A superfood is a food that is considered to have superior nutritional content such as spinach, almonds, kale, blueberries, and acai [1]. Superfoods are known to prevent diseases, have anti-aging benefits, and improve your overall health and the way you feel. But, does CBD have these characteristics?
CBD works with the endocannabinoid system and brings balance to physical and mental health [1]. It is common for CBD to be used to help with anxiety, pain relief, depression, sleep problems, and more. Though science has just begun to research the benefits of CBD, there is still evidence that suggests that CBD has potential medical benefits.
Cannabis has been cultivated and consumed all over the world for centuries. Raw cannabis is full of nutritional benefits due to the cannabinoid acids, two of which are THC and CBD, that are in the plant. In addition to the hundreds of cannabinoids that are in marijuana, there are also beneficial components such as amino acids, proteins, ketones, vitamin A, and fatty acids, to name a few.
Cannabis also contains terpenes, which are aromatic molecules. Some terpenes have significant health benefits such as myrcene, which alleviates pain and inflammation, and linalool, which reduces stress and anxiety. The seeds of the marijuana plant are rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Much like other superfood seeds such as chia and flaxseeds, the amount of protein in the hemp seed is notable. Hemp seed oil also contains healthy fats, vitamin E, magnesium, calcium, iron, sodium, and others. Hemp seed oil has also been proven to reduce inflammation, help with skin disorders such as eczema, aid in digestion, reduce symptoms of PMS, and more.
Since there aren’t any specific requirements that a food must meet to be considered a superfood, we cannot say for sure if cannabis or CBD are, in fact, superfoods. However, the evidence presented above, and the continued scientific findings make a strong case for a potential superfood status.