Cannabidiol (CBD) is a groundbreaking development in medical marijuana research. Recently, CBD has surged in popularity within the mainstream healthcare scene. Search engine results for various common ailments often lists CBD as a potential treatment for everything from minor aches and pains to cancer-related relief. Despite scientific studies highlighting CBD's potential, its rising popularity has also led to several misconceptions.
1| CBD Oil Gets You High
Despite CBD's origin from Cannabis plants, it does not possess psychoactive properties, meaning it won't make you fail a drug test. CBD products typically contain less than 0.3% Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Unlike marijuana, which has higher THC levels and can cause a "high," CBD interacts with the Endocannabinoid System to regulate emotions, pain, mood, and other vital functions without the psychoactive effects.
2| CBD is Illegal Without a Doctor’s Approval
A prevalent misconception is that CBD is illegal without a doctor's prescription. This couldn’t be further from the truth. CBD can come from two different sources. CBD can be derived from either marijuana or hemp. While marijuana-derived CBD may contain higher THC levels and thus be subject to legal restrictions in some states, hemp-derived CBD contains minimal THC and is legal in all 50 states. The 2018 Farm Bill legalized the cultivation of industrial hemp, reclassifying it from a Schedule I controlled substance to an approved agricultural commodity. Meaning, you can now grow and cultivate use for hemp oil, textiles, and more.
3| CBD is the Same as Marijuana
CBD is often mistakenly equated with marijuana. However, unlike marijuana, CBD is not psychoactive. Another key distinction between marijuana and hemp CBD oil is the "Entourage Effect," which suggests that using the whole plant, including all its compounds, is more effective than isolating CBD. Some forms of medical marijuana or CBD use only certain chemical compounds, rather than the whole plant. Some researchers claim that all the ingredients in Cannabis work together in the Endocannabinoid System and isolating one isn’t as effective. While research is mixed, both CBD isolates and full-spectrum CBD products offer significant health benefits.
4| Higher Doses of CBD are Better
High doses of CBD are not necessary to experience its health benefits. Studies indicate that moderate doses are effective. It's crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s advice and the product's instructions. Since CBD derived from hemp is not a controlled substance, it is available over-the-counter, making it easy to purchase in appropriate dosages.
5| CBD Can Heal Anything
The widespread popularity of CBD has led to the misconception that it can cure all ailments. While CBD has shown promise in treating various conditions from chronic pain to severe diseases like cancer, it is not a cure-all. Now that medical marijuana has gained popularity and acceptance in the United States, research continues to uncover how CBD interacts with the Endocannabinoid System to regulate pain, mood, and movement, but individual results can vary.
6| CBD Doesn’t Work
Contrary to the belief that CBD is ineffective, studies in the US and UK have demonstrated its health benefits for conditions ranging from migraines to seizures. Some skepticism arises because people may not use CBD long enough or correctly to experience its full benefits.
7| CBD is Sedating
Many assume that because CBD comes from Cannabis, and people understand Cannabis to be pot, therefore it must have sedative effects like marijuana. However, CBD can help with chronic pain and insomnia without causing sedation. While CBD can promote restful sleep when applied before bedtime, it won't induce sleep like THC might. The sedative effects vary depending on the strain, dosage, and individual.
8| All Products are The Same
Not all CBD products are created equal. The quality of CBD oil depends on how it is grown, manufactured, and its purity. The manufacturing process varies in the chemicals used in the CBD extraction process. Higher quality chemicals produce a more top quality product. When you go to the store and choose between organic oranges or regular ones, the same principle applies to CBD. Hemp plants grown in organic soil with natural fertilizers tend to produce a better quality product. CBD can also come with additional additives and flavorings.
Higher-quality extraction processes and organic cultivation methods yield superior products. Just as with organic versus conventional produce, opting for organically grown CBD ensures a better product.
9| CBD is Expensive
The belief that CBD is prohibitively expensive is another myth. While prices vary based on product and purity, many find CBD affordable. A small amount often goes a long way, making it a cost-effective investment for its health benefits.
10| CBD Smells Like Pot
This myth isn’t precisely true. Not all CBD products carry the characteristic smell of marijuana. While some CBD oils contain terpenes that contribute to this scent, many CBD vapes and oils come in various flavors and concentrates that mask the weed-like odor.
In summary, common myths about CBD range from its psychoactive effects to its legal status and effectiveness. As CBD's healing properties continue to be explored, it's essential to separate fact from fiction. Don't believe everything you hear—stay informed and make educated decisions about CBD.