If you don’t know what cannabidiol is yet, it’s time to get familiar. The global cannabidiol market is estimated to grow in the billions of dollars over the next few years. You’ve probably heard of marijuana. Compared to cannabidiol, marijuana has been in the public sphere for longer. Due to the efforts of marijuana legalization, CBD products have become available to most Americans. Cannabidiol has started to become a preferred alternative to traditional medicine for treating some ailments.
In legalized weed states it’s everywhere. There are even drinks infused with cannabidiol. Coca-Cola has recently been rumored to be considering launching a cannabidiol line of beverages.
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CBD is Becoming Popular
As marijuana continues to gain social acceptance, people are looking to cannabidiol for a way to reap the medical benefits of cannabis without the “high”. Cannabidiol related products are advertised as a natural and safe alternative medicine for numerous physical and mental issues. Unfortunately, much of the stigma associated with marijuana use is immediately related to CBD products. Even though they derive from the same plant, the two elicit different effects.
A lot of people are already medicating themselves with cannabidiol to treat a variety of chronic disorders. CBD is being used for medical purposes more than ever. It’s even promoted as an overall health supplement. Cannabidiol has the chance to improve your life for the better.
This all sounds great and all but do you really know for sure if cannabidiol is as trustworthy as they say? What is it even? Sometimes it all just sounds too good to be true.
We put together a small guide that will hopefully clear up some misgivings and help you understand just what it is. We’re going to explain the basics of what it is, potential benefits, use, and other useful information. It’s understandably confusing for first-time users.
Let’s find out what the hype is all about.
What is CBD Oil?
CBD is a phytocannabinoid. This all-natural phytocannabinoid is a compound located in cannabis and hemp plants. It has the ability to interact with our endocannabinoid system.
It is the second most commonly found compound in the hemp plant. Hemp plants contain very small quantities of THC. People still confuse the two compounds and their effects. Each one interacts with our endocannabinoid system in different ways.
The endocannabinoid system was discovered recently by medical researchers. They found out that it was very important in the regulation of our body’s internal balance. Basically, how each of the different parts of our body neurologically interacts with each other.
Endocannabinoid System
Our endocannabinoid system is responsible for numerous functions. For example, it has a hand in regulating our pain, mood, and appetite.
Both compounds can interact with our endocannabinoid receptors. That means they have similar chemical makeup to the system within our bodies. This allows those compounds to have positive effects on our endocannabinoid receptors.
If you want a more detailed look at our endocannabinoid system, check this out. Fair warning, there is a lot of scientific terminologies used in the linked article.
It’s possible to consume CBD in many forms. As CBD is still a relatively new thing, our understanding of what it can do for us is only beginning. But, we at least know that it’s a safe and natural substance with the potential to change the lives of millions. Below we’ll detail the most popular methods of CBD consumption.
Types of CBD Oil
1. CBD Vape-Oil
CBD’s most popular form is definitely vape oil. Vapers can often describe how they feel the instant effects of the cannabidiol. Some patients don’t want to wait thirty minutes to an hour for the effects to kick in. CBD edibles can sometimes take up to two hours. The time it takes to start working largely depends on your metabolic system.
Vape oil cartridges are sold online and at legal CBD vendors depending on your state. A vape pen with cannabidiol oil still won’t produce a “high”. Vape pens can be outfitted with either refillable or disposable cartridges that contain CBD vape oil. Only products extracted from industrial hemp plants are completely legal.
CBD vape oil comes in two forms. You can either buy full spectrum vape oil or CBD isolate. Full spectrum is oil extracted from the entire cannabis plant. This gives you the benefit of receiving all the terpenes and cannabinoids possible. Full spectrum will definitely have some THC but at very trace amounts. It’s estimated that THC will be at 0.3% or lower. Don’t worry, this is below the legal limit.
CBD isolate still contains cannabidiol, but it is completely isolated from the other cannabinoids listed above. You can be ensured CBD purity when taking a CBD isolate. If you want to completely ensure there’s no THC in your system, then we definitely recommend going with a CBD isolate.
2. CBD Hemp Oil
Hemp oil does not contain any phytocannabinoids. It is absent of both THC and CBD. Some companies have taken advantage of CBD’s popularity by promoting products with hemp oil. Some people make the mistake of equating hemp oil with cannabidiol oil. They are completely different.
Hemp oil acts as a carrier oil and is similar to sunflower seed oil. Hemp oil is cold-pressed and derived from hemp seeds. While it is still healthy for you, it won’t produce the same effects as CBD. It’s fantastic for your skin as a moisturizer since it’s full of antioxidants. It works to soften your skin and keep your pores clog-free.
The only similarity between the two is that they come from the same plant. But, apart from that, they are completely different compounds that serve different purposes. Hemp oil should also come at a cheaper price than cannabidiol products.
3. Hemp Extract
Hemp extract, like hemp oil, still offers a number of medicinal benefits. Hemp extract strengthens your skin, builds up your immune system, and improves your heart’s health. It has the possibility of containing other phytocannabinoids that can positively alter our endocannabinoid receptors. Nowadays, you can find hemp extract in dietary supplements and cosmetic products.
4. CBD Gummies
Cannabidiol gummies are a form of edible that is available for patients in a variety of shapes, flavors, and dosages. These gummies often taste delicious and offer a fun alternative in CBD treatment. You don’t have to worry about vaping or drinking a tincture.
However, the duration of these effects is much longer compared to a tincture dose or vape ‘hit’. When smoking cannabidiol oil through a vape pen, the effects are instant but much shorter. Studies have shown that patients taking edibles are benefited by taking the medicine in a more natural way.
Most reputable vendors will sell CBD gummies that are regularly tested to ensure that they have trace amounts of THC and are made from 100% industrial hemp. You want your CBD product to be completely natural, especially if you’re going to eat it.
Cannabidiol Oil Legality
So far only nine states have legalized the recreational use of cannabis. Cannabis is still not legalized at the federal level, however, there is hope that this changes soon. The only three states where you cannot purchase cannabidiol oil products are South Dakota, Idaho, and Nebraska. Apart from these three, each state has its own legal framework concerning cannabidiol.
There are 23 states that have legalized the medical use of marijuana. Of these, there are fourteen that have laws solely regulating cannabidiol oil use. The consumption of THC products is illegal in these states. Some of these states even lack the operational capacity and have yet to open any dispensaries. For example, Lousiana and Arkansas both lack operational dispensaries.
Each state can be different and it’s important to understand the legality of cannabidiol before treatment. It might be more difficult to purchase cannabidiol products in your state. This might change soon though! With each election, more and more states have started the legalization process. Many patients are waiting for this to also occur at the national level.
If you’re under the age of 21, it is illegal for you to enter a dispensary. This is also the law even in states have recreationally legalized weed. You can still purchase hemp seed products, just not cannabidiol. This law is not expected to change soon. It’s been discovered that both THC and CBD can have effects on our brain’s development during the teenage years.
CBD Farming Bill
Late in 2018, Congress passed the Farm Bill which legalized industrial hemp on a federal level. Hemp finally lost its classification as a Schedule I Drug. Marijuana is still listed as a Schedule I, but it’s good they made the distinction.
Hopefully, this guide serves to deliver you all the knowledge you need before making the decision to purchase cannabidiol oil products. Being informed as well as possible can go a long way in delivering you the best treatment. Cannabidiol has the medical potential to do so much. With the publicity it has received over the past several years, CBD has been thrust in the spotlight of the medical community.
Many states await further regulation of CBD products before moving forward with legalization. The lack of a standard regulatory framework on cannabidiol oil can be concerning. Many retailers selling CBD products have been shown to incorrectly label their goods. As cannabidiol is used as an alternative form of treatment, this can be especially troublesome.
CBD Oil Usage & Effects
CBD is very safe. It is non-addictive and does not contain any psychoactive compounds.
Benefits of CBD Oil
Cannabidiol has numerous medicinal benefits. The medical literature only supports limited data, but from this, we know the following.
Larger amounts of CBD can help prompt sleep in patients that suffer from insomnia.
CBD can be used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. CBD can affect the neurotransmitters that are associated with your endocannabinoid system. This can be beneficial for individuals suffering from arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and other sources of chronic pain.
CBD has the potential to lessen the symptoms of acne. In ongoing studies, cannabidiol was found to decrease the amount of sebum your body secretes. Its anti-inflammatory effects also can help reduce acne.
Cannabidiol has become more and more known as having anti-cancer properties. In studies, CBD was shown to have the potential to reduce side effects like vomiting, chronic pain, and nausea. These side effects are related to chemotherapy and other types of anti-cancer treatment. Cannabidiol oil can also help regulate the pain associated with chemotherapy.
There’s also strong evidence that cannabidiol is an effective treatment used to reduce the effects of epilepsy. Recently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the first-ever drug that contained cannabinoids. In June 2018, the FDA approved the use of Epidiolex to treat seizures associated with Dravet and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. These are both rare forms of epilepsy.
It has additionally been discovered that cannabidiol has the ability to decrease the symptoms of depression and anxiety. It can help regulate the part of your brain that regulates negative emotions like fear. This can be beneficial in social situations such as public speaking or a business interview.
There are many more medicinal benefits to CBD use than what we’ve listed here. Medical researchers are discovering more every day.
Side Effects of Cannabidiol Oil
The side effects of cannabidiol oil use are still being studied. Some patients have noticed that it can cause drowsiness or a drop in blood pressure. CBD can also dry out your skin.
Some studies conducted also noticed patients suffering from fatigue or diarrhea. If you are already taking some prescription medication, you should consult your physician before taking any CBD products. Cannabidiol has been known to have adverse effects when combined with other medication.
A recent study published by the American Academy of Pediatrics warned pregnant women that CBD use could potentially slow their baby’s development. Additionally, they discovered that cannabidiol could increase the placental barrier’s permeability.
A potential concern is if your CBD product came from a plant that was sprayed with pesticides or artificial fertilizers. You don’t want to purchase your CBD products from a vendor that sources their cannabidiol from those plants. Those herbicides and pesticides may lead to some additional side effects. Some of which you may not have been aware of.
Some medical researchers are concerned that cannabidiol can also raise the number of liver enzymes.
Cannabidiol Oil Dosage
Remember, cannabidiol has yet to be faced with any serious regulatory measures. Until such measures are taken, we may not be 100% sure as to all the cannabidiol oil’s side effects. You should always consult your doctor beforehand to discuss its potential effects.
Generally, you’re going to want to start off with small CBD doses. We recommend you consult a health physician that is comfortable with discussing cannabidiol treatment to figure out the correct dosage. In states where medicinal cannabis is legalized, dispensaries have resident physicians that are there to answer all your questions. In such states, you will be prescribed the correct Cannabidiol Oil dosage relating to your needs. Even if you’re not in a state with medical dispensaries, your health physician should be comfortable with discussing it with you.
The CBD products that vendors sell don’t typically come with a recommended dosage. Before starting your treatment, you should take into consideration the condition you’re treating, the type of CBD product, your weight, and your body chemistry. This is a great guide that details the best ways to gauge the correct dosage.
Generally, It’s best to start small and then incrementally increase your dosage to an amount you’re comfortable with. When using a CBD tincture, it’s very easy to measure out. A dropper typically contains 1 milliliter of liquid. You can then check your label to calculate the exact amount use simple arithmetic. Just divide the total amount of CBD by the total of milliliters in your bottle. This will equal out to the amount of CBD in each drop.
The best way to accurately gauge the amount of CBD you’re taking in is to either take capsules or edibles. For example, a single gummy will each contain the same equal amount of CBD. CBD capsules are always filled with an exact amount of cannabidiol extract.
Buy Cannabidiol Oil
1. Straight from the Source
Most companies that manufacture CBD products allow the patient to directly purchase it themselves. You can typically find they have a website with an online store detailing their product catalog.
2. Online Stores
A lot of cannabidiol oil is sold through e-commerce sites and other forms of online retail. Many offer free delivery. Unfortunately, this is where you can sometimes run into some problems. Not all online stores are reputable. Be sure to comb through the online retailer’s reviews to ensure you’re making the right choice. Cheaper isn’t always better.
3. Dispensary
Some states have legalized recreational or medicinal cannabis use. The dispensaries in these states will definitely carry a wide range of cannabidiol oil products. Dispensaries might carry a higher price, but the service is usually top-notch as employees are incredibly knowledgeable. In states with medical dispensaries, they’ll have a physician in house. Medical dispensaries will typically carry CBD products from reputable manufacturers. They face more regulation than states that have legalized recreational use.
4. Specialty/Supplement Stores
Some head shops and health wellness stores will sell CBD products. Don’t be afraid to ask if they do. The worst they can say is no. Stores that you can visit in person can let you see the product in person. They typically have someone on hand to make recommendations and answer any questions you may have.
Supplement and nutrition stores will generally carry hemp extract or hemp oil products. These do not face the same amount of legal scrutiny as cannabidiol oil products. Additionally, the 2018 Farm Bill legalized the production of hemp.
CBD Vendor Reviews
There are so many CBD companies out there. You need to know who to trust with your CBD treatment. Finding a well-respected vendor can make all the difference. Choosing the best vendor that can give you the highest quality CBD ensures you’re receiving the treatment you need. You might find with less-reputable vendors that their product isn’t as pure or not the same level of quality. Most reputable vendors are constantly conducting research on how to better manufacture their product for you.
Additionally, a good vendor will have quality customer service. Companies that care about their customers typically carry good products. They should have the ability to answer any questions you have about their products.
Not all CBD products are the same. You don’t want to end up spending a lot on products that don’t deliver the desired results. Some companies may even provide financial assistance. You can also go through your medical insurance. You also want to buy from a vendor that conducts some testing on their own for quality assurance.
You want to also make sure they ship to you and can deliver their products in a timely manner. Don’t forget about checking the vendor’s CBD product catalog. If you’re hunting for CBD gummies, you’ll find that not all vendors carry them.
A lot of companies may be offering discounts or some sort of promotional deal. Just be sure to do your research to make sure it’s a credible business.
The Journal of the American Medical Association released a study in 2017 that detailed how almost 70% of CBD products sold from online vendors were falsely labeled. Many of the oils were found to have conflicting levels of CBD and THC when compared to their labels.
Final Verdict
Additionally, the dangers posed by herbicides and pesticides that are used during industrial hemp production can be intimidating. The organic movement should also include cannabidiol oil products. CBD products are advertised as natural medicine and should be free of any artificial ingredients. Cannabidiol oil has so many uses! We hope you’re as excited as we are to discover what comes next.
