high

Hemp-derived CBD products have high CBD content and low Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content (below 0.3%). This makes it great for harnessing potentially therapeutic properties of CBD without any of the high or mind-altering effects of THC.  CBD does not make you high.

Initial research shows CBD is safe and effective for sleep, anxiety, and other conditions

We need more research, but CBD may prove to be an option for managing anxiety, insomnia, and chronic pain. Without enough high-quality evidence in human studies we can’t pinpoint effective doses, and because CBD is currently mostly available as an unregulated supplement, it’s difficult to know exactly what you are getting.  FDA continues to work toward establishing regulations for CBD.

Know what to look for in quality CBD oil and gummies

As CBD is widely available in drug stores, gas stations, and from health product vendors, it is easy to find fake CBD products.  The label on fake CBD products will not contain these phrases:  full-spectrum, hemp-derived, or pure cannabidiol.  Look for labels containing the above phrases and expiration dates as a key to finding genuine products.  Full-spectrum indicates that all beneficial chemicals from the whole plant extract have been included in the product.

Many patients report positive effects from the use of CBD for their symptoms.  They state they are feeling calmer, sleeping better, and have relief from pain.  At Nature’s Helper Naturopathic Clinic we carry a professional line of full-spectrum CBD oil available in liquid, capsules and topical cream.

Dr. Stacey Munro is a Naturopathic physician located at Nature’s Helper Naturopathic Clinic in Tariffville, Connecticut.