WHAT IS CBD—AND HOW WOULD I USE IT?

This article is the second in a series demystifying CBD, written by the founder of our partner Nature’s Gem. Be sure to head to Nature’s Gem CBD to check out weekly specials just for Mother Runners!
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While it may sound like a 1980s punk band, CBD is shorthand for cannabidiol, an extract from the cannabis plant. Yet don’t call the narcs: CBD is not marijuana, and the brand of CBD we use, Nature’s Gem, is entirely free of THC, the stuff in cannabis that makes you high.

CBD works by binding to special receptors in the brain, spinal column, immune tissues, and peripheral organs. For this reason, CBD can help with a variety of issues, including pain (chronic or acute), sleeplessness, stress, and anxiety.

CBD can be taken internally or applied topically. CBD oil is one of the most effective ways to get CBD into the body fast: The oil is squirted under the tongue and held there for 30 – 60 seconds, then swallowed. Via this method, most of the CBD is absorbed directly into the blood stream, making it effective and fast to help relieve anxiety, pain, and stress. (It’s how Sarah takes Nature’s Gem CBD at the end of a challenging day.)

Edible CBD, such as gummies, are ingested and processed through the liver before entering the blood stream. This method takes longer for the CBD to become effective, however, it is convenient and a good substitute for people who do not like taking CBD oil.

CBD topicals, like the Nature’s Gem Rejuvenating Balm that Sarah swears by for back and foot pain, are often combined with essential oils and applied externally to the skin. Topicals should be massaged into the affected area for 1 or 2 minutes or longer. Massaging increases blood flow to muscles and tissues, which increases the absorption and effectiveness of the topical to help provide relief for inflammation and pain.

However you use CBD, it’s important to make sure you obtain products from a reputable source. We recommend consulting your healthcare provider if you are on medication to discuss adding CBD internally and any potential drug interactions.

Nature’s Gem CBD health and wellness team is here to help answer questions. Feel free to reach out to lisa@naturesgemcbd.com with any questions. And check out weekly specials just for Mother Runners at Nature’s Gem CBD!

Follow Nature’s Gem CBD on Instagram and Facebook for posts on using products for various issues, how to apply, and more.