Frederick Jace
CBD products are increasing in popularity. They offer a wealth of potential benefits including enhanced sleep, pain relief, reduced stress, and lowered inflammation. If you’re interested in experiencing the effects of CBD, there are many ways that you can take this compound.
What Is CBD?
CBD is a cannabinoid extracted from the cannabis plant. It may come from either hemp or marijuana, but hemp has a higher concentration of this particular compound. CBD is different from THC, which is the psychoactive component of cannabis. However, some CBD products contain small amounts of THC as well.
A full-spectrum CBD product utilizes all parts of the cannabis plant and contains CBD, THC, terpenes, and other cannabinoids. Full-spectrum products are usually found to deliver the best results due to the “entourage effect” which boosts the effectiveness of the compounds when they’re taken together.
Broad-spectrum CBD products contain other cannabinoids, but typically do not have THC. A CBD-isolate is pure CBD. This is usually the least effective option.
Is CBD Safe to Consume?
CBD products aren’t regulated by the FDA, so you should always purchase them from a reputable company. CBD is generally safe to take, but it can impact the absorption of some other drugs. If you’re taking prescription medications, talk to your doctor about using CBD. Side effects are generally mild and may include drowsiness, dry mouth, and diarrhea.
Different Forms of CBD
CBD products come in many forms, so you can choose the option that best suits your needs. The most common choices are:
- Gummies: Consumed orally, gummies make it easy to take CBD. You typically absorb 20 to 30% of the CBD in an gummy. It can take up to two hours to notice the effects of CBD taken as a gummy, mint, chocolate, or other edible. This is a good choice if you struggle with sleep, as you can take a gummy a few hours before bed and enjoy the effects as you drift off.
- Sublingual CBD: Sublingual CBD oil is placed under the tongue and held in the mouth for about 30 seconds. This maximizes absorption. You may feel the effects in as little as 15 minutes. This is a good option when you want quick relief from anxiety or pain.
- Topical CBD: Salves, lotions, and other topical products allow you to apply CBD directly to the skin. This is best for inflammation or pain of the muscles or joints. They provide concentrated relief in a specific area, so you can focus the effects where you need them most.
CBD Dosage
There is no clear evidence as to the best dose for CBD products. Human studies on CBD have used anywhere from 20 to 1,500 milligrams a day safely. If you’re new to CBD, start with a low dose around 20 to 40 milligrams a day, and increase as needed.
Experimenting with different forms of CBD is often the best way to find the right fit for your needs. You can find a wealth of options on the market to choose from.
