Treatments with Cannabis: Here's What You Need to Know - Healthy Living Association

Treatments with Cannabis: Here’s What You Need to Know

B4BF260416674D04B9418F8D32A23A1BCannabidiol (CBD) supplements are one of the newer products offered in the health marketplace, both online and in retail stores. Because the active chemical in CBD comes from the same plants (cannabis sativa and cannabis indica) that produce marijuana, there has been a massive amount of misinformation, myth and misunderstanding about CBC use, legality and efficacy.

Without getting into a highly technical scientific discussion, it should be known that CBD supplements purchased online or at retail outlets are legal for U.S. consumers, have been approved for sale by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and have been shown in some lab studies to help ease symptoms of arthritis and to decrease generalized anxiety.

As for the wide-ranging list of other maladies that CBDs are said to treat, the scientific jury is still out, as the substance is still in the early stages of large-scale testing. Within a year or two, look for reams of scientific data to be published on CBD uses, possible side effects (so far there are no known problems with the supplement), and long-term potential.

For consumers who want to learn about CBD, it is best to start out by dispelling some of the “urban legend”-type myths that are currently floating around. Next, it’s wise to learn about the many different forms of the substance (capsules, oil, etc.), the various concentrations, and what the state of the current research is.

Myths and Facts

  • CBC supplements do not even contain trace amounts of THC, the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana. In fact, both hemp oil and CBD come from the same plant as marijuana, but hemp and CBD are sourced from the stem of the cannabis plant, not its leaves.
  • Because of a legal loophole, U.S.-based manufacturers are not allowed to produce or sell CBD, which is why all the products currently available are sold by non-U.S. companies. U.S. law requires that hemp growers be licensed, but in actual fact the licensing process is so full of red tape that very few bother. The ones that do can only sell non-dietary, non-food products from the plant.
  • There is zero chance of “getting high” or having any similar experience from taking CBD supplements. To the contrary, the natural form of CBD in the cannabis plant acts to decrease effects of THC. Growers of medical marijuana have to make sure that the leaves of their plants don’t have too much CBD in them; otherwise, the medical effect of the marijuana would be nullified almost completely.
  • A few CBD sellers recently got into trouble with the FDA, but the dust-up had nothing at all to do with marijuana or THC content. A few of the retailers were making unsubstantiated claims about the supplement, and others were selling “CBD” products that contained no CBD at all. The truth is that 99 percent of CBD sellers are ethical and have had no trouble with the FDA.
  • Some makers of CBD supplements and their botanical “cousin,” hemp oil, claim that the stuff is a wonder-drug that treats or cures practically anything. The ethical sellers are careful to state that they make no guarantees about the product, but that research has indicated benefits of taking CBD on a regular basis. (See “Benefits” below).
  • There is a half-truth about CBD, hemp and marijuana that confuses many people. It is this: “Hemp and CBD come from the male variety of the cannabis plant, while marijuana comes from the female variety.” In fact, hemp and CBD can come from either the male or female cannabis plant, while marijuana can only come from the female plant. Botanists call the cannabis plant a “genus” that has at least three species or sub-species: cannabis sativa, cannabis indica, and cannabis ruderalis. Hemp and CBD come mostly from the sativa version, while marijuana comes from both sativa and indica. Ruderalis is such a short, weed-like variety that has almost no commercial use due to its low CBD and THC content.
  • Cannabis sativa simply refers to “common cannabis,” because its covers more acreage than the other two combined. Cannabis indica means “cannabis from India,” that plant’s original source. Cannabis ruderalis means “short/lumpy/rubble-like cannabis.” The word cannabis itself is of Greek origin and probably meant something like “canvas” or “canvas made of hemp.”

How to Purchase CBD:

Concentration: Consumers need to read CBD supplement labels carefully to make sure they are getting the right amount of the substance. CBD often comes in the form of hemp oil, in varying concentrations. Always look at the amount of CBD, not the amount of hemp oil, in the supplement. Hemp oil has its own range of benefits, which is another subject for another day, but for those interested in buying CBD, don’t be misled by a label that shows X mg of hemp oil and only a trace amount of CBD.

Dosage: There are no “FDA-approved” dosages of CBD, but a very common starting point for arthritis sufferers is between 1 and 5 mg per day. In order to get the full benefits of CBD supplements, it is generally recommended to take them every day, as one would a multivitamin.

Forms: CBD comes in all kinds of forms. There are gums, tinctures, capsules, vaporizer systems, topical creams, and oils. Many arthritis sufferers use the topical creams directly on the point of muscle soreness or stiffness. While creams take a bit longer to be absorbed through the skin, they are an efficient way to get the CBD right to the source of the pain. (Creams also tend to be among the more expensive forms of CBD products).

For those who wish to calibrate their daily dosage, oils are probably the most convenient type of CBD product. Oils can be mixed directly into drinks, vaporized, or even added to a salad. Gums and capsules are convenient and commonly sold, but tend to come in rather high doses for those just starting out with CBD, and can’t be calibrated for dose level as easily as oil products can.

Benefits of CBD Supplements

There is much ongoing research in the field of cannabidiol benefits and side effects, though it has been very well established that the substance is not harmful. The main question, that all the research is focused on, is how CBD helps the human body.

In addition to the anti-anxiety and arthritis relief already mentioned above, some researchers think that CBD can play a role in cancer prevention and treatment, as well as provide relief for diabetics, epileptics, and people who suffer from some symptoms of psychosis. There are also claims that CBC helps with generalized body pain and nausea.

With supplements that are still in the early stages of availability, as CBD is, it pays to compare prices and shop around before choosing a source. Prices vary widely and there are a few unscrupulous sellers out there who distribute so-called CBD products that contain almost no CBD at all. As with all dietary supplements, it is best to speak with your own health care professional before adding anything to your daily intake regimen.

Do research, get the facts, and decide whether CBD is right for you. And because this product is relatively new to the health supplement scene, be on the lookout for fresh research as it becomes available. If early indications mean anything, CBC could be poised to be a useful and popular addition to the many healthful dietary supplements that are already on the market.

So what do you think, will you consider CBD for medicinal uses, or is it still the ‘devil weed’ to you?

Let us know in the comments…

22 Comments

  1. Ray

    April 24, 2016 at 10:30 am

    I suffer from some sort of arthritis in both hands and if use of this will alleviate pain where I can function properly I would gladly use it.

  2. Diane

    April 24, 2016 at 10:39 am

    I have been considering getting some of the oil. I would like to see tests done on people with fibromyalgia. I have heard that the oil can help with the pain when applied directly. If it does work, that would be a boon to us who have this dad-blasted condition. As for arthritis, it would be another God-send. Of course, more research is needed and the sooner the better!

    Another oil that helps is lavender. I use that with some other things that helps with muscle pain. It doesn’t take it away, but if I use it consistently, it does help me feel better.

  3. virginia orru

    April 24, 2016 at 11:27 am

    I am an 80 yr old female suffering from debilitating back and leg pain, (had 2 back surgeries). A doctor gave me a script for a10 % CBD ointment. Cost $385 per 30 day doses. I live on SS and maintain my own home.
    The ointment gave me a lot of releif. I could even walk again. Not far but that was thrilling to me.
    Since I can’t afford the cannabis because I have other medical probs that require monthly medications to survive like lung meds etc.
    I would love to make my own ointment since I have many years of laboratory skills in the medical field.Can someone point me in the right direction if it isn’t too costly??? Please help if you can with any info. I am in FL.

  4. Lori Townsend

    April 24, 2016 at 12:03 pm

    I think all parts of the cannibis plant, male CBD’s and female buds are going to be found useful when the research finally comes in. Being a chronic pain patient and being on loads of heavy narcotics for many years, I will absolutely give this a try when legalized. There have been so many deaths from accidental overdoses from opiod use, this plant has had no documented deaths from it’s use so far. It can offer a much safer alternative for those having to take the heavy duty opiods which are now the only option in many states. I say Mother Nature knows best when it comes to plants helping people. Big Pharma continues to develop stronger more powerful opiods for monitary profits. It is a wonder that even more people haven’t died! Plus they are very hard to get off of when no longer needed, leading to very expensive, repetitive rehab treatment which becomes a vicious lifetime circle of misery for many. So far, studies have shown this is not the case with cannibis. Granted, many cancer patients and others who are in the final stages of life may need and should have strong opiods available for their use. I think our legislators should get their facts straight and pass sensible legislation regarding cannibis. Cannibis in any form should be legalized for people over 21. CBD oil should be legalized for children who clearly have documented cases of seizure disorders and other medical problems with the approval of their pediatricians. I don’t think that cannibis in any form will be a cure-all but people should have the right to make choices such as cannibis for their healthcare needs without the stigma or worry about being prosecuted for having a plant(s) in their possession. Cannibis is NOT “devil weed” to me. I want choices!

  5. Gloria

    April 24, 2016 at 1:17 pm

    I find this very interesting but would like to know if any research has been done on the affects of CBD usage in dogs for arthritis pain..

  6. Jacque Poitevint

    April 25, 2016 at 10:40 am

    I use marijuana for medical issues. I live in CA and can grow my own. So how do I get the CBD out of the plant if it is in the stems? More information please.

  7. neil christal

    May 9, 2016 at 12:05 pm

    Big government in cahoots with Big pharma is the BIG PROBLEM! We need to get back to the bark of the trees and the herbs of the fields like the BIBLE says!!!

  8. Janet Blackwood

    May 9, 2016 at 12:48 pm

    A good aid to aid in some pains and add in the absorption of prescription drugs. Medical cannibis is a good thing.

  9. Aron Nielsen

    May 9, 2016 at 12:57 pm

    I think that God put all the natural cures here on earth forus to use, but big pharmaceuticals don’t want us to have it because, it takes money out of their pockets and can’t make a profit from it.

  10. Alice

    May 9, 2016 at 1:19 pm

    Have always considered CBD for medicinal use. Never considered Cannabis “the devil’s weed”. Know too many people who have benifitted from it even when it had to be bootlegged. And before the medical community started extracting the CBD for non-inebriating purposes.

  11. Mary

    May 9, 2016 at 1:25 pm

    While I have no need for it for medicinal purposes, I know some that do. After knowing what it is and how it works, how can it be associated with “devil weed”. That’s ignorant.

  12. Kay Wilson

    May 9, 2016 at 2:25 pm

    I don’t believe misuse of the plant makes it the Devils weed. I am concerned and before trying the supplements in any form I would need to know if it could cause a positive drug screen.

  13. Bill

    May 9, 2016 at 2:48 pm

    “CBC supplements do not even contain trace amounts of THC, the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana”

    Though this will probably not be posted, I will make the effort to warn folks anyway.

    I am 68 years old and have never used marijuana in any form in my entire life. There are many medicinal claims made for CBD, and I believe they are true. As one who suffers from inflammation and arthritis, I decided to try some CBD oil to see if it would help. I had been using the oil for about a month when I was involved in an auto accident in a company vehicle. The company I worked for had a policy that if you are involved in an accident of any kind you have to undergo an immediate drug test, which I did without a thought as to the consequences.

    Long story short, THC showed up in the test, and though I had passed many drug tests in my previous years with the company, and though I even showed them the product I was using and the manufacturer’s claims against this happening, I was summarily fired.

    Though, without a question these products are helpful with many health problems, THC DOES!!!!!!!!! show up in decidedly detectable levels in the urine and if you are employed by a company that will pull a sudden test on you, be aware that you may be putting your job or even your career on the line.

    The products ARE legal to use but they WILL put you in a dangerous position because most companies follow their drug guidelines to the letter. You may have gotten the THC inadvertently from a product that claimed was free of THC, but the company is under no obligation to cut you slack, and most won’t, unless you are just too valuable to let go, and who is in today’s labor environment?

    If you are in this kind of position you better get solid proof from the manufacturer of the product in writing, you might want to discuss the issue with your company before you begin using the product, and then be prepared to sue if you get caught in their lies.

    Bill

  14. Paul Dozier

    May 9, 2016 at 6:02 pm

    I will definitely consider discussing CBD with my new GP/MD who specializes in ADHD and weight loss programs. Arthritis pain is for me an common occurrence, while not debilitating. I get it in my thumb base joints, which makes doing a push-up an exercise to avoid or work around.

  15. stephen butler

    May 9, 2016 at 6:09 pm

    Like to know more , suffer from many symptoms, not looking for a magical cure , just take the edge off ..
    arthritis , anxiety , so much joint pain ..

  16. Cindy

    May 9, 2016 at 8:32 pm

    I heard recently that a young man from United Kingdom cured is cancer with the oil. Then, I heard a woman say she took the oil to help cure her breast cancer and she took herbs as well. So, yes I believe it can play a big part in fighting cancer.

  17. Cindy

    May 9, 2016 at 8:42 pm

    I also heard on Truth About Cancer vedio series that Science Daily Magazine spoke of oil being a cancer cure. Vedio said there is a US Paton saying that tumors stop and die. Doctor said it heals breast, cervical, prostrate, skin cancer, uterus, brain, thyroid, lung and mouth cancer. It cure stage 3, bowel cancer with cannibus oil by taking by mouth.

  18. glenn echols

    May 9, 2016 at 9:24 pm

    nature is the place to find good things for the body, not the chemistry lab where they try to cure 1 problem and create multiple side effects, poison isn’t for the temple of the spirit

  19. virginia orru

    May 10, 2016 at 2:22 pm

    All this info is great. Now where do I find a store that sells to the public? I’m in Sarasota, FL

  20. stephen butler

    May 11, 2016 at 8:14 am

    I concur 100 % …

    I have gone from 12 meds to 0 …. All I take now is all natural , feel better , my doctors can not believe that I am doing so well …

    Stephen

  21. CBD Oil

    June 16, 2016 at 3:23 am

    Marijuana is beneficial on so many levels, I encourage everyone to educate themselves. There is a Canadian documentary called The Union: The Business Behind Getting High, I believe it is on Netflix but I know for sure you can find the full length on YouTube. It lays out an interesting history of marijuana. Check it out.

  22. Kay

    December 8, 2016 at 4:58 am

    I have Fibromyalgia and M.E. and have been ill with all over body pain that can have me in tears. CBD oil 3% was reccommended to me by a biochemist in April and I have not looked back since!
    I was on 500/30 codamol x 2 and 200 Ibroprofen x 2 x 4-5 times a day. I would wake every night without fail between 1.30 and 4.00 am by the pain and take a dose of pain killers. Now I don’t! I only use ibroprofen for a migraine (once a month) and rarely take pharmateutical painkillers during the day. My mobility has improved and so has my mood. In addition I add a tablespoon of Hemp Powder to my breakfast shake daily. I do not experience any side effects from with product.

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