Rumble: For readers who need a refresher, what is CBD?

Kim: CBD is a chemical compound from the cannabis plant. It's a naturally occurring substance used in products like oils and salves. Unlike its cousin tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), it's not psychoactive.

Rumble: There seems to be CBD available everywhere from pharmacies to gas stations to roadside stands. How is a person to know which product to buy? 

Kim: You’re right. There is CBD everywhere these days. Many online manufacturers are selling it as well. I will say that products sold at pharmacies have been vetted and carry a warranty. Before buying, I would encourage people to do their research and talk to a knowledgeable pharmacist or other individual who is well-versed on the topic of CBD.  

Rumble: For what type of ailments do people seek CBD? 

Kim: Primarily, I see folks using CBD when it comes to pain, sleep issues, PTSD, depression and anxiety. Others use it to support symptoms related to autism, multiple sclerosis, irritable bowel syndrome, skin issues, smoking cessation, ADHD and more.

Rumble: How does CBD work with the body? 

Kim: All cannabinoids, including CBD, impact certain bodily receptors. CB1 and CB2 receptors are present throughout the body, but most CB2 receptors are in the brain and deal with coordination, movement, pain, emotions, mood, thinking, appetite and memory, just to name a few. CBD can also increase the amount of anandamide in the body, which is known as the “bliss molecule.” Anandamide plays a role in the neural generation of pleasure and motivation.

Rumble: So, our bodies already create its own CBD? 

Kim: All human bodies have a endocannabinoid system. We create some cannabinoids on our own, and these cannabinoids have an anti-inflammatory effect. What we’re seeing is that the body responds to external CBD in the same way, so when a person isn’t producing enough natural cannabinoids, a CBD product can be helpful.  

Rumble: Would everyone benefit from taking CBD? 

Kim: An antioxidant fights free radicals, which damage cells. CBD is a powerful antioxidant, more powerful than vitamin C and E so with that being said, everyone could potentially benefit from using it. 

Rumble: Is CBD FDA approved? 

Kim: While CBD is not FDA approved in a broad sense, Epidiolex, a form of cannabidiol has been approved. It’s used to treat Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome, two serious and rare kinds of epilepsy

Rumble: In what ways are people using CBD for their pets?

Kim: I’ve heard several anecdotal stories where people have had major success using CBD to soothe pet anxiety and chronic itching. 

Rumble: What CBD advice would you want to leave our readers? 

Kim: I’m very pleased with what I’ve seen CBD do for my patients here at the pharmacy. To me, it’s another powerful tool in the toolbox to help people live a happy, healthy life. With that being said, it’s always wise to do your research and speak with professionals you trust before taking any new product, including CBD. 

Kim's Pharmacy is a local pharmacy located at 479 Dellwood Rd. in Waynesville. More informaation about the pharmacy can be found HERE.