You may soon see CBD on the label of your clothes

The minute we hear the term CBD, our minds immediately go to one thing: marijuana. Understandably so, as the two are closely related. However, this close connection has given CBD an undeserved bad rap. Which might just be the reason why its use in textiles is still a bit questionable in the eyes of designers. It is not a concept that should be completely overlooked, though, as it could spark a revolutionary movement in how clothes are made and used.

What is CBD?

CBD, formally known as cannabidiol, is an active ingredient in the hemp plant. Its purpose is not to cause a "high", but is instead used to treat many ailments and disorders. Especially, stress and anxiety.

Application in Textiles

Earlier this year, Devan Chemicals developed a technology called "R Vital", consisting of CBD capsules that are woven into fabric. When skin touches the treated fabric, the friction causes the capsules to break open and release CBD into the body. Devan Chemicals' main goal in creating this treatment is to enhance quality of sleep in those wearing the treated fabric. Very few companies have jumped on this new technology, and that is due in part to a lack of education and awareness surrounding the benefits of CBD. There is still a negative stigma associated with CBD, and many designers are hesitant to implement this technology because of it.

Benefits of CBD

There are several great benefits CBD possesses, and these are just a few we find noteworthy.

1.      Can help with pain

One of the most popular characteristics of CBD is its role in treating chronic pain. CBD has been proven to treat several kinds of inflammation in the body, and is a great alternative to the heavy pain medications that are typically prescribed to patients. One activewear company from New York, Acabada Activewear, is the first brand to utilize CBD-infused fabrics in their workout clothes. Their mission is to provide customers with activewear that can help alleviate muscle and joint pain while exercising.


2.      Promotes relaxation

According to one study, researchers found that CBD reduced autonomic arousal, a nervous system response that is marked by a sudden increase in heart rate and respiration rate. Basically, CBD calms the panic button in our brains, leaving us feeling relaxed and at ease. With stress and anxiety affecting nearly 40 million people in the United States alone, it is no wonder why CBD products are in such high demand.

.     

3. Alleviates cancer-related symptoms

Cancer can come with several debilitating symptoms; most of them as a result of chemotherapy and medication. One very common symptom is nausea, and CBD can help the appetite that is lost as a result. Some studies have even found CBD to be effective in slowing the growth of tumors and the spread of cancerous cells. While neither of these findings have resulted in a proven connection, it is still an amazing possibility. How great would it be if clothes could one day play an integral part in cancer treatment? We certainly want to see that dream become a reality.

4.     Neuroprotective properties

The positive influence of CBD on the brain goes beyond just the behavioral benefits, and has been found to help reduce damage to the brain and nervous system. Such as oxidative stress and traumatic blows to the head. In addition, it has been found that CBD can slow the progression of many neurological disorders. Imagine if we could make hats out of CBD-infused textiles to slow the growth of brain tumors. Someone let us know if that is possible.

5.     More ethical

As mentioned earlier, CBD is derived from the hemp plant; which is a very ethical crop. Hemp can grow in abundance without the need for pesticides, it requires much less water than other plants to grow, and it is biodegradable. So, it goes without saying that using CBD as a treatment for textiles is a pretty sustainable choice.

The Fate of CBD Textiles

There is no telling what the future holds for CBD-infused textiles. What can be said, however, is that there is a severe lack of awareness surrounding R-Vital technology. Word will have to spread much farther in order to see real growth in the use of R-Vital.  So long as the industry stays educated on the benefits of CBD to overall health and wellness, the more this technology will be implemented. This could be a huge stepping stone for the fashion industry, and the beginning of clothing being used for medicinal purposes. We're here for it, are you?

This article has not been edited by Fibre2Fashion staff and is re-published with permission from synzenbe.com