CBD Guide for Rookies
Getting into CBD can be challenging, especially when you’re not familiar with it. The compound comes in different variants, like broad spectrum, full spectrum, and isolate. Besides that, it’s added to all sorts of products, making it hard to decide which one is the best for you.
CBD is becoming more and more popular, especially as various states started making it legal. Still, some individuals are not sure what it is, why others use it, how it can benefit them, and other aspects. They may even be more likely to trust the stigma surrounding CBD that some non-consumers are spreading, with these rumors preventing them from getting into CBD altogether.
Clarifying what CBD is and how it can help you is a challenge we accepted. This guide is full of important information that will help any beginner expand their knowledge about CBD and find a CBD product that suits them. Let’s get started!
CBD – What Is It?
CBD is one of the active compounds in the cannabis sativa plant. The naturally occurring compound is one of the best-known in the industry, with THC being another one that shares its popularity.
CBD is extracted from industrial hemp plants that are made in order to boost the amount of CBD while decreasing the THC amount. Then, in order to reduce the THC concentration even more, the extract will go through more processing.
CBD has many therapeutic abilities, which is what makes it so widely consumed by people. The therapeutic properties are still studied by many doctors and scientists today, as they are trying to find out more benefits of this magical compound.
Is CBD Legal?
Before you start taking CBD, you may be interested in the legal aspect, so you don’t break the law.
Well, the compound is legal on a federal level, but only as long as it contains no more than 0.3% THC. However, people may not be able to freely buy CBD everywhere. This is because some states have put restrictions on it. [1] For this reason, it’s crucial to check the laws in your state so you can make sure you respect the rules when buying CBD.
Businesses have been allowed to sell CBD products thanks to the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, which was the main federal law that made this possible. It made it legal to start farming industrial hemp – but only as long as it has less than 0.3% THC. If there is more than 0.3% THC in the hemp plant, then it will be considered marijuana, which is not legal as it’s a Schedule 1 drug. [2]
While CBD is federally legal, there are many CBD products that have not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. The only product that was officially approved by the FDA is Epidiolex – anything else has been outlawed. Many products are marketed to have therapeutic properties, but they have not been approved, and the FDA even sent some warning letters to them. [3]
What CBD Products Are Available?
The good thing when it comes to starting your journey with CBD is that you have various ways to use it and take it. CBD is added to different products, allowing each individual to choose one that suits them and their needs. After picking your product of choice, you’ll be able to incorporate it into your routine as you see fit.
Let’s see what your options are in terms of CBD products:
1. CBD Oils, Tinctures, and Sprays
You’ll often see liquids in small bottles labeled as “CBD oil” or “CBD tincture”. Oils represent one of the most common ways to use CBD – mainly because it is very easy to add it to your daily schedule. The oil can be consumed in different ways. You can add drops under your tongue using the incorporated dropper, or you can add them to daily meals, salads, drinks, and so on.
Sometimes, oils come in different flavors, and they will have various CBD concentrations so you can pick one that works for you. Moreover, some oils are marketed for different conditions and routines. Some are more suitable to use throughout the day, while others are nighttime oils. All of them have different effects that people seek.
If you cannot take other CBD products, oils are a great choice.
There are also CBD sprays. Unlike the oils and tinctures that come with a dropper, a spray allows you to distribute the CBD content in a mist. So, instead of dropping the liquid under your tongue, you spray it orally. Similar to oils, they will have different flavors and strengths.
2. Pills and Capsules
Pills and capsules containing CBD are also easy to take and enjoy the benefits of the compound. You can take them in the morning or evening just like you would take your medication. Capsules and pills can be used to treat different conditions and disorders.
Keep in mind that it may take a while for this form of CBD to enter your bloodstream and give you the desired effects.
3. Lotions and Creams
CBD topicals are the best for anyone who needs some pain relief or some treatment for their skin conditions. Many creams and lotions are infused with CBD, making sure the product has a much stronger effect on your body and can help you feel better or heal.
Most of the time, people use topicals for skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema, or muscle and joint pain.
4. Edibles
Edibles make the easiest way to add CBD to your daily schedule. Whenever you’re craving something delicious, an edible is there to save the day. It will not only be tasty but also provide you with everything CBD has to offer.
Gummies represent one of the most popular ways people use CBD. You can carry them anywhere, and they are also pretty affordable most of the time. They come in different forms, such as gummy bears, cubes, and others. You also find them in varying strengths.
Why Do People Use CBD?
As a rookie, you may not know the many benefits provided by CBD. Brands that sell any products with this compound in them always market them as something that can treat different health conditions or relieve pain and stress. But is this the case?
Here are some of the reasons why people love taking CBD:
· It Can Treat Epilepsy
CBD is widely known for the fact that it can ease epilepsy. Epidiolex was released in 2018 and it’s the first CBD drug approved by the FDA. It is used to treat epilepsy, more specifically two particular types of epilepsy: the Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome. [4]
· It Can Be Used to Treat Addiction to Opioids
It may seem strange to use CBD against drug addiction, but many trials have suggested that the compound is useful in such situations. There have been various animal and human trials in which CBD had positive effects on those suffering from opioid addiction.
For instance, one study revealed that CBD decreased the cue-induced anxiety and craving in people who have been abusing heroin for a long time. Therefore, it may be useful in eliminating the addiction over time. [5]
· Great Against Neurological Diseases
There have been studies showing that CBD can be beneficial against neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s disease. CBD contains many anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can boost neuroprotection. [6]
· It Can Decrease PTSD Symptoms
PTSD develops in individuals who have experienced a traumatic event that was either frightening or put their lives in danger. The disorder results in different feelings and thoughts that the victim experiences even after they are out of the traumatic situation. Fear, anger, and sadness may be present, and some people even go through nightmares or flashbacks. [7]
Well, studies suggest that CBD may be useful against PTSD. In one study from 2018, 11 subjects who were dealing with PTSD took CBD together with their usual psychiatric care. They did so for a total of 8 weeks. After the study concluded, it was discovered that 10 out of the 11 people experienced a decrease in PTSD symptoms. [8]
· Can Be Useful in Treating Depression and Anxiety
One of the most popular benefits of CBD is its ability to treat depression and anxiety. One study was done on mice, and it revealed that CBD has similarities to imipramine, a known antidepressant.
Another 2017 study involved 57 men with anxiety. They all received different amounts of CBD, such as 150 milligrams, 300 milligrams, and 600 milligrams, while others received a placebo. After taking their dose, they all had to give a speech. The men who took 300 milligrams of CBD experienced less anxiety compared to the men who took the placebo, whereas the men who took 150 or 600 milligrams of CBD had higher anxiety levels during the speech. [9]
How Do You Choose the Right CBD Product?
Even if you know you’re going to start using CBD, you may still be confused regarding which product to settle for. Being a newbie puts you in a tough spot as you don’t know what each product does differently, and which one would be more suitable for you.
Here is a little guide that will help you pick the best product that suits your needs:
· Think About Why You Want to Use CBD
Do you want to start using CBD simply for fun, or do you want it for relaxation, a boost in energy, or pain relief? Knowing why you are suddenly so determined to take CBD will help you choose a suitable product.
Many brands offer products meant for various problems or purposes. For example, some CBD oils are nighttime ones, meaning they are for people who want a good night’s sleep. If you are dealing with insomnia or have a hard time relaxing in the evening, such a product can be suitable for you.
Simply look through the products offered by brands and see which one is directed for specific problems. It’ll make it easier to select the best one.
· Pick the Right Concentration
Each CBD product will have a certain concentration of the compound. Some will contain higher cannabidiol amounts, while others will feature lower amounts. This is great because it makes different products suitable for multiple types of people.
As you’re still new to CBD, the best thing to do is go for low doses in the beginning. Don’t worry – over time, you’ll get used to the amount of CBD and you will be able to adjust your dose to a higher one. Just don’t go for high CBD concentrations right away because the effect may be too intense.
· Decide If You Want THC in the Product or Not
Some CBD products are free of THC, while others will contain very small amounts of the psychoactive compound. THC is the compound responsible for the “high” reported after using marijuana products.
If you want to enjoy what THC has to bring, then you can look for something that has both CBD and THC as ingredients. However, if you do, make sure the amount is less than 0.03% so you respect the law.
· Go for Reputable Brands
When you search for CBD products, you will stumble upon many brands, each one of them being eager to sell their products to CBD lovers. It can be overwhelming, especially since you don’t know which brand to trust.
Do some research on the brand before ordering from them. Check how many types of CBD products they offer and whether they have third-party lab tests available for them. Also, look for reviews from other people who have tried the company’s products before. They will tell you if the brand is legit or not.
Final Thoughts
CBD has many great benefits, which is what makes it so loved by people in the U.S. and not only. It can be useful against anxiety, certain types of epilepsy, PTSD, and many other problems. Although more studies must be conducted, so far, we know that CBD can help treat certain conditions when used correctly.
Make sure to take your time choosing a CBD product that works best for you. Use our guide and you’ll be able to pick a legit brand.
Sources:
1. Is CBD legal? Here’s what you need to know, according to science
3. FDA Regulation of Cannabis and Cannabis-Derived Products, Including Cannabidiol (CBD)
5. CBD Reduces Craving and Anxiety in People With Heroin Use Disorder
7. What is Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?
8. Cannabidiol in the Treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: A Case Series
9.Cannabidiol presents an inverted U-shaped dose-response curve in a simulated public speaking test
