Hey, why don’t you try CBD? Is this what you hear more often, whenever you seek for a solution to cure a healthy lifestyle.
CBD or cannabidiol, a chemical compound of cannabis, is creating a wave of herbal revolution in the medical world. It has a promising ability to cure a wide array of diseases, both physical and psychological. The happy news is, some of the U.S states have legalized both recreational and medical cannabis, allowing the possibility for citizens to make the most out of the herb.
It is obvious to be skeptical before trying out anything new. If you have questions like what is it, where to buy, how to use when to use.
CBD Products’ Synthesis
Cannabis and its mind-altering effects are the first notions any beginner would have. But there are over 100 chemical compounds to influence the way cannabis works on the human body and mind. The individual metabolism, experience, and some other genetic factors also play a role in producing effects. It is THC or tetrahydrocannabinol that generates psychoactive effects, while CBD is non-psychoactive. It is the second most prevailing compound, after THC. The potential therapeutic benefits reveal its ability to prevent cardiovascular diseases, reduce cholesterol, manage weight, cure eczema and other skin conditions, and treat epilepsy.
Now, CBD extracts in products can either be from the industrial hemp or the cannabis plant. The difference lies in the THC and other cannabinoid content. The industrial hemp plant contains negligible traces of THC and some amount of CBD. Some of its uses include the production of clothing and building materials, ropes, paper, fuel, and biodegradable plastics. Commercially, it is a preferable choice for CBD product manufacturers. Once you understand what you are looking for, you can buy CBD products online or purchase from any local dispensary.
CBD products from cannabis plants include other compounds like THC, terpenes, CBN, CBG, and CBC. It depends whether you wish to use a high THC and low CBD content or vice versa. You will also find an aroma in the cannabis CBD products which are due to the terpenes.
Furthermore, products can be either full-spectrum (with all cannabinoids and terpenes) or isolate (CBD only). Subjective evidence shows that full-spectrum products can benefit the body more than CBD alone could do.
Is CBD Legal?
The Agriculture Improvement Act, 2018 has legalized CBD products extracted from the hemp plant containing less than 0.3% of THC. On the other hand, the Drug Enforcement Administration classifies cannabis as a schedule I drug. Hence, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), in the U.S, the CBD status is federally illegal. But there are state laws that disagree to it and allow legal use of CBD. The conflict shall persist for some time. Before concluding on its legal status, individual research on your state’s cannabis and hemp laws will help you decide.
Labeling
There are two ways of labeling CBD products- milligrams (mg), or percentage, at times both. A 10ml bottle of CBD oil may display in its label containing 500mg CBD with 5% potency. There is no standardized rule of labeling CBD products yet, making it difficult for customers to decide which sources to trust. Companies gain immense benefits from misleading prospective customers who happen to lack awareness. Here the thumb rule would be to educate yourself before making any purchase. The cannabis regulations for the same should be more stringent to direct manufacturers’ activity.
Reliable companies are ready to provide lab reports of the CBD products if the consumer asks for it. The reports validate its safety, and the potency details will make it easy for the user to confirm if it meets your requirements.
Lab reports will include the following details:
- Potency
- Pesticide
- Terpene summary
- Cannabinoid summary
- Microbiological testing
How to Take CBD?
There are several methods of ingestion. You can switch to different techniques according to your needs.
Tincture (Sublingual)
These come in the oil form infused with CBD extracts. You need to place it under your tongue with the help of a dropper that comes along with the tincture bottle. There are tiny capillaries to take in the compound and carry it to the target areas. It is a quick method of delivery and a good choice for people who cannot swallow pills.
Topical
These can come in the form of cream, lotion, and balm. CBD topical is good for treating chronic pain, headache, migraine, muscle spasms, and joint pain. Apart from these, it is a suitable way to deal with skin conditions like psoriasis, acne, dandruff, and eczema. You need to apply it directly to the affected area to gain relief instantly. In the case of topical, always follow the rule of the patch test.
Capsules and Pills
CBD pills or capsules have more of medicinal uses. It has the quality to treat conditions like a seizure, Alzheimer’s disease, depression, anxiety, digestive issues, and much more. The FDA has approved Epidiolex, a CBD prescription drug that can help treat seizure disorders. But remember, companies cannot market these drugs or pills as dietary supplements. Using capsules can take some time to show its effects.
Edibles
One of the most popular choices of ingestion is through edibles. The method offers a variety of options for the user to experience CBD. From gummy bears in rainbow colors to chocolate brownies and smoothies, preferences of infusion is individual. You can also make a DIY CBD drink or food. The good thing is you are aware of the dose amount. Edibles are an affordable and discreet way of consuming.
Smoking or Vaping
Inhalation is the old school way of ingestion and continues to be the first choice for many. You can inhale vaporized CBD oil to experience fast effects. YCBD concentrates in shatter varieties are a good choice, having 80% cannabinoid content.
All beginners must start slow with the CBD dosage. Once you understand your capacity, you can increase the dose, but within limits.
Conclusion
Negative perceptions about cannabis are now fading away as more focus is building up towards its medicinal benefits. If the information above still doesn’t clear your idea, seek an expert’s opinion. Visit a general practitioner or medical cannabis specialist to guide you on purchasing the right products.
Source: Crystal M. Wilson
