Over the years, researchers have been focusing on many ingredients part of the cannabis plant. Until now, studies have shown that many cannabis compounds could be effective in treating various conditions or diseases.
A well-known compound found in the cannabis plant is cannabidiol (CBD). The latter has flourished in recent years, finding use in many industries.
If you are thinking of starting to use CBD, you should first know which are the forms you could take CBD, which is the best consumption method for you, and how much dosage is safe.
What is CBD?
CBD short for cannabidiol is a compound derived from the cannabis plant, mainly from the industrial hemp. CBD interacts with the so-called endocannabinoid system. The latter is responsible for a number of body functions such as temperature, sleep, memory, appetite, digestion, mood, inflammation, etc.
There are more than 100 ingredients found in cannabis plants. Among these, CBD is most closely related to Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). However, as much as they can be related, there is an essential difference between these two: CBD does not make you feel “high”. Meanwhile, THC has psychoactive effects.
What is CBD Used For?
To find out more about this interesting ingredient, research is still ongoing. However, studies carried out up to now have shown that CBD has the potential to treat a range of health problems. Some of them include:
- Pain
- Acne
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Arthritis
- Inflammation
- High Blood Pressure
In 2018, The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Epidiolex as the first CBD-containing drug used to treat seizures caused by Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome. Although Epidiolex is the first approved drug that contains cannabidiol, CBD oil is highly recommended to use as it is considered an effective solution to the abovementioned conditions and more. CBD oil coming from the hemp plant is not addictive at all and side effects mostly appear if you are using too much CBD.
Which is The Best Way to Take CBD?
CBD can be found in various forms and there are many delivery options. Your body might react differently to each CBD oil form, hence it is important to find the method that works best for you.
Tincture or Pure CBD Oil
If you decide to take tincture or pure CBD oil, the best way you can take it is sublingually. It can be done by placing the oil under your tongue and leaving it for about a minute to be absorbed. Sublingually is considered a very efficient method compared to mixing oil in food, tea, or coffee. However, tinctures or pure oil may not be the most suitable form for all people because it requires more attention to the dropper.
Gummies and Edibles
Another form of CBD consumption are gummies and edibles. Although the effect may not be the same because gummies and edibles need to be digested, this form has some advantages, especially when it comes to dosage. Gummies and edibles are very easy to use and you can measure more exactly the dose you are taking.
Creams and Lotions
One of the most popular ways to take CBD is through creams or lotions, especially to treat health conditions like arthritis. You can apply creams and lotions that contain CBD to massage the area in the body which is causing the pain. CBD has promising effects in the treatment of skin conditions as well, such as acne, because of its anti-inflammatory effects. Therefore, CBD topicals are highly recommended for those who are having problems with the skin.
Are There Any Side Effects?
CBD has so far been considered safe to use. However, it is not advisable to mix it with other medications. Side effects of this ingredient are not very common, but some of them could include: dry mouth, drowsiness, fatigue, etc. To avoid any possible side effects you must be careful with the dose you take. Also, consult your doctor if you are pregnant or have any regular medication that you are using.
