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The Basics Of CBD
What Is CBD?
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a non-intoxicating compound found in the cannabis plant
that has exploded in popularity in recent years. CBD products are everywhere, from tinctures to gummies, with
proponents claiming it can help with everything from anxiety to chronic pain. But what is CBD, and is it as
effective and safe as many believe?
Firstly, it's essential to
understand that CBD is not the same as THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis that gives users a "high." CBD
does not produce the same intoxicating effects and is considered safe for use. However, we still don't know much
about CBD and its effects on the body.
Is CBD Safe?
The World Health Organization has deemed CBD generally well-tolerated, with no evidence of abuse or dependence. However, CBD can interact with other medications, so it's important to talk to your doctor before trying any new products.
Is CBD Legal?
In terms of legality, the laws surrounding CBD products can be confusing. CBD is legal for medicinal use in some countries, while it is strictly prohibited in others. In the UK and many other countries, CBD products are permitted as long as they contain less than 0.2% THC. However, checking the laws in your specific country or region is important before purchasing or using any CBD products.
What We Know About CBD For Pain
CBD is a type of cannabinoid, a naturally occurring chemical compound found in the cannabis plant. There are two types of cannabinoids, endogenous and exogenous. Endogenous cannabinoids are lipids that the body naturally produces, while exogenous cannabinoids, such as CBD, are found in the cannabis plant.
When cannabinoids, both endogenous and exogenous, bind to endocannabinoid receptors attached to cells, they stimulate different cell responses that influence pain signalling pathways. CBD does not bind very well to endocannabinoid receptors, but it may interact with neurological receptors in the spinal cord that suppress chronic inflammatory pain. CBD may also strengthen the effects of anandamide, an endogenous cannabinoid that reduces pain.
A small 2018 study evaluated CBD's pain-relieving effects in seven people who experienced chronic pain after having kidney transplants. Six of the seven participants reported improvements in pain, while one experienced more pain at higher CBD doses but achieved the best pain control at lower CBD doses. In a 2015 animal study, researchers found that topical CBD reduced arthritis-related joint swelling and pain in mice. Effective doses ranged from 6.2 to 62 milligrams (mg) per day.
While more research is still necessary, these preliminary studies suggest that CBD may help manage pain. A 2021 study also notes that participants in the investigation have positive attitudes toward CBD treatment options and report positive outcomes when using the substance for pain-related conditions.
It is important to note that CBD is not a cure-all and should not be relied upon as the sole treatment for pain. It should be used in conjunction with other pain management strategies and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Additionally, purchasing high-quality CBD products from reputable sources and following the recommended dosage guidelines is essential.
How Much CBD Is Good For Pain?
- Body weight
- Condition being treated
- Individual body chemistry
- The concentration of CBD in the product
Consult Your Doctor: Before trying CBD, consult your doctor for the appropriate dosage and any
potential risks, especially if you're taking prescription medication containing CBD. If your doctor does not
recommend it, start with a smaller dosage and gradually increase it.
Calculating Dosage: Some
products indicate the amount of CBD in a single serving, while others may require a bit of math to determine
dosage. For example, a 30-mL bottle of CBD oil containing 1,000 mg of CBD will have 600 drops, each containing
about 1.6 mg of CBD. For a detailed explanation as to how we recommend you dose your CBD, please read
our CBD dosage
article.
Possible Side Effects: While
there are few known side effects of CBD, such as fatigue, diarrhoea, and changes in appetite or weight, it's
still essential to research each brand and purchase from a reputable company with third-party Testing to avoid
low-quality or fake products.
Can You Take Too Much CBD?
Studies have found that continuous use of CBD, even in high doses like 1,500 mg a
day, is tolerated well by humans. However, a 2019 study on mice raised concerns about liver damage and
medication interactions. Consult your doctor before taking CBD if you're currently taking medication.
In conclusion, determining the ideal dosage of CBD for pain management
involves several factors. Starting with a smaller dosage and gradually increasing it is recommended, along with
consulting your doctor before use. Remember to research each brand and purchase from a reputable company to
avoid low-quality or fake products.
Which CBD Product Is Best For Pain?
- CBD oil: CBD oil is one of the most popular types of CBD products. It is made by extracting CBD from cannabis plants and mixing it with a carrier oil, such as coconut or hemp seed oil. CBD oil can be consumed orally or applied topically to the skin. CBD oil can provide systemic relief for pain when taken orally, while the topical application can help with localized pain.
- CBD capsules: CBD capsules are a convenient and discreet way to consume CBD. They are straightforward to dose, and their effects can last longer than other forms of CBD. Capsules can be taken orally and provide systemic relief for the pain.
- CBD creams: CBD topicals are products designed to be applied directly to the skin. They include creams, balms, salves, and lotions infused with CBD. CBD topicals can relieve pain and inflammation in the affected area.
- CBD edibles: CBD edibles are food products infused with CBD. They include gummies, chocolates, and other treats. CBD edibles are an easy and tasty way to consume CBD and can provide systemic relief for the pain.
- CBD vape oil: CBD vape oil is a liquid used in vape pens or e-cigarettes. Vaping CBD can provide fast relief for pain, but the effects may not last as long as other forms of CBD. Using a reputable vape oil brand is essential to avoid harmful additives.
How To Buy The Best Quality CBD For Pain
• A Certificate of Analysis (COA) - this document provides details on the compounds found in a CBD product and is essential to a company's transparency. A reliable COA should feature at least three panels, including cannabinoid analysis, heavy metals analysis, and pesticide analysis.
• Third-Party Testing - using a third-party laboratory for product testing is another essential aspect of a COA and a company's trustworthiness. This ensures that the results are unbiased and accurate. Research the third-party lab to ensure it is also trustworthy and qualified.
• Ingredient List - unless you're buying pure CBD oil (called CBD isolate), you're likely ingesting other cannabinoids and compounds called terpenes. So look for products labelled "broad-spectrum CBD" or "full-spectrum CBD" that include small traces of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), as the entourage effect can increase the product's overall wellness benefits.
• Organic, Non-GMO, Vegan, and Gluten-Free - organic CBD oil is free of synthetic chemicals like certain pesticides. Look for the USDA Certified Organic label to ensure a product is organic. Non-GMO CBD oil comes from hemp plants that aren't genetically altered through external intervention. Vegan CBD oil is easy to find since it comes from the hemp plant and doesn't contain animal products. Gluten-free CBD oil is also common, but checking the ingredients list and sourcing information on any CBD product is essential.
At Hemp Elf, we are committed to providing our customers with high-quality CBD products that meet the above standards. Our products come with a COA from a third-party lab and are sourced from organic, non-GMO, vegan, and European grown hemp. We are dedicated to transparency and quality and stand by the safety and efficacy of all our products.
