Cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD, can be used to help a variety of conditions. Though it’s not a cure all and isn’t effective for everyone, research suggests it can be a good choice for some health conditions.

What is CBD?

CBD is an active ingredient in hemp, which is closely related to marijuana. CBD is also an active ingredient in marijuana.

But unlike THC, it doesn’t deliver euphoric effects. Instead, CBD’s use is more therapeutic.

And research suggests it’s a low risk option to try out. According to the World Health Organization there is no evidence of public health issues with pure CBD, and it shows no indication of potential for abuse or dependence. RELATED: CBD and Your Health

How CBD Can Help

CBD can be a good choice for some people who struggle with health conditions, both physical and mental.

Research is limited, but has so far been encouraging. Some of the conditions CBD may be able to help include:

Epilepsy, including Davet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome

Anxiety

Insomnia

Chronic pain, including inflammatory pain and neuropathic pain

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How to Use CBD for Health Conditions

CBD oil shouldn’t be your first choice if you need treatment for a major disease, but if you’re struggling with a mild condition and could use a little help, it might be a good choice.

For example, if you have minor anxiety or insomnia, CBD might be helpful enough that you’re able to avoid traditional medication.

In the case of insomnia, sleep medication can be habit forming and have unpleasant side effects, so CBD could be a better choice if it’s effective for you. RELATED: 4 CBD Benefits That You Need to Know

Or, it could be a resource to turn to if traditional medication just isn’t delivering results.

Talk to your doctor. Whether CBD is helpful for you or not may depend on what you’re trying to manage and its severity, so it’s best to talk to your doctor before exploring CBD oil as an option. Your doctor may recommend more serious treatment, or advise you that it’s a good idea to see what CBD can do before you turn to other options.

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Only use what you need. Though CBD oil does not show indication of being addictive or have major side effect concerns, it’s best to not use it excessively. For one, CBD oil can be expensive, so using just what you need can make it more affordable. But also, its effectiveness may wear off. In a study of CBD’s effect on anxiety and insomnia, subjects showed improvement initially, but less so over time.

Plan for CBD use. CBD oil can be helpful spur of the moment, for example, if you’re having a hard time getting to sleep, or a particularly stressful day has dropped into your lap. But some forms of CBD (like gummies) can take some time to take effect, so you may want to get started with them before you actually need the support. If you know you’re feeling anxious about the day, go ahead and dose with CBD beforehand. Or if a good night’s sleep is especially important on a particular night, take CBD an hour before bed so by the time you’re ready to sleep, it will be ready, too.

CBD has been touted for many uses, and it can be helpful for some people. Consider how CBD can offer support for you and where it fits in with your overall treatment plan. RELATED: CBD and THC [What You Don't Know]

Author Bio: Amelia Noble is a researcher with the CBD Awareness Project. When she’s not working, you can find her playing board games.