The year 2019 has already seen various proliferations where food is concerned; ‘bleeding’ vegan burgers, crossushi and orange wine being just three of many. It’s wholly apparent that we’re moving in a new direction and it looks as though CBD might just be leading the way.
What exactly is it?
Well, aside from being a one-billion-dollar business already, CBD – an abbreviation for cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis. It is cannabis product that won’t get you high, but the “it” drug has gained quite the rep, most notably due to more recent legalisations of marijuana in many countries, and several U.S states. CBD is found in cannabis, alongside other chemical compounds, and the oil is said to act as a natural treatment for epilepsy, depression and anxiety – without the buzzy side effects!
In following with the trend, a handful of restaurants are incorporating CBD oil-infused food and drink into their menus and the beauty business is positively booming with its influence, and it has sure lit-up our curiosity.
So, how is it used?
There’s no funny business when it comes to CBD; no pesticides, no herbicides, and no harmful contaminants. Additionally, there are multiple different ways that you can ingest and use this substance to experience its benefits.
It is extracted in oil or powder form and then added to various products; you can also enjoy it your morning latte or smoothie which is a method that’s becoming increasingly popular on menus all over.
Additionally, you can ingest it to experience relief via sublingual application. This method is popular due to its consistent measurability and because it’s the quickest way to relaxation. Using this method, it’s said you will achieve a lengthy period of time where your mind and body are at complete ease. Finally, it’s used in topicals – a variety of ointments, balms, and lotions are on the market and can be applied to select areas that are causing pain, inflammation and more.
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What are the benefits?
There are benefits galore with this clever little substance, from providing general pain relief to fighting a range of illnesses including cancer and epilepsy. CBD is widely used to combat anxiety, related to the effect that it has on limbic and paralimbic brain areas. The substance is also a monumental discovery in treating mental health and its calming effects are praised by many.
In the beauty industry slathering it on your skin may improve pesky skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Beauty brands such as MGC Beauty only use the highest quality of cannabidiol in their range of masks, toners, and creams.
Recently, it’s been marketed more and more in skin care products as it turns out CBD oil also has antioxidant properties which can help lessen the visible signs of aging skin – bonus!
How about health risks?
CBD is generally regarded as an extremely safe substance, which does not have any major adverse effects. The biggest risk to watch out for with CBD is ineffectiveness.
Brands that tout the presence of the ingredient in their product often proclaim the marvellous effects it has. Many of these claims to do not have sufficient scientific evidence and many professionals see the study of CBD as ongoing and currently inconclusive. While you may observe positive effects on inflammation, it is a bit early to declare it a cure for cancer.
Does CBD have a future?
There is no denying CBD’s rise to prominence, when you can replace all of your nutritional and cosmetic products, as well as your dog’s, with CBD based products. And it appears that you should get used to its presence because it is predicted that the hemp-CBD market could reach as high as $20 billion by 2020 and $22 billion by 2022!