While there may be more acceptance of CBD than there was a few years ago — many people are still quite wary of trying a CBD product. We want to help you feel comfortable and confident about CBD and to do that we would like to dispel a few of the myths surrounding this amazing supplement.
Myth #1: The CBD industry is a bit sketchy. There may be some growers, manufacturers, and labs that are not as experienced or competent as they should be. However, the majority of CBD companies work very hard to carry high-quality, organically grown hemp and process it without the use of chemicals or harmful additives. The 2018 Farm Bill that authorized hemp/CBD to be legally sold all across the country had some very specific requirements for everyone in the industry and as time goes on, industry standards have risen and competent labs are working to certify that each product is exactly what it purports to be.
Myth #2: CBD is addictive and can get you high. Totally false. The hemp plant, with less than .3% Delta 9 THC cannot get you buzzed in any way. There are no psychotropic effects linked to CBD. Unlike nicotine, opioids, and alcohol — there is nothing addictive about CBD. Yes, you will feel the positive results and need to use it daily as you would any other supplement or medication. But, no, you will not crave the CBD nor does it stimulate the addiction center in your brain.
Myth #3: There’s not a lot of research about CBD. Every major research university, pharmaceutical manufacturer, and medical institution is studying the properties and impact of CBD. From Harvard to the World Health Organization. Why? Because the hemp plant is filled with a wide array of cannabinoids, terpenes (aromatic, essential oils of the plant) chlorophyll, phytonutrients, and more. New studies are coming out every month that are attempting to determine all the healing properties of this plant and the ways in which different cannabinoids and terpenes can positively change conditions like anxiety, insomnia, depression, PTSD, seizures, etc.
Myth #4: The FDA doesn’t regulate CBD. Through the aforementioned Farm Bill, the FDA has set the standard for all hemp to be inspected and certified as having less than .3% Delta 9 THC. It is an important distinction because with legalized cannabis in some states, but not all, everyone wants to be compliant with this mandate. The FDA has also approved the first CBD medication, Epidiolex, which helps reduce seizures. They also monitor CBD products to make sure companies are not making false medical claims. When the Farm Bill expires in 2022, it is likely that the U.S. Congress will institute even more rules with the assistance of the FDA so that it is regulated just like all other nutritional supplements.
Big things are happening in the world of CBD. We will see more evidence-based studies to bolster the many anecdotal stories and more people will find themselves purchasing CBD to help them with any number of health challenges. Remember that CBD has a very high safety profile and does not have significant adverse side effects. It is an excellent, foundational supplement that will help you find the healthy balance that you need.