What You Need To Know About CBD Oil

Cannabidiol, or CBD oil has increasingly become a popular additive to treat a variety of health concerns. CBD revenue in the United States is anticipated to reach a whopping $23.7 billion by 2023. It comes in capsules, gummies, oils, topical creams, soaps, and vape juice. Although not approved by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA), there are products for adults, children, and even pets. Not all CBD infused products are created equally. There are also risks associated with its use. If you are thinking about trying it, here is what you need to know about CBD oil.

What Is CBD Oil?

CBD oil is a chemical produced by the cannabis sativa plant. It is the second most abundant constituent of marijuana, with THC being the first. CBD oil is not psychoactive and will not produce a high that THC does. There are two types of receptors in your body that respond to cannabis, CB1 and CB2. These two receptors are part of the endocannabinoid system that controls and regulates hormones that influence energy levels, mood, and appetite. Substances and chemicals that affect your CB1 receptors are more likely to create a psychoactive effect. Any chemical that affects your CB2 receptors can create reactions in your body without giving you a high feeling. CBD oil falls into this category.

Common Uses Of CBD Oil

CBD oil is used to treat a wide variety of health concerns in adults, children, and even pets. Here are the most common uses:

Epilepsy
Stress
Anxiety
Diabetes
ADHD
Weight loss
Pain relief
Skin care
Sleep
Reduce inflammation

CBD has only been proven effective in sufferers of epilepsy. However, consumers swear by its effects for other uses.

Risks Of Taking CBD Oil

CBD oil has only been FDA approved in a prescription medication to prevent seizures. Since the FDA does not regulate other manufacturers, the ingredients may be mislabeled on the packaging. Due to this lack of oversight, some companies have even added opioids and benzodiazepines. Other companies have falsely advertised their products to contain CBD oil when this ingredient has been omitted altogether.

In a study conducted by the Journal of the American Medical Association in 2017, only 30.95 percent of CBD products sold online were correctly labeled. Most contained less CBD than advertised, and 21.43 percent contained a significant amount of THC.

Additionally, not a lot of research has been done about CBD oil. No long term study has been able to show the effects on the brain or quality of life resulting from taking CBD oil. It will be some time before a multi-decade clinical study can take place. In the studies that have been conducted, many reports claiming the individual saw an improvement are due to the placebo effect.

Side Effects

CBD oil can trigger side effects in some people, and the severity of and type of symptom varies from individual to individual. Most people who use CBD oil do not find the side effects bothersome enough to stop using it. CBD oil should not be used while pregnant or nursing. Although it is unclear how it contributes to the baby’s development, it is known to be able to pass through the placental barrier.

CBD oil can also interact with other medications such as blood thinners, antidepressants, and immune suppressors.

Possible Side Effects:

Anxiety
Appetite changes
Irritability
Diarrhea
Drowsiness
Dizziness
Nausea
Vomiting

How To Use

CBD oil is often delivered sublingually (under the tongue), but there are no guidelines for the appropriate use. Since there is no “correct” dose, people who use it report taking doses from 5 mg to 25 mg. Determining how much CBD oil per millimeter can be difficult. Some products will have a concentration of 1500 mg per mL, while others will have 300 mg per mL. Each bottle has approximately 600 drops and each drop equals 0.05 mL. If the concentration is 1500 mg per mL, one drop would have 2.5 mg of CBD (1500 mg divided by 600 drops = 2.5 mg).

To correctly use CBD oil, place a drop or two under your tongue and hold for 30 to 60 seconds without swallowing. Gummies and capsules are easy to dose, as is CBD sublingual sprays. The sprays are generally used for convenience. CBD oil is the most concentrated and fastest way to feel the effects. You may have to try different forms to find what works best for you, the condition you are treating, and your lifestyle. Keep in mind that it can take up to 30 minutes to feel the effects, so be patient. You don’t want to start with a too high of a dose.

Tips For Buying CBD Oil

Since there has been controversy about manufacturers mislabeling their products, it is important to know what to look for when buying CBD oil.

Buy American made products that are subject to agricultural regulations.
Buy organic products that don’t use pesticides or other chemicals
Buy products that include the amount of CBD on the label (should have 250 – 1000 mg per 30 mL bottle)
Buy products that contain less than 0.03 percent THC
Don’t skimp on the price
Buy products made from “whole plant” extracts, not CBD isolates
Buy products extracted by using CO2 or alcohol
Don’t buy products using chemicals like propane, butane, pentane, or hexane
Buy from companies that make their test results public
Always read the reviews

As you would before any purchase, always do your own research. You certainly don’t want to waste your money on a product that fails to deliver its promise. Since there are so many manufacturers to choose from, finding a reputable one can take time. These tips will help you narrow down the options.

Considering CBD oil is highly unregulated, be sure to research the manufacturer before buying. Additionally, check the laws and regulations in your state before purchasing, as they vary among different states. Always talk to your healthcare provider before taking CBD to see if it will benefit you or impose any risks.