Despite the increasing use and acceptance of CBD, various stereotypes and misconceptions still persist.
Efforts are underway to dispel these stereotypes and stigmas about CBD.
Educational initiatives, such as new classes on cannabis, aim to dispel these misconceptions and provide accurate information about CBD and its uses.
As awareness and understanding of CBD continue to grow, it is hoped that these stereotypes will begin to fade.
In this blog post, we aim to help address these stereotypes with a heavy dose of truth.
We want your best.
Knowing the facts will help you make the best wellness decisions for yourself and for those you love.
Let’s get started.
Here are some common stereotypes and the questions you may have about them.
- What is gateway drug theory?
- Is CBD classified as a drug?
- What are the three main gateway drugs?
- Is CBD a Gateway Drug?
- Is CBD bad for you?
- Is CBD addictive?
- Does cbd affect motivation?
- Is CBD good for smokers?
What is gateway drug theory?
The Gateway Drug Theory is a hypothesis that suggests the use of less harmful drugs can lead to a future risk of using more dangerous hard drugs and/or crime.
This theory originated in the 1970s as the war on drugs began.
It was based on observations that many individuals who consume hard drugs like cocaine or heroin had initially used less harmful drugs, such as marijuana or alcohol, before moving on to the harder substances.
The theory operates under the assumption that there are stages to drug use.
These “stages” start with legal substances like alcohol and tobacco, then move to marijuana, and eventually leading to hard drugs like cocaine, heroin, or methamphetamines.
It’s believed that early exposure to these ‘gateway drugs’ might desensitize the individual to the risks associated with drug use, making them more likely to experiment with harder substances.
It’s important to note that this theory is quite controversial.
Critics argue that correlation does not necessarily imply causation.
Just because someone who uses hard drugs may have started with softer ones, doesn’t mean the initial use caused the progression.
There are many factors at play, including socio-economic status, mental health, and peer influence.
Therefore, while the Gateway Drug Theory offers one perspective on drug use progression, it should not be considered a definitive rule.
Is CBD classified as a drug?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound found in marijuana but unlike other compounds, it does not cause a high or induce any psychoactive effects.
It can be derived from hemp and is not considered addictive.
Read on for more information about whether CBD is addictive and where that belief comes from.
CBD is not classified as a drug under the Controlled Substances Act, as long as it’s derived from hemp and doesn’t contain more than 0.3% THC.
However, while CBD itself isn’t considered a controlled substance, products containing CBD are not recognized as safe or effective by the FDA.
They’re not considered drugs or supplements, and the FDA is still developing a regulatory pathway to evaluate these products.
It’s crucial to note that anyone considering using CBD products should consult their doctor beforehand, especially if they have underlying medical conditions or are taking other medications.
This is because potential risks and harms associated with CBD use include adverse drug interactions.
What are the three main gateway drugs?
The three main gateway drugs are alcohol, nicotine, and marijuana.
Gateway drugs are substances that when consumed, may increase the likelihood of using other, more harmful drugs.
Alcohol: It’s widely consumed and there is significant evidence to suggest that it can act as a gateway drug.
Nicotine: Found in tobacco products like cigarettes, nicotine is another socially acceptable substance that can lead to addiction and potential use of more harmful substances.
Marijuana: Often considered the most recognizable gateway drug, marijuana can also lead to the use of stronger, high-risk addictive drugs.
These substances are termed as gateway drugs because they typically precede and are associated with the use of harder, illicit drugs.
This certainly does not mean that everyone who uses these substances will go on to use other drugs.
Is CBD a Gateway Drug?
Let’s explore that question.
There’s a lot of debate around whether cannabis, in general, is considered a gateway drug.
The question of whether CBD is a gateway drug has been at the forefront of public health discussions for quite some time.
With increasing legalization and usage of cannabis products across the globe, understanding the potential risks and benefits is more important than ever.
Let’s look at the current body of research on this topic and provide an objective look at whether CBD can indeed be categorized as a gateway drug.
Marijuana, which contains the psychoactive compound THC along with CBD, has often been labeled as a potential gateway drug.
However, when it comes to CBD—a non-psychoactive compound—it’s a different story.
One study suggests that cannabis may serve as a gateway drug to opioid use.
They key is understanding the difference between THC and CBD, which the study did not consider.
There is other research that indicates that legalizing cannabis does not increase substance use disorders or use of other illicit drugs.
Interestingly, some research even suggests that CBD could potentially reverse the effects of addiction.
CBD binds to receptors in the brain and is thought to inhibit the endocannabinoid system, which regulates mood, appetite, memory, and pain sensation.
Therefore, rather than acting as a gateway to other drugs, CBD could potentially offer therapeutic benefits for those struggling with addiction.
While more research is certainly needed, the current body of evidence does not conclusively support the idea that CBD is a gateway drug.
Instead, it appears that CBD may have potential therapeutic effects, particularly in the realm of addiction recovery.
However, as with any substance, it’s always important to use CBD responsibly and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Remember, knowledge is power. Stay informed, stay healthy!
Is CBD bad for you?
CBD is generally considered safe but can cause certain side effects.
These may include dry mouth, diarrhea, reduced appetite, drowsiness, fatigue, and potential interactions with other drugs you may be taking.
There’s also evidence suggesting that CBD could cause liver injury if used incorrectly. It’s important to note that CBD can affect how other drugs work, potentially leading to serious side effects .
Furthermore, there’s a risk of unintentional poisoning as many businesses that sell hemp and CBD products also sell products that contain THC .
Therefore, it’s crucial to use these products appropriately and under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Research has shown that CBD can have beneficial effects as well.
A 2020 literature review found that multiple studies suggest CBD has properties that may help reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and even psychosis.
A small 2019 study also found that CBD was effective in reducing PTSD-related symptoms, including nightmares, in adults .
However, people with certain underlying medical conditions like liver disease, kidney disease, epilepsy, heart problems, a weakened immune system, or those who are taking medications that can weaken the immune system should consult their doctor before using CBD.
In conclusion, while CBD can have potential health benefits, it’s not devoid of risks and side effects.
Therefore, it’s advisable to use it under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
Is CBD addictive?
As stated earlier in this post, CBD is not considered addictive.
Research suggests that CBD does not have the potential for addiction or abuse.
CBD is a substance that does not cause intoxication or trigger a surge of dopamine that results in feelings of euphoria.
Therefore, there are typically no withdrawal symptoms associated with stopping the use of CBD.
The World Health Organization actually states that “CBD exhibits no effects indicative of any abuse or dependence potential”.
However, it’s important to remember that while CBD itself may not be addictive, people can develop a habit if they are smoking marijuana to obtain the medical benefits of CBD.
Read more about the difference between CBD and marijuana here.
Does CBD affect motivation?
There exists a persistent stereotype that individuals who consume CBD are lazy and unmotivated.
This misconception is often fueled by a lack of understanding about what CBD is and why people use it.
Contrary to this stereotype, many people use CBD not to ‘get stoned,’ but rather as a natural remedy to address various health issues.
In fact, CBD can help individuals live their lives more fully, enabling them to be more focused, motivated, and proactive.
Understanding CBD
CBD does not get you high or stoned. What does it do?
It interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates various functions such as pain, mood, sleep, and immune system responses.
CBD for Pain Relief
One of the most common reasons people turn to CBD is for its potential pain-relieving properties.
Chronic pain can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life, making it difficult to stay motivated and focused.
By helping to reduce pain, CBD may enable individuals to engage more fully in their daily activities, boosting their overall motivation.
CBD for Anxiety and Sleep Issues
Anxiety and sleep disorders are other common issues that CBD may help address.
Both conditions can hinder a person’s ability to stay focused and maintain motivation.
By potentially reducing anxiety levels and improving sleep quality, CBD can contribute to increased productivity and a more balanced lifestyle.
CBD for Focus and Energy
While some believe that CBD can make users feel drowsy or lazy, others find that it helps enhance their focus and energy levels.
The relationship between CBD and focus is not entirely understood, but it’s believed that CBD’s interaction with serotonin receptors in the brain may play a role.
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that affects mood, focus, and energy levels.
Embracing a Natural Approach
By addressing these health issues naturally, CBD allows individuals to avoid the potential side effects of traditional medications, leading to a healthier and more fulfilling life.
It’s crucial to remember that everyone’s experience with CBD is unique, and what works for one person might not work for another.
But basically, the stereotype of the unmotivated CBD user is a far cry from reality.
Many people use CBD as a tool to enhance their quality of life, increase their focus and motivation, and live more proactive lives.
Is CBD good for smokers?
Cigarette addiction is a global health issue, with many smokers struggling to break free from the addictive grasp of nicotine.
However, recent research suggests that CBD might offer a ray of hope to those looking to quit smoking.
CBD has been found to potentially help lower cravings for tobacco under certain conditions.
Current research indicates that CBD, unlike marijuana, is not addictive.
This distinction is crucial as it means that CBD could possibly assist smokers without creating another dependency.
Mental Health of Smokers
In addition to curbing tobacco cravings, CBD might also provide significant mental health benefits.
Many individuals turn to smoking as a coping mechanism for stress and anxiety. Here too, CBD shows promise.
Research suggests that CBD may be effective in reducing anxiety and stress related to drug cues.
Addressing Withdrawl
Moreover, cessation of short-term CBD use does not appear to result in withdrawal.
This makes it a potentially safer alternative for individuals looking to quit smoking, as they can avoid the unpleasant withdrawal symptoms typically associated with nicotine cessation.
It’s important to remember that while CBD has shown potential, it is not a guaranteed solution for people who want to quit smoking.
Each individual’s response to CBD can vary, and it should not replace professional medical advice or treatment.
Always consult a health care provider before starting any new treatment regimen, including CBD.
CBD presents a potentially beneficial tool in the fight against tobacco addiction.
By helping to curb cravings and providing a non-addictive means of managing stress and anxiety, CBD could be a game-changer for those seeking to quit smoking.
In conclusion
The stereotypes surrounding CBD are largely unfounded and often perpetuated by misinformation.
CBD is not a gateway drug, nor is it addictive.
On the contrary, it’s a substance that many people use to enhance productivity and maintain focus in their day-to-day activities.
Furthermore, emerging research suggests that CBD may even play a role in helping individuals quit smoking.
By dispelling these misconceptions and promoting accurate information about CBD, we can better understand its potential benefits and uses.
The journey towards understanding CBD is just beginning, but one thing is certain – it’s time for us to rethink our preconceived notions and embrace the potential of CBD to improve your lives and our health.