What is CBD and how is it used for medicinal purposes

January 23, 2023

CBD – short for cannabidiol – is a compound derived from the hemp plant. Not to be confused with the marijuana that some people smoke, CBD products are legal and contains very little of the ‘psychoactive’ compound THC which is element that might get you 'stoned'

CBD comes in an oil form or tablets. You can buy it legally from many places including pharmacies and online. CBD also can come in the form of balms, capsules or beauty products, read about them and how they work below.

This article is not specific about recommending products or brands, but it more about the different formats of CBD and why people would take them. Keep in mind that not all of the claims or reasons are 100% backed up by scientific studies so you need to weight up the benefits v the cost of products which are not cheap.

Due to the time and specific format of studies required to gain authorised health claims in the EU, there have been no CBD specific health claims authorised at this time. Whilst CBD is NOT considered a medicine, the World Health Organisation’s 2018 Critical Review Report on CBD states that CBD is generally well tolerated with a good safety profile.

CBD oil
CBD oil capsules
CBD gummies
CBD drinks
CBD sprays
CBD balm/lotion

CBD Gummies

CBD gummies may be helpful for various purposes, like quelling anxiety and helping with sleep. Some people also take CBD gummies for back pain.

CBD drinks

There are a huge range of drinks that contain CBD, from seltzers to gins. They are said to have similar effects to alcohol but just without the alcohol and i would say are possibly less addictive than alcohol. Some research suggests that drinks likw this may relieve chronic pain and help reduce anxiety and inflammation. These hard seltzers from company OTTO are an example of the botanical mix of CBD and herbs / botanicals that can make you feel like you are having a cocktail.

otto seltzers

CBD tea for unwinding has a double benefit as tea naturally feels relaxing. On top of that the CBD within the tea give you a little bit of extra help. Body and Mind Botanicals do a really nice hemp tea.

CBD in beauty products

Scientists are only beginning to discover the benefits of CBD oil but emerging research shows it has a positive effect on a number skin conditions including acne, dermatitis and psoriasis.⁶ CBD also has an antioxidant effect, helping to protect skin cells from the potentially damaging effects of free radicals.

Here are some CBD products that are topical by a company Puresport who have a huge range of quality CBD products includling drops and balms.