CBD Oils

Overview

CBD (cannabidiol) oil is a non-psychoactive compound from the cannabis plant that is popular for potential therapeutic uses, such as pain and anxiety. It is available in various forms, including over-the-counter oils and creams. CBD does not cause a "high" like THC and can have potential side effects and drug interactions, so it is best to consult a healthcare provider before use

What to know before use

Side effects: Generally well-tolerated, but side effects can include mood disturbance, digestive issues, and, with high doses, potential liver enzyme elevations. 

Drug interactions: CBD can interact with other medications, including some anti-epileptic drugs, antidepressants, and other drugs that are metabolized by the liver. 

Consult a doctor: It is important to speak with a healthcare provider before trying CBD, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications. 

The evidence for cannabidiol health benefits

CBD has been touted for a wide variety of health issues, but the strongest scientific evidence is for its effectiveness in treating some of the cruelest childhood epilepsy syndromes, such as Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS), which typically don’t respond well to antiseizure medications. In numerous studies, CBD was able to reduce the number of seizures, and, in some cases, stop them altogether.

Anxiety: Studies and clinical trials are exploring the common report that CBD can reduce anxiety.

Insomnia: Studies suggest that CBD may help with both falling asleep and staying asleep, in part by helping address chronic pain and anxiety.

Chronic pain: Increasingly, human studies are substantiating the claims that CBD helps control pain. One animal study from the European Journal of Pain suggests CBD could help lower pain and inflammation due to arthritis when applied to skin. Other research identifies how CBD may inhibit inflammatory and neuropathic pain, which are difficult to treat.

Addiction: CBD can help lower cravings for tobacco and heroin under certain conditions, according to some research in humans. Animal models of addiction suggest it may also help lessen cravings for other addictive substances such as alcohol, cannabis, opiates, and stimulants.

Is CBD safe?

Side effects of CBD could include nausea, fatigue, and irritability. CBD can increase the level of blood thinning and other medicines in your blood by competing for the liver enzymes that break down these drugs. Grapefruit has a similar effect with certain medicines. This interaction is particularly important if you are taking a blood thinner, an anti-epileptic, or an immunosuppressant medication, all of which need to have stable levels in your blood.