What is CBD, and What Does It Do?

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is one of the many active compounds found in cannabis. But unlike its more famous cousin, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD won’t get you high. That’s right — no trippy experiences, no couch-lock, and definitely no sudden urge to raid your fridge at 2 am.

CBD can be extracted from both cannabis and hemp. While cannabis-derived CBD is often considered more potent, hemp-derived CBD still packs a punch when it comes to health benefits. 

So, if you live in a place where cannabis isn’t legal yet, don’t worry — you can still get your hands on industrial hemp-derived CBD and enjoy its perks. Before diving in, though, it’s always a good idea to check your local laws to ensure CBD is legal in your area.

That said, let’s explore how CBD works and its many benefits for the human mind and body. 

How Does CBD Work?

Scientists are still figuring out exactly how CBD does its magic. From what we know, it seems to interact with your endocannabinoid system (ECS) — a fancy term for the system that helps regulate things like sleep, mood, and appetite.

CBD may work by activating or blocking CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are part of the ECS. But that’s not all — it might also interact with serotonin and opioid receptors, which could help manage pain, stress, and even cholesterol levels.

And if that wasn’t impressive enough, CBD also seems to influence peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) — yeah, it’s a mouthful. But what you need to know is that this process plays a role in muscle function, hormone balance, and even cell growth.

In short, while scientists are still connecting the dots, CBD is shaping up to be one powerful compound with a ton of potential benefits. And the best part? You can enjoy these perks without any psychoactive effects.

Benefits of CBD: How It Helps Your Mind and Body 

CBD has gained a massive following for a reason — it actually works. Whether you’re dealing with sore muscles after a workout, chronic pain, or even neurological conditions, CBD might be the natural remedy you’ve been looking for. 

Here are some of its most impressive benefits.

1. CBD for Pain and Inflammation

For thousands of years, people have turned to cannabis for relief from pain and inflammation. But it’s only in recent years that scientists have pinpointed the key player behind these benefits — CBD.

CBD interacts with nerve cells and pain receptors in the body, helping to reduce discomfort and inflammation. It also blocks pain signals between muscles and the brain, which can be a game-changer for chronic pain sufferers. 

Plus, by improving sleep quality, CBD supports muscle recovery and lowers cortisol levels, further aiding in pain management.

Now, let’s get into some specific conditions where CBD has shown promising results.

• Muscle Soreness After Workouts

That deep ache you feel after a tough workout? That’s Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS), and while it’s a sign your muscles are getting stronger, it can also be pretty brutal. The pain comes from microscopic damage to muscle fibers, triggering inflammation.

CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties help reduce that soreness and speed up muscle recovery. This is why many athletes and fitness enthusiasts now include CBD in their post-workout routine.

• Arthritis Pain Relief

Arthritis is a painful condition that comes in two main forms — rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Both involve inflammation and joint damage, making everyday movement a challenge.

CBD may help in three key ways: reducing inflammation, easing pain, and supporting tissue repair. 

Studies on animals with arthritis have shown significant improvements after CBD use. One study even found that CBD could prevent T-cells from attacking joint tissues, which is a major cause of rheumatoid arthritis.

On top of that, CBD blocks inflammatory compounds like nitric oxide and TNF-a, further reducing pain and swelling. While more human trials are needed, the early research — and personal testimonials — suggest that CBD could be a natural way to manage arthritis symptoms.

• Migraine Relief

Anyone who’s had a migraine knows it’s not just a bad headache — it’s a full-body nightmare. Nausea, light sensitivity, and throbbing pain can last for hours, sometimes days. 

Unfortunately, scientists still aren’t entirely sure what causes migraines, but theories point to serotonin imbalances, neuroinflammation, and blood vessel spasms in the brain. This is where CBD may help by blocking pain signals, reducing inflammation, and possibly stabilizing serotonin levels. 

Some users even report that CBD has prevented migraines altogether. However, more studies are needed before it can be considered a reliable treatment. That said, if prescription painkillers haven’t worked for you, CBD might be worth a shot.

2. CBD is Also Neuroprotective

Beyond pain relief, CBD is also gaining attention for its neuroprotective properties. In simpler terms, it helps protect the structure and function of your brain cells, which are vulnerable to damage from inflammation, oxidative stress, and autoimmune disorders.

When brain cells are compromised, it can lead to conditions like mood disorders, memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and loss of motor function. The good news? Studies suggest CBD could help preserve nerve cells and even support regeneration.

Let’s take a look at how CBD may benefit specific neurological conditions.

• Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders

One of the most well-documented uses of CBD is in treating epilepsy, particularly in severe conditions like Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome.

A 2018 study involving 670 epilepsy patients found that 71% of those using CBD experienced fewer seizures. In fact, 10% became completely seizure-free. Another significant finding was that full-spectrum CBD (which contains additional cannabinoids and terpenes) was more effective than CBD isolate.

CBD works by reducing convulsions, protecting nerve cells, and modulating brain receptors involved in seizure activity. Because of this, it’s now widely used as a natural alternative to traditional epilepsy medications.

• Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects dopamine-producing cells in the brain. As dopamine levels decline in your brain, symptoms like muscle tremors, slow movement, depression, and insomnia become more severe.

While there’s no cure, CBD has shown promise in slowing down disease progression and easing symptoms. It may also reduce muscle tremors, support brain microbiome health, and even improve dopamine production. 

• ALS, Multiple Sclerosis, and Huntington’s Disease

These three conditions share similar symptoms — muscle weakness, nerve degeneration, and mobility issues. While they have different causes, CBD appears to help in similar ways.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that damages the protective coating around nerve cells. CBD’s anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties may help slow down this process and reduce symptoms like muscle spasms and pain.

Huntington’s Disease is a genetic disorder that leads to the breakdown of nerve cells. CBD’s neuroprotective effects might help preserve brain function and ease symptoms like mood swings and loss of motor control.

ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) gradually destroys nerve cells responsible for muscle movement. While research is still in the early stages, some ALS patients report that CBD helps with muscle cramps, spasticity, and overall comfort.

A lot of the research in this area comes from Sativex, a 1:1 CBD/THC medication approved by the FDA for MS treatment. Studies show that it improves symptoms and slows disease progression in animal models. 

Do note that for ALS and Huntington’s, the data is mostly anecdotal, but many users swear by CBD’s effectiveness in managing symptoms.

3. CBD and Your Mental Wellbeing

Your mind can be a chaotic place sometimes — stress, anxiety, sleepless nights and even mood swings can throw you off balance. That’s where CBD comes in. 

Research suggests that cannabidiol (CBD) might help manage various mental health concerns, from anxiety to sleep disorders. While it’s not a magic cure, it does offer some impressive benefits. Let’s break it down.

• Anxiety

Feeling anxious? You’re not alone. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), anxiety disorders affect one in 13 people worldwide. Whether it’s social anxiety, PTSD, or OCD, managing it can be a challenge.

CBD may help ease these issues by interacting with your body’s serotonin and dopamine systems—basically, the stuff that keeps your mood in check. It also helps regulate GABA functions (which control nervous system activity), relaxes muscles, reduces inflammation, and even improves sleep.

A 2019 study found that CBD significantly reduced anxiety symptoms, but since it was tested on only 57 participants, there’s still more research to be done. Even so, many people swear by it as a natural alternative to pharmaceuticals.

• Stress

Stress is a part of life, but when it becomes a daily struggle, it can take a serious toll — low immunity, high blood pressure, chronic fatigue, burnout, and even depression. The main culprit? Cortisol is your body’s primary stress hormone.

CBD has been found to help regulate cortisol levels, which may explain its stress-relieving effects. A 1993 study showed that CBD could reduce cortisol production, promoting a calmer state of mind.

It doesn’t stop there. CBD also improves hypothalamic function (the part of your brain that controls stress responses), protects against oxidative damage (which stress can cause), and improves overall relaxation. 

It helps your body handle stress better without making you feel sluggish or foggy.

• Insomnia 

If you find yourself tossing and turning at night, CBD might help you catch those much-needed Z’s. It works by calming your nervous system, reducing nightmares, and regulating your sleep cycle so you stay asleep longer.

But don’t assume that more CBD equals better sleep. The effects of CBD on sleep depend on dosage — a low dose may actually have a mild stimulating effect, while higher doses tend to be more sedative. So, no, chugging a bunch of CBD capsules before bed isn’t the answer.

CBD has also shown promise for people with REM sleep behavior disorder, a condition where individuals act out their dreams. While more research is needed, many users report that CBD helps them achieve deeper, more restful sleep.

• BPD and SAD

Mood disorders such as bipolar disorder (BPD), seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and mania can seriously disrupt daily life. While there’s no definitive cure, studies suggest CBD might help manage symptoms.

Animal studies have shown that CBD can significantly improve depressive symptoms. It may also boost serotonin and dopamine activity — two neurotransmitters crucial for emotional balance.

Another benefit is that CBD reduces inflammation in your brain, which has been linked to mood disorders. While it’s not a substitute for professional treatment, it may be a useful addition to a broader mental health plan.

• Addiction

Addiction doesn’t just apply to drugs or alcohol — it can include nicotine, gambling, or even compulsive behaviors. Research suggests that CBD might help curb cravings and ease withdrawal symptoms by regulating dopamine levels in the brain.

One study found that long-term smokers who used CBD saw a significant reduction in cigarette cravings. While it’s not a miracle fix, it could be a helpful tool for those trying to break free from addiction.

A Word of Caution

Despite its potential, CBD isn’t an officially approved treatment for mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, or addiction. More research is needed before it can be considered a mainstream therapy.

So, if you’re dealing with a mental health disorder, you should first consult a professional before turning to CBD. 

4. CBD for Skincare

Your skin is your body’s largest organ, constantly exposed to environmental stressors, toxins, and lifestyle choices that can affect its health. While skincare trends come and go, CBD has been making waves for its anti-inflammatory and therapeutic properties. 

Let’s look at how it can help with common skin concerns.

• Acne

Acne happens when excess oil (sebum) clogs your pores, allowing bacteria to thrive. The result? Red, inflamed breakouts can be a nightmare to deal with.

CBD can help in multiple ways. It regulates sebum production, reduces inflammation at the acne site, and has antibacterial properties that help keep your pores clean. In short, it’s like a multitasking skincare ingredient that targets acne at its root cause.

• Psoriasis and Eczema

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition where skin cells regenerate too quickly, leading to red, scaly patches. Eczema, on the other hand, causes dry, itchy, and painful skin due to inflammation. Both conditions can be stubborn and difficult to manage.

While there’s no cure for psoriasis, CBD might help regulate skin cell production and inflammation. A 2013 study found that CBD interacts with cannabinoid receptors under the skin, slowing excessive cell growth. Another study suggested that CBD inhibits inflammatory molecules involved in psoriasis development.

For eczema, CBD’s anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties can help reduce flare-ups and soothe irritated skin. Many users report positive results when applying CBD-infused creams or ointments.

If you have psoriasis or eczema, a CBD-based skincare routine could be worth a try — just be consistent and give it time to work.

5. CBD and Reproductive Health

One of the lesser-known benefits of CBD is its potential to support reproductive health — no matter your gender. Whether you’re looking to spice things up in the bedroom or manage certain conditions affecting your reproductive system, CBD might have something to offer.

For starters, it can ease performance anxiety and relax you, making intimacy more enjoyable. But beyond that, CBD shows promise in addressing deeper health concerns. 

Research suggests it may help relieve pain during sex, support individuals dealing with erectile dysfunction, regulate symptoms of PCOS and PMS, and even provide relief from endometriosis-related pain.

Let’s take a closer look at how CBD might benefit common reproductive health conditions.

• Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

If you deal with PMS, you’re definitely not alone. Around 95% of women of reproductive age experience this condition, typically a week before menstruation kicks in. PMS is fueled by hormonal fluctuations — especially changes in estrogen and progesterone — which can lead to mood swings, bloating, acne breakouts, anxiety, irritability, cramps, and trouble sleeping.

CBD has gained attention as a potential natural remedy for PMS symptoms. Many women report that it helps them manage discomfort, from reducing cramps and muscle pain to improving sleep and stabilizing their mood. 

Though large-scale studies on CBD and PMS are still lacking, preliminary research suggests that CBD may be effective in alleviating symptoms.

According to the National Academies of Sciences, CBD interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain, which may help restore balance and ease emotional fluctuations caused by PMS.

Additionally, CBD’s anti-inflammatory and muscle-relaxing properties might play a role in reducing period cramps. Since it also supports better sleep, it can help with PMS-related insomnia, leaving you feeling more rested and less irritable.

• Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS remains one of the most challenging hormonal disorders to diagnose and treat. It’s a complex condition linked to imbalances in androgens (male hormones) and insulin, leading to symptoms like irregular periods, acne, weight gain, unwanted hair growth, infertility, and sleep disturbances.

 While there’s no cure for PCOS, managing symptoms effectively can make a huge difference — and CBD may help. CBD could play a role in reducing insulin resistance, a key factor in PCOS. 

An analysis of National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey Data (2005–2010) found that regular CBD users had 16% lower insulin resistance compared to those who didn’t use CBD. Since insulin resistance is strongly linked to weight gain and metabolic issues in PCOS, CBD’s ability to optimize insulin levels may help manage symptoms.

Beyond metabolism, CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties may also help in controlling PCOS symptoms. Chronic inflammation is often associated with PCOS, and reducing it can improve hormonal balance and overall well-being. 

CBD might also regulate cortisol (the body’s primary stress hormone), helping to counteract the stress-related effects of PCOS, including fatigue, anxiety, and trouble sleeping.

Additionally, CBD may positively affect testosterone levels in women. PCOS often leads to an overproduction of androgens, which contributes to acne, excessive hair growth, and hair thinning. Though more research is needed, some evidence suggests CBD may help bring testosterone levels closer to normal, potentially improving skin and hair health.

Side Effects of CBD

CBD has plenty of benefits for you, but it’s not a magic fix for everything. Like any supplement, you must use it responsibly to avoid unwanted effects.

While CBD is generally well-tolerated, taking too much can lead to some mild but uncomfortable side effects. These include:

• Dry mouth – CBD can reduce saliva production, leaving your mouth feeling parched
• Fatigue – Higher doses may cause drowsiness or sluggishness
• Low blood pressure – Some people experience a slight drop in blood pressure, which can lead to dizziness
• Diarrhea – In some cases, CBD may upset digestion, especially if taken in high doses
• Reduced appetite – Unlike THC, which often increases hunger, CBD may suppress appetite in some users
• Skin rash – Rare but possible, especially if using CBD topically
• Nausea – While CBD can help with nausea in some cases, it may cause it in others, particularly if taken in excess

A 2011 study confirmed that CBD has minimal side effects and does not impact major bodily functions. However, one major consideration is CBD’s interaction with medications.

CBD can interfere with the liver’s ability to break down certain drugs because it affects cytochrome P450 enzymes — the same enzymes responsible for metabolizing many medications.

This means CBD could increase or decrease the effectiveness of some drugs, potentially leading to unintended side effects or complications.

To minimize risks, you should always start with a low dose, monitor how your body reacts, and consult your doctor if you’re taking any medications. This ensures you get the benefits of CBD without any unwanted surprises.

What are the Different Types of CBD?

Cannabidiol (CBD) products come in a variety of forms to suit everyone. So, which one should you choose? Well, it depends on how quickly the effects will take place, how long they last, and your personal choice ultimately. 

1. CBD Oil/Tinctures

CBD oil is one of the most popular and flexible ways to use CBD. It usually comes in a small bottle with a dropper to make dosing easy.

Taken under the tongue, where it is absorbed the fastest into the bloodstream via the mucous membranes, you can also mix CBD oil in foods or drinks although it will slow down absorption.

Benefits

• You can experience the effects in as little as 15-45 minutes.
• The dropper provides accurate dosage control of CBD and its calming effects.
• You can drink it yourself or put it into drinks/food.

Drawbacks

• Some people don't like the natural taste of CBD oil.
• Measuring out doses may be inconvenient for some.

Best for:

• Individuals looking for quick and long-lasting relief.
• People who need flexible dosing options.
• Those who prefer to avoid smoking or vaping.

2. CBD Edibles (Gummies, Capsules, Beverages, etc.)

CBD edibles are an easy and delicious way for people to take their CBD without measuring. 

As the name suggests, you can eat edibles. It will be metabolized by the digestive tract before reaching the blood. Although the effects take longer to kick in, (30 minutes to 2 hours) they also last longer. 

Benefits

• Easy to use, no measuring, no mess, just chew or swallow.
• It is very discreet since it looks like any other food or supplement at the store.
• The impact can last between 4-8 hours because the body absorbs them slowly.

Drawbacks

• Takes quite a long time to start working compared to oils or vapes.
• Less absorbed due to the digestion system losing some of the CBD.

Best for:

• Individuals who prefer a delayed, long-lasting effect.
• People looking for a tasty and easy way to take CBD.
• Excellent for everyday health practices or for people who don’t like oily flavors.

3. CBD Topicals (Creams, Lotions, Balms, Patches)

CBD cream, lotion, balm, and patch are topical products. Absorbed through the skin to interact with local cannabinoid receptors, CBD topicals are typically used for localized pain, inflammation, or skin care.

Benefits

• Helps soothe a specific area from pain in the muscles, joints, or skin.
• Does not influence the entirety of the body or make one sleepy.
• You can choose from balms, creams, patches, roll-ons, and salves as per your preference.

Drawbacks

• The product does not penetrate deeply into the skin and can take time to absorb.
• Not for whole-body effects.

Best Use Cases

• Athletes or individuals with muscle soreness or joint pain.
• If you suffer from acne or eczema and wish to get relief from that, this is the right product for you. 
• People wishing to gain the therapeutic benefits of CBD without taking it orally.

4. CBD Vapes (E-liquids, Vape Pens, Inhalers)

Inhaling CBD is the fastest method of consumption and the best option for people who want immediate relief.

When you inhale CBD vapor into your lungs, it makes its way into the bloodstream and you can feel the effects within minutes although they tend to last for at least 30 minutes to an hour. 

Benefits

• Gets into the bloodstream in seconds — great for urgent issues. 
• It has a higher bioavailability than edible forms meaning more CBD enters the bloodstream.
• They are small and easy to carry which makes them portable and discreet.

Drawbacks

• The effects don’t last as long as they do with edibles and oils.

Best for:

• People needing rapid relief from anxiety, stress, or pain.
• Those who prefer inhalation over oral consumption.
• People who already use vapes and want to add CBD. 

CBD Dosage Considerations

CBD dosages depend on several conditions including body weight, constitution, the condition you're trying to treat, and more. If you identify the right amount for you, then you can maximize its effects while minimizing the side effects. 

Factors That Affect CBD Dosage

The amount of CBD an individual may need may differ according to several personal factors, so there is no fixed dosage. If you understand these factors, you can take the right amount according to your needs. Let's go over a few details:

1. Body Weight

Body weight is an essential factor in CBD dosage like with many supplements and medications. People who weigh more often need stronger doses to have the same effect as someone smaller. This is because CBD gets stored in fat cells and will be processed differently depending on body composition. 

Therefore, people with heavier weight need a bigger dosage to feel the same impact. Usually, the recommendation is 1-6 mg of CBD per 10 lbs (4.5 kg) for body weight depending on how severe the condition is.

2. Metabolism

The speed at which CBD is broken down and absorbed into the bloodstream is impacted by a person’s metabolic rate. Factors that impact metabolism include:

• Younger people have faster metabolisms.
• More active people may digest CBD more quickly than others.
• Eating and drinking habits can affect the time CBD stays in your system or exhibit effects.
• If your metabolism is fast, you may need higher or more frequent doses to keep the effects going into the afternoon. If your metabolism is slower, smaller doses may have longer effects.

3. Tolerance Levels

Using CBD regularly for a long time can make your body get used to it. So, you try to use bigger doses to get the same benefits. This occurs because your body might get used to it as you use it regularly. 

Thus, if you feel CBD is becoming ineffective, take a “CBD tolerance break.” Stop taking it for a few days to a week and then try a lower dose.

4. Severity of Condition

The purpose of taking CBD significantly affects dosage. If you use CBD for general wellness or mild stress, you might only need a small dose, while chronic pain, severe anxiety, or sleep disorders usually require a higher dose.

• For mild issues like stress, an occasional ache, or general wellness, try low doses between 5-20 mg.
• Those with ongoing issues might need a medium dose of medium condition at first like 20mg – 50mg or something of that sort.
• You usually need higher doses (50 mg plus) for severe conditions (chronic pain, epilepsy).
• Try starting small and increasing to find the right dose for your condition.

5. CBD Form (Consumption Method)

The kind of CBD product you use impacts its dosage, how quickly it works, and how long it stays effective. These methods of consumption affect the dosing, speed of effect, and duration of the effects. 

If fast relief is what you seek, vaping or sublingual oils are the best methods to use. Edibles are also a good option if you need the effects to last a bit longer. 

6. Individual Sensitivity

The effects of CBD differ from person to person. While some people may feel the effects at lower doses, others may feel nothing even at higher doses. Sensitivity depends on a few factors including:

• Genetics, as some people tend to metabolize the cannabinoids more efficiently. 
• Brain chemistry, since there will be a difference in how neurotransmitters react. 
• Previous experience as those who have never tried CBD might experience a stronger impact even if the dosage is low. 

If you consider the factors above, you can adjust the dosage of CBD to avoid waste and side effects. Since CBD affects people in different ways, there is a personal process in finding the right dosage. Your body weight, metabolism, and consumption method will be key in deciding how much CBD you want to get effective results.

It's best to begin with a low dose and gradually increase it according to the body’s reaction. By monitoring your dosage and effects, you can discover what works best for you!

How to Find the Right CBD Dosage?

Everyone reacts differently to CBD so it’s best to start small and progressively increase as necessary.

General Dosage Guidelines

Step-by-Step Approach:

Start Low and Go Slow

• Begin with 5-10 mg and observe how your body responds.
• Increase the dose gradually every few days if needed.

Monitor Effects

• Pay attention to how you feel.
• If you don't feel any positive effects even after consuming CBD for a few days, you can increase the dose slightly. 

Adjust for Different Forms of CBD

• Oils & Tinctures – Easy to adjust with a dropper.
• Edibles – Pre-measured but take longer to kick in.
• Vaping – Fast-acting, but dosing can be harder to control.
• Topicals – Applied as needed, focusing on affected areas.

Consider Splitting Doses

• When you do take it, don’t take it all at once. Instead, take smaller doses throughout the day.

Summary: What is CBD, and What Does It Do?

CBD isn’t just another wellness trend — it’s a game-changing compound with the potential to ease pain, reduce stress, protect brain health, and even improve your skin. While research is still evolving, countless users swear by its benefits, whether for recovery, relaxation, or overall well-being.

That said, CBD isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Its effects can vary from person to person, and more studies are needed to understand its long-term impact fully. If you’re thinking about trying CBD, start with a reputable source, check local laws, and consult a professional if you have any health concerns.

At the end of the day, CBD offers a natural alternative if you want to support your body and mind — without the high.