What does CBD really do? More than just a trend

• June 18 2025, by Noah
• 7 min reading time

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You’re hearing more and more about it these days: CBD. Whether it’s in oil form, infused into gummies, or used as an ingredient in skincare products – CBD is everywhere. But what exactly is it, and why has it become so popular? Let’s take a closer look at this fascinating compound from the cannabis plant.

You’ve probably been hearing more and more about CBD. Whether it’s in oil form, mixed into gummies, or even added to skincare products – CBD is everywhere. But what exactly is CBD, and why has it become so popular? Let’s take a closer look at this fascinating compound from the cannabis plant.

What Is CBD?

CBD (Cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) are the two best-known and most thoroughly studied cannabinoids found naturally in the cannabis plant. Although they share the same molecular formula, the arrangement of their atoms is different – which leads to entirely different effects on the human body.

The main difference? THC is psychoactive and responsible for the “high” or intoxicating effects of cannabis. It binds directly to CB1 receptors in the brain and central nervous system, causing changes in perception, mood, and cognition.

CBD, on the other hand, is non-psychoactive. It won’t make you feel “high” or “stoned”. It interacts differently with the body’s cannabinoid receptors and has a more indirect effect on the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a complex network that helps regulate key bodily functions such as mood, sleep, memory, pain perception, appetite, and immune response. CBD may even enhance the production of natural endocannabinoids like anandamide.

CBD products are typically derived from hemp plants – a variety of cannabis naturally low in THC.

The Potential Benefits of CBD

Many people wonder what CBD is good for, what it actually does, and how it works. There’s a growing body of research into its potential therapeutic applications – and while some areas still require more definitive scientific evidence, the findings so far are promising. CBD’s effects may offer relief for a wide range of physical and mental conditions.

Here are some of the most common uses and potential benefits:

1. Pain Relief: CBD is believed to have pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. It may help with both acute and chronic pain, including headaches, migraines, menstrual cramps, muscle aches, nerve pain, and rheumatic conditions.
2. Anxiety and Depression: Studies suggest CBD may have anxiolytic properties. It appears to interact with serotonin receptors in the brain, helping to regulate mood and reduce anxiety. It may promote calmness and relaxation without impairing cognitive function. Higher doses may produce mild positive effects on anxiety.
3. Improved Sleep: CBD is often associated with relaxation and reduced anxiety, which can indirectly contribute to better sleep. Its calming effects may help people fall asleep more easily, even in cases of chronic sleep disorders.
4. Neurological Conditions: There’s evidence to suggest that CBD has potential benefits for certain neurological disorders. It’s also being studied for its neuroprotective effects, which may help protect against diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s and support the formation of new neurons (neurogenesis), especially in the hippocampus.
5. Nausea: Research shows CBD may help reduce nausea and prevent vomiting.
6. Skincare Benefits: CBD is being explored for its soothing, purifying, and anti-inflammatory effects on the skin. It may help with acne and contribute to firmer, more supple skin.
7. Other Potential Uses: CBD is also being researched for its potential in lowering the risk of diabetes, improving concentration, and easing symptoms of psychosis and schizophrenia.

Importantly, CBD is not addictive – even with long-term use.

How to Use CBD

CBD is available in a variety of forms, depending on your preference and how quickly you’d like it to take effect:

• CBD Oil: Typically taken orally by placing drops under the tongue and holding them there for about a minute to allow for fast absorption into the bloodstream. A cost-effective option for daily use.
• CBD Capsules: An easy and precise way to manage your dosage.
• CBD Edibles: A tasty and discreet way to integrate CBD into your routine. Be mindful of the dosage, as edibles may contain smaller amounts of CBD.
• CBD Creams and Balms: Applied directly to the skin for localised effects.

The optimal dosage varies from person to person and depends on factors such as body weight, height, and the reason for use. It’s best to start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed.

CBD for Pets

CBD is also growing in popularity for pets such as dogs and cats. Studies suggest it may help reduce chronic pain, like osteoarthritis in dogs, which could lead to increased activity levels.

Because of its potential calming and anti-anxiety effects in humans, there’s also growing interest in using CBD to help pets manage stress in situations like fireworks or New Year’s Eve. CBD may reduce cortisol levels and interact with serotonin receptors in animals as well.

Curious about our CBD products for pets? Visit our CBD for Pets page

Safety, Side Effects, and Interactions

In general, CBD is well tolerated. However, at higher doses, side effects can occur – including fatigue, drowsiness, sedation, diarrhoea, or changes in appetite. There are also concerns about potential liver damage and interactions with other medications, particularly at high doses. The long-term effects of CBD are still unknown.

It's important to be extra cautious when combining CBD with other sedatives, such as alcohol, sleeping pills, tranquillizers, or opioids, as CBD may enhance their effects. It can also interact with medications that affect liver enzymes, which may lead to increased or decreased levels of those drugs in the bloodstream.

That’s why it’s always wise to consult your doctor or pharmacist before using CBD – especially if you're already on medication or have underlying health conditions.

Quality and Trustworthiness of CBD Products

The CBD market is growing rapidly, but not all commercially available products are equally reliable. Tests have shown that some products are misleadingly labelled, with inaccurate CBD levels or even undisclosed THC content. This can lead to unwanted effects – such as accidentally feeling high or, worse, facing legal issues like losing your driving licence after a roadside saliva test.

That’s why it’s crucial to buy CBD from trusted sources. Reputable manufacturers use transparent production methods and verify product quality through third-party lab testing. Always ask for a Certificate of Analysis (COA) to check for quality, purity, and legal compliance with THC limits.

The Entourage Effect: CBD and THC Together

CBD and THC are often found together in cannabis plants, and their combined effect may differ from that of each compound on its own – a phenomenon known as the “entourage effect.” Some studies suggest that CBD can modulate the effects of THC, possibly reducing its psychoactivity and countering certain adverse effects. However, recent research suggests this influence may be less significant at the CBD levels typically found in hash or cannabis. Broad-spectrum CBD products contain not only CBD but also other cannabinoids and terpenes, working together synergistically to enhance the overall effects.

Conclusion

CBD offers an intriguing range of potential benefits for both body and mind – without the psychoactive effects associated with THC. While the science is still evolving, the current findings are promising.

If you’re thinking of trying CBD, make sure you’re well informed. Always choose high-quality, lab-tested products from a reputable source, and speak to a healthcare professional if you're unsure or taking other medications. This way, you can explore the benefits of CBD safely and responsibly.

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