All about CBD
Everything you needed to know about CBD
What is CBD?
CBD or cannabidiol is one of the most well-known among more than a hundred cannabinoids found in the hemp plant. Unlike the notoriously known THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD is not intoxicating, and because of this, it can be found in commonly available preparations for oral consumption as well as skincare. However, selecting and purchasing products containing CBD can be confusing due to the existence of many different types, varying concentrations, and an endless number of brands claiming to sell the best and purest products.
After reviewing the latest findings of scientific studies, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced that cannabidiol is considered safe for use as a dietary supplement. It also mentioned that it is “generally well tolerated with a good safety profile”. Nonetheless, different states approach this substance differently, and in each country, there are certain specifics and restrictions. For instance, in the Czech Republic, from January 1, it is possible to sell and use CBD products containing up to one percent of psychoactive THC. On the contrary, in the rest of the European Union, this limit is still set at a mere 0.2 percent THC. Now, back to cannabidiol. To start with, we will answer a few basic questions and debunk a few myths:
Although CBD doesn’t intoxicate you, it is psychoactive
CBD does not cause a feeling of intoxication as it's not intoxicating. THC as an intoxicating component occurs only in small, trace, or zero amounts in legal CBD products (CBD drops, CBD oil, CBD flowers, HHC...). However, it's not true that CBD is not at all psychoactive, as it actually affects the brain and the nervous system. And any substance that affects our body in this way is essentially “psychoactive”, even though it doesn’t cause the intoxication typical for THC.
CBD is not addictive
From many studies that have been conducted in recent years, none have yielded results indicating the possibility of addiction. The World Health Organization summarized its findings on this matter with the following statement: "In the case of users, CBD has no effects indicative of abuse potential or addiction development." What's more, research from recent years increasingly suggests that cannabidiol has the potential to alleviate or help treat addiction – whether it's to alcohol or other hard drugs.
CBD oil and hemp oil are not the same
CBD oil contains extract from the female flowers of the cannabis plant, while hemp oil is pressed only from the seeds of industrial hemp, not from the flowers. The main differences are as follows:
- CBD oils are rich in cannabinoids and are sold as dietary supplements in the form of drops or sprays. Extracts rich in CBD can also be used to make capsules, balms, or even gummies and chewing gums.
- Hemp oil is an oil rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and other beneficial substances. It's not for nothing that it's referred to as a superfood today. It is usually consumed on its own or in cold cuisine and contains only trace amounts of cannabinoids.
CBD effects - How does CBD work?
How exactly CBD acts in the human body will be greatly revealed by ongoing research in the future, however, most scientists already assume today that the beneficial effects of CBD are associated with its interaction with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a signaling receptor system whose task is to maintain the body in balance, or homeostasis.
Cannabinoid receptors are found throughout the body and there are several types of them. Some cannabinoids, like THC, bind directly to these receptors, but CBD does not. Instead, it binds to enzymes located nearby. These enzymes usually break down endocannabinoids (cannabinoids created directly by our body) anandamide, which CBD may inhibit. As a result, the level of anandamide in the body may increase. Additionally, specific mechanisms are being gradually discovered through which CBD interacts with the human organism.
Can CBD have side effects?
Some people may experience mild side effects when taking CBD. The most common are dry mouth, gastrointestinal issues, diarrhea or vomiting, and changes in appetite. However, these are relatively rare cases and usually concern very high amounts.
For instance, the current recommendation of the Food Standards Agency in the United Kingdom (one of the few countries that have already established standards around CBD) states: "We recommend that a healthy adult should not consume more than 70 mg per day." This recommendation is based on studies that report adverse CBD effects after consuming a high amount of cannabidiol - however, it concerns higher daily doses than 300-600 mg.
The crucial issue may be the interaction with drugs. If you are taking any medication, you should consult with your pharmacist or doctor before using CBD, as it may interact with some commonly prescribed drugs, for example, blood thinners.
Types of products and their properties
Currently, seven main types of CBD-containing products can be purchased on the Czech market. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, which need to be considered before making a purchase.
- CBD oil / CBD drops
CBD oil - CBD drops is a mixture of hemp extract rich in CBD and a carrier oil. It's the most commonly available and popular type as it's universal and easy to use. It comes in a bottle with a dropper under the tongue. The biggest disadvantage is the relatively low bioavailability, which in short means that most of the active substances are not processed by the body.
- Raw CBD extract
Raw extract is typically a thick paste-like substance, which is usually sold in a syringe for easier handling and precise dosing. Such extract should be made from the whole hemp plant, which means it contains other naturally beneficial plant substances including cannabinoids, terpenes, or flavonoids. The downside is often a sharp and unpleasant taste and challenging handling once the extract is out of the syringe.
- Hemp tea and CBD flowers
Hemp tea is a dried mixture of lower hemp flowers and leaves, which are infused in hot water like regular herbal teas. It is a pleasant and cost-effective way of consuming cannabinoids, working on a different principle than using CBD oils. Top flowers of strains rich in CBD are also sold separately, although their price is higher than that of tea, and they usually serve for inhalation in a vaporizer or further processing.
- Skin products
CBD is also added to creams, balms, or body lotions for direct application to the skin. Local application allows you to focus directly on a specific problem area. Most balms, creams, and ointments contain a mixture of cannabinoids with essential oils and other beneficial ingredients, which enhance their effect.
- CBD Capsules
CBD Capsules represent a convenient way of taking a precisely measured amount of CBD. They won't leak, so they are ideal for carrying with you when you are on the go. Since they are swallowed, they leave virtually no taste in the mouth. The downside usually is a higher price and for some, the absence of a taste experience.
- Vaporization pens or vapes / CBD vape / HHC vape
Vaporization pens with CBD - CBD vape, or another cannabinoid such as the very popular HHC - HHC vape are intended for inhalation. With this method of use, a larger amount of CBD, HHC gets into the blood, and effects can be felt within five to ten minutes. Most vapes contain a hemp extract mixed with vegetable glycerin and propylene glycol, however, some use fractionated MCT oil. There are a few high-tech exceptions that use no additives, but customers will pay more for these.
- Gummies and other sweets
In recent times, the most controversial group of products - rubber candies and other sweets with CBD content, are becoming fashionable. This is a suitable method of consuming CBD if you are tired of counting drops or want to take a break from the original flavors and scents of hemp. Although due to the present sugar, they are not the healthiest way of using CBD, they are the tastiest and fit perfectly into a bag or pocket. The downside is primarily the criticism that such products "introduce" cannabis to small children.
How to use CBD
No matter which product with CBD content you choose, the actual usage will not be complicated. However, some products work best in a certain amount or can be used in different ways.
To start, it is important to realize that CBD affects each person a little differently depending on several factors, including weight, metabolic rate, and health condition. The best way to find the optimal amount suitable for you is to start with a small amount and gradually increase it over several weeks. Start, for example, with 5 mg of CBD twice a day. After a week, you can double this amount to 10 mg twice a day. Listen to your body and increase the amount you use moderately without exceeding the daily dose of 70 mg. Ideally, consult with a doctor.
Methods of application
There are many different products that can be used in different ways. Most of them, however, are used in one of these five ways.
- Dropping under the tongue / CBD drops
An effective method of use is in the form of CBD oil, spray or paste under the tongue, holding for 1 to 3 minutes. CBD then passes through the thin membrane at the bottom of the mouth.
- Consumption in food and beverages
CBD is available in many different edible forms, foods and beverages, including capsules, chewing gums, candies, teas, and fizzy drinks. You can purchase prepared foods with CBD or add oil or paste while cooking. This is a convenient and often very tasty way of using CBD.
- Inhalation
Inhalation in the form of vaporization of dried CBD flowers or liquid mixtures in so-called vapes (CBD vape, HHC vape) is a quick and for many a very pleasant way of consuming cannabidiol.
- On the skin
Application of CBD in balms, ointments and salts or its absorption from transdermal patches is an effective way to direct its effects to a specific area. If you use this method, it is unlikely that CBD will break down in the intestines or liver. Even though some of it is lost, most reaches the target area. Products applied to the skin are easy to use and the price per 1 mg of CBD is often lower than with other forms.
- Application vaginally or rectally
For local relief or as an alternative in cases where oral ingestion is not possible, products such as suppositories containing CBD can be used. This method is not as popular as others, and the products used in this way are harder to obtain.
Conclusion
When choosing CBD products, you will come across a vast number of brands and preparations, hopefully this article helped you navigate through them. If you are still unsure about where to start, you can try a 5% CBD oil from a reliable source and take the manufacturer-recommended number of drops under the tongue. Once you understand how it affects you, you can adjust the dosage and use it in various ways or try a wider range of products.