The latest beauty and wellness buzzword and ingredient– cannabidiol–is shrouded in myths and mystery even though it has been a part of ayurvedic beauty treatments for centuries. CBD aka cannabidiol is a compound extracted from the flowers and leaves of the female hemp and cannabis plant, and is known for its healing, soothing, and pain management properties.
It is important to note that no law in India states that full-spectrum (contains all of the cannabinoids and other plant compounds) cannabis leaf oil is prohibited. The sale of CBD oil and tinctures is legal in India as long as it is approved by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (1985) as well as the Drugs and Cosmetics Act (1940). To cut through the noise and see what CBD in skincare and wellness means, keep reading…
Myth: Using CBD is unsafe
False. The debate around cannabidiol is driven mainly by fear-mongering and fiction, not facts. According to a 2018 study by the World Health Organisation (WHO), naturally occurring CBD is safe and well-tolerated in humans and exhibits no effects that indicate that it could cause dependency or addiction.
Myth: It can get me high
This is a lie. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the compound from the same plant that is responsible for giving you that feeling of euphoria. CBD oils and tinctures don’t contain this so no, it won’t get you high.
Myth: Ingesting it is the best way to get skin benefits
False! CBD just offers your skin long-term relief when applied to the problem area, but it doesn’t penetrate deep enough to enter your bloodstream. A 2020 study by the Amway Corporation even found that it has the potential to boost wound healing, reduce itchiness and oil production, thereby decreasing the chances of acne.
Myth: Applying it can make me an addict
False. When you apply it to your skin, CBD formulas will not penetrate enough to enter your bloodstream. If the product works for you, you might be tempted to repurchase it, as with any ‘holy grail’ skincare in your routine!