CBD Explained Clearly: What It Is, How It Works & Why Use It

This essential guide answers the most common questions about CBD: what it is, why it’s so talked about, the benefits it offers and how to use it safely. If you’re looking for a personalised dose, jump straight to the Slow Weed interactive quiz.

1. CBD: what it is

Cannabidiol, better known as CBD, is a natural compound derived from the cannabis plant. It is one of more than a hundred cannabinoids found in cannabis, alongside THC, the most famous. Unlike THC, CBD is non-psychoactive: it does not produce the “high” or altered consciousness associated with THC. Thanks to this property, CBD is increasingly used for therapeutic and wellness purposes.

2. Origins and discovery of CBD

CBD was first identified in 1940 by American chemist Roger Adams, but for a long time it was not extensively studied because of legal restrictions on cannabis. In recent decades, research on CBD has expanded greatly, revealing many positive effects and potential medical applications.

3. Main benefits of CBD

Anti-inflammatory effect

CBD has shown an ability to reduce inflammation, the body’s natural response to injury or infection. When inflammation becomes chronic it can lead to diseases such as arthritis, ulcerative colitis, neuro-degenerative and cardiovascular disorders. CBD interacts with the immune system, limiting the production of inflammatory substances.

Analgesic effect

By reducing inflammation, CBD is also effective in treating chronic pain. It is often used by people suffering from muscular, joint, neuropathic pain and chronic inflammatory conditions.

Anxiolytic and anti-stress properties

CBD is widely appreciated for its calming effect. It acts on the central nervous system, reducing anxiety, stress and sleep disorders. It has also been used successfully to treat symptoms associated with conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and generalised anxiety disorder.

Anticonvulsant effect

One of the best-known medical uses of CBD is in treating epilepsy, especially drug-resistant forms such as Lennox-Gastaut and Dravet syndromes. Some studies have shown that CBD can significantly reduce seizure frequency.

Neuroprotective effects

CBD has neuroprotective properties that may help prevent or slow the development of neuro-degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and multiple sclerosis. This protective effect stems from CBD’s ability to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, both harmful to the brain and nervous system.

Antioxidant properties

Oxidative stress is caused by an excess of free radicals—unstable molecules that can damage cells. CBD acts as an antioxidant, capturing free radicals and preventing them from causing cellular damage that can lead to chronic diseases, including cardiovascular and degenerative disorders.

Other potential benefits

Beyond the benefits already mentioned, CBD has been studied for other health issues such as nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy, management of muscle spasms in multiple sclerosis, and treatment of neuropathic pain associated with diabetes.

4. How to take CBD

There are several ways to take CBD, each with its own characteristics and advantages:

• Sublingual oil: place a few drops of CBD oil under the tongue, where it is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream.
• Creams, lotions and ointments: applied topically to treat muscle pain, joint inflammation or dermatological issues.
• Vaporised flowers: used for immediate effect, very helpful in cases of acute pain or anxiety attacks.

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5. Side effects and safety

CBD is generally considered safe and well tolerated by most people. When side effects do occur, they are usually mild and include:

• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Light dizziness
• Digestive issues such as nausea or diarrhoea

Note that CBD can interact with other medications, altering their effect. Therefore, it is always advisable to consult a doctor before starting CBD, especially if you are taking other drugs.

6. Conclusions

CBD is now one of the most interesting natural substances for health and wellness, thanks to its effectiveness in various conditions and its relatively high safety profile. However, since many of its effects are still under study, it is essential to get informed and consult a healthcare professional before using it to treat specific conditions. In any case, growing scientific and clinical interest suggests that CBD will continue to be a promising therapeutic resource in the future.

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