Many of us suffer in silence every day from pain and inflammation, anxiety, and other issues simply because we don’t want to take prescription medications. While many of these treatments do work, they often cause horrible side effects like nausea, headaches, dry mouth, etc. that can seem worse than the problem they were intended to fix. With effects like these, many of us just choose to deal with our issues on our own.
But, what if it didn’t have to be this way? What if it were possible to treat your ailments without dealing with the nasty side effects from prescriptions? Before you deny its existence, perhaps you should take a look at CBD flowers.
Admittedly CBD has a shady reputation. But, it’s largely due to misinformation. So, before you shirk the idea totally, check out what we have to say on the matter below:
A Brief Overview of Cannabis Terms
The words pot, cannabis, hemp (and all of marijuana’s other nicknames) have been used interchangeably for so long that there’s some confusion as to what the plant actually is. The long and short of it is, the type of cannabis that gets people high is not the same as hemp. But, it’s important to note, that both plant varieties comes the same species, cannabis sativa.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (more commonly known as THC) is the cannabinoid that’s responsible for the psychoactive effect that many of us have come to associate with weed. Cannabis strains that contain high levels of THC are bred from indica, sativa, and hybrid strains of the cannabis sativa plant. Hemp is distinguished from this type of weed because it’s THC content is 0.3% or less. Most recreational and medical strains of THC have anywhere from 5-30%, which is much higher than hemp. The insignificant amount found in hemp isn’t nearly enough to give a psychoactive effect. In fact, you could smoke a pound of hemp and the effect that would likely occur would be a severe headache.
Super-Powered Cannabidiol (CBD)THC isn’t the only cannabinoid in cannabis. In fact, weed contains about 100 cannabinoids. However, for today’s purposes, we will be discussing cannabidiol (CBD).
CBD is a psychoactive molecule found in cannabis that has a variety of therapeutic attributes. For instance, it’s been identified as having analgesic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, antiproliferative, and anxiolytic benefits. As such, it can possibly treat schizophrenia, anxiety, nausea, vomiting, oxidative injury, epilepsy, and neuroinflammation. It can also help those suffering from pain and inflammation, certain types of cancers, diabetes, and cardiovascular issues. To make things even better, it’s naturally produced, meaning there are virtually no side effects. While THC has therapeutic effects as well, some are uncomfortable with the mind-altering effect that it can have. These can make it hard to function in normal society. CBD, on the other hand, will not interfere with your daily responsibilities.
CBD Flower – The Non-Psychoactive BudWhile it’s possible to breed cannabis strains with low THC to CBD ratios, hemp is an easier option. While hemp contains paltry amounts of THC, it’s CBD levels can be as high as 20 percent. Plus, it also contains non-psychoactive terpenes and cannabinoids, the compounds responsible for the smell and unique therapeutic benefits of CBD flowers.
Is CBD Legal?
While CBD flowers are technically legal. It’s important to note that they look and smell just like regular cannabis. Thus, there may be some potential legal issues if you choose to use it somewhere where cannabis is illegal.
Hemp was banned for years as well. But, its import and sale are legal. Thus, it’s possible for most to purchase hemp-derived CBD products without breaking the law.
One More Consideration
The research on the medical benefits of cannabis is largely positive. However, there are some studies that the recreational use of this plant can cause psychological disorders. The good news is, there is new information that strongly suggests that CBD can counteract these negative effects. Still, it’s important to note, that more research is needed for conclusive information.
The Bottom Line
For those looking for a powerful natural way to cure their ills, CBD flowers are a viable option. However, it’s important to note that they often fall in a legal gray area. So, it’s important that you check with your local jurisdiction before purchase. Still, with all the benefits it provides, it’s worth giving it a shot.