The cannabis plant has been used for centuries for its therapeutic properties. CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of the active compounds in cannabis and has been shown to have a wide range of potential health benefits.
Technology has played a major role in pushing the development of CBD products. The isolation of CBD from the cannabis plant was first accomplished in the 1940s, but it wasn’t until the 1960s that scientists began to study its potential therapeutic effects.
The development of new extraction methods and delivery systems has made it easier to take CBD and has led to the creation of a variety of CBD products. These products include oils, tinctures, capsules, edibles, topicals, and vapes.
That said, let’s now cover a list of ways how technology has pushed the development of CBD products.
Discovery of CBD and Its Potential Health Benefits
CBD was first isolated from the cannabis plant in the 1940s. However, it wasn’t until the 1960s that scientists began to study its potential therapeutic effects.
In the 1970s, studies showed that CBD could reduce seizure activity in animals. This finding led to the first clinical trial of CBD in humans, which took place in 1979. The trial showed that CBD could reduce seizure frequency in people with epilepsy.
The benefits of CBD were further explored in the 1990s. In one study, CBD was shown to be effective in reducing anxiety in people with social anxiety disorder. In another study, CBD was found to reduce inflammation and pain in people with arthritis.
Development of New Extraction Methods
The development of new extraction methods has made it easier to take CBD and has led to the creation of a variety of CBD products.
CBD can be extracted from the cannabis plant using a variety of methods, including CO2 extraction, ethanol extraction, and olive oil extraction. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages.
CO2 extraction is considered the safest and most efficient method of CBD extraction. It produces a purer product and doesn’t require the use of toxic chemicals. However, it is also the most expensive method.
Ethanol extraction is less expensive than CO2 extraction but is more likely to result in a product that contains impurities. Olive oil extraction is the least expensive method but is also the least efficient, resulting in a less potent product.
Delivery Systems
The development of new delivery systems has made it easier to take CBD and has led to the creation of a variety of CBD products.
CBD can be taken orally, topically, or by inhalation. The most common oral forms of CBD are oils and tinctures, which are taken by placing a few drops under the tongue. Capsules and edibles are also popular oral forms of CBD.
Topical forms of CBD include creams, lotions, balms, and patches. These products are applied to the skin and are absorbed through the pores. Inhalation is the quickest way to feel the effects of CBD but is only suitable for experienced users.
Vaping is the most popular method of CBD inhalation. CBD vape oil is available in a variety of flavors and can be used in any standard vape pen.
Benefits of CBD
Let’s now briefly cover some potential benefits of CBD:
Reducing Anxiety: CBD has been shown to reduce anxiety in people with social anxiety disorder and can also help to reduce stress and anxiety in general.
Reducing Inflammation and Pain: CBD has anti-inflammatory properties and can be effective in reducing inflammation and pain in people with arthritis.
Reducing Seizures: CBD has been shown to be effective in reducing seizure frequency in people with epilepsy.
Improving Sleep: CBD can help to improve sleep quality by reducing the time it takes to fall asleep and increasing the time spent in deep sleep.
How to Take CBD
Now that we’ve covered some of the ways technology has pushed the development of CBD products, let’s briefly cover how to take CBD.
CBD can be taken orally, topically, or by inhalation. The most common oral forms of CBD are oils and tinctures, which are taken by placing a few drops under the tongue. Capsules and edibles are also popular oral forms of CBD.
Topical forms of CBD include creams, lotions, balms, and patches. These products are applied to the skin and are absorbed through the pores. Inhalation is the quickest way to feel the effects of CBD but is only suitable for experienced users.
Vaping is the most popular method of CBD inhalation. CBD vape oil is available in a variety of flavors and can be used in any standard vape pen.
CBD is a versatile compound that can be taken in a variety of ways to suit different needs. Experiment with different delivery methods and dosages to find the best way to take CBD for you.
Side Effects of CBD
Although CBD is generally considered safe, it can cause some side effects, such as:
Dry mouth: CBD can reduce saliva production, which can lead to dry mouth.
Diarrhea: CBD can speed up the movement of food through the digestive system, which can cause diarrhea.
Drowsiness: CBD can cause drowsiness, which is why it is often used to help people sleep.
Interactions: CBD can interact with some medications, so it’s important to speak to a doctor before taking CBD if you are taking any medication.
Conclusion
Technology has played a major role in the development of CBD products. New extraction methods and delivery systems have made it easier to take CBD and have led to the creation of a variety of CBD products.
CBD is a versatile compound that can be taken in a variety of ways to suit different needs. Experiment with different delivery methods and dosages to find the best way to take CBD for you.