CBD (Cannabidiol) oil is derived from hemp. Many people confuse hemp with marijuana, but hemp is a very different plant. Marijuana and hemp may share the same scientific name, Cannabis sativa, but they are not the same.

Marijuana is cultivated primarily for its psychoactive cannabinoid, a chemical compound called tetrahydrocannabinol or THC, for recreational and medicinal use. Marijuana contains both THC and Full Spectrum CBD .

Evidence for CBD Health Benefits

The Cannabis plant contains over 100 cannabinoids. These compounds closely resemble human endocannibalism. The main cannabinoid in hemp is CBD, and in marijuana, THC.

Unlike THC, CBD does not bind directly into our cannabinoid receptors. Nevertheless, it does stimulate the activity of both CB1 and CB2 receptors without directly tapping into them. A study by the National Institute of Health found that CBD causes the body to release more endocannabinoids, especially 2-AG. Moreover, CBD inhibits the degradation of anandamide.

Pain Relief

Research on CBD Oil Online found may offer an option for treating different types of chronic pain: fibromyalgia, gout, HIV, multiple sclerosis, neuropathic, and rheumatoid arthritis . Studies found that applying CBD oil directly on the problem area helps to lower pain and inflammation. CBD works by impacting cannabinoid receptor activity in the body, reducing inflammation, and interacting with neurotransmitters.

Another controlled study found that Sativex significantly improved pain during movement, pain at rest, and sleep quality in people with rheumatoid arthritis .

Anxiety and Depression

Clinical trials have revealed that both marijuana and CBD may be effective in reducing different forms of anxiety including generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

In addition, some studies showed that CBD eases depression and helps with psychotic disorders like schizophrenia. (Please note that marijuana does not help with either and may actually worsen psychosis.)

CBD Side Effects and Safety

CBD is generally well tolerated and rarely produces side effects. However, some people should take additional precautions, including:

People with a weakened immune systems. In cell studies, CBD was associated with decreased activity of T and B immune cells, hence, increasing the likelihood of infections and worsening HIV, tumor growth, metastases, and asthma.

Use caution when combining CBD with herbs or botanicals in dietary supplements . There is limited research on such interactions. Use caution when combining CBD with alcohol.

Most people who use CBD do not report any side effects, but some may include a slight decrease in blood pressure, dry mouth, lightheadedness, drowsiness, gastrointestinal upset, decrease in appetite, and mood changes.

Author's Bio: 

Degree in Journalism and Integral Communication. Trained in El Referente and writing about the world of technology, health, sports since 2013