What is CBD oil, and can it really help reduce pain? Health's medical editor weighs in.

Unlike the other main chemical in marijuana, tetra-hydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol does not get you high. Still, there is some controversy around the use of CBD for a variety of health conditions, even though it doesn’t have the same psychoactive effect that people feel from using marijuana recreationally. For one thing, CBD products aren’t approved by the FDA for any medical condition, so products are not regulated for purity and dosage. CBD oil is also not legal in all 50 states, so if you are curious about trying CBD oil for pain management, first look into the law in your jurisdiction. CBD oil can have side effects, like lightheadedness, and, as with any supplement, it has the potential to interact with medication you’re taking. So work closely with a physician to make sure that you’re using CBD oil appropriately.
Health’s medical editor, Roshini Rajapaksa, MD, is assistant professor of medicine at the NYU School of Medicine.