What are the Benefits of CBD and What You Need to Know?

Estimated read time: 9 minutes

So you’ve heard of cannabis and are curious to learn more, we’ll we’ve got you!

Cannabis products are legal to use in several states, and CBD (Cannabidiol) products are growing in popularity. They are becoming more and more accessible and available to use. You can even find CBD products in your local grocery store!

But what exactly is CBD? Is CBD safe to use? What about if you are pregnant or breastfeeding? If you have been looking for answers, then you’ve come to the right place.

 

In this article, we are going to focus on CBD and also touch on THC. Read on for our guide on what you need to know about CBD and its benefits for moms like you.

What is CBD?

CBD is an abbreviation for cannabidiol, one of two main chemical compounds extracted from the cannabis plant. It is often referred to as cannabis or hemp. 

CBD is derived from hemp and usually comes in the form of an oil or extract. Typically, CBD is sold as an oil-based capsule, tincture, or infused in drinks, food, and even skincare products. CBD offers a long list of health benefits without the same side effects as other cannabis products that contain THC.

What is the difference between CBD and THC?

THC, the other main chemical compound extracted from the cannabis plant, stands for tetrahydrocannabinol. Oftentimes when people hear the word cannabis, they think of THC.

THC is a psychoactive ingredient found in the plant and is commonly known for the high feeling it produces. CBD, on the other hand, is a non-psychoactive compound and therefore it does not produce the feeling of being high.

Is CBD legal?

Hemp was made legal in the US by Congress in 2018. Since CDB is derived from hemp, it is legal to purchase it in a variety of forms in the United States. 

The sale of CBD products (oil, gummies, etc.) may be legal, however, it is also unregulated. This means that the FDA does not currently enforce standards for products which could result in poor-quality products. 

Be sure to do your research when shopping for CDB products, and only shop from trustworthy companies that are transparent about their ingredients and production process. Look for labels that say, organic, non-GMO, and lab-tested. 

Note: THC is legal in some states for medical and recreational usage, however, it is not currently legal on a Federal level. 

Is CBD safe to use and what are the side effects?

If you plan to use products containing CBD, it is always recommended to check with your healthcare provider first, especially if you are also using blood thinners. CBD can interact with other medications, so it is best to check with your healthcare provider if you are currently taking medication. This is important whenever you consider taking a new supplement or drug.

So far, the FDA has officially approved one usage of CBD, called Epidiolex. It is an oral solution used to treat seizures associated with two forms of severe epilepsy. 

CBD is often well-tolerated, according to the Mayo Clinic. They state that the side effects can be:

• Dry mouth
• Diarrhea
• Reduced appetite
• Drowsiness
• Fatigue

How does CBD work?

Throughout our bodies, there are cell receptors and neurotransmitters that are concentrated in our brains and the nervous system called the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Our ECS is responsible for maintaining biochemical and physiological balance. It is associated with signaling pain, stress, sleep, fertility, and more.

CBD interacts with our cell receptors by creating a chemical reaction to help our ECS achieve balance by increasing our endocannabinoid levels or blocking them from becoming overactive.

What are the benefits of CBD?

Motherhood is hard. Our daily routines combined with lack of sleep, stress, and other issues can limit a mom’s ability to be at her best. As a mom, it is so important to take care of yourself first so that you can care for your littles.

CBD has been reported for its calming effects for decades. Research suggests it affects multiple systems in our bodies, including the nervous system, glands, and brain, too. Some doctors have even recommended CBD as a form of treatment for chronic pain, depression, and anxiety. 

It’s no wonder why moms are turning to CBD in their wellness routines. There are many amazing benefits of CBD.

Here are our favorite ways that CBD helps moms:

#1 Stress reliever

There is a ton of research done on stress. It is well-known that repeated stress is not healthy for our bodies and can oftentimes lead to anxiety or other health conditions. Stress is a common issue for moms, especially with the challenges we continued to face throughout the pandemic. 

We tend to hold our stresses in our muscles and this causes tension. CBD can help relax your muscles so that you can focus your attention elsewhere.

A study in 2021 surveyed 387 people and found that most people use CBD for anxiety or stress. More than 92% (mostly women) reported that taking CBD lowered their stress levels.

#2 Calms anxiety

Anxiety is our internal response to persistent stress. This can develop into an anxiety disorder, which is one of the most common mental health struggles that can impact day-to-day life for moms. Anxiety and stress together commonly lead us to feel burned out. CBD naturally lowers the stress hormone, cortisol, which helps you to feel relaxed.

 

#3 Get better sleep

For any mom, it can be hard to fall asleep, and stay asleep. A study showed that over time, a consistent dose of CBD at bedtime can greatly improve sleeping patterns.

High doses of CBD alone can help you relax. Additionally, when high-quality CBD is paired with active ingredients like melatonin, it can enhance sleep throughout the night. And if you sleep well, you likely wake up feeling more energetic.

#4 Stay focused

With so much to take care of as a mom, CBD can be a useful tool. CBD is a therapeutic compound that helps you to be more productive by relaxing your muscles, improving your alertness, and focusing your mind. When CBD is coupled with a natural amino acid called L-theanine, it can deepen CBD's stress-relieving qualities and allow you to focus.

 

#5 Energy Booster

For a mom like you, caffeine can be an essential part of your morning ritual. Coffee first, then do the things, right? Well, consider this, CBD oil is safe to consume with coffee (as long as your body agrees with caffeine on its own), and can be a beneficial addition to your wake-up routine. 

When CBD is combined with substances like caffeine, it can balance your body’s response to caffeine and give you that energy boost to keep you going without the unwelcome jitters. We found these recipes if you are interested in making a CBD coffee drink at home – and they sound delicious!

#6 Improved intimacy

As a new mom and even as a seasoned mom, it can be challenging to want to get intimate at the end of a long day (with yourself or your partner). Stress increases your cortisol levels and that can decrease your libido. No wonder it can be hard to get in the mood. 

A licensed psychologist and certified sex therapist, Dr. Kate Balestrieri says, “both research and clinical observations are showing some strains of CBD can have a positive influence on people’s sex lives.” She continues that CBD is thought to ”interact with parts of the brain associated with arousal.” 

There are CBD products available that combine other natural ingredients such as ashwagandha, horny goat weed (yes, that’s a real thing), and maca root can increase confidence, reduce performance anxiety and even increase orgasm intensity. Umm, sign us up, please!

#7 Ease pain and inflammation

Muscle aches, pain, and soreness are all common complaints, especially from post-partum moms. Research has shown that CBD can help reduce inflammation and cannabinoids (CBD) have “potent anti-inflammatory agents.” Another study in 2019 goes into more depth on the topic. 

There is a variety of CBD-infused bath bombs and topical lotions on the market that can help moms relax their aches away with added the bonus of the anti-inflammatory properties CDB brings. Plus soaking in the tub sounds nice.

Does CBD get you high?

No. CBD is hemp-derived and does not produce a high, unlike THC which will get you high. Hemp contains a minimal amount of THC (<0.3%) which means it is non-psychoactive. 

Can I use THC or CBD while pregnant or breastfeeding?

It is so often asked what the effects are of using THC or CBD  while pregnant or breastfeeding. The truth is, there isn’t a whole lot of research here. Pregnant and breastfeeding people are always the last group to be studied when it comes to clinical trials. However, there have been some studies. 

Here is what we have researched:

Using THC while pregnant or breastfeeding

First off, let’s be clear, CBD and THC are different. According to the CDC, using THC during pregnancy can be harmful to your baby’s health and development and could also put the pregnancy at risk for complications. It is not recommended to use THC products during pregnancy.

For breastfeeding, the CDC states: “When advising mothers on the medical use of marijuana [THC] while breastfeeding, consideration should be given to the potential risks of marijuana exposure and benefits of breastfeeding to the infant and mother.”  

Meaning, that it is possible that all of the amazing benefits of breastfeeding for both the baby and the mother may surpass the potential negative effects of marijuana (THC). 

When ingested or inhaled, THC is stored in our body fat and is slowly released over time. This means it is possible a mother could pass a fraction of the ingested THC to their child through breast milk.

In one study, breast milk was tested 20 minutes after the subject smoked marijuana (THC) and again one, two and four hours later. It showed that THC levels were the highest at one hour after smoking and found that, “infants who breastfed exclusively ingested an estimated 2.5 percent of the maternal dose of THC.” It states that “the levels are low in the [breast] milk and even less would be absorbed by the infants.”

Know that the effect of THC on a child's postnatal development remains unknown.

Using CBD while pregnant or breastfeeding

Some current studies say it is safe to use CBD while pregnant and when breastfeeding, however, there isn’t a whole lot of research on this. Moms and moms-to-be should always discuss with their doctor or midwife before using CBD, especially during pregnancy and if they are taking other medications.

When used topically, CBD does not enter the bloodstream and it can bring relief to sore muscles and joints for pregnant and nursing moms.

What to look for in CBD products?

To be clear, according to FDA guidelines, CBD is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or ailment. CBD is not yet regulated by the FDA and therefore some brands in the market may cut corners in their production to cut costs.

 

Always read the label. Here's what to pay attention to in CBD products:

 

• Check the source. Currently, Colorado has the strictest CBD regulations, making it the safest state to source from.
• Always read the ingredients. CBD contains <0.3% THC. Check to see what else is in the product. Often other ingredients are used to create the desired effect.
• Look for organic products. Meaning no chemicals or pesticides are used on the plants.
• Choose non-GMO. Stay away from anything that is genetically modified.
• Verify it is lab-tested. This is important to ensure a high-quality product with consistent dosage throughout the product. 
• Adhere to the suggested dosage. It’s always good to start small and increase to the suggested dosage over time.

 

Where can I get CBD products?

There are tons of CBD products available online and may even be in your local grocery store. One company that we know and love is called, House of Wise.

House of Wise (HOW) is a luxury CBD and wellness brand that empower women to take control of their sleep, sex, stress, and strength. The House of Wise founder is a single mother to three kids and is committed to breaking the stigma and supporting and serving a community of women with trusted products.

 

 

You do you, Boobie Doobie

At Titty City Design, we are in favor of removing the stigma of cannabis use and put this article together to help educate others. Many moms are incorporating CBD into their wellness routines and have reported remarkable changes in their health in terms of recovery, mood changes, and reducing inflammation and soreness. 

Moms have also found the use of hemp products helpful in reducing anxiety, getting more sleep, and even boosting their overall health.

Know this mama, the research for CBD and its benefits is still underway. And currently, there aren’t enough studies and statistics to provide the evidence to point to a clear outcome of its usage. Those who take hemp products want to believe that it does benefit them, and therefore they are not willing to wait the years it may take for the data to support this product.

When it comes to your choice of whether to use CBD or even THC products: do your research, learn the facts, and always discuss with your healthcare provider before choosing whether it is right for you.

 

 

At Titty City Design, we believe that every boobie is beautiful, and that should be celebrated. We are a female-owned and operated, small business here to spread self-love and body positivity with our line of products for the home. A portion of our proceeds goes to help support postpartum women and breast cancer patients.

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