Here in Peachtree City, a new CBD (formally known as cannabidiol) store just opened up. CBD has become an increasingly popular item for people with all different types of medical issues, including anxiety, insomnia and epilepsy.
CBD, according to Harvard Medical School, is a “cousin” of medical marijuana, containing all of the natural herbal effects of marijuana while disregarding the high and addictive properties. It is legal, and to some extent, accessible with a few restrictions (varies from state to state) in all 50 states (Different forms of CBD can be sold legally depending on what state you are in. CBD is also sold in many different forms like oils, gummies, and pills). Although it is accessible in all states, the federal government still frowns upon the industry, yet it doesn’t enforce any sort of law against the use and selling of CBD. Harvard Medical School also says “the legality of CBD is expected to change, as there is currently bipartisan consensus in Congress to make the hemp crop legal which would, for all intents and purposes, make CBD difficult to prohibit.”

Studies done by the Journal of Experimental Medicine and the British Journal of Pharmacology have shown the medical benefits of CBD, improving the effects of seizures caused by epilepsy, insomnia caused by anxiety, and chronic pain.
But CBD like any other supplement, isn’t all good. It has also been known to have many unwarranted side effects like nausea, irritability and fatigue. It also doesn’t have a proper dosage that can be given by doctors, making it potentially dangerous if the proper precautions aren’t taken by the consumer. According to Harvard Medical School, “CBD is currently mostly available as an unregulated supplement, it’s difficult to know exactly what you are getting. If you decide to try CBD, talk with your doctor — if for no other reason than to make sure it won’t affect other medications you are taking.”
CBD is also present in many vape cartridges, and vaping has become an increasing problem among many teenagers. The long term effects of vaping have been more closely studied than CBD by itself, and many have seen a negative effect on teenagers’ brain development and respiratory health.
While its long term effects remain unknown, CBD and its industry continues to grow, as more stores begin to sell it all over the United States. While it continues to help many people across the country, the negative side effects can’t go unnoticed.
“I think at this point, both professionals and patients don’t know what product to use or how often,” Medicine Specialist Melinda R. Ring from Northwestern Medicine explains. “I think having answers to those questions can help.”