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What is the Role of the Endocannabinoid System?
You are likely aware of the 11 major organ systems in the human body: circulatory, respiratory, urinary, reproductive, integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, endocrine, lymphatic and digestive systems. Combined, these systems do everything from circulating blood and filtering oxygen, to allowing you to lift weights and run on the treadmill. However, there is also the endocannabinoid system (ECS). While it is less well-known than the other major organ systems in the body, the ECS is deeply involved in establishing and maintaining human health in various ways. DISCOVERY The ECS was first discovered in the 1990s by Dr. L.A. Matsuda. Dr. Matsuda was the first to describe the structure and functional expression of the cannabinoid receptor, CB-1. At the time, scientists were trying to understand how THC—the primary psychoactive substance in marijuana—affected the body. What they discovered was a remarkably complex network of cannabinoid receptors (CBr) expressed in cells of both the central and peripheral nervous system. Since then, other cannabinoid receptors have been identified as well, including cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB-2). CB-2 is found primarily in the immune system, digestive system and many of the body’s major organs. The discovery of CB-1 and CB-2 changed everything. It prompted a hunt for the body’s own cannabinoid-like chemicals that naturally interact with these receptors. Over time, doctors, researchers and scientists have unveiled the endocannabinoid system as a whole. The ECS has three parts: endocannabinoids (cannabis-like substances that naturally occur inside the body), receptors in the nervous system and around your body (that endocannabinoids and cannabinoids bond with) and enzymes (that help break down endocannabinoids and cannabinoids). HOMEOSTASIS While the size and scope of the endocannabinoid system is still being discovered, the ECS is crucial for homeostasis. The body naturally wants to keep its internal environment stable, regardless of the circumstances in the outside world. In order for homeostasis to occur, the body activates ECS to help correct it. For example, when you’re feeling exhausted and can’t keep your eyes open, that’s your ECS reminding you it’s time for sleep. When your body is perspiring at the gym, that’s your ECS helping you cool down. In other words, when your temperature is too hot or too cold, your heart is beating too fast or your hormones are unbalanced, your ECS steps in. THE ECS AND CANNABINOID RECEPTORS When something is operating out of range in the body, the ECS uses cannabinoid receptors found in select tissues to initiate homeostasis. As mentioned earlier, humans have at least two types of cannabinoid receptors: CB-1 and CB-2. CB-1 is in the central nervous system (brain and nerves of the spinal cord), and CB-2 is in the peripheral nervous system (nerves in your extremities), as well as the digestive system and specialized cells in the immune system. Through these receptors, the ECS assists in regulating a variety of important functions, such as appetite, digestion, immune function, inflammation, mood, sleep, reproduction, memory and pain. By stimulating the endocannabinoid system, CBD promotes homeostasis, reduces discomfort and decreases normal inflammation. CBD OIL FOR COMFORT Because cannabis products can stimulate activity within the ECS, they’re used to target issues like restless sleep, stress, discomfort and more. In terms of comfort specifically, CBD oil is known to relieve discomfort caused several ailments. Instead of using over-the-counter prescriptions, an alternative—like CBD oil—can provide an all-natural solution to chronic discomfort. In essence, while the ECS responds to the endocannabinoids produced in the body, it also responds to external cannabinoids, like CBD. Introducing CBD to the body can help reduce the symptoms of a wide range of ailments, and doses vary from person to person. References: https://www.verywellhealth.com/organ-system-1298691 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2241751/ https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-the-endocannabinoid-system-4171855 https://terpenesandtesting.com/category/science/endocannabinoid-system-homeostasis/ https://www.verywellhealth.com/cbd-oil-for-pain-4177627
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Why Topical CBD Oil is Just as Effective as Consumed CBD
There are several methods for using CBD oil and reaping the benefits. As you’re likely aware, it can be ingested through vaping, pill form, or used topically as a cream. But, depending on what you’re using CBD for, the method can really matter. For instance, when using CBD for discomfort management, topical oils could be an easy, effective option for physical comfort. Here’s what you should know about using topical CBD oil for minor aches and overall comfort. TOPICAL CBD OIL: IDEAL FOR FIGHTING DISCOMFORT Various research shows that topical CBD oil can be an effective method to combat chronic discomfort. From joint health to normal inflammation, studies have found that topical CBD oil can be very efficient for providing comfort. There’s also research finding that CBD can help with more minor forms of discomfort like cramps and headaches. However, since some of these studies have been performed on animals, further research is needed to confirm CBD oil’s comforting effects on humans. TOPICAL CBD OIL: HOW IT WORKS There are two key ways that topical CBD oil works to fight discomfort. First, the oil contains what are called endocannabinoids, or body signals that help you notice and manage various functions, including discomfort. CBD naturally raises the endocannabinoids in your body, helping to relieve minor discomfort. Second, CBD helps limit your body’s inflammatory response when you have muscle soreness due to exercising or lifting weights. By working with the natural functions in your body, CBD eases a variety of discomfort and helps make you more comfortable, whether you’re dealing with a chronic condition or just temporary minor aches and soreness. TOPICAL CBD OIL: HOW TO USE IT Topical CBD can come in a number of forms, like an oil, salve, lotion or even a patch. There are even CBD-infused bath salts and soaks to give you full-body relief. When you have an area of the body that’s uncomfortable, you can use topical CBD the way you would a lotion to help combat the discomfort. The great thing about topical CBD oil is that it doesn’t enter the bloodstream when you apply it—meaning that it really targets just the area where you slather it on. And, just to give you a heads up: You need to apply it liberally. Skin is designed to keep anything put on it from entering the body. Choosing a product with a high concentration of CBD and making sure that you apply enough to get into your skin’s pores will give you the best results. If you’re using it in the bath, follow the product instructions for how long you should soak, to really reap the benefits. USING CBD INSIDE AND OUT Depending on the ailment you’re hoping to ease with CBD, you should use the most efficient method for comfort. For instance, if you’re using CBD oil for stress reduction, vaping is considered the fastest, most effective means since ingesting in this way can send the CBD and its healing properties straight to your brain. Topicals, by contrast, can take a bit longer to be effective. (And, as mentioned, concentration matters!) Trying a sample on a sore muscle before making a purchase can be helpful—you may feel the effects right away, depending on the formulation. Natasha Burton has written for Women’s Health, Livestrong, MSN.com, Cosmopolitan.com and WomansDay.com, among other print and online publications. She’s also the author of five books, including “101 Quizzes for Couples” and “The Little Black Book of Big Red Flags.” References: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4851925/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3371734/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3048583/ https://www.chiroeco.com/science-behind-cbd-topicals/ https://www.shape.com/fitness/tips/should-you-try-cannabis-creams-pain-relief https://www.cannahealth.org/cbd-bioavailability-whats-the-best-way-to-absorb-cbd/ https://www.consumerreports.org/marijuana/how-to-use-cbd-inhale-spray-apply-eat/
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How is CBD Oil Made?
You may know about CBD oil’s various health and wellness benefits, but most of us are a little less informed about the substance’s production and what we should know before choosing a product to use. Whether ingested or used topically, CBD oil is made using a few different processes. To boot, it can even be different colors and contain contaminants, depending on how the cannabis plants used to make it are grown. As you can imagine, these are all important considerations before making a purchase. Here’s what to know about how CBD oil is made and what to consider when assessing CBD products. CBD WHOLE-PLANT EXTRACT METHOD When looking at how is CBD oil made, one method is known as “whole plant extract” (and it’s also known as “full spectrum”). This means that, when the oil is made, it contains not only CBD but also some levels of THC, as well as other cannabinoids from the cannabis plant, and terpenes, which are the anti-inflammatory agents within the plant. Typically, whole-plant is the more popular option. Research shows that full spectrum CBD oil can be more effective than isolate CBD oil—more on this in a moment—for treating inflammatory conditions. ISOLATE METHOD Comparatively, the isolate method means that the CBD oil extracted contains only CBD (that means no terpenes, fatty acids or other cannabinoids). Some people may prefer this method for one simple reason: Because it doesn’t have any level of THC, isolate method-produced CBD oil can be considered a less risky option for anyone who doesn’t want THC in their system. (The chances of this are low, but for those very cautious people, isolate can be a good option.) CO2 EXTRACTION To make the oil itself, supercritical carbon dioxide process is the most expensive and purest way to go. This newish process uses fluid CO2—instead of chemicals—as a solvent, and it’s often used in the food industry for other commercial extraction processes, particularly to make coffee and omega-3 oil. ETHANOL EXTRACTION This extraction method is the most common. Basically, ethanol is used as a solvent to remove CBD from the cannabis plant. The upside to this is that it’s fast, it’s less power intensive than the CO2 method and it requires inexpensive equipment. The downside? Ethanol is super-flammable so the process requires certain precautions. COLOR CHOICES In addition to how CBD oil is made, there’s some variance in color, depending on the oil type. Filtered oil is yellow or gold and is considered the highest quality (meaning it may also be more expensive). Decarboxylated oil is heated to “activate” CBD’s healing properties and is known for being extremely potent. It’s typically more of an amber or brown color. Raw oil is usually dark or green-tinged, since it doesn’t get filtered and still contains plant fibers and chlorophyll. WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE YOU BUY The most important factor when choosing a CBD oil is not necessarily how it’s made and what process is used. What matters most is how the cannabis plants are grown and what contaminants, if any, they contain. While several states have legalized CBD, there is a still little regulation to protect consumers. Learning about whether topical or ingested is right for you, how much THC and CBD are in a product, and what testing was performed on the final product are some of the key things you should be sure to find out before choosing a CBD oil. Natasha Burton has written for Women’s Health, Livestrong, MSN, Cosmopolitan and Woman’s Day, among other print and online publications. She’s also the author of five books, including “101 Quizzes for Couples” and “The Little Black Book of Big Red Flags.” References: https://www.scirp.org/journal/PaperInformation.aspx?paperID=53912 https://www.fundacion-canna.es/en/full-spectrum-cannabis-extracts-vs-cbd-isolate https://echoconnection.org/cbd-oil-made/ https://hempmedspx.com/make-cbd-oil/ https://www.powerblanket.com/blog/cbd-extraction-methods/ https://www.apekssupercritical.com/cbd-extraction-process/ https://www.cannainsider.com/reviews/cbd-oil-color/ https://www.consumerreports.org/marijuana/how-to-shop-for-cbd/
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CBD For Pets: A Natural Way To Relieve Discomfort And Reduce Stress
You may have already heard how cannabidiol, or CBD, can relieve discomfort and reduce stress in humans, but did you know that CBD also helps pets? From tinctures to capsules to chew treats, cannabis products have burst onto the market to help pets live better lives. Learn why researchers and pet owners have started using CBD for their pets. REDUCE STRESS From fireworks to long plane rides, there are many reasons why your pet might become fearful and anxious. Research shows that CBD has the potential to promote emotional well-being in both animals and humans. There are also several anecdotal success stories, such as those found in the popular Facebook group CBD Oil for Pets, in which members swap tips on using CBD with their animals, some saying CBD has relieved even an “extreme degree of anxiety.” In pets, emotional distress can manifest in a number of ways. Some telltale signs include: aggression, destructive behavior, hyperactivity, trembling, digging, and having accidents in the home. MANAGE DISCOMFORT CBD is lauded for its anti-inflammatory properties, relieving minor aches and stiffness in humans, from athletes to the elderly. Researchers found that dogs that received CBD oil every 12 hours over four weeks showed a significant decrease in discomfort and increase in activity compared to dogs that received placebo oil. WHERE TO FIND CBD FOR PETS If you live in a state that offers legal CBD, your dog may benefit from a few drops of oil on their food, or you can purchase several cannabis products specifically designed for dogs. However it’s always a good idea to speak with your vet first if you have any concerns. Unless you live in California, the only state that’s legally cleared the way for veterinarians to discuss CBD treatment, many vets will not bring the topic up first. Still, while CBD can interact with other drugs if animals are already medicated, the overall consensus of doctors is that CBD is a safe form of treatment. Dr. Cornelia Wagner, owner of Hawthorne Veterinary Clinic in Portland told Forbes that any pet’s treatment plan with cannabis should begin with the lowest dose possible. “The upper dose limit for CBD products recommended is around 1 mg/kg/day orally, but one should start with a much smaller fraction of this dose such as 0.05 mg/kg/day,” states Dr. Wagner on Hawthorne Clinic’s website. “For THC products, start with an oral dose of 0.1-0.25 mg/kg THC once or twice daily.” If there are no negative side effects like sedation or disorientation, this dose can be increased if the pet has developed a tolerance. While the research on administering CBD to pets is limited, new studies are emerging at a rapid rate. Even in its earliest stages, cannabis for pets reveals extraordinary promise. “People are using CBD and they are excited about its potential,” said Dr. McGrath. We’d guess their pets are excited too. Erica Garza is an author and essayist. Her work has appeared in Time, Health, Glamour, Good Housekeeping, Women’s Health, The Telegraph and Vice. She lives in Los Angeles. References: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2828614/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4604171/ https://www.consumerreports.org/marijuana/should-you-try-cbd-for-your-pet/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1969666 https://vetcbd.com/blog/pet-owner-education-anxiety/ https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2018.00165/full https://cvmbs.source.colostate.edu/preliminary-data-from-cbd-clinical-trials-promising/ https://www.forbes.com/sites/laurenterry/2018/09/27/the-right-way-to-introduce-cbd-to-your-pets/#70984f9030c5
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How To Talk To Your Parents About The Health Benefits of CBD
Talking with your parents about using cannabis might fill you with anxiety, but there are ways to make the conversation run smoothly if you’re willing to broach the subject with honesty and intelligence. While the history of cannabis use in the U.S. is a complicated one, that trajectory is rapidly shifting. Adding your voice to the chorus of others who credit cannabis for discomfort, decreased stress, improved sleep, and more creativity only helps to make conversations about cannabis easer, both in your family and on a national level. BE HONEST If the thought of your parents catching you with marijuana or even CBD oil brings up images of sneaking around in your younger years, you’re not alone. Roughly four in 10 cannabis users are secretive about it. But in order to shed the misinformation and negative stereotypes that may have led your parents to dissuade you from using cannabis in your youth, it’s important for educated and well-adjusted cannabis users to come clean (and come out of wherever you once engaged in cannabis use in secret). DEBUNK MYTHS One of the best ways to debunk myths and “stoner” stereotypes — like a lack of motivation or going into psychosis — is to come to your parents armed with evidence that proves the opposite. When it comes to a lack of motivation, it’s worth noting that some strains will produce different effects in the body. While indica strains might make you feel relaxed, sativa will have the opposite effect, leaving you energized, and perhaps more creative. The idea that cannabis lowers IQ is also a myth, as determined by a 2017 study that showed cannabis use in even adolescent users did not cause IQ decline or impair executive functions. Another myth to debunk is the idea that all cannabis gets you high. Cannabidiol, or CBD oil, which is a compound of the cannabis plant that lacks psychoactive properties, is rising in popularity as treatment for a number of ailments from stress to normal inflammation. DESCRIBE HEALTH BENEFITS The medical benefits of cannabis are abundant, with countless scientific studies to back up your claims. Some of the health benefits of cannabis include: Discomfort More restful sleep Reducing stress Gut health Easing muscle spasms There are studies on the efficacy of both THC and CBD oil for discomfort, as well as emerging research on other wellness trends like enhanced athletic performance and even skin conditions. Gone are the days when cannabis was almost always smoked. These days, vapes, edibles, tinctures and balms are just as popular, each delivering its own health benefits to suit your unique concerns. USE IT TOGETHER Take your conversation a step further and consider using cannabis with your parents, or offering them a cannabis-infused gift that you think may help them. Whether they’ve told you about their sleepless nights or achy back, chances are there’s a product that can help. Most of all, don’t assume that your parents don’t already know the benefits themselves. Research shows that more baby boomers are turning to marijuana than ever before. The fastest growing demographic of cannabis users aren’t millennials — they’re seniors. Erica Garza is an author and essayist. Her work has appeared in Time, Health, Glamour, Good Housekeeping, Women’s Health, The Telegraph and Vice. She lives in Los Angeles. References: http://www.drugpolicy.org/blog/how-did-marijuana-become-illegal-first-place https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2503660/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4604171/ https://www.healthline.com/health/medical-marijuana/cannabis-for-sleeping https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/marijuana-users-creative-cannabis-study-weed-study-a8057956.html https://www.sacbee.com/news/nation-world/national/article145681414.html https://www.forbes.com/sites/mikeadams/2018/05/23/cannabis-consumers-want-hollywood-to-abandon-marijuana-stereotypes/#731c85e2ca1e https://www.leafly.com/news/health/cannabis-induced-psychosis-real-or-reefer-madness https://mic.com/articles/166057/best-weed-for-anxiety-all-the-strains-to-help-you-relax#.ROLuRpz2m https://www.leafly.com/news/strains-products/7-high-energy-strains-to-help-you-get-active-and-fight-fatigue https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/add.13946 https://www.businessinsider.com/health-benefits-of-medical-marijuana-2014-4 https://www.businessinsider.com/new-national-academies-sciences-report-marijuana-cannabis-health-effects-2017-1 https://www.leafly.com/news/health/cbd-for-treating-anxiety http://jpet.aspetjournals.org/content/335/1/92.abstract?sid=c09c62d8-996e-4071-bbed-ff8d46fca175 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK224382/ https://www.projectcbd.org/sleep-disorders https://health.usnews.com/wellness/fitness/articles/2018-05-11/can-cbd-products-improve-your-fitness-results https://www.allure.com/gallery/cbd-skin-care-products https://www.cnn.com/2018/09/06/health/baby-boomers-marijuana-study/index.html https://www.mensjournal.com/health-fitness/why-the-elderly-are-the-fastest-growing-pot-demographic-in-the-us-w500055/
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CBD: The Perfect Gift for Everyone on Your List
Cannabidiol, the cannabis compound better known as CBD, is popping up in products and wellness lists all over. Because it is a natural, non-intoxicating option for minor aches, discomfort, and stress reduction, it is safe for everyone. Found in everything from body oil and face masks to designer tea and confections, CBD makes the perfect gift for everyone on your list. BENEFITS OF CBD OIL The medical benefits of cannabis include increased mental clarity, mood stabilization, and decreased stress, all without the intoxicating effects. It’s even safe to take daily; a recent GQ article notes the benefits of using CBD at work. CBD also increases workout performance and promotes faster muscle recovery. For athletes and professionals alike, CBD helps the body function at its best. No matter who is on your gift list, there is an easily consumable form of CBD for everyone, at varying dosage level. FAMILY GIFT IDEAS Show Mom how much you appreciate her by giving her the gift she has always wanted: peace and relaxation. CBD soothing bath soaks, comforting balms, and tinctures offer fast-acting support from stress, minor aches, and stress. This Mother’s Day, treat her to a spa basket filled with CBD-infused goodies to help her relax. Need a gift for Dad? CBD patches and capsules can help him find “releaf” from discomfort or minor aches as well as promote feelings of serenity. We all know someone who struggles to get a good night’s rest. CBD has long been used to improve sleep. Products like CBD-infused teas, hemp honey and easy-to-swallow capsules make great gifts that can help reduce stress at bedtime and promote restful sleep. GIFTS FOR DOGS CBD is a powerful anti-inflammatory, treating the discomfort at the source. Because CBD is non-intoxicating, it is useful for treating a variety of ailments for both humans and pets. Animal-friendly tinctures, oils and chews make great gifts for dogs and cats to help ease stress and discomfort. Try CBD oil or chews for joint health and reducing stress in pets. CBD SKIN CARE If you know someone who is not yet ready to dive into ingestible CBD, there are tons of luxe skin care products that make great gifts. From moisturizers and masks to serums and cleansers, there are products for every skin type. CBD has shown potential in studies to slow the effects of aging, reduce normal inflammation and redness. It is gentle enough for treatment of various skin conditions, providing soothing moisture and regulating sebum production for glowing skin. From Father’s Day gifts to self-care packages, there are plenty of opportunities to gift the relaxing and healing power of CBD. CBD-infused confections, beverages, topicals and supplements make giving the gift of health and wellness easier than ever. Jacquelyn Nause is a contributing writer with specialties in cannabis, real estate and wellness. She enjoys traveling with her husband, being a doting mother to her two incredible kids and enjoying the beautiful Pacific Northwest playground. References: https://www.gq.com/story/cbd-the-drug-to-do-at-work https://cbdoilreview.org/cbd-cannabidiol/cbd-for-pets https://www.wellandgood.com/good-looks/i-tried-cbd-skincare-products
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Reduce Stress Naturally with CBD and Adaptogens
CBD oil, or cannabidiol, is the non-intoxicating cannabinoid extracted from hemp or cannabis plants that can be used to reduce stress and help the body function at its best. Adaptogens are plant compounds that help the body cope with stress, and promote balance and wellness. Sound similar? The medicinal properties of CBD mimic the effects that adaptogenic herbs have on your adrenals and immune system, both of which play an integral role in your body’s ability to stay healthy, fight disease and manage stress. Let’s take a closer look at how these plant compounds can work together to strengthen the body. WHAT ARE ADAPTOGENS? Adaptogens are plants that support the adrenal system. They help the body cope with stress and promote normal function by regulating hormonal balance. The benefits of adaptogens are numerous. They have an anti-fatigue effect that increases attention and cognitive function, even during periods of mental exhaustion and stress. Further research shows positive effects on immunity, brain health and sleep cycles while also reducing normal inflammation. They can also improve the appearance of our hair, skin and nails. Some of the most commonly known adaptogens include ginseng, ashwagandha, matcha and medicinal mushrooms such as maitake and cordyceps. They help create and maintain homeostasis in the body, continually working to regulate systems to calm or energize as needed. In other words, they help the body adapt to various stressors. WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF CBD OIL? CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for regulating bodily functions like appetite, mood, sleep, and immunity. CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning users can glean the medical benefits without feeling impaired or foggy. Like adaptogens, CBD helps to maintain homeostasis in the body. It can help boost focus and clarity, or have a relaxing effect. There are many health benefits of CBD oil including decreased stress, more restful sleep, lower blood pressure and eases discomfort and normal inflammation. HOW TO TAKE ADAPTOGENS Unfortunately, most people cannot stomach the taste of adaptogens on their own. Powdered adaptogens can be added to smoothies, cereal and other foods for maximum palatability. They are also available in capsule form or tinctures. There are some synergistic adaptogen blends that contain CBD — but, when starting out, it is best to try adaptogens individually to note how each affects your body. The general rule is to allow three to nine months for adaptogens to take their full effect. While cannabis is not officially classified as an adaptogen, it meets all of the criteria of being a nontoxic, natural plant that has a stress-reducing effect on the body. Because CBD and adaptogens work similarly, there is potential that they boost or enhance the effects of the other when taken in combination. Pair the relaxing, mood-boosting effects of CBD with various adaptogens to enhance their effects and reap the medical benefits of each. Jacquelyn Nause is a contributing writer with specialties in cannabis, real estate and wellness. She enjoys traveling with her husband, being a doting mother to her two incredible kids and enjoying the beautiful Pacific Northwest playground. References: https://www.nytimes.com/2018/06/01/style/what-are-adaptogens.html https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3991026/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3991026/ https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/what-are-the-effects-of-cbd https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5569602/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2828614/
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