CBD: SNAKE OIL OR A G.I.’S NEW HOPE?

The DoD has [set] a precedent for using its service members for drug tests, for vaccines, for things that they think may be of benefit to the warfighter...I don't see that it would be too wild to also include CBD Cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound found in both marijuana and hemp plants and it's the hot product in the health/self-care market. And it's the perfect topic for us to discuss in the studio at A BETTER PEACE on 4/20 dude. Tina Cancel joins podcast editor Ron Granieri to examine the potential for CBD use in the military health community. Not to be confused with delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the other compound that produces the “high” sought with marijuana use, CBD is either the 21st century equivalent of snake oil or an actual wonder cure that can be found in nature. Advocates of CBD claim it treats anything from inflammation to anxiety to epilepsy. Critics point out that the majority of the "data" is anecdotal at best and more study is definitely required. The facts are that it's unregulated and untested by the FDA, and there are no guarantees when you buy a product containing CBD. And its use or even investing in CBD ventures is illegal for military members and federal employees. It can cost you your career, your clearance and possibly even lead to criminal charges. So Tina and Ron ask the question; should it be approved for use treating the ailments of military members and veterans? Tina Cancel is a U.S. Navy Civilian and the Lead Financial Management Analyst for the Navy Working Capital Management Fund Portfolio. She is a member of the AY20 Resident Class at the U.S. Army War College. Ron Granieri is an Associate Professor of History at the U.S. Army War College and the Editor of A BETTER PEACE. The views expressed in this presentation are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect those of the U.S. Army War College, U.S. Army, or Department of Defense. Photo Credit:Photo by Washarapol D BinYo Jundang from Pexels