By: Ms. Major Blazer
CBD, or cannabidiol, is defined by Epilepsy.com as; “One of the most important healing substances in the hemp plant with a strong anti-inflammatory effect without a psychotropic (narcotic) effect. CBD hemp oil also works against convulsions, anxiety, insomnia, neuropathic pain and ulcers.”
I began to introduce more CBD products into my daily marijuana rotation a few years ago. My interest piqued as numerous news articles and research reports were released detailing the multitude of healing abilities the psychoactive compound was capable of. The medication activates the brain’s CB1 receptors, found primarily in the memory related areas of the brain. While epilepsy is a new condition of mine; chronic anxiety and pain is what initially attracted me. I’ve tried a myriad of products, from prepackaged oil in pill capsules, to salves and edibles. For over a decade I have been well educated on the therapeutic effects that can be achieved with THC, specifically, the indica strains; so when I started having seizures, I decided to take a closer look at the astounding wonder herb.
Recent research of CBD oil has shown that it is extremely effective in not only reducing the number of seizures one can suffer from, but the severity as well. Upon being released from the hospital after I had developed epilepsy; I was prescribed both an anti-seizure drug and a psychiatric drug. The first two months, I was in a haze. I felt loopy and uncomfortable like my words and mannerisms were not my own. I found it difficult to exude emotions for things I used to love. I finally took a look at what I had been prescribed by my doctor. When I found out one was psychoactive, I was taken aback. I wanted to know why I had been prescribed an antidepressant with no history of mental illness. I was told it was supposed to help my insomnia. I made the unpopular decision of no longer continuing the medication. There are too many stories of people who began the rat wheel of being dependent on prescriptions; there is no end to the cycle. I started to feel like myself within days of ending the psychoactive medication, reaffirming to myself that I made the right choice.
I began using CBD pills and concentrates, as well as including CBD flower strains. I enjoy the muscle relaxing and anti-inflammatory properties it possesses. The plants’ ability to significantly improve countless ailments without any negative effects makes it an obvious choice for daily maintenance for both the healthy and the ill. When you take CBD, while it is non psychoactive, like aspirin; you can feel the positive impact the cannabinoids have on your body. Aches and pains fade away; my mood improves, and I am better able to compartmentalize my thoughts. I am still learning how best to dose, as well as keeping a steady supply of quality products on hand. I still have seizures, but I am hopeful that, in the future, I will be able to get better control of my illness. As more information, in addition to its availability, becomes released to the public about the hemp byproduct cannabidiol; I feel that more people will be able to experience its positive impact.
