CANNABIDIOL
For some time now, the cannabis plant has been used for its exceptional medicinal and health-boosting effects. Particularly CBD (cannabidiol), one of the most abundant cannabinoids found in cannabis, has become a phenomenon in the world of health. While there are several ways to consume the cannabinoid, CBD oil is among the most popular, with more possibilities expected as research continues. If you’re looking to try CBD oil for the first time, you probably have a lot of questions.
The following tips below will help you find out everything you need to know to ensure that you have the best experience possible when implementing CBD oil into your daily health regime.
THE 411 ON CBD OIL
Before diving into the tips, it’s important to first learn a little more about our understanding of CBD oil. CBD oil is extracted from either hemp or cannabis plants using two methods of extraction: CO2 or ethanol. However, due to the current legality of CBD, many manufacturers extract CBD oil from the stalks and stems of hemp plants. Unlike cannabis oil, hemp-derived CBD oil is non-psychoactive and won’t produce any mind-altering effects.
CBD oil works in harmony with our endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for our body’s biological functions including mood, appetite, sleep, etc.
By binding directly to CB1 or CB2 receptors located all throughout our ECS, it has the ability to supplement and restore balance or, what researchers commonly refer to as, homeostasis. Preliminary studies show that CBD oil may have the potential to address a number of health conditions including inflammation, pain, anxiety, insomnia, appetite issues, and more. All science jargon aside, if you’d like to know more, we encourage you to learn all you can about your endocannabinoid system and the potential benefits of CBD’s effects.
TIP #1: KNOW THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CBD ISOLATE AND FULL-SPECTRUM CBD
While looking for a CBD oil product, you may notice that they are either labeled CBD isolate or full-spectrum CBD. Full-spectrum CBD oil contains everything provided by the original hemp plant, including fatty acids, cannabinoids, flavonoids, and terpenes. On the other hand, CBD isolate is essentially a “purified” full-spectrum CBD oil. When extracted, the terpenes are removed, leaving behind a product that’s 99 percent pure CBD. Different ailments might react differently to full-spectrum CBD compared to CBD isolate, and vice versa. Our best recommendation is to try a few products and monitor how you feel.
TIP #2: FIGURE OUT WHICH CBD OIL DELIVERY METHOD IS RIGHT FOR YOU!
When starting out, it can be a little difficult to find the best way to take CBD oil if you’re completely new. Below, we have listed a few ways to deliver CBD so you are able to choose what best suits your needs.
Oral ingestion:
If you’re new, CBD capsules and pills are some of the easiest beginner-friendly ways to deliver CBD. They can be taken like normal over-the-counter pills, so they shouldn’t feel too different or intimidating.
Topical application:
Don’t want to take anything orally? No problem! You can apply CBD in the form of balms, creams, and lotions to areas on your body where you’re experiencing aches, soreness, and mild pains.
Sublingual Administration:
If you want the same effects as oral ingestion but want faster effects, you might opt for taking the oil sublingually aka under the tongue!
Inhalation:
This is only recommended if you’re familiar with vaping and CBD oil. If not, this method may not be the best way to start but is still a great option.
TIP #3: “ONE SIZE FITS ALL” CBD DOES NOT APPLY
You read that correctly. When it comes to CBD there’s no standard for determining the “right” dosage. Everyone is different, so it makes sense that every person will metabolize CBD differently. While a few drops work effectively for one person, it may not be the same for another. That said, don’t try to compare yourself or what you feel to other people you know. With this process, you might be tasked to do a little experimentation.
TIP #4: START LOW AND SLOW WITH CBD
No matter what delivery method you choose, we recommend that you start small and work your way up until you find your optimal dose. You know your body better than anyone else! So it is fair to say that only you can determine what CBD dose will be the right fit for you. Observe what is happening during your dosing sessions and expect to make adjustments over time to remain in the “optimal” range.
TIP #5: DON’T GIVE UP IF YOU DON’T FEEL ANYTHING AT FIRST
CBD is subtle. While results are felt immediately in some people, others may not feel anything until some time later. The good thing is, this is normal. As with all things from OTC’s to herbal remedies, CBD oil is a personalized experience. So don’t stress, and certainly don’t give up on it because a world of relief is just within your grasp my friend.
Until you find your personal “sweet spot” dosage, remember that patience is a virtue. As your body becomes familiar with the oil, effects will become clearer.
TIP #6: DO YOUR HOMEWORK
CBD oil is a fast-growing product and unfortunately, like many other lucrative industries, there are some companies who make false claims about the sources, quality, and purity of their products. That’s why it’s very important to do a little of your own research before choosing a CBD oil product.
You’ll want to find a reputable company that is honest and transparent about their extraction methods, open about their sources, and honest about the purity of their products. Check the CBD company’s website for 3rd party lab results which feature updates and changes as well as reviews.
TIP #7: SPEAK TO YOUR DOCTOR ABOUT CBD
CBD products are not intended to cure or treat any health conditions. CBD oil is not a drug or medication. It’s a dietary supplement with the potential to benefit your endocannabinoid system but CBD may also interact with medications.
Before using CBD oil, you should speak with your healthcare provider about your intentions, especially if you’re taking medication for a health condition.
Bottom Line: Follow these tips above to get the full benefits CBD has to offer.
Speak to one of our Kush21 Budtenders at a location near you for more details! We are here to help.
