Are you looking for alternative ways to improve your health? With the emergence of new diseases that are difficult to manage and can be life-threatening, many people have become more health conscious. As a result, they have embraced a healthy lifestyle and turned to food supplements for additional nourishment.
One supplement that has gained attention is cannabidiol (CBD), an active cannabinoid found in hemp and cannabis. CBD oil is used as an ingredient in many health and wellness products, including lotions, moisturizers, and dietary supplements such as capsules and tinctures.
Before consuming CBD, there are several important things to consider. Keep reading to learn more.
1. Methods Of CBD Administration
There are several ways to take CBD, each with its own advantages and considerations. These methods include:
- Orally: CBD oil can be ingested on its own or mixed with food or drink. This method takes about 30 minutes to take effect as the cannabidiol must pass through the digestive tract and liver for processing.
- Sublingually: CBD tincture can be placed under the tongue for rapid absorption by the tiny blood vessels in the oral mucosal lining.
- Topically: CBD can be applied directly to the skin in the form of lotions or creams.
- Vaporization: CBD can be inhaled as vapor using a vaporizer. Knowing the importance of vaporizer features is crucial to determine the best vaping device for optimal CBD delivery.
When choosing a CBD administration method, consider your individual needs and preferences.
2. Types Of CBD Oil
The following are the main types of CBD oil:
- Isolate: This is pure cannabidiol oil without tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or other plant compounds. It’s a good option for those who want to avoid ingesting THC, even in trace amounts.
- Full Spectrum: This whole plant extract contains THC and all other plant compounds. The THC level is 0.3% or less, not enough to cause psychoactive effects. Many people prefer this type to benefit from the hemp plant’s varying compounds.
- Broad Spectrum: This oil contains plant compounds but no THC. It’s a good option for those who want to avoid THC but still benefit from the other plant compounds.
Understanding the differences between these three types can help you choose the best preparation for your needs.
3. Effects Of CBD
CBD supplements can provide support for people looking to improve their wellness or struggling with their health. Unlike THC, which is psychoactive, CBD has subtle effects and does not cause a feeling of being high or couch-locked.
After taking CBD oil, you may feel more relaxed within 30 minutes. Vaping and sublingual methods can provide immediate calming effects. It’s normal for first-time users to not notice the subtle relaxing effects.
While generally tolerable, CBD supplements can have side effects such as drowsiness, reduced appetite, diarrhea, and dry mouth. CBD can also interact with blood thinners and other medications.
4. CBD: Not A Cure Or Treatment
You may have heard or read about CBD being used to treat medical conditions. However, it’s important to note that CBD is a supplement and not a cure.
While there are FDA-approved drugs that contain CBD, most CBD products sold on the market are considered supplements with no approved therapeutic claims. This means that taking CBD supplements may help alleviate symptoms such as stress and anxiety, but it doesn’t address the underlying cause of the problem.
5. Different Sources Of CBD
CBD is a naturally occurring compound found in the cannabis plant. It can be derived from both hemp and marijuana varieties of the cannabis plant. Hemp is a variety of cannabis sativa plant that contains 0.3% or less THC and is the primary source of CBD.
There have been some claims of CBD being derived from non-hemp sources such as orange peel and hops, but these are not well-documented.
6. Pregnancy And Lactation: Why CBD Is Not Recommended
If you’re pregnant or think you may be pregnant, it’s important to consult with your doctor before taking any supplements or medications. The potential effects of CBD on pregnancy are not well understood, and high doses of CBD have been shown to have negative effects on fetal development in animal studies.
Breastfeeding mothers should also avoid taking CBD supplements as there’s no evidence to confirm its safety or whether it can be passed through breast milk.
Conclusion
CBD is a popular supplement that has been studied for its potential health benefits. However, it should be noted that CBD is not a cure or treatment for any medical condition. Before consuming CBD, it’s advisable to consider the different methods of administration, types of CBD oil, and the effects it may have. Consulting with your doctor before taking CBD is recommended, especially if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
By understanding the potential benefits and risks of CBD, you can make a well-informed decision about whether this supplement is right for you.
