Senior Health

5/15/2018 | By Terri L. Jones

Is it legal? Is CBD another word for pot? Is it really a magic bullet?

If you’re confused by what you’re hearing about CBD oil, you’re not alone. We shed some light on this much-talked-about organic remedy.

Is CBD legal?

While marijuana is still considered a Class I drug by the U.S. federal government, many states—29 and the District of Columbia—have legalized most or all types of marijuana products for medical purposes. And, of the remaining 21 states, 17 of them have laws around legal cannabidiol or CBD (see the full list below).

What is it exactly?

CBD is one of the many compounds (or cannabinoids) found in cannabis, which can refer to either marijuana or hemp. Unlike THC, another cannabinoid that you’ve probably heard of, CBD does not have psychoactive effects. In other words, it won’t make you “high.” In fact, legislation requires that the level of THC be negligible in CBD products.

Is it good for me?

CBD has been found to have significant positive effects on the body, which, according to many sources, may yield a host of health benefits.

Here are some of the medicinal purposes that have been reported:

  • Relieves pain
  • Reduces inflammation
  • Alleviates anxiety
  • Reduces depression
  • Improves sleep quality
  • Treats seizure disorders
  • Prevents some Alzheimer’s disease symptoms
  • Blocks the spread of cancer cells
  • Treats Parkinson’s disease and symptoms of multiple sclerosis

(NOTE: Products containing CBD are not approved by FDA for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of any disease.)

Do I have to smoke it?

CBD is typically used in an oil form (in fact, some laws mandate this usage) and taken orally.

Which states have CBD legislation?

Below are the states that have passed laws around legal CBD, as of May 8, 2018 (the legislation varies, so be sure to do your homework):

  • Alabama
  • Georgia
  • Indiana
  • Iowa
  • Kentucky
  • Mississippi
  • Missouri
  • North Carolina
  • Oklahoma
  • South Carolina
  • South Dakota
  • Tennessee
  • Texas
  • Utah
  • Virginia
  • Wisconsin
  • Wyoming

What’s the next step?

If you are considering using CBD oil to treat a medical condition, talk to your healthcare provider to determine whether it’s right for you. Your physician should also understand the laws in your state and be able to recommend a safe source of the product.

Share your thoughts on CBD oil.

Terri L. Jones

Terri L. Jones has been writing educational and informative topics for the senior industry for over ten years, and is a frequent and longtime contributor to Seniors Guide.

Terri Jones