What’s the first thing you should consider before using CBD oil? No, it’s not the product type or the best way to take CBD oil. While these are one of the many things you should consider, you need to take a few steps back and begin by educating yourself about the cannabinoid.
CBD is surrounded by a lot of misinformation and myths. It’s a very common scenario with most of the health products out there. So, as a responsible consumer and for the sake of your health, it is your duty to be aware of the basic information of everything you use.
Keeping this thought in mind, let’s move forward and read about some basic yet very important facts about CBD.
Only Hemp-Derived CBD Is Legal
Most people are not aware of the fact that cannabis or marijuana and hemp are the same species yet different from one another. This is one of the reasons why people associate CBD with cannabis. As a result of this association, most people think that CBD is illegal since marijuana is a Schedule 1 Drug and illegal. But, it’s completely untrue.
All the CBD products you see in the market are derived from industrial hemp and are therefore legal. As per the 2018 Farm Bill, all CBD containing less than 0.3 percent of THC is legal by law. And since hemp contains less than 0.3 percent THC, all hemp-derived CBD products are legal too.
So, you don’t have to worry about the possession limits or any special documentation to buy, possess or use CBD in the United States.
Hemp Seed Oil and CBD Oil Are Different
Hemp contains CBD, terpenes, and all the other beneficial components. However, the final concentration of cannabinoids in the extract will depend on the part of the plant used in the extraction process.
The leaves, stem, and the flower of hemp are rich in CBD and therefore used in the production of CBD oil. But, if the hemp seeds are used in the production process, you are looking at hemp seed oil.
Hemp seed oil is a great addition to the diet and a healthy routine, however, it does not contain CBD. So, make sure to read the labels to ensure that you are buying CBD oil and not hemp seed oil.
All CBD Is Not the Same
That’s right. Every bottle labeled as CBD oil is not the same. They can vary from one another at a number of levels.
First is the extract type. CBD extracts can be of three different types: full spectrum, broad spectrum and isolate. Each type is different and delivers different effects.
The second difference can be in terms of the extraction process. There’s CO2, olive oil extractions, extraction by solvent, etc. The different processes can determine the quality of the CBD oil you get.
The third difference lies in the additional ingredients. Your bottle can only contain CBD or other cannabinoids such as CBN, CBG, etc. to enhance certain therapeutic properties.
While these are the major differences, things like hemp quality, growing conditions, production process, and lab tests are also the reasons why all CBD is not the same.
CBD Is Non-Intoxicating
CBD does not cause a high like cannabis. In the case of cannabis, it is the presence of THC, an intoxicating cannabinoid, that reacts with the CB receptors to develop a psychedelic feeling.
CBD does not directly interact with the CB receptors so it does not cause a high. However, it does affect the absorption of endocannabinoids like anandamide to stabilize the mental and emotional state. Additionally, the interaction of CBD with other receptors of the body such as the 5ht serotonin receptors and the TRPV1 can prove to be effective against anxiety and depression. So, while CBD isn’t intoxicating, it helps relax the body and mind.
You Need to Microdose CBD
Microdosing is not only associated with medical cannabis. You must microdose even when using CBD, especially, all medical patients who need CBD for severe medical conditions. Now, most people might think that microdosing CBD doesn’t make sense since it’s not intoxicating. Well, the fact is that even though CBD does not cause a high, it can be pretty strong.
CBD can come in concentrations as high as 6000 mg. If you are not careful about the amount you consume, it can get a little strong, especially for beginners. You need to be more careful with full-spectrum or nano CBD. Full-spectrum CBD can lead to entourage effect whereas nano CBD has higher bioavailability and can cause strong effects.
CBD Oil Can Have Side Effects
CBD is often marketed as a safe cannabinoid primarily because it is non-intoxicating. But, it does not mean that CBD does not have any side effects. It can range from mild to severe based on the consumer.
Some of the most common side effects of CBD are dry mouth, drowsiness, fatigue, loss of appetite and diarrhea. Severe side effects can occur in people who consume prescribed medications in addition to CBD. So, in case you are already taking medications, make sure to consult a doctor to have a safe experience with CBD.
Now that your basics are clear, it’s time to visit your nearest CBD store and choose your favorite product to enjoy the health benefits that everyone talks about.
