Embracing National CBD Day in the Big Country: A Personal Journey

As August 8th approaches, marking National CBD Day, I find myself reflecting on the growing conversation around CBD, especially here in West Texas. Living in the Big Country, I've witnessed a slow but steady shift in how we view this once-controversial compound. Though I'm not a user of CBD myself, the increasing number of people turning to it for its potential health benefits piqued my interest.

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound derived from the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, the psychoactive component of marijuana, CBD is non-intoxicating, making it an appealing option for those seeking relief from various ailments without the "high." While marijuana is illegal in Texas, CBD products have found their way into our local health stores, promising benefits ranging from pain relief to anxiety reduction. The List video below goes into detail.

I recently spoke with a few local residents who have integrated CBD into their daily wellness routines. One Abilene resident shared how CBD oil helped manage her chronic pain, providing relief where traditional medications had failed. Another, a veteran relative of mine from here in the Big Country, found solace in CBD for his PTSD, describing it as a "game-changer" in his daily life and it was his doctor that recommended it to him. These personal stories highlight the potential of CBD to improve quality of life, And keep in mind nobody is making any medical claims here, they are just sharing what they've experienced.

Get our free mobile app

Medical professionals are also beginning to acknowledge the use of CBD. According to the American Medical Association (AMA), several studies suggest that CBD can be an effective treatment for conditions such as epilepsy, PTSD, and certain types of pain (AMA, 2024). The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) also provides comprehensive information on CBD. In West Texas, several doctors have started recommending CBD as a complementary treatment for some conditions. The medical community's cautious yet growing endorsement of CBD signifies a shift in perspective that could lead to broader acceptance and understanding.

Despite my initial reservations, learning about CBD's potential has been eye-opening. One of my daughters, started using CBD to control her anxiety after her counselor prescribed it to her. Seeing the positive impact it has had on her well-being has made me appreciate the potential benefits of this natural remedy.

My wife, who is also in the medical field, shares with me the discussions about the benefits of CBD, emphasizing their role in modern healthcare. She says that even some Doctors "recommend" CBD oils, ointments, and capsules to their veteran-patients. The fact that it's gaining traction in our own backyard speaks volumes about its potential.

National CBD Day is more than just a date on the calendar now, it's an opportunity to educate ourselves about the potential benefits of CBD. As we continue to explore the possibilities, it's clear that CBD has the potential to be a valuable addition to our health and wellness toolkit here in West Texas. Whether you're a skeptic like I was or someone already benefiting from its use, taking the time to understand CBD's role in modern wellness can be enlightening.

I feel like, it's reassuring to know that even in a conservative state like Texas, we're beginning to understand and accept its benefits.

Source: WebMD-health benefits of CBD / Healthline.com- 6 health benefits of CBD