CBD, cannabidiol, is a natural compound found in the hemp plant. It is one of the many cannabinoids that interact with the human's body systems.
Unlike, THC, CBD will not produce psychoactive effects. Instead, CBD interacts with the body's ECS, a complex network responsible for maintaining balance and regulating functions like sleep, mood, immune response & more.
- Soothes discomfort & tension
- Relieves stress
- Improves relaxation & sleepiness
- Promotes wellness
While CBD containing less than 0.3% THC is federally legal, individual state regulations can vary. The Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) does not have a strict policy against CBD use, but they do not officially endorse it either.
For active military, CBD use is currently prohibited due to the fact CBD can show up as a postive on drug tests and there is no way to tell if it is CBD or marijuana.
Yes, we have a Discount Program that offers up to 60% off for veterans, first responders, healthcare workers, teachers, low income, and disability. See if you can apply here.
Yes, CEO of Extract Labs, combat veteran Craig Henderson did serve in the military. After his tour in Iraq, he developed an interest in the medicinal application of cannabis. Read Craigs' story here.
Every day, our brave service members put their lives on the line to protect our freedom and way of life. Upon returning home, many veterans face a new set of battles as they grapple with physical and mental health issues resulting from their service. From lingering tension and discomfort to emotional stress and other mental health concerns, these challenges can significantly impact their quality of life. As a society, we owe it to our veterans to help them find effective, alternative treatments to alleviate their struggles and ensure they can lead fulfilling lives. One such promising option is cannabidiol, or CBD, a natural compound derived from the hemp plant. In recent years, CBD has gained significant interest for its potential health benefits, making it a viable candidate to support our esteemed veterans in their quest for relief and wellness.
Understanding CBD
Before delving into how CBD can support our courageous veterans, it’s crucial to understand what CBD is and how it works. Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a natural compound found in the hemp plant. It is one of many cannabinoids that interact with the human body’s systems. A common misconception is that CBD is similar to THC, the psychoactive compound found in marijuana. However, CBD is distinct from THC and does not produce the “high” associated with marijuana use. This non-psychoactive quality makes CBD an appealing option for those seeking its potential benefits without the mind-altering effects.
CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex cell-signaling network responsible for maintaining balance and regulating various physiological functions such as mood, sleep, and immune response. By modulating the activity of specific neurotransmitters and receptors, CBD is believed to exert a range of therapeutic effects. This understanding of CBD’s mechanism of action paves the way for exploring its potential applications in addressing the unique challenges faced by our esteemed veterans.
CBD's Potential Benefits for Veterans
Chronic pain management?
As research on CBD’s potential benefits continues to emerge, several areas of interest have become particularly relevant for veterans. One significant area is the management of discomfort and tension relief. Studies have researched if CBD may help alleviate discomfort by interacting with the endocannabinoid system and modulating the body’s response to discomfort signals (3). This potential benefit is being researched to potentially reduce the reliance on opioids, which have been linked to addiction and other adverse side effects.
PTSD and anxiety relief?
In addition to discomfort relief, CBD has also shown promise in addressing stress, a common concern among veterans. Research has found that CBD may help reduce stress by acting on the serotonin receptor 5-HT1A, which plays a key role in regulating mood and stress responses (4). Anecdotal evidence from veterans who have used CBD to manage their stress further supports these findings and highlights the potential for CBD to make a meaningful difference in their lives.
Sleep improvements?
Sleep improvements are another potential benefit of CBD for veterans. Sleep issues are common among this veterans, and studies suggest that CBD may have a positive impact on sleep quality and duration by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (1). This can be particularly helpful for veterans who struggle with disrupted sleep patterns due to stress or other service-related issues.
Neuroprotection and brain health?
Lastly, emerging research indicates that CBD may offer neuroprotective and brain health benefits, which could be especially relevant for veterans with traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Studies are researching if CBD may help reduce inflammation and promote the growth of new neurons, potentially aiding in the recovery and overall brain health (2). As our understanding of CBD’s potential benefits continues to grow, it becomes increasingly clear that this compound may offer much-needed support for our cherished veterans.
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Legal and Accessibility Considerations
Now, let’s discuss the legal and accessibility considerations surrounding CBD use for veterans. While CBD derived from hemp, containing less than 0.3% THC, is federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill, individual state regulations can vary. It’s essential for veterans to be aware of their state’s specific laws regarding CBD use. As for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), they do not have a strict policy against CBD use, but they do not officially endorse or prescribe it either. Veterans who choose to use CBD should consider CBD isolate products, which contain 0% THC, to avoid any potential conflicts with VA regulations or drug testing requirements.
Accessibility and affordability are also important factors to consider when exploring CBD as an option for veterans. The market offers a wide variety of CBD products, including oils, tinctures, capsules, topicals, and more, making it relatively easy for veterans to find a product that suits their needs. However, the cost of CBD can be a barrier for some. Fortunately, there are assistance programs available specifically for veterans, offering discounts and financial aid to help them access CBD products. Many reputable CBD companies provide such programs, acknowledging the sacrifices made by our service members and striving to make CBD more accessible to those who may benefit from its potential therapeutic properties.
Conclusion
In conclusion, CBD holds significant promise for veterans as they navigate the physical and mental challenges that often accompany their service. The potential benefits of CBD in relieving discomfort and tension, reducing stress, improving sleep, and promoting brain health make it an appealing option for those seeking alternative treatments. While the research in this field is still growing, the existing findings are encouraging and warrant further investigation and conversation about CBD’s role in supporting veterans’ health and well-being.
We must continue to advocate for and support our veterans in finding effective, alternative treatments to address their unique challenges. One way to do this is by supporting companies that offer assistance programs for veterans, like Extract Labs. As a combat veteran-owned business, we are dedicated to giving back to those who have selflessly served our country. We offer a discount program for veterans, requiring only proof of service, such as a DD214, driver’s license with a veteran stamp, VA Card, or active military ID card. By supporting us and spreading awareness about CBD’s potential benefits, we can collectively make a positive impact on the lives of our brave service members.
To all veterans, thank you for your service. Together, let’s explore the potential of CBD and other alternative treatments to enhance your well-being and ensure that your sacrifices are honored with the care and support you deserve.
CBD Wellness | Veterans Talk About CBD
Veterans Talk About CBD
Works Cited
1. Babson, Kimberly A., et al. “Cannabis, Cannabinoids, and Sleep: a Review of the Literature.” PubMed, 2017, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28349316/. Accessed 20 April 2023.
2. Hampson, AJ, et al. “Cannabidiol and (-)Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol are neuroprotective antioxidants.” PubMed, 7 July 1998, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9653176/. Accessed 20 April 2023.
3. Nagarkatti, Prakash, et al. “Cannabinoids as novel anti-inflammatory drugs.” PubMed, 2009, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20191092/. Accessed 20 April 2023.
4. Russo, Ethan B., et al. “Agonistic Properties of Cannabidiol at 5-HT1a Receptors.” Springer Link, 16 November 2008, https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11064-005-6978-1. Accessed 20 April 2023.
5. Shohami, Esther, et al. “Endocannabinoids and traumatic brain injury.” PubMed, 2011, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21418185/. Accessed 20 April 2023.
