As the world’s understanding of the cannabis plant and its many benefits continues to grow, this ongoing expanse of knowledge has led to steady growth in the acceptance and legalization of cannabis for medicinal and recreational purposes, depending on the country or state in which one resides.
The decriminalization of cannabis has opened the door to much-needed scientific research that was essentially discontinued when cannabis was dubiously scheduled as a controlled substance. Additionally, decriminalization offers entrepreneurs and innovators the opportunity to create new and helpful cannabis-related products that offer consumers alternative treatments for common human ailments, like anxiety or insomnia, without the psychoactive (feeling high) effects associated with the use of cannabis.
The two most notable and researched phytocannabinoids (naturally occurring compounds in the cannabis plant) are THC (Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol).
Recently, there has been much talk about CBD regarding its potential health benefits, and then wondered – What is CBD? How is CBD consumed? Can I find quality CBD flower near me? Will it help me?
The narrative that follows provides basic knowledge regarding the use and benefits of CBD (in flower form), one of more than 100 cannabinoids (i.e., chemical compounds) that have been isolated by scientists in the cannabis plant. First, though, is CBD flower legal to use?
The short answer to this important query is yes, CBD is legal. In 2018, the Farm Bill legalized industrial hemp production as an agricultural commodity, essentially ushering in a new age that allowed, for the first time in decades, the legalized production while de-listing it as a controlled or scheduled substance. According to the law, industrial hemp is defined as the cannabis sativa L plant produced with a THC level that is .3% or less. While each state has determined its regulations/laws, the reality is that hemp production is now legal in all states except New Hampshire, South Dakota, Mississippi, and Idaho.
What is CBD Flower?
CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive compound that occurs naturally in the cannabis plant. Unlike its more infamous cousin-compound – THC, CBD provides a sense of relaxation and calmness without psychoactive properties.
CBD is available with several delivery methods – oils, edible gummies, sprays, or even pills. However, a growing number of CBD users prefer vaping/smoking the raw/dried CBD hemp flowers or buds of the plant because this part of the Cannabis sativa L plant possesses the highest concentration of CBD.
It is noted that when smoked or vaped, CBD and marijuana flower buds smell and even taste similar; however, the effects from each are unmistakably different.
What does CBD Offer?
As a natural alternative to pharmaceuticals, CBD offers consumers these benefits –
Relaxing & Calming Effects
Smoking or vaping CBD flowers offers a variety of benefits. CBD offers consumers a relaxed feeling independent of the intoxication one feels from the effects of THC. The non-psychotropic effects allow consumers to remain attentive and focused – and calm, often with a sense of well-being.
Anti-Inflammatory or Pain-relieving Properties
Studies from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) have shown that CBD may offer pain-relief and anti-inflammatory effects that are helpful to those who suffer from chronic pain or headaches.
Help with Symptoms of Depression or Anxiety
Many studies have identified and supported claims that CBD effectively reduces anxiety or depression and even addiction, especially if combined with ongoing professional therapy and other mental health interventions.
The Take-Away
CBD flower, when smoked or vaped, offers relaxing effects in only a few minutes. Because CBD flowers do not contain psychoactive properties, they provide anti-inflammatory properties and pain relief without the side effects of THC, which some individuals find less than desirable.
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