CBD - What's It All About?

There is a new buzz word on the streets and if you’re not familiar with it, you soon may be. It’s called Cannabidiol, CBD for short, and it’s generating a lot of interest among scientists, healthcare practitioners, and consumers who are discovering the myriad of health benefits associated with the cannabis plant.  

WHAT IS CBD? 

CBD is a non-psychoactive component of the cannabis plant, which touts over 60 naturally occurring, active compounds. Perhaps the better known compound is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the psychoactive part of the plant that is associated with getting people ‘high’. One of the most common mistakes people make is confusing CBD with THC. Although they are both derived from the cannabis plant, "CDB does not have any psychoactive properties and is legal in all 50 states," according to Licensed Acupuncturist, Paul Salazar from Acupuncture & Herbs on 6A. Salazar is one of the many practitioners who are starting to utilize CBD in their practices.  

Dr. Paul Anastasio, Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine and owner of the Harwich Health Center, has also seen great results with CBD since he’s brought it into his chiropractic practice. When we asked Dr. Anastasio who can benefit from CBD he replied, "that’s like asking who can benefit from fresh air." 

HOW DOES CBD WORK? 

CBD works by helping to regulate the endocannabinoid system. This system, discovered in 1992, is said to be one of the most important systems for maintaining overall health. According to Salazar, "it helps regulate sleep, mood, immune function, pain, and appetite to name a few. When this system is in balance, the body is in a state of homeostasis." 

THE USES   

There is currently extensive scientific research and clinical studies that are exposing the benefits of CBD on issues such as; inflammation, arthritis, depression, anxiety, diabetes, epilepsy, and many more. In addition, there are current studies looking into the benefits of CBD as an anti-cancer treatment.  

According to Jody Dietz, owner of Instant Karma in Hyannis, the majority of her customers seeking out CBD are using it for pain relief and are 60 years of age and older. "We are seeing a lot of people in here who are looking for natural ways to relieve their pain." She adds that her customers are also getting a lot of relief from their anxiety and using CBD products to treat insomnia.  

CBD comes in many varieties including tinctures, salves, capsules, oils, fruit snacks, to name a few. Pet products and beauty care products made with CBD are also hitting the market.  

Both Dr. Anastasio and Salazar emphasize checking with your physician if you’re taking any medications before starting CBD.  

LOCAL SOURCES  

As the interest in CBD grows, regulating the industry and sourcing high quality products is paramount. There are several sources on Cape Cod committed to the research of sourcing organic, pure and high quality products.  

Acupuncture & Herbs on 6A, West Barnstable  

Harwich Health Center, Harwich  

Instant Karma, Hyannis 

Therapeutic Bodywork, Cotuit 

Cape Cod Nutrition Corner, Hyannis