If you are considering using CBD, it helps to know that there are lots of products in the market with varying qualities. One way to use and pick them wisely is to look for products from states that legalize both the recreational and medical use of marijuana as they tend to have stricter standards. It is also recommended that you read more about buying CBD products as well as the different forms of CBD to help you make a more informed choice on the products that will work best for you.
Tip #1: Do Not Expect Miracles
Initial research has shown that CBD offer some health benefits, particularly in treating epilepsy. In fact, FDA has approved the drug Epidiolex for two rare but devastating forms of epilepsy. Other research also suggest that CBD can health with pain, anxiety and multiple sclerosis. While all these favorable results still need more studies, this does not mean that you cannot try CBD for other reasons. Many users have reported using CBD to treat everything from back pain and anxiety to insomnia and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, but do not expect a cure-all.
Tip #2: Consult with Your Doctor
Keep your healthcare provider informed of all the supplements and drugs you plan to take, including CBD. This way, they can best manage your overall care, help choose the best treatment options for your condition and guard you against potential drug interactions and other accompanying risks. Patients are usually reluctant to tell their doctors about complementary therapies for fear of being castigated. But if you have started using CBD, you have to let your doctor. In fact, there are some states where you need a recommendation from a doctor to buy CBD.
Tip #3: Beware of Harmful Drug Interactions
Studies have shown that CBD can lessen the effectiveness of some medications and increase the risk of others, especially when taken at high doses. Highly concentrated CBD tinctures can interfere with the liver enzyme system that metabolizes most drugs. This includes blood thinners, antidepressants and cholesterol-lowering statins. Cannabis plants also contain other compounds that can be in your CBD product, like THC which can alter your cognition. Look for a product whose label says it only contains CBD and not cannabinoids, as the latter the indicate the presence of other compounds.
Tip #4: Use CBD to Supplement Conventional Care
Experts do not recommend that you use CBD to replace your prescription medications for treating serious conditions like multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease and cancer. CBD should only be an adjunct therapy and used cautiously with your healthcare provider’s knowledge. However, there are health problems, like anxiety and pain, where CBD has proven to be helpful in place of certain medications. If you and your doctor decide to go this route, you have to do so carefully, be on guard against withdrawal symptoms, and ensure that your health condition is well-managed.
Tip #5: Look for a Dispensary
Because of the wide range of CBD products available today with no federal regulatory standards, healthcare providers usually do not know the CBD forms or dosages that will work best for different conditions. But experts have some rough guidelines: when using a CBD tincture, start with a 10 milligrams until you reach 30 milligrams a day for at least one week. Some doctors are comfortable with giving a specific dose, but most will direct patients to speak to the staff at a dispensary. Dispensary employees tend to have the most expertise about dosage and mode of delivery.
Follow the actionable tips if you are new to using CBD products and are looking to make the most of these products and the effects they have to offer. Wherever you go, a good rule of thumb to keep in mind is this: start with a low dose, and slowly increase the amount.
