According to a report published in 2022, the CBD market was valued at $18 billion. This shows how CBD has caught the imagination of the general public due to its vast health benefits. It is an approved prescription drug that doesn’t produce intoxicating effects like other cannabinoids. This compound has experienced unprecedented growth in the quantity and range of CBD products available for sale on high streets and online retailers.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll get to know about CBD and all the necessary aspects associated with it.
What is CBD?
CBD (Cannabidiol) is a phytocannabinoid present in cannabis or hemp. Phytocannabinoids are lipophilic molecules that are synthesized in the glandular trichomes of the unfertilized female cannabis flower.
The most widely studied phytocannabinoids are THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD. THC is a psychoactive compound, while CBD is a non-psychotropic and is of great importance for researchers due to its multi-model properties in various health conditions.
CBD is primarily extracted from the dried female flower tops of hemp, leaves, or stems. It can be bought over the counter without a doctor’s prescription because the hemp strain of cannabis contains a higher level of CBD and low levels of THC.
How does CBD work?
CBD works in the body by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). There are two receptors, CB1 and CB2 receptors, present throughout the body, particularly in the nervous and immune system. The endocannabinoids produced in the body are neurotransmitters that bind to CB1 and CB2 receptors to provide therapeutic benefits such as anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects.
Potential Health Benefits of CBD
Reduce Chronic Pain
A study revealed that CBD may reduce chronic pain by targeting endocannabinoid receptors and interacting with neurotransmitters.
Manage Cancer-Related Symptoms
According to research published in 2022, CBD may help reduce cancer-related symptoms like pain, nausea, and vomiting.
Beneficial For Neurological Disorders
The FDA has approved the use of Epidiolex (CBD product) to help with seizure disorders such as epilepsy and seizures caused by tuberous sclerosis complex (rare genetic disease). (1)
Aids in Heart Health
It has been studied that CBD may help individuals with high blood pressure. It may influence the contraction of heart muscle and widen blood vessels. (2)
Treat Mental Health Disorders
Studies suggest that CBD may have the potential to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety (3). It has been found that CBD may also be effective in lowering Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) symptoms.
Types of CBD
There are three other types of CBD based on the concentration of cannabinoids including:
Full-Spectrum CBD
Full-spectrum CBD contains all the components of the cannabis plant. It includes a small amount of THC (less than 0.3%), terpenes, flavonoids, and other cannabinoids like CBG and CBN.
Broad-Spectrum CBD
Broad-spectrum CBD also contains all the components of the cannabis plant but in less quantity. It means Broad-spectrum CBD is less potent than Full-spectrum CBD.
CBD Isolates
This is a pure CBD cannabinoid with a very small amount of THC. It does not include any other compound from the cannabis plant.
Forms of CBD Products
Here are some of the most common types of CBD products based on consumption methods.
- Gummies: CBD gummies are flavorful CBD-infused edibles.
- Oil: CBD oil is applied under the tongue and has long-lasting effects.
- Capsules: CBD capsules are mostly softgels, and some products contain pure CBD isolate powder.
- Vape: CBD combined with vape ingredients like propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycol ( VG).
- Topicals: CBD Topicals consist of creams, body oil, and balms that are applied to the skin.
- Flower: These smokable flowers are rolled into a blunt and consumed in the form of vapors.
Choosing the Right CBD Product
There are certain factors you need to consider before choosing the right CBD product. These factors include the following.
Identify Your Purpose of Use
When you identify why you need a CBD product or what’s the purpose it is going to serve then it becomes way easier to choose the right CBD product that best suits your needs. For example: If you’re looking for general wellness with CBD products then CBD capsules or oil can be a good option for you. Similarly, if you’re targeting localized pain then CBD topicals might best suit your needs.
Look For CBD Concentration
Different CBD products come with different CBD concentrations. So, if you’re a beginner then you’ll have to look for low CBD concentration products and gradually increase the dose over time as needed.
Consider Your Method of Consumption
There are multiple ways to consume CBD and it depends on how you prefer to consume this cannabinoid. For example, CBD edibles offer slow and sustained effects and CBD vapes offer rapid absorption.
Check The Ingredient List
The ingredient list presents all the key ingredients and elements of the product. You need to look for natural ingredients and avoid products with artificial flavors, colors, and unwanted additives.
Legal Considerations
You need to select CBD products that comply with your local laws and regulations. Most of the states follow federal law related to hemp products which legalizes all hemp-derived products as long as they contain less than 0.3% THC.
CBD Dosage Guidelines
The CBD dosage recommendations depend on factors like
- Body weight
- Specific health condition
- Method of consumption
These factors decide how much CBD you should take. A doctor often suggests CBD dosages, but if your doctor doesn’t provide a dosage plan, then you may start with a low dose of 20 mg to 40 mg a day. After the first week of CBD consumption, you may increase the dose by 5 mg to experience the desired results.
How to calculate CBD dosage?
The packaging specifies how much CBD is present in a single serving for CBD products like capsules and gummies. When it comes to products like CBD oil, their packaging often indicates the total amount of CBD in the entire bottle. This makes it difficult for users to determine the quantity of CBD in milligrams.
Let’s have a look at how to calculate CBD oil dosage and how it is equal to a specific amount in milligrams.
One CBD oil drop is equal to 0.05ml. It means that 10ml of CBD oil contains 200 drops. Now, if we assume that the packaging of the 10ml bottle indicates that it has 1000mg of CBD, it means that each drop will contain 5mg of CBD compound. So, to have 40mg of CBD oil, you need to have eight drops of CBD oil.
Possible Risks And Side Effects of CBD
CBD is generally well tolerated, but some individuals may experience mild to moderate side effects, which may include:
- Feeling of dizziness
- Diarrhea And Vomiting
- Dry mouth Interaction with other drugs
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Changes in appetite
- Low Blood Pressure
- Blood thinning
- Lightheadedness
Common Misconceptions & Myths About CBD
Here are some of the common misconceptions related to CBD cannabinoids.
CBD Aids in Sleep
Like other cannabinoids, the effects of CBD vary from person to person. Research shows CBD can have relaxing effects but it doesn’t put you to sleep instantly after consumption.
CBD Oil Gets You High
There is another misconception that CBD oil gets you high. This cannabinoid doesn’t get you high because it contains a greater amount of CBD and little to no THC which is the primary psychoactive compound associated with the feeling of being high.
CBD is Addictive
According to a World Health Organization (WHO) report, CBD does not have the potential for addiction or abuse. There is no clear evidence up till now that contradicts this statement.
You Have To Be Over 18 To Buy CBD Products
Technically, there is no age limit for buying CBD products. However, some states may have their own age restrictions or set them in the future.
Legality of CBD
CBD products were legalized federally when Congress passed the 2018 Farm Bill. The bill legalized hemp-derived products which contain less than 0.3% THC. In the United States, each state has the right to regulate hemp-derived products and CBD in its own way. Most of the states choose to follow federal law regarding the legality of CBD except Kansas, which allows CBD products with 0% THC concentration.
CBG vs CBD: What’s the difference?
Cannabigerol (CBG) and Cannabidiol (CBD) are both cannabinoids that could help with neurodegenerative and inflammatory conditions. CBG has shown promise in helping people with multiple sclerosis, while CBD may be beneficial in treating anxiety.
Here’s a table that explains the difference between these two cannabinoids.
Cannabidiol (CBD) | Cannabigerol (CBG) |
It is a naturally occurring cannabinoid. | It is a precursor cannabinoid that forms other cannabinoids |
Aid in heart health | Improve focus and concentration |
Promote physical recovery | Benefit eye health |
Abundant amount found in hemp plant | Found in very small quantities in hemp |
Where to buy CBD products?
The FDA does not regulate CBD products. They are not classified as dietary supplements, but they are considered as a pharmaceutical ingredient. This means you will need to choose quality products from reputable sources.
It is essential to check the Certificate of Analysis (COA) for each product you’re buying and ensure that it has carried out third-party lab testing. Most online retailers provide COA and third-party lab results to their customers. XLR8 is one of the leading hemp product retailers and it is known for its commitment to quality and exceptional customer support that help customers start their CBD journey.
Conclusion
In conclusion, CBD products offer different potential health benefits, from reducing chronic pain to supporting mental health. It is widely available in various forms, including oils, gummies, capsules, and topicals. It is generally safe, but it’s important to follow proper dosage guidelines and be aware of potential side effects. CBD products are legal under federal law and easily accessible online or in stores. Consumers should always ensure they buy high-quality products from trusted sources. By understanding how CBD works and its proper use, individuals can make informed decisions about incorporating it into their wellness routines.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does CBD stay in your system?
CBD stays in your system for hours to a month. The stay period of CBD in the body depends on factors like the amount of dosage taken and the method of consumption used.
Does CBD show up on a drug test?
No, it does not show up on a drug test. There are certain CBD products that contain small amounts of THC. THC is the active ingredient in marijuana. So, if the amount of THC is enough in CBD products, it may show up on a drug test.
How old do you have to be to buy CBD?
There is no age limit to buy CBD products. However, there are some cases where you have to be 18 or 21 to buy these products. Online retailers have also taken measures to ask their customers about their age when they visit their sites.
