Though cannabinoids like CBD flower, tinctures, oils and every variety of gummy available may help treat multiple health conditions, there’s no doubt that the way you take in these plant extracts matters significantly – smoking marijuana or other smokable hemp products poses risks by irritating the lungs; while other CBD infused gummies and oil products claim not to contain tobacco or nicotine – nonetheless it’s wise to be wary.
Cannabis contains over 100 cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, that interact with our ECS (endocannabinoid system) to produce different effects in our bodies. While THC creates the “high” sensation associated with cannabis use, CBD works to alleviate pain relief, anxiety relief, and provide relief from other symptoms.
CBD has quickly gained in popularity as an effective, safer alternative to pharmaceuticals with severe side effects. Most recently, FDA has approved Sativex which utilizes THC and CBD together for treating muscle spasticity associated with MS patients; and additional research into its potential treatment of cancer pain, anxiety, and other conditions is currently ongoing.
Even as CBD gains increasing popularity, many still lack a solid understanding of how different forms of this product affect both body and mind. A study published in Nature Medicine discovered that while both CBD and THC share similar molecular structures, THC produces the psychoactive high while CBD does not.
Though it may seem contradictory, studies suggest that smoking CBD is not an effective method of ingestion. This is because heat involved with combustion destroys some of the essential terpenes and other compounds found within plants that produce endocannabinoids, leading to less effective results overall. Furthermore, smoking any substance increases lung irritation risk while potentially introducing chemicals that could worsen respiratory conditions further down the line.
If you are taking other medications, be aware that CBD may interact with them, posing an undesirable reaction. CBD can interfere with how your liver breaks down medications – potentially leading to serious toxicity if overdosed – so always consult a healthcare professional prior to beginning any CBD regimen or product use in order to ensure its safety and compliance with your current medication regime.
As more people discover the many therapeutic effects of CBD, more are asking: can I smoke CBD? The answer to this is yes, although smoking it is not advised. Instead, using an oil or tincture formulation allows you to control both dosage and selection; simply follow manufacturer’s instructions for maximum therapeutic potential of this natural compound.