Cannabidiol (CBD) has exploded in popularity recently, with users raving about its purported health benefits. However, there’s also a lot of confusion about what CBD actually is and how it relates to marijuana. Does it get you high? Is it even legal? We’re here to provide an in-depth look at CBD and clarify some misconceptions.
What is CBD Exactly?
CBD stands for cannabidiol. It is one of over 100 compounds found in cannabis plants called cannabinoids. CBD is extracted and separated from specific varieties of cannabis, most commonly from hemp plants.
Unlike its famous cousin tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive compound in marijuana, CBD will NOT cause any feeling of being “stoned.” While THC elicits a high by binding directly to CB1 receptors in the brain, CBD does not fit neatly into these receptors. Instead, it works indirectly on the endocannabinoid system to help the body achieve homeostasis. How Does CBD Work in the Body? CBD interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex cell-signaling network that helps regulate essential functions like sleep, immune response, pain perception, appetite, mood, and more. The ECS produces its own cannabinoids, called endocannabinoids. CBD acts on different receptors in the ECS to cause various effects in the body and mind.
For example, CBD binds weakly to CB1 receptors in the brain. While it does not elicit a psychoactive effect, CBD is able to mitigate some of the intoxicating properties of THC by blocking its ability to bind directly with CB1 receptors. Where CBD really excels is in interacting with CB2 receptors. CB2 receptors are found predominantly on immune cells, regulating inflammation and pain perception. By stimulating CB2, CBD taps into the body’s innate ability to heal and find balance. This helps reduce pain and inflammation throughout the body.
The Legality of CBD vs. Marijuana
Unlike marijuana, CBD derived from hemp containing less than 0.3% THC became legal at the federal level in the U.S. with the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill. However, the laws around marijuana and CBD remain complex and rapidly evolving. Marijuana is still considered a Schedule 1 illegal substance federally, though medical and recreational marijuana has been legalized in many states. CBD derived from marijuana plants remains illegal on a federal level. Only CBD derived specifically from hemp is currently legal in all 50 states.
Each state also has its own laws around hemp-derived CBD. While hemp CBD is widely accessible across most of the country, there are still some states where restrictive laws remain in place. It is important to research the legality of CBD in your specific state. The landscape is continuously shifting.
Will CBD Products Get Me High?
No- CBD will not get you high since it does not directly bind to CB1 receptors like THC. Reputable CBD products derived from hemp should contain no more than 0.3% THC, far too low to produce psychoactive effects.
However, some unscrupulous sellers market their products as CBD when they may contain undisclosed THC. This is why purchasing CBD products only from trusted brands that provide third-party lab testing and purity certification is extremely important. Untested products put consumers at risk of ingesting THC unknowingly.
Our CBD gummies proudly publish our lab results from independent testing facilities. You can verify that our products are THC-free and contain exactly what is listed on the label. We take every measure to ensure our gummies will not get you high while still providing the natural benefits of CBD.
Choosing the Best Quality CBD Products As the CBD market has exploded, testing facilities have found some products do not actually contain the amount of CBD stated on the label. Some have been found to contain contaminants like pesticides and heavy metals. Only purchase CBD from reputable companies, with each batch independently tested by a third-party lab.
Here are some tips for vetting the quality of a CBD product:
- Ensure the CBD is independently tested. The results should be available on the company’s website or by request.
- Check for certifications of analysis from labs like ISO 17025-compliant facilities. This rigorous standard ensures accurate, precise testing.
- Confirm the CBD has undergone third-party testing for purity and potency and for any contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides, or microbial.
- Research the company’s extraction methods. Higher-quality CBD is extracted using techniques like supercritical CO2 extraction vs. chemical solvents.
- Check customer reviews and feedback online about the brand and specific products. This can reveal the effectiveness and customer service.
How to Take CBD
CBD is extremely versatile and can be taken in various ways to suit each person’s preference. The delivery method impacts how quickly CBD is absorbed and how long its effects last. Here are some of the most common ways to take CBD:
- CBD Oil - Taken under the tongue and held before swallowing, CBD oil takes effect in around 15-30 minutes and lasts 4-6 hours. Oils offer high bioavailability.
- CBD Edibles - Edibles like gummies must pass through the digestive system so take longer to work (60-90 minutes) but have longer-lasting effects (8+ hours). CBD Topicals - Applied directly to the skin, CBD topicals are best for localized relief rather than whole-body effects. Absorption happens in minutes.
- CBD Vapes - Inhaling CBD vape oil kicks in fast in 5-15 minutes and wears off in a few hours. However, vaping comes with potential respiratory risks.
- CBD Capsules - Swallowed capsules act like edibles, passing through the digestive system for a slower but more extended release.
Our CBD gummies provide a simple, precise dose and longer-lasting effects. They are easy to incorporate into any daily wellness regimen.
CBD Dosage Guide There is no universal dosage for CBD that works for everyone. The optimal amount varies based on individual factors like body weight, metabolism, prior CBD use, and the condition being treated. It's best to start low and gradually increase the dose until you find relief.
As a general guideline, the typical dosage recommendations are:
- Preventive health: 2.5-5mg per day
- Mild effects: 5-10mg per day
- Moderate effects: 10-20mg per day
- Strong effects: 20-50mg per day
Again, finding the sweet spot requires some trial and error. Stick with a low dose for several days to assess its impact before increasing gradually. Consult a doctor experienced with CBD to help determine the most effective regimen.
Potential Side Effects of CBD are generally very well tolerated and considered safe at typical dosages. Minor side effects reported include drowsiness, diarrhea, changes in appetite, and fatigue. CBD may interact with certain medications like blood thinners, so consult your doctor before use, especially if you have a medical condition.
Discontinue use if you experience negative side effects, and reduce dosage if needed. While adverse reactions are uncommon, listening to your body and using CBD responsibly is important. Our gummies incorporate precise CBD doses and are tested for quality and safety.
The Takeaway
CBD Offers Benefits Without the High We hope this comprehensive guide clears up any confusion surrounding CBD. While marijuana causes impairment, CBD promotes balance within the body’s endocannabinoid system. CBD provides natural support for health issues stemming from inflammation, anxiety, chronic pain, poor sleep, and more – without psychoactive effects. Our CBD gummies make it convenient to add this nourishing cannabinoid to your wellness plan. Give them a try and experience CBD’s benefits for yourself!