Why is CBD the most misunderstood ingredient in wellness and beauty? An expert’s advice on how to use it right

CBD, derived from hemp, is becoming a modern wellness essential — from skincare and supplements to gummies — for balance, calm, and mindful living. (Image: Pexels)

Wellness today is no longer limited to yoga mats and green juices; and in the quest for equilibrium, few ingredients have stirred as much curiosity (and confusion) as CBD. Extracted from high-quality hemp, CBD (aka cannabidiol) is steadily finding its way into skincare, supplements, and holistic wellness routines. Yet, despite its proven benefits, it remains one of the most misunderstood natural ingredients.

CBD-infused skincare helps calm inflammation and redness, while supplements support restful sleep and sharper focus. Its holistic approach appeals to a generation that values mental wellness just as much as physical health. Harshal Goel, Founder and CEO of The Trost, informs, “CBD has been known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and calming nature in individuals, which makes it an essential addition to our skincare and wellness routines. It can aid relaxation, provide better sleep quality, and improve focus, which will help the body restore its default balance. Its rising popularity comes from a simple truth: CBD is not some magical product, it simply helps the body function naturally, mindfully, and in balance.”

Unlike THC, which is the psychoactive compound found in cannabis, CBD doesn’t create a “high.” Instead, it works by interacting with the body’s Endocannabinoid System (ECS), which regulates mood, sleep, pain, and stress. This makes CBD a powerful tool for promoting homeostasis and helps in dealing with anxiety. Many are now replacing synthetic, lab-heavy wellness products with plant-based alternatives that work in harmony with the body rather than against it.

Recent studies have shown that CBD supports overall balance, offering promising results in managing anxiety, sleep issues, and chronic pain — all without the risk of dependency or harmful side effects. Goel advises, “That being said, some users have experienced side effects like drowsiness or change in appetite, which are traced back to incorrect dosage or using inferior products. Legally, there is a full spectrum of CBD levels that are permissible in India, depending on the formulation and intended use.”

Among the latest innovations are CBD gummies — the go-to option for those seeking stress relief in a portable, tasty form. Goel says, “CBD gummies and supplements that are available are made for convenience, calm, and consistency. It affects the Endocannabinoid System, which regulate mood, pain, sleep and stress. The true effectiveness of CBD lies in the purity, the extraction process, dosage accuracy. We recommend consumers to start slow, as the body takes time to get used to the formulation. Since the products affect well-being, it becomes quintessential to use brands about their sourcing, processes, composition as it helps to make an informed choice.”

The key lies in choosing well-formulated, lab-tested products that use high-quality hemp extracts to ensure safety, efficacy, and compliance. It is also essential to consult a qualified medical practitioner to determine the right dosage and need for such products.