Whether you’ve heard about it from your sister-in-law or a Spotify ad, there’s no denying that CBD is everywhere these days. The natural compound primarily found in the hemp plant is gaining major traction in popular culture and the wellness world, as people continue to praise its healthy properties.
But even with all the excitement, it’s clear there’s still a long way to go to understanding the potential therapeutic benefits and possible unknowns. So, just what are medical professionals and doctors saying about CBD? Are some skeptical? Let’s uncover some of the most talked-about Kushebites, so you’ll be in the know.
- According to the World Health Organization (WHO), CBD oil is safe – Most doctors give at least some credence to guidance by the WHO. In 2018 the WHO affirmed that CBD is safe, and it is well-tolerated by humans and animals. They also found it is not associated with any negative public health effects. There is also preliminary evidence that CBD may be a useful treatment for several other medical conditions.
- Unlike its cousin THC, CBD does not cause intoxicating effects – CBD produces no ‘high effect’ and is legal at the Federal level in the US by the 2018 Farm Bill. Only three states have not made CBD legal at the state level (Idaho, Iowa, and South Dakota). Federal law defines CBD as products containing less than 0.3% THC. Research shows that THC levels – upward of 20% – produce psychoactive effects. It’s important to note that not all CBD products are completely THC free. Broad-spectrum and isolate CBD products have, what labs call, no traceable amounts of CBD, while full-spectrum CBD Oil can contain trace amounts of THC (less than 0.3%).
- FDA approval is just beginning – According to the US Food and Drug Administration, the FDA is ‘working to answer questions about the ‘science, safety, and quality of products containing cannabis and cannabis-derived compounds, particularly CBD.’ Currently, the only FDA-approved CBD medication is Epidiolex, which is used to treat certain seizures. Although it’s the single FDA-approved product right now, the FDA is looking at CBD in more depth.
- Quality is king – Industry experts and doctors agree that if patients decide to take CBD, they should look for products with only the highest-quality ingredients. What should you look for? Make sure CBD products are 3rd-party lab tested. This type of testing validates customers are getting what the packaging and label indicate. CBD manufacturers that produce products in ISO certified, FDA-registered facilities also give consumers the confidence they’re getting premium CBD products.
- More research is needed – We all know doctors like data. And, the truth remains, CBD research is still in the early stages. Many scientists want to see more research into the long-term implications and benefits of CBD. Another area of consideration is that most studies today are looking at CBD oil itself and not at manufactured CBD products, which often include terpene compounds and other natural blends. Thus, the consensus is to proceed cautiously with CBD oil and with an open mind – look at evidence-based research as it’s published.
Do your research and have a conversation with your doctor
While research continues, most scientists agree that CBD could play a part in our wellness and can help maintain biological balance. However, not every patient has the same experience with CBD products. The best advice is to consult with your physician before trying any therapies, including CBD. The conversation between a patient and doctor should focus on the treatments available and the relative potential for each option’s risk vs. benefits. If you want to learn more about CBD, or want tips on talking to your doctor, email us!
