If you hadn’t heard of CBD a few years ago, you’ve probably become familiar with it now. CBD products have exploded onto the scene in just about every market you can think of. Whether it’s CBD soaps and balms, oils and tinctures, or joints, there are more ways than ever to consume the cannabis compound that many users say helps with everything from anxiety to pain relief. If you’ve never used CBD before though, it can be intimidating to figure out which products to buy and how much to consume once you’ve purchased them. Finding the right dosage can be extremely individual since all of our bodies are different, but let’s go over some basics when it comes to using CBD.
What is CBD?
CBD is short for cannabidiol, which is one of over 60 active compounds that can be found in the cannabis plant. Unlike weed, CBD isn’t psychoactive, so you won’t feel intoxicated. Still, many users rave about the effects that it has on a variety of ailments and issues. Due to the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized and regulated the production of hemp on a national level, CBD’s legal status has been more clear than cannabis and it is often both easier to find as well as less expensive than its psychoactive cousin.
What are its effects?
CBD is much different than marijuana, despite the fact that they both originate from the hemp plant. Unlike marijuana, CBD doesn’t contain THC, the compound which produces the psychoactive effect for which weed has become famous. While users of CBD report positive effects on things like mood, anxiety, and pain relief, CBD doesn’t get you “high”, and there are federal standards prohibiting more than .03% THC in most CBD products. Most users rave about the calming effect it has and there are hundreds of studies ongoing to ascertain more information about CBD’s medical applications. The FDA has already released one drug, Epidiolex, which uses CBD to treat certain rare seizure disorders, and scientists are actively looking for more ways to use this unique plant to provide relief.
What is an appropriate dosage of CBD?
It’s important to figure out what dosage is right for you, considering most CBD products are not single-use. There are also a variety of CBD products, all with different methods of consumption, so the first step is identifying what type of product you wish to purchase. If you buy CBD oil 1000mg, for example, you can expect to get about 100 “doses”, as the standard dosage consumed is typically between 5-15mg. Most studies done on human beings in a scientific setting have used daily doses anywhere from 20 and 1,500 mg per day. While research on the health benefits that it could have is still ongoing, existing studies suggest that it is a relatively safe treatment, when used responsibly.
In addition to oils and tinctures, CBD products can be found in every industry from supplements to food to bath products, or you can simply smoke it the same way you would smoke a traditional marijuana joint. No matter what route you choose, make sure you limit your dose the first time and consider trying it at home where you can see how it affects you. While CBD’s effects are generally mild, everyone is different and it’s important to be sure about how something affects you before you incorporate it into your routine.
Whether you’re a cannabis expert or new to the scene, giving CBD a try might be something you find yourself interested in. If you decide to try CBD products, make sure you do your research about the different types of products you can purchase and make an educated decision about which one works best for you. Start with a small dose your first time so you can see how it affects you specifically, and then adjust from there until you find the perfect dosage. As long as you’re responsible and cautious, there’s no reason enjoying CBD can’t be a part of your lifestyle.
