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A Beginner’s Guide to CBD Oil
You may have heard of CBD oil. After all, it’s a trending topic in the wellness community. You also may have wondered if it’s actually something that could help with your overall health and well-being.
CBD oil is a by-product that is extracted from the cannabis plant and mixed with a carrier oil. Many people view it as a natural remedy that can help them live a better and healthier life.
This beginner’s guide will tell you everything you need to know about CBD oil so that you can make an informed decision about whether it’s right for you. We’ll cover the basics, such as what CBD is and how it works, as well as the benefits and potential side effects of using CBD oil.
CBD vs THC: What’s the Difference?
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are two of the most well-known cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Although their cellular composition may be similar, the body reacts to each compound in a different way.
THC produces psychoactive effects (also referred to as a “high”) which is commonly associated with the recreational use of cannabis, while CBD does not cause psychoactive effects.
THC and CBD are also generally derived from different sources. The cannabis plant has a higher concentration of THC, while hemp has a higher concentration of CBD. Although CBD can be derived from cannabis, it will generally have higher THC levels in the product.
How Does CBD Work?
To understand how CBD in the CBD oil works, it’s essential first to understand the endocannabinoid system.
The endocannabinoid System (ECS) is a cell-signaling framework in the human body. It regulates several processes like pain, mood, and sleep.
The cannabis plant contains cannabinoids that are similar in structure to the endocannabinoids produced by the human body.
The ECS has two receptors, CB1 receptors and CB2 receptors. CB1 receptors are responsible for mediating the psychotropic effects associated with the use of the psychoactive compound, THC.
CB2 receptors are mainly found in the cells and tissues of the immune system. CB2 receptors have been linked to regulating the effects of cannabinoids and endocannabinoids within the immune system.
When you use CBD oil, the THC found in the oil attaches itself to CB1 receptors. At the same time, CBD will stimulate both receptors, which will make the body produce endocannabinoids, resulting in effects similar to those produced by the endocannabinoid system.
Is CBD Oil Safe?
The safety profile of CBD oil is still unclear as several more studies need to be conducted. Therefore, if you want to buy any CBD product, make sure to buy it from reputable companies that test for purity, potency, and safety by independent laboratories and provide certificates of analysis (COA).
What are the Types of CBD Oil?
Full-Spectrum CBD
Full-spectrum CBD oil products contain numerous plant extracts such as terpenes, essential oils, and cannabinoids, including cannabinol (CBN). They usually have a THC level of 0.3%, which is insufficient to cause psychoactive effects traditionally associated with using cannabis.
Broad-Spectrum CBD
Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil, like full-spectrum CBD oil, has additional cannabis plant compounds. However, broad-spectrum CBD oil is different in that it contains zero traces of THC, while full-spectrum oil contains less than 0.3% THC.
CBD-Isolate
CBD Isolate is the purest form of CBD oil. It does not contain any other plant compounds except CBD and is usually extracted from hemp plants which means it has low amounts of THC. CBD Isolate oils are an excellent choice for users who want the medical benefits of cannabis without the interference of other cannabis compounds.
The Benefits of Using CBD Oil
As a beginner to CBD oil, it’s important to understand how you might use this product as part of your own treatment regime. CBD oil has been linked to emotional, physical, and psychological benefits.
Preliminary studies show that CBD oil may be helpful in alleviating stress, as it produces an anti-anxiety effect and can even help the body use serotonin more effectively. CBD also tends to have a sedative-like effect, helping a person feel more calm and relaxed.
But CBD oil is great for more than just stress relief. Many people turn to this natural treatment alternative to:
- Relieve anxiety and depression.
- Reduce PTSD symptoms.
- Benefit heart health.
- Reduce chronic pain.
- Reduce acne.
- Alleviate symptoms associated with cancer like nausea and pain.
- Increase appetite.
How to Take CBD Oil
CBD oil can be taken in several ways, such as:
★ Tinctures
A CBD tincture is an alcohol-based CBD extract. Tinctures are tasteless or can be found in different flavours. To allow quick absorption, you can take tinctures sublingually (by putting it under your tongue).
★ Capsules
Capsules that contain CBD oil are a great way to consume discreetly and enjoy its benefits. CBD capsules are also an easy way to keep track of dosage.
★ Topicals
CBD topicals are creams, lotions, or balms that can be applied directly to the skin. You can use topicals in an area where you need targeted relief or if you have acne, as some studies show CBD may help reduce inflammation and tame oil secretion.
★ Beverages
CBD oil does not always taste great. However, you can mask the taste by adding it to your favourite beverage. This is also a great way of incorporating it into your daily routine, especially if added to your morning coffee or smoothie .
★ Vaping
You can also add CBD oil to your vape pen. This is another quick way to enjoy CBD, as this method causes CBD to enter your bloodstream faster than other methods.
★ Food
You can add a drop of CBD oil to your food when cooking or baking. However, when you ingest CBD oil it might take longer to take effect, as it has to pass through the digestive system before entering the bloodstream.
When Is the Best Time to Take CBD Oil?
The best time to take CBD oil depends on whether it relaxes or stimulates you. If it stimulates you, try it in the morning. You can put a few drops in your coffee, protein shake or juice before you start your day. If it relaxes you, the best time is at night before you sleep.
You can take it at various times during the day and decide which time you like most depending on the function you want and how it affects you.
How Much CBD Oil Should You Take?
When finding a dosage that is right for you, it’s best to start with a low dosage and increase it until you find the desired effect. Some CBD products like CBD oil, capsules, drops, and gummies have labels that show how much CBD concentration they contain, allowing you to keep track of dosage amounts.
For instance, if you are taking CBD oil capsules that have roughly 20 mg of CBD per dose, start off with one capsule to see how it affects you. If it doesn’t give you the desired result, going forward you will probably need more than 20 mg to get the effect you desire. Slowly increase your dosage until you find a dosage right for you.
Does CBD Oil Have Any Side Effects?
When using CBD oil, there are some possible side effects to look for, such as anxiety, mood changes, appetite, nausea, and vomiting.
However, keep in mind that side effects are different from person to person and also depend on the dosage.
CBD Oils to Try
There are a lot of CBD oil products on the market today. Choosing one that suits all your needs can feel overwhelming. That’s why we have provided you with a list of our best CBD oils you can try!
MM 001 La Calma Lemongrass Ginger CBD Oil is a research and science-based product specially designed for women. It features a high dose of CBD and a micro-dose of THC along with select terpenes and thoughtfully chosen herbal extracts. It comes in a glass vessel that contains a dropper to make it easy to ensure a safe dose. You can either take it on its own or add it to your food or beverages.
Free Oil by Solei is a smoke-free, heat-free CBD oil. It has a dropper that you can use to get the ideal amount of oil with no added flavour, so you can easily add it to food and baking or take it directly under the tongue.
Final Thoughts
Incorporating CBD oil into your life for the first time can feel overwhelming and intimidating. But just like anything new, begin by doing your research. Once you are comfortable with your understanding of what CBD oil is and how it is used, you can choose how you would prefer to take it and find a brand that ticks all the boxes.
Here at FIKA, we are passionate about helping you discover what product is right for you. Visit one of our locations and allow one of our FIKA Ambassadors to help you discover and educate you on the perfect CBD product for you. It’s important to us that you leave the store feeling informed on the product you’ve purchased.