CBD Nasal Sprays

CBD is a constantly active ingredient in Cannabis sativa plants. As it becomes more popular, people are beginning to include CBD in lotions, tonics and now even sprays! Some benefits of using a CBD spray may be that it helps lessen an assortment of symptoms.

This article explores CBD in greater depth and also analyses CBD sprays specifically, discussing their usage and advantages/disadvantages.

Is CBD legal?

The 2018 Farm Bill changed the legal status of hemp, removing it from the definition of marijuana in the Controlled Substances Act. This means that some CBD products made from hemp with less than 0.3 percent THC are now federally legal. However, CBD products containing more than 0.3 percent THC still fall under the legal definition of marijuana, making them federally illegal but possibly legal under state law. Always check state laws before traveling, as they vary from place to place. Additionally, it is important to note that the FDA has not approved nonprescription CBD products yet. Some of these products might also be inaccurately labeled.

What is CBD?

Different types of CBD sprays are available for topical, oral, or nasal use.

CBD is found in both the cannabis plant and hemp plant, which are both types of the Cannabis sativa plant. CBD is one of several active cannabinoids in these plants.

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is another compound found in these plants. THC is responsible for the “high” that people usually associate with cannabis. CBD alone will not cause a person to feel high.

Though most CBD products contain a very small amount of THC (usually no more than 0.3%), this amount is typically not enough to cause someone to feel intoxicated. Other manufacturers will isolate the CBD from the THC, meaning that there is zero THC present in their product.

The main difference between the cannabis plant and the hemp plant is that the former contains more THC than the latter.

Ways to apply a CBD spray

There are a variety of manufacturers that can produce CBD based products. A quick and easy way administer CBD is through the use of a spray.

The most effective way to use a spray bottle depends on the product, what you’re comfortable with, and the problem you’re trying to solve. If the spray is for topical application — like some sort of mist — then you would spray it onto your skin and let it sink in.

In some instances, you can spraying the product nasally. To use it through your nose, insert the nozzle into one nostril and close off the other by lightly pressing down on that side of your nose. Finally, push down on the nozzle to release the spray.

Another way to consume a CBD spray is by spraying it into your mouth. You may need to aim for your tongue or the back of your throat, depending on the product instructions. When using a CBD spray, it can be difficult to determine the correct dose. As with any form of cannabinoid, always start with a small amount first in order avoid experiencing any negative side effects from consuming too much at once.

CBD side effects

Some people may experience side effects when using CBD, including:

• diarrhea
• drowsiness
• changes in appetite
• fatigue
• dry mouth

Though it is rare, some people may have an allergy to CBD. If you start using a CBD spray and then experience itching in the mouth or throat,have difficulty swallowing or breathing,or notice swelling of the lips or throat, seek emergency help immediately.

Although research on CBD and its effects is ongoing, there is still not a large body of evidence. Therefore, there may be other side effects that have not yet been discovered.

What Are the Benefits of Cannabis Nasal Sprays?

Although we don’t yet know all the benefits of weed nasal spray, some preliminary research has shown that it may be effective in treating symptoms associated with sinus conditions. For example, viruses are not the only cause of upper respiratory tract infections—bacteria and fungi can also lead to these infections. However, researchers are presently exploring the antimicrobial potential of select cannabinoids in order to find natural agents that could help fight these types of infection.

In addition, sinusitis (the swelling of the voids in the cheekbones and forehead) happens after infection or allergic response. With infection, irritation is part of the immune response. Although, this reaction can become a nuisance and especially troublesome with chronic infection and allergic sinusitis. For that purpose, research is being conducted to see if cannabinoids, like CBD oil for example, have any affect on chronic inflammation even if it’s indirect.

CBD and Nasal Polyps

The soft tissue growths called nasal polyps occur inside the nose. Although they are benign (non-cancerous) and painless most of the time, they can become a serious issue if not treated correctly. They form from the mucous membrane, which is a type of tissue that lines the nasal cavity and filters, warms, and humidifies the air we breathe. The symptoms inflicted by nasal polyps are similar to those of a cold but instead of clearing up within days like most colds do, these symptoms linger until you get treatment for your naselpolyp. These common symptoms include:

•  Blocked nose
•  Runny nose
•  Post-nasal drip
•  Snoring
•  Nosebleeds
•  Reduces sense of taste and smell
•  Irritation and swelling

If left untreated, nasal polyps can grow and block the passages of your nose and sinus. Not only does this cause breathing difficulties, but it also raises your risk for infection. So, could CBD nasal spray help reduce symptoms related to nasal polyps? Research is inconclusive at this time, though there are studies being conducted that explore possible effects of cannabidiol on conditions such as inflammation and bacterial infections—two issues closely associated with nasal polyps.

THC vs CBD Nasal Sprays

As the primary psychoactive constituent of cannabis, THC binds to the CB1 receptor of the ECS, causing a shift in dopamine signalling that gives rise to the characteristic cannabis high. However, CBD also has different effects as it primarily binding to CB2 receptors- which are most prominent in the immune system. THC binds to other sites outside of the endocannabinoid system, which is also known as the “endocannabinoidome.” In addition to causing a psychoactive experience, research suggests that THC may have anti-inflammatory and pain-killing properties.

CBD does not possess a strong relationship with the ECS. Even though the molecule doesn’t have much affinity for the classical CB1 and CB2 receptors of the ECS, early research suggests it can raise levels of endocannabinoids by preventing enzymes from breaking them down temporarily. CBD also binds to TRPV1, which is otherwise known as the capsaicin receptor—a site involved in pain signalling.

Summary

CBD is a chemical found in the Cannabis sativa plant. Scientists are uncovering more and more evidence that suggests it may help ease some symptoms. CBD-infused sprays are available for purchase to address various issues. Depending on the product and desired effect, these sprays may be used orally, nasally, or topically.