Whether you are new to using CBD, or are a current consumer, there’s still plenty to know about CBD products and which may be best for you.
Originally discovered in 1940, the cannabis plant has been used for medicinal and wellness purposes for years. Its benefits are now becoming more understood publicly and continuing to be researched. Cannabinoids, the compounds in the cannabis plant, are its key properties that make this plant so beneficial and healing to us.
There are two cannabinoids present in large quantities in the cannabis plant. The cannabinoids are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound in the plant that causes the high, and CBD (cannabidiol), the non-psychoactive cannabinoid.
Recreational cannabis users usually seek out marijuana plants with high levels of THC, while others prefer to get the same benefits of the cannabis plant without the psychoactive effects from THC, which is where CBD comes into play.
CBD products are associated with a vast array of health benefits, which is why more and more people are seeking CBD hemp oil to alleviate side effects of certain medical ailments as well as to support and better their overall wellness.
If you’re just starting to implement CBD oil into your lifestyle or just wanting to learn more, there is a lot to know about CBD. This guide will cover some of the most common questions surrounding CBD and help you find out everything you need to know about CBD and its applications, questions like..
What Exactly is CBD?
Types of CBD Oil Products
How Does CBD Differ From THC?
Does CBD Produce Any Side Effects?
Knowing How to Buy the Best CBD Products
Ready? Here we go!
What exactly is CBD?
CBD, also known as cannabidiol, is one of many cannabinoids in hemp and cannabis plants.
Cannabinoids are the chemical compounds that give the plant its therapeutic properties. CBD is one of the many cannabinoids that have been found in hemp. The effect that CBD has on the body is a result of how it interacts with receptors in the brain.
Individuals are able to feel the effects of CBD because of the naturally occurring cannabinoid receptors found in the brain that interact with the endocannabinoid system that’s responsible for maintaining homeostasis in the body.
The endocannabinoid system is made up of endocannabinoids, neurotransmitters that bind to cannabinoid receptors. The main components of the endocannabinoid system are the CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are located on the surface of many cells in the body.
Although plenty of both are found all over the body, CB1 receptors are the most prevalent in the central nervous system and in the brain, while CB2 receptors are mostly found in the immune system.
These receptors are involved in a variety of factors in the body such as appetite, pain, mood and memory. Since CBD interacts with these receptors, it makes sense that this cannabinoid has such a powerful effect on alleviating symptoms associated with various medical disorders that affect mood, pain and memory.
Unlike the THC compound,CBD does not have psychoactive effects and this is because it doesn’t have a direct effect on CB1 and CB2 receptors. This is why the majority of marijuana that is produced for recreational purposes is usually very low in CBD and much higher in THC.
Types of CBD Oil Products
There are several different types of CBD oil products. Which products make the most sense for your needs depend on why you are using the oil and what method you may prefer to use.
Some of the more common types of CBD oil products available are:
CBD Tinctures
One of the more popular forms of CBD products are tinctures, a liquid form of CBD.
Tinctures make it fast and easy for users to consume CBD and experience its effects by placing a drop under the tongue. Tinctures are a great way to begin using CBD oil products because they tend to be a more affordable option and even offer a lower concentration of CBD. This allows new users to start with lower concentrations and work their way up as they start to become more familiar with the compound and how it affects their body. CBD tinctures can also be mixed into food or beverages.
CBD Vapors
Vaping is becoming an increasingly popular way to take CBD oil and benefit from its effects. This product and method of application is ideal for many as it allows the CBD to enter the bloodstream directly without having to go through the digestive tract first. Users can typically feel the effects within a matter of minutes. Vaping CBD doesn’t irritate the throat or lungs because the vaporizer heats the oil without burning it, so no smoke is created while the active ingredients of the product are inhaled. There are even flavor vape options for users looking to have some variety.
CBD Oil Capsules
Capsules are a relatively simple and convenient way to get your dose of CBD. It already sets out a specific dose for you in the capsule. The advantage of having specific doses already measured out for you is there’s no guessing involved. You don’t have to figure out any measuring and can just take, and enjoy. Capsules also make a great option for those who might have an issue with the taste of oils and tinctures, or for those who don’t particularly want to inhale the oil.
It should be noted that if you are looking for very specific doses that are not standard, you may want to consider taking a form that allows you to customize your doses.
CBD Supplements
Supplements are a nice, simple way to incorporate CBD into your everyday diet. You can simply add powder straight into your food or beverage and mix them until you’ve reached your ideal dosage and consistency. You may need to play around with it to find what appeals most to your needs when you first begin.
Bottles of CBD supplement powder are portable and convenient, making it ideal for those constantly on the go.
CBD Waters
CBD water is one of the newer innovations and even possibly one of the healthiest drinking water available. CBD water is infused with nano-sized Cannabidiol molecules. Adding CBD to water is an easy way to incorporate the cannabinoid into not just your daily routine but also your daily fitness and wellness routines. Many also contain electrolytes, vitamins and minerals to boost your energy and supercharge your workout recovery.
CBD Patches
Another topical method for utilizing CBD is through patches placed onto the skin. The cannabinoid absorbs directly into the skin from the patch and immediately enters the bloodstream.
These patches are fashioned to deliver a specific dose of CBD, making them effective for targeting injured or painful areas, similar to a topical cream. A great benefit of a CBD patch is that it allows for a more controlled release of the cannabinoid. Many will select CBD patches to help with their pain and inflammation.
CBD Gum
For those gum chewers out there, CBD oil products also come in gum form as well as candy. CBD-infused chewing gum is an effective way to gain the effects of CBD because the compound is quickly absorbed into the body through the mucous membranes in the mouth. It may sound odd and unappealing, but they are actually very effective and pleasant tasting.
This method usually takes effect immediately and are great for quickly alleviating stress, anxiety, pain and nausea. They taste great too!
CBD Topical Creams
CBD infused topical lotions are ideal for targeting specific areas of the body, especially sore or injured areas. Many CBD users choose CBD creams for relief of muscle or joint pain as a result of sports or from injury, or just pain from overused muscles. It can be applied and rubbed into areas on the body that require relief. CBD topical creams are absorbed directly into the skin and start reacting with the CB2 receptors of the body almost instantly, as opposed to being ingested and having to be broken down throughout the system.
Whatever application you choose to get your dose of CBD, just make sure it’s the best option for you and your needs. Do your research and find out what is best for what you are personally looking for. They are all great, but one may be better for you than the rest!
How does CBD differ from THC?
CBD and THC are both derived from the cannabis plant and each interact with the body through the endocannabinoid system (ECS). They also share a similar chemical makeup to the body’s own naturally existing endocannabinoids, allowing them to interact with the receptors associated with the system to control the release of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Each are found in large amounts and are the most abundant of all the cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. And while they have both been found to have several health benefits, CBD and THC are very different.
Psychoactive properties. One of the biggest differences between the two is the fact that THC induces psychoactive effects, which is what some individuals seek to get that high feeling. On its own, CBD doesn’t have any psychoactive components.
THC is an agonist (a chemical that binds to a receptor and activates the receptor to produce a biological response) to the CB1 receptors of the ECS, which are predominantly located in the brain and central nervous system. The high that recreational marijuana provides is prompted by the activation of these CB1 receptors.
CBD doesn’t bind with CB1 receptors and is considered to be an enemy of CB1 agonists. That means CBD doesn’t possess any psychoactive effects, regardless of the amount that is consumed.
Legality. THC is deemed federally illegal, though some states have already begun to legalize recreational use of THC-laden marijuana. CBD derived from hemp is considered to be federally legal, however it may be prohibited in individual states.
The legality of cannabinoids in the U.S. is contingent to their source (or plant) and concentration. Since THC is listed under the Controlled Substances Act, it is federally prohibited. Presently, 29 states have made medical marijuana legal, and 9 states have made recreational marijuana legal.
However, legal CBD products must be derived from the hemp plant that is high in CBD and low in (or none) THC concentrations. In hemp-derived CBD products, the THC concentration must be less than 0.03% for the product to be legal.
Source. CBD and THC are each located in the flowers, stalks and seeds of both hemp and marijuana, in varying proportions. THC is more abundant in the marijuana plant, while CBD is more abundant in hemp.
THC dominates the marijuana plant. It is considered illegal due to the psychoactive effects it produces. While in comparison, CBD dominates hemp. CBD doesn’t give users that high effect when used.
Does CBD produce any side effects?
While THC can cause varying side effects, such as memory impairment, dry mouth, red eyes and decreased coordination, CBD is not known to generate any significant physiological or psychological side effects when consumed.
In fact, CBD is actually considered to be non-toxic and safe to be used by just about anyone, including children and pets.
So far, from the studies that have been done on CBD, it is shown that this cannabinoid doesn’t create any of the same physiological changes in the body that THC can cause.
The lack of harmful side effects makes CBD a safe choice to alleviate several different types of symptoms that can be associated with medical ailments. However, that being said, there are certain minor side effects that some users have reported.
This includes:
- Fatigue (when consumed in high doses)
- Reduced effectiveness of other medications (when taken simultaneously)
- Lightheadedness
Although, CBD side effects are usually related to the dosage taken. This is why proper dosing is important.
Can CBD be detected on a Drug Test?
There’s many reasons why you may need to take a drug test. Sometimes when you begin a new job, getting in an accident at work, and participating in competitive sports are some of the more common reasons you may be required to go through drug screening.
Many people wonder if CBD will show up on test results if you take a drug test. And it’s something wise to be aware of, especially if you are first supplementing with CBD.
The most crucial thing to be aware of is the THC concentration in the CBD product, if there is any. The legal amount is 0.03% and lower. If there is any more than a trace of THC in your product, it will be detected on a drug test.
High-quality CBD products that are derived from hemp have very minimal to zero THC present, meaning you can rest easy knowing that you’ll be able to pass a drug test despite having consumed CBD.
Knowing how to buy the best CBD products
There are many CBD products available for purchase. As the popularity and acceptance of CBD oil continues to grow across the country, more and more CBD products are being manufactured.
But with so many different products on the market, knowing how to decipher which products are superior versus those that are not as high-quality, can be difficult.
As a consumer, you want to be sure that you’re making the most informed purchasing decision you can. You want to make sure that the product you’re going to buy and consume will provide you with maximum benefits with minimal side effects.
Some aspects to consider when purchasing CBD products:
How was the compound extracted?
Before CBD is placed on the market and available for purchase, it needs to first be extracted from a hemp plant. However, there are several different methods of extraction that manufacturers use.
The following are the extraction methods most typically used:
CO2 Extraction: This is perhaps the best and safest method of CBD extraction. This tactic uses pressurized carbon dioxide to pull out the CBD, along with other chemicals, from the hemp plant. Using low temperatures and high pressures, carbon dioxide serves as a solvent with no hazards that other extraction methods can cause. Resulting in a pure, potent CBD product that lacks any potentially hazardous residues. However, this method of extraction requires expensive equipment, which means the product will likely cost more.
Ethanol Extraction: This method of CBD extraction uses ethanol to remove the CBD from the hemp plant. The hemp plant and ethanol are heated up together and once the solvent evaporates, CBD is left behind. This method is much less expensive than CO2 extraction method, however the product is not as pure or potent. Chlorophyll may also be left behind which can cause negative side effects. Though chlorophyll can be removed, the final CBD product itself will not be as strong.
Butane Extraction: This method is similar to ethanol extraction, butane is used to extract CBD from the hemp plant. This product is sometimes chosen over ethanol as it leaves behind a CBD oil that’s more potent. However, it can also leave behind residues that can affect users negatively.
Dry Ice Extraction: Many DIY and at-home CBD oil users may extract their own CBD using the dry ice extraction method. This is due to the fact that it is a relatively easy process and simple equipment is required.
Choosing the Best Product Manufacturer
Similar to any consumer product, the quality of CBD oil products tends to rest in the hands of the manufacturer. There are several CBD oil manufacturers out there, and more keep popping up as the product continues to gain popularity. But not all manufacturers are created equal, which means their products are not all the same quality.
It’s important to do some homework into the manufacturer you intend on buying CBD oil products from. Ideally, the manufacturer should use high-quality hemp plants that are cultivated using an innovative hemp breeding technique that result in higher CBD concentrations. These plants can be grown in all types of soil, however they should be cultivated in airy soil that is not overly saturated with water or acid. Also, the plant should be sowed at low temperatures.
Manufacturers should also be very transparent with their labeling, making it easy for consumers to know how much CBD is their product as well as if there are any traces of THC.
Manufacturers should also use superior extraction methods to ensure potent, pure CBD products. Of course, experience and reputation also play a key role in the decision process.
The CBD Concentration
Another important factor that should be taken into consideration before purchasing, is how much CBD is actually included. Different CBD products will have varying levels of CBD concentrations, and it’s important to know exactly what that is before making a purchase.
We buy CBD products so we can take advantage of its amazing medicinal and therapeutic benefits, so the product should contain a relatively high level of the cannabinoid. Labels should indicate this information clearly, but consumers should also be sure to check with the manufacturer and look for any lab reports that comes with the products.
You should also be looking for any traces of THC when checking for CBD content. Since THC has psychoactive effects, it’s important that the product contains no more than 0.03% THC, if any at all. This will avoid getting “high” and the risk of purchasing a product that may actually be illegal, depending on your state’s laws.
CBD’s lack of psychoactive properties makes it ideal to be implemented into various treatment protocols due to its healing properties. As more research is conducted, the more we will know how it can help reduce negative symptoms and improve our quality of life.
If you’re just learning about CBD and are considering adding it to your daily regimen, it is recommended to research the different products available. Similar to many other health products you buy, be sure to do your homework on the manufacturers who supply CBD to ensure high quality and potency. It is also recommended to consult your doctor before using.
