Cannabidiol (CBD)

It is almost difficult to pick up a newspaper or magazine today without seeing three letters, C B D.  What exactly is it and what are some important things to think about before purchasing and trying CBD oil?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is the active ingredient in cannabis, derived from the hemp plant (Cannabis Sativa), which is a cousin of the marijuana plant. CBD is a component of literally hundreds in the marijuana plant. By itself, it does not cause a “high.”  It is thought that the ‘high” would be only attainable if THC (the psycho active ingredient) in marijuana is present.  There is research to support that CBD may be helpful in treating chronic pain, anxiety, insomnia, fatigue and depression, to name a few.

All 50 states have laws legalizing CBD with varying restrictions. The federal government still considers CBD in the same class as marijuana, however it doesn’t habitually enforce against it.  The government’s position on CBD is confusing and depends in part on whether the CBD comes from hemp or marijuana. . In 2018 the Farm Bill was passed allowing licensed farmers to grow hemp and transport it across state lines based on agreements between the states and federal government.

**NOTE** Federal definition of hemp requires that it contain less than 0.3% delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinoil (THC), the euphorigenic component of cannabis.

The fact remains that not all CBD oil is created equally.  There is significant safety concern as it is primarily marketed and sold as a supplement, not a medication.  Currently, the FDA does not regulate the safety and purity of dietary supplements so there is no way to be certain that the product that you buy actually contains the active ingredients at the dose listed on the label.  It also may contain unknown elements due to it not being regulated.  With this information in mind, it is imperative that CBD is always purchased from a reputable source.

In summary, it does appear that CBD oil is here to stay, at least for the time being.  Current patients at NovaSpine Pain Institute are encouraged to speak with their provider if they are interested in trying CBD oil.