It’s likely you’ve encountered CBD; its prevalence in health food outlets and wellness spas is undeniable. Recently, CBD has transcended the human market and gained immense popularity within the pet community as well.
With all the buzz surrounding CBD and its purported wonders—ranging from alleviating anxiety and stress to easing pain and even helping with asthma—I decided it was time for me to see for myself. Thus began my 30-day journey with CBD.
If you’re curious about what CBD is and how it might positively impact your life, keep reading.
Understanding CBD
Let’s dive into the details.
CBD, or cannabidiol, is THC’s non-psychoactive counterpart—meaning, it won’t get you high.
This cannabinoid is the second most abundant in cannabis, derived from either the marijuana or hemp plant.
CBD plays various roles in the human body, and while ongoing research continues to reveal its benefits, a significant way it operates is through supporting the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
The human ECS is integral to our health, ensuring homeostasis and aiding in essential bodily functions.
Bear with me; we’re getting to the interesting part.
The ECS consists of three main components: endocannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes.
Endocannabinoids help maintain bodily functions by binding to specific receptors, while enzymes break down these endocannabinoids once their task is complete.
Studies indicate that CBD inhibits the enzymes responsible for breaking down endocannabinoids, allowing them to remain in our system for longer and prolonging their calming and balancing properties.
One such endocannabinoid affected by CBD is anandamide—named after the Sanskrit word for bliss. Anandamide regulates serotonin production and pain management, meaning with CBD, we enjoy prolonged exposure to this bliss-inducing compound.
Beyond stress relief and mood enhancements, CBD supports other crucial body functions—such as immune response, metabolism, sleep regulation, and more—ensuring these processes function optimally.
The Benefits of CBD
Research on CBD is still in its nascent stages, but existing studies suggest that CBD can:
- Mimic serotonin, leading to anti-anxiety and antidepressant effects
- Reduce inflammation
- Alleviate pain
- Assist in preventing substance abuse
- Inhibit tumor progression and metastasis
- Enhance sleep quality
- Treat epilepsy
- Aid in psychosis treatment
- Help alleviate PTSD symptoms
- Lower blood pressure
- And much more!
My Personal Experience with CBD
Now that you have a basic understanding of what CBD is supposed to do, let’s discuss my actual experience after 30 days of use.
(Here’s my review of the CBD oil I tried!)
Finding Calm
My main motivation for trying CBD was to manage my persistent anxiety.
From stress over driving to the anxiety of booking flights, I often experience racing thoughts and physical tension.
After my first dose of high-quality CBD, I noticed a significant reduction in my anxious feelings.
Over the duration of 30 days, I strategically timed my doses to coincide with my most anxious situations.
While CBD didn’t erase my challenges, it did make them far more manageable.
In moments on the verge of panic, CBD brought me a profound sense of calm and grounding, empowering me to tackle tasks I would have otherwise avoided.
Relief from Aches and Pains
I’m generally fortunate to not suffer from significant physical pain, an aspect of my health I’m thankful for.
However, after returning from extended travel, my physical activity dwindled, leading to discomfort.
A few days into my CBD trial, I returned to exercising, resulting in soreness, particularly in my lower back. After a dropper of CBD oil, the pain dissipated.
Additionally, CBD significantly alleviated menstrual cramps and helped with migraine relief. It proved effective not just for general discomfort but also for stomach issues related to overeating.
Hangover Relief
These days, I drink less, enjoying an occasional glass of wine or celebratory drink; however, I attended a few weddings during my CBD trial.
After a night of indulging—especially the time I overdid it with several shots and prosecco—CBD was my saving grace the following mornings.
Despite not feeling entirely refreshed, CBD alleviated headaches and nausea, allowing me to resume my day without the usual hangover slump.
Managing Weed Intolerance
Although I prefer not to use the term ‘weed hangover,’ I often experience sluggishness after smoking cannabis. However, when I took CBD post-consumption, I felt remarkably refreshed instead of foggy.
This effect occurs because CBD can mitigate some of the psychoactive effects of THC through its action on CB1 receptors, effectively counterbalancing its more intense effects.
A Unique Tolerance Effect
Research indicates that unlike THC, CBD doesn’t lead to tolerance build-up. In fact, some users find that over time, they require less CBD to experience its effects.
Throughout my 30-day trial, I noticed a reduced need for daily doses as my anxiety subsided. On occasions, days would pass where I forgot to take my CBD at all.
A Touch of Happiness
While I strive to remain optimistic, I have faced moments of deep melancholy throughout my life.
Despite these challenges, CBD provided me with a sense of bliss that helped keep my mood elevated and fostered motivation in times of darkness.
Improved Sleep Patterns
CBD is commonly touted for its capability to help with insomnia, so you might wonder if it will leave you groggy. Interestingly, I found that when taken during the day, CBD boosted my alertness, while nighttime doses facilitated improved sleep.
CBD isn’t a sedative—it works harmoniously with the body to enhance sleep quality by relieving anxiety and discomfort, ultimately promoting overall balance.
Are There Any Drawbacks to CBD Oil?
Having taken CBD consistently for over a month, I personally haven’t encountered any negative side effects. However, some have expressed concerns regarding its potential impact on liver health.
Animal studies have linked high doses of CBD to liver toxicity, often far exceeding what a human would consume.
In clinical trials involving epilepsy treatment, some participants reported mild side effects such as digestive changes and fatigue—almost negligible compared with conventional pharmaceuticals.
Research suggests that CBD generally boasts a favorable safety profile in humans, reinforcing the old adage: moderation is key.
Maximizing CBD Use
To maximize the benefits of CBD, it’s crucial to select a reputable brand that employs high-quality full or broad-spectrum hemp extract.
Finding the right dosage may require some experimentation. I found the recommended amount effective, but individual needs may vary.
For optimal effects, I preferred to hold the tincture drops under my tongue longer than the suggested duration and took them on an empty stomach.
Should You Experiment with CBD?
While CBD isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, it has undoubtedly contributed positively to my life.
So much so that before my initial bottle was nearing empty, I was already eager to order more!
CBD has become like a small toolbox of support for managing anxiety, discomfort, and even enhancing my moods.
It’s a natural approach worth exploring. So, if you’re contemplating trying CBD, I wholeheartedly recommend it.
