Does CBD get you high? This and other common questions answered

CBD seems to be everywhere these days, between oils, tea, topical products and so much more…but what exactly is CBD?

First off, CBD, or cannabidiol, is the second-most prevalent active ingredient in cannabis. So, CBD is found in cannabis, but is not the ingredient that gets you high. (That comes from tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC.)

So what does CBD do?

The health properties of cannabidiol, or CBD, have been growing increasingly more popular in the last decade with a drastic increase since legalization began in various jurisdictions across Canada and the United States. Research has suggested CBD can help patients by changing the brain’s response to serotonin, releasing stress for patients with anxiety, insomnia, and symptoms of PTSD.

CBD may also have anti-seizure properties for patients with epilepsy, as well as being neuroprotective, with studies currently ongoing regarding the CB1 receptor in patients who’ve had strokes, or are living with Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer’s disease. Finally, CBD may also provide some relief for patients with arthritis, chronic pain, spinal cord injuries, muscle pain, and pain from multiple sclerosis.

CBD products generally will fit into three categories: oils, topicals and edibles.

CBD oils offer ease of use – simply add a couple drops into an existing food or drink of choice, or put it under your tongue to be quick! CBD oils will typically come in a small bottle with an eyedropper and, like most CBD products, can range drastically in strength, so be sure to research what strength to take for the desired health benefits.

Gummies are great as a quick little treat for those wanting a set amount of CBD that is prepared for them and ready to go, every time. Gummies will usually be on the low end of strength and will come in a variety of flavours and package sizes.

Topical CBD products are applied directly to the skin, typically as ointments, lotions, balms and tinctures. Topical products also range in strength, but are applied directly to the affected area. Often used to address muscle pain and similar effects, topical products are typically used for a more localized approach to the area in pain.

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