If you’re looking to use CBD for the first time, it can be confusing when there are so many different products and brands out there. Here we’ll look at what you need to know to make an informed choice about which CBD supplements are best suited to you.
What are the benefits of CBD Products?
There’s a range of reasons why people are turning to CBD. Studies show that it can have a wide range of health benefits. CBD is one of the natural compounds found in the cannabis sativa plant.
Unlike its cousin THC, it has no psychoactive effects. Instead, it interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system. This is the system responsible for multiple bodily functions including sleep, pain management, appetite and more.
As a result, CBD use has been linked to a range of health benefits for people from all walks of life.
A growing number of people with chronic pain turn to CBD for relief. A 2012 study linked CBD use with suppressed neuropathic and inflammatory pain. This means people with conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia and multiple sclerosis may find pain relief with CBD products. CBD works with the body’s endocannabinoid system to block the pain receptors from sending signals to the brain. Effectively muting the pain you feel in joints, extremities etc.
CDB products for anxiety
Many of us find ourselves affected by stress and anxiety. Over time, chronic stress and anxiety can be debilitating, and have a negative impact on our quality of life. A 2015 review of studies linked low doses of CBD to reduced anxiety.
CBD can lower the body’s production of the stress hormone cortisol, as well as modifying serotonin levels. Find out more about using CBD for anxiety.
CDB products for sleep
Sleep is one of the fundamental building blocks of good health. And when we don’t get enough of it, this can fundamentally affect our wellbeing. Shockingly, it’s estimated that around 16 million UK adults frequently encounter difficulty sleeping.
Using CBD products can help to improve both the quality and quantity of sleep by helping to regulate serotonin and cortisol levels. A 2019 study concluded that CBD may be a potentially effective treatment for insomnia.
What should I look for when I’m buying CBD Products?
The market is awash with CBD products of all kinds, from topical ointments to edibles. With so many to choose from, you need to know exactly what to look for. Unfortunately, not all CBD products are created equal.
To ensure that you’re getting a product of the highest quality, you should check the following:
- The product has been tested- CBD is a controlled substance in the UK and needs to be submitted for stability testing, microbiological testing, toxicological evaluation and ADME evaluation
- The dosage- Many CBD users like to experiment to find their own dosage. However, products should have clear dosage guidelines to help you make a safe and informed decision
- The claims- CBD can have a range of health benefits. But it is not intended to cure any medical condition. Be wary of brands that make bold and hyperbolic claims
- The ingredients- CBD products can contain a range of other ingredients including terpenes, vegetable oils and (in the case of patches) adhesives. You should make sure you check the ingredients thoroughly for potential allergens or suspicious additives
- Are you buying it from a trusted source?- The CBD industry is booming. But some of the emerging brands and retailers have a better reputation than others. It’s worth taking the time to research brands and ensure that they have a reputation for quality
- Customer reviews- Take everything brands say about themselves with a grain of salt. Instead, pay attention to what customers are saying about CBD products, especially those who have the same health and wellbeing issues for which you’re considering using CBD.
What type of CBD Products are there?
CBD is an incredibly versatile compound. It can be taken orally or absorbed into the skin with topical treatments.
There are lots of CBD products on the market that allow you to take CBD in a way that fits in with your lifestyle and personal tastes. These range from skin patches to lotions to sweets and gummies,
Some of the more popular CBD products include:
CBD Patches
CBD patches are popular because they provide targeted relief where you need it most. They also release CBD gradually throughout the day, so you don’t need to worry about the dosage.
CBD Cream
Topical CBD creams and lotions can be used to soothe irritated and inflamed skin. They can also be massaged into the skin and absorbed into the body this way to cure aches and pains.
CBD Oil
CBD oil is one of the easiest and most versatile ways to take CBD. A few drops can be administered under the tongue. Alternatively, you may add CBD oil to your food and drinks.
CBD Gummies
A sweet treat is a great way to propel yourself through a hard day. There is a wide range of CBD gummies available in all kinds of flavours. So you can enjoy the health benefits of CBD along with a tasty treat.
CBD Spray
CBD sprays are highly versatile, and can be used both topically and orally. A quick and easy way to get your daily dose of CBD.
E-liquids
CBD can also be vaped, with e-liquids available in all kinds of different flavours. However, CBD fluids tend to have a different viscosity to traditional e-liquids, so a different vaping tool will usually be required.
FAQS about CDB Products
Hopefully, we’ve shown you the benefits and range of choice offered by CBD products. But if you still have questions, we’ll do our best to answer them below.
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a naturally occurring compound found in the stems, buds and flowers of the cannabis plant.
Are CBD products legal in the UK?
Yes, CBD is legal in the UK. However, it is a controlled substance. It needs to be sold as a food supplement rather than medication. It must also contain a maximum of 1mg of THC per package. Whatever size the package is.
What is THC?
THC is the psychoactive compound that is found in cannabis. It is associated with the “high” that comes from illegal cannabis use.
Are CBD products psychoactive?
Not at all. Although they interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, they do not alter your mental state or perception.
How is CBD different to marijuana?
CBD and marijuana are both derived from the cannabis plant. However, CBD has no psychoactive effects and is legal in the UK.
What does CBD do?
CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, resulting in a range of potentially positive health effects.
Are CBD products safe to use?
It is not possible to overdose on CBD. A small number of users may experience fairly mild side effects. These include:
- Dry mouth
- Changes in appetite
- Lethargy
- Diarrhoea
CBD may also interact with prescription medications such as blood thinners. Consult your doctor before taking CBD if you are unsure.
Is CBD addictive?
No. There’s no evidence to suggest that CBD is addictive.
How long does CBD take to work?
This depends on a number of factors including dosage, your personal tolerance, and how the CBD is administered. With vaping or sublingual use, effects are usually felt within around 15 minutes. With edibles and topical CBD products, it may take an hour or two to feel the effects.
Does CBD get you high?
Absolutely not. In order to be sold legally in the UK, CBD products must be THC free or have an extremely low level of THC. Because THC is the psychoactive compound in cannabis that produces a “high”, there is no risk of this with CBD products.
