You’ve probably noticed the boom of CBD products sweeping across the United States. CBD is making its way into personal and pet products, onto drug store shelves, and even onto Amazon. Part of this surge in commercial activity is due to the fact that CBD from hemp was federally legalized at the end of 2018. It also has a lot to do with people’s perception of CBD.
CBD’s Properties
CBD is short for cannabidiol, a cannabinoid derived from the cannabis plant (and hemp derivatives). For those that are skeptical of cannabis and its stigma, CBD seems to be one compound from cannabis that people can get on board with – largely due to the fact that it is non-psychoactive. The simplified understanding is that CBD can’t people get high, so CBD-only products are a safe option. CBD does have a range of benefits including helping with pain, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and even acne. Since it is the only legal option to consume cannabis in many states, and it does have great benefits, we absolutely recommend considering it.
Whole-Plant Benefits
While CBD is a great option, we want to encourage those who live in states where cannabis is legal to explore the potential of whole-plant products. While it’s true that CBD doesn’t have psychoactive properties, there are safe ways to use cannabis that provide the benefits without getting high. CBD on its own actually tends to cause drowsiness (which is great for sleeping), but there are whole-plant cannabis products that can provide positive benefits while keeping you alert.
Cannabis has a wide range of components, of which CBD is just one. The other cannabinoids (including THC, of course) and the terpenes also provide incredible benefits, especially when consumed together. THC releases dopamine, which elevates mood, and terpenes can have benefits like anti-inflammation, mood elevation, brain stimulation and calming. Using products from whole-plant extractions means getting the full range of benefits. And, when you consume whole-plant cannabis in low doses, you can still have all of these benefits without losing control or feeling high.
The Bottom Line
Cannabis has an array of great effects, and using only certain components limits the benefits it provides. CBD-only products are still a wonderful option for those who live in states where cannabis isn’t legal or for those whose employers don’t allow use of THC. If you’re looking for an effective, natural solution for stress or pain relief, whole-plant, full-spectrum cannabis products in low-doses give you the full range of effects without losing control. The best way to find the products that are right for you is to start low and slow and see how they affect you.