CBD wellness products are all the rage, but not all CBD is created equal. It’s natural that people are cautious when considering what new products to add to their daily routine. Important aspects of any new addition are information and awareness.
With more and more retailers carrying CBD products it’s important to understand the fundamentals so you can make informed decisions and know what is fact and what is fiction.
The below questions and answers will give you a good start on learning the basics about CBD.
What Is CBD?
CBD, short for Cannabidiol, is a naturally occurring compound (cannabinoid) found in the flower of the Cannabis plant in both Hemp and Marijuana.
It’s important to understand that Hemp and Marijuana have different chemical compositions although both come from cannabis.
Why are hemp and marijuana treated differently? It all comes down to one thing: marijuana can get you “high,” while hemp can’t.
Is CBD Legal?
Yes. The passing of the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, also known as the 2018 Farm Bill, enabled hemp agriculture and products to become legal in all 50 states.
Any CBD that’s derived from industrial hemp, defined as cannabis with less than 0.3% THC, is legal according to federal regulations.
Will It Get Me High?
No. In the US, marijuana is defined as any cannabis plant with greater than 0.3 percent THC, short for tetrahydrocannabinol and is the compound in cannabis that gets you “high.”
Hemp derived CBD only has 0.3% THC (or less) and won’t get you high.
What Types of CBD are There?
CBD can be split into three categories: (1) Full Spectrum, (2) Broad Spectrum, and (3) Isolate.
- Full spectrum is extracted from the whole plant. It contains CBD along with many other beneficial phytonutrients, including up to 0.3 percent THC.
- Broad spectrum removes the THC that’s in Full spectrum CBD. It has all the phytonutrients but not the THC.
- CBD isolates have only CBD, there are no other items such as THC, terpenes, or other cannabinoids.
- Research suggests that Full Spectrum is the most effective due to the combination of the other phytonutrients in the plant – delivering an ‘entourage effect’.
What Forms Does CBD Come In?
- Oils and tinctures – These are made with CBD extract and added to a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or hempseed oil. The most effective way to take this form is by placing drops directly under the tongue. The oral mucosa is full of tiny capillaries that absorb the compounds quickly. Oils and tinctures are a good choice for anyone who can’t take pills or capsules. Oils can also be used topically.
- Creams and lotions – Balms, salves, creams, and lotions can be used topically to relieve aching muscles and joints. Often used by athletes and others who want to avoid prescription or chemical pain relief.
- Capsules – Many prefer to take CBD in capsule form because it’s easy and is simple. They’re also a good choice if you dislike the taste or texture of drops.
- Edibles – This is an easy and convenient way to take CBD. Some of the most popular items are gummies, chocolates, and caramels. Edibles are discreet and easy to take throughout the day for those who need to spread out higher dosages of CBD.
Will CBD Show Up in A Drug Test?
Since there are trace amounts of THC (.3% or less) in Full Spectrum CBD, consumers need to be aware that a single-dose or cumulative THC exposure may cause an unexpected positive result on a drug test. There are many factors that can affect results such as amounts taken, frequency, and body weight to name a few.
For those looking for the benefit of Full Spectrum CBD they can safely take Broad Spectrum CBD – all the THC has been processed out and removed.
How Do I Determine Quality CBD Products?
- Look for a Certificate of Analysis (COA) from an independent lab for the products you’re interested in buying. This report shows the molecular analysis of the product – showing the amounts of the various cannabinoids present. The COA verifies that what’s on the label matches with what’s in the bottle.
- Be wary of sellers making dishonest medical claims such as it cures cancer or Alzheimer’s disease. While CBD has shown to alleviate inflammation and pain it’s not a cure.
- Look for sellers that are transparent about products and offer information and news on CBD. Because CBD works differently on everyone it’s a matter of doing your due diligence and research to find out what works for you.
- Trustworthy merchants will help customers with questions and supply educational materials.
Is CBD Just A Fad?
No. Hemp has been illegal in the US for the past 80 years and there was limited research done. It was classified a Schedule I drug, same as marijuana and grouping this crop with drugs like heroin and LSD.
With new technology and testing it’s been determined that hemp is not a drug and, in fact, has many beneficial qualities.
Is There Any Science Behind It?
Yes. The FDA approved Epidiolex, the first and only FDA-approved prescription cannabidiol (CBD) drug in June of 2018. Epidiolex resulted in fewer seizures in those hardest to treat. (www.Epidiolex.com)
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has also done, and continues to do, numerous studies on cannabinoids with optimistic outcomes. (www.nih.gov)
About the Author: After having personally witnessed the benefits of hemp-derived CBD, Lauren Simmons was impassioned and founded ABACA.vip. Her approach is straightforward – provide customers with news and information about CBD and sell only high-quality vetted products.
