Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a compound in marijuana with recognized therapeutic properties that does not produce euphoria. So it has been very attractive for those who want to benefit from the plant, without feeling “ high or flown ”

It is one of the most studied and known cannabinoids so far. Today I will share with you about the characteristics of this compound

Does CBD inhibit the effect of THC?

CBD is an antagonist of THC. It makes it difficult for THC to connect with the body’s CB1 receptors, and therefore helps control its effect.

The interesting thing about Cannabidiol (CBD) is its therapeutic potential to treat symptoms of some diseases. Among them the control of seizures in some types of epilepsy, the relief of chronic pain in cases of arthritis due to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, or as an aid to people with insomnia who have problems falling asleep and staying asleep.

It is important to emphasize that CBD is a fairly safe compound, in fact, the O MS indicates that CBD does not exhibit effects that indicate that it can be abused and generates dependency.

Where does CBD come from? 

CBD is found in the flowers of the female Cannabis plant. In them, in general, this compound is found in low concentrations and when used it would be combined with other cannabinoids, such as THC, CBN, CBC, etc.

However, it is also present in hemp, and in higher concentrations. This is why most pure CBD extractions are made from these types of plants. Let’s consider that to be classified as hemp the plant must have less than 0.3% THC.

Medical uses of CBD

CBD is considered a complementary therapy, that is, it does not replace traditional treatments. It is recommended to consult a doctor before starting to use these products.

CBD for pain management

There are musculoskeletal and neuropathic pain. CBD can help in both cases, especially if the pain is moderate. Depending on the type of pain for some, pure CBD will suffice, while for others a combination with THC will be necessary, as is the case in people with spinal stenosis.

One of the pathologies in which it is most used is arthritis, since it can reduce inflammation and give an analgesic effect. In these cases it is used both topically and orally.

The biggest challenge is finding the right dosage, it is up to each person to find the amount that helps them. In the best scenario, patients completely eliminate opioid use and only use CBD as needed.

CBD in the treatment of Epilepsy

Some laboratory experiences, anecdotal reports, and small clinical studies suggest that CBD has the potential to control seizures in some types of epilepsy, even in cases where the person does not respond to conventional treatments.

Very famous cases are known as that of Charlotte Figi, a girl with epilepsy who had around 100 daily seizures and did not respond to medication. In desperation, his family tried to give him CBD oil. The result was that from day one, the seizures decreased dramatically.

In these cases, not only is there a reduction in seizures, there is also an improvement in other aspects such as emotional, cognitive, motor, or socialization.

In 2018, the first CBD drug was approved to treat epilepsy called Epidiolex. This is used to treat the seizures of two types of epilepsy: Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.

CBD for insomnia

There is some evidence to suggest that CBD can help you fall asleep faster and keep you asleep for longer.

The explanation is that CBD helps to relax and decrease anxiety, so if the insomnia problem is due to this, it would allow us to relax and unwind.

Other benefits of CBD are:

• Anti-inflammatory. 
• Reduce tremor and uncontrolled movements (Parkinson’s).
• Improve some symptoms of psoriasis on the skin.
• Relief from headache, migraines.
• Body relaxation.
• Fight depression or improve your mood.

Adverse effects and contraindications of CBD

CBD does not cause intoxication, it has no potential for abuse or dependence. However, in some cases when used in high amounts it can have unwanted effects such as headache, dizziness, upset stomach, decreased appetite and drowsiness. These symptoms are temporary and can be avoided by reducing the dose used or pausing its use.

CBD is contraindicated if it is used:

1. Clobazam: CBD could slow down how fast the liver metabolizes clobazam, so it could increase the effect of it and increase its side effects.
2. Valproic Acid : This drug can cause liver damage, and using CBD can increase the likelihood of this damage occurring. Therefore, it is recommended to decrease the doses or discontinue the use of CBD.

What should be done before taking CBD?

CBD can be part of complementary treatments for the disease, such as exercise. Not the only one, not the main one.
Prefer oral or topical options, do not inhale. Smoke has negative side effects on the respiratory tract.
Start with a small dose, preferably at night, and gradually increase, waiting at least a week.
Consult a doctor for better guidance and monitoring. Do not stop taking prescribed medications without consulting.

Types of CBD products

Different products have been created from pure CBD extractions. The main ones are:

• Sublingual oils.
• Creams for localized pain or skin affections.
• Capsules and edibles that are taken by mouth.
• Extractions to vaporize.

When choosing which is the most appropriate product, we must consider what we are looking for. For example, if it is a local problem or a generalized one throughout the body.

Also the speed with which we want it to take effect. Sublingual oil or spray products will be faster than those used orally or topically. However, the effect of the latter will be more lasting.

CBD dosage

We share with you an indicative dosage for the use of CBD. Consider that factors such as age, gender or weight affect the way in which CBD is metabolized in the body, so it is only referential information.

• A low dose is less than 10-15mg of CBD.
• An average dose is 20-40 mg of CBD.
• A high dose is more than +50 mg of CBD.

When using CBD products, it is recommended to start with the lowest possible dose and gradually increase according to the results obtained one week after starting to try. This is because the effect is cumulative, that is to say that the effect that it did on the first day may be different from that obtained with the same amount on the 5th day of use.