Cannabidiol (CBD) products have become increasingly popular as a natural alternative to some medications for various conditions, but that doesn’t mean it’s a replacement for doctor-prescribed treatments and remedies. Its popularity is in part due to the fewer side effects associated with it than with some traditional pharmaceuticals.
Your health is important, and while CBD might seem like an attractive option as a replacement for your medication, you should speak with your physician before making any changes.
What Is CBD?
CBD has gained popularity in recent years due to its numerous potential health benefits.
Research suggests that CBD may help relieve symptoms of anxiety, depression, pain, inflammation and more. Cannabidiol interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system, a network of receptors and enzymes that regulate many bodily functions, such as mood, sleep, appetite and immune response.
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a natural compound found in cannabis plants. Unlike THC, another well-known compound found in cannabis, CBD is not psychoactive, meaning it does not produce the “high” associated with marijuana use. CBD is usually derived from hemp, a non-psychoactive variety of cannabis, making it legal in most parts of the world and throughout the United States (although state laws differ on their tolerance for CBD products).
CBD can be consumed in a variety of ways, including orally as a tincture, capsule or in food (like gummies), topically as a cream or lotion or inhaled through a vaporizer. The method of consumption may affect the rate at which the effects are felt and how long they last.
Zentopia offers one of the more unique ways to ingest CBD – in the form of delicious CBD-infused beverages.
Is CBD Effective?
Studies on the efficacy of CBD are still a work in progress, but there are many that suggest CBD may be beneficial for managing symptoms of a variety of health conditions. For example, a 2018 study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that CBD was effective in reducing seizures in patients with treatment-resistant epilepsy.
CBD has also shown promise in reducing anxiety, with a 2019 study finding that CBD improved symptoms of social anxiety disorder. Other studies have suggested that CBD may have anti-inflammatory properties and could be useful in managing chronic pain.
It's important to note, however, that more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of CBD. People interested in trying CBD should understand that individual results may vary depending on the dosage, the method of administration and health conditions. The benefits one person experiences may not be enjoyed by someone else.
If you're considering trying CBD for reducing symptoms of inflammation, anxiety, insomnia or some other condition, it's always best to speak with your healthcare provider first. They can help you understand the potential benefits and risks of CBD and can help you determine whether it's a safe and effective option for you.
CBD as a Replacement for Medications
While CBD should never be used to replace medication without first consulting a doctor, it is gaining popularity as a potential alternative to traditional prescription drugs. CBD is a naturally occurring, hemp-derived cannabinoid and isn’t engineered in a lab.
One of the biggest benefits of CBD is that it can provide relief for a wide range of conditions without the negative side effects often associated with prescription drugs. Many people prefer CBD because it is non-addictive and does not produce a high like THC, the cannabinoid predominantly found in marijuana.
If you're interested in using CBD to replace medication, it is crucial to speak with your doctor first. While some people may be able to safely transition from certain types of medication to CBD, others may need to continue taking prescription drugs while also incorporating CBD into their routine. Your doctor can help you determine if CBD is a viable option for your condition and work with you to create a safe and effective treatment plan.
The Risks of Stopping Medication
Every situation and medication is unique, and there may be scenarios where CBD may reduce the symptoms you experience because of a medication prescribed to you.
Always remember to communicate openly with your health care providers about any changes in your treatment plan, and never make any changes without being informed of the potential benefits and risks.
If you’d like to learn more about CBD, refer to our FAQ. At Zentopia, we only incorporate third-party lab-tested CBD in our products to ensure maximum quality.
