Like the cannabis plant itself, CBD only continues to grow year on year with more attention. Just look at the numbers speculated through a variety of sources; in US dollars early estimates show that the end of 2020 indicated the CBD market was worth roughly $9.3 billion. That’s up a staggering amount from 2018 estimates of $4.6 billion. The expectations are only expected to rise, jumping up to $20 billion by 2024 in the US alone, according to Forbes. The UK market is in just as much demand, expecting to triple by 2025 to over one billion pounds!
But before we analyse such a sharp increase in more depth — let's take a look at the bigger picture. What is CBD oil exactly and how did it become such a huge part of modern culture? It’s everywhere, from liquids in your vaping device to fitness magazine cooking suggestions.
Scientifically, there are still doubts about CBD oil, which is currently classified as a ‘food supplement’. We can not point to how it can impact you medically because of strict regulations in place, particularly surrounding vaping CBD, scarce research and very few meaningful clinical studies highlighting the challenge to prove CBD’s full worth. Throw the misunderstanding that CBD ‘gets you high’ like cannabis into the equation and this is where the initial confusion lies. Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of 113 Cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Cannabis, known recreationally by the name ‘marijuana or ‘weed’, features another Cannabinoid called Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC for short). THC when used heavily in recreational marijuana often creates hallucinations when taken. It can lead to several side effects, which are proven in a variety of medical studies. This evidence is available more than CBD because it’s existed more in society and circulation.
CBD creates a different reaction in the human body because it has very little THC, due to regulations in place (more on that later). But don’t worry, when you mix CBD and THC, the negative aspects you get from THC is blocked by CBD. The receptors from CBD stop THC in its tracks. Essentially, CBD oil is completely different from marijuana and does not cause a high. Let’s explain why below.
CBD: A BRIEF EXPLANATION
CBD is a psychoactive compound extracted from the cannabis family of plants, with the most common stemming from the Cannabis Sativa or Cannabis Indica plants. Because it is non-intoxicating, it does not cause the high, which is good news if you have done your research and think this food supplement can support your wellbeing. Industrial versions of cannabis are referred to as ‘hemp’ products or ‘full spectrum’. They contain fair less THC, with UK laws specifying it must be under 0.2% THC to comply and pass regulations for sale.
In contrast, marijuana contains predominantly THC, so it depends on what you’re after. Most who use marijuana do so illegally by smoking or baking with it. It has very limited legal use medically, although the NHS does use cannabis in specific circumstances, such as for treating cancer patients to reduce nausea, epilepsy and as a secondary option to treat MS patients, should no other treatments work.
IS CBD OIL SAFE?
CBD is not going away anytime soon and is currently in a position of ascendancy such is its popularity. As we know, it’s used in many different ways because of the knowledge we have on CBD so far. With such low THC amounts, it’s virtually harmless and classed as a ‘food supplement’ which supports daily life. What is necessary is to choose a CBD product that is pure and has no added artificial flavours. Most users of CBD are looking to maintain a healthier lifestyle, so it does not make sense to use CBD that has artificial colouring, flavourings or additives with unknown ingredients or origin.
Everybody takes CBD differently depending on which method they use and how frequently they decide to implement it in their routine. It’s recommended to start on a low dose and work your way up to the required amount that suits you. The World Health Organisation states that CBD shows no signs of serious side effects. But like with any supplement, mild side effects can occur and even impact how other medicines work. Mild side effects differ based on the individual and circumstances such as their weight and dosage took each day.
HOW YOU SHOULD TAKE CBD OIL
CBD oil is one of the most popular methods, allowing Cannabidiol to enter the system. If you want an even faster method, vaping allows CBD to enter the bloodstream directly via. inhalation (albeit less effective). Other methods include:
- Edibles
- Capsules
- Tinctures
- Moisturiser
To use CBD oil, it’s placed under the tongue. Generally speaking, CBD oil takes longer to take effect than vaping, but it can be known to last longer. To take CBD, you can put a couple of oil droplets under your tongue (sublingual). Hold the CBD oil under your tongue for around 60-90 seconds before swallowing. If swallowed immediately, the stomach acids will break the CBD down. You can also add CBD oil to your food or put it directly on your skin with moisturiser. People even add it to bath bombs, the possibilities are endless!
TAKEAWAY: CHOOSE YOUR CBD OIL WISELY
The popularity of CBD oil continues to change because of the growing demand for all products CBD-related. As an example, CBD is now worth more than the Vitamin C and D supplements combined! People like to ingest CBD oil orally because it’s easy to do and a simple routine before breakfast, or for use before getting a good night's rest. As studies show, certain plant extracts can prove beneficial for winding down after a long day of life pressures.
With so many different products available online, in pharmacies and even supermarkets, it’s a challenge for trade associations and government bodies to regulate and manage the desire from customers, not just in the UK but globally. Some good indicators of the professionalism each CBD business upholds will be evident by these measures listed above. Other factors such as clear labelling, specified ingredients and measurements of THC, packaging and the way they run a business (i.e. the quality of their website) also matter.
Therefore, should you wish to try out CBD oil or switch brands, ensure you find a label that’s certified. Regular testing of their products to meet the highest quality standards and recognition by a respected organisation such as the Food Standards Authority (FSA) or Cannabis Trade Association (CTA). Peace of mind is one of the biggest factors to ensure you know what you’re taking is beneficial. Transparency is also key, so finding a CBD product that’s upfront about their ingredients and able to demonstrate laboratory reports of their testing and creation methods, including ingredients, will certainly highlight not just trust between business and consumer, but clear up any doubts about CBD.
CONTINUE READING
You can find out more about CBD by reading one of our follow-up blogs below!
HOW TO VAPE CBD WHAT ELSE IS CBD USED FOR?For more information about using CBD, introducing it into your lifestyle, and our range of products, please feel free to contact us.