The world of CBD can be a complex and overwhelming one for some, which is why we’re taking things back to basics today. If you would like to try CBD and add it to your healthy lifestyle, arguably one of the best places that you can begin is with CBD oil. This is because of its simplicity, ease of use and range of flavours – but more on this later. Consider this article to be your small guide on how to use CBD oil.
What Is CBD?
Let’s begin by defining CBD. This is the shortened word for cannabidiol, which is a cannabinoid that comes from the cannabis plant, which is also often referred to as the hemp plant. CBD isn’t the only cannabinoid or compound that comes from the plant, there are also terpenes, flavonoids, other cannabinoids and vitamins. One of the other most infamous cannabinoids is tetrahydrocannabinol, which is commonly referred to as THC for short.
Following an extensive investigation, researchers discovered that this was the main psychoactive cannabinoid from hemp. This means that it can cause the consumer to feel intoxicated. Therefore, there can only be trace amounts (0.2%) of THC in CBD products and you can rest assured that consuming CBD products won’t alter your mental state.
What Is CBD Oil?
Now that we know what cannabidiol is, it’s time to move the focus onto CBD oil. CBD oil is typically created by extracting the cannabinoid from the stalks, leaves and flowers of the hemp plant. This will then be diluted with a natural carrier oil, such as hemp seed oil or olive oil.
Aside from different product formats like CBD oil gummies, capsules, topicals, etc., CBD oil will come in three different spectrums: isolate, broad-spectrum and full-spectrum. Understanding the differences between them is essential so that you can make a confident purchase. CBD isolate contains only pure CBD, broad-spectrum will contain all natural compounds minus THC and full-spectrum contains all of the natural compounds, including trace amounts of THC.
It’s a good idea to do your own research into the different spectrums to figure out what would work best for you. For example, CBD isolate is a popular choice for people who are new to CBD and wish to avoid any other compounds. Broad-spectrum and full-spectrum products are popular for the potential benefits that they can offer via the entourage effect – the theory that all the compounds work best when they do so in synergy.
How To Use CBD Oil
The great news is that CBD infused oil is super easy to use! Once you have worked out your dosage (number of drops), you will fill the pipette with oil. Then you drop the oil underneath your tongue and let it absorb into the soft tissue underneath your tongue. Known as the sublingual method, it’s one of the fastest ways to feel the effects.
On the other hand, you may also wish to combine your CBD oil with your food and drink. Although this will take longer to feel the effects (as the CBD needs to pass through your liver and digestive system), this may be preferable for you if you don’t like the taste or texture of oil. Simply drop your CBD oil into your meal or drink and allow it to absorb. It’s a good idea to purchase a water-soluble CBD if you prefer to mix it with edibles.
Benefits of CBD Oil
So, what are the benefits of choosing CBD oil in comparison to the other CBD products on the market? Here are some of the main benefits:
- The Taste: If you don’t like the natural taste of hemp, then you’re in luck. You can purchase CBD oil to suit your tastes and preferences as there are so many different flavours out there. Some examples include cola, lemon and berries.
- The Versatility: As we have mentioned, CBD oil is also a versatile product as you can use it in two ways. This gives you plenty of freedom and the chance to take your CBD on the go in the form of edibles. You can have fun creating your very own CBD recipes!
- Dosage: It’s easy to calculate your dosage when you use CBD oil, as all of the information will be on the label.
Tips For Purchasing CBD Products
With so many different CBD brands out there, it can seem overwhelming knowing where to begin. Here are some things for you to think about before parting with your cash:
- Reviews: Taking a look at the reviews before you purchase is an easy thing to do but so important. It might help to provide an overall picture of a product and how other consumers have got on with it. Make sure that you don’t just check out the brand’s website, take it further and check out websites like Trustpilot.
- Third-party testing: All CBD brands should third-party lab test their products. This means that a laboratory unconnected to them will examine the product for safety and the potencies of the ingredients. They will then provide a Certificate of Analysis (COA) which the brand should then make readily available for their potential customers. If they don’t, then you should avoid them. It’s important to note that it’s a legal requirement for brands to accurately label every one of their products, and third-party lab testing is the best way to achieve this.
- Their Hemp: This goes along with our above point about transparency. The brand should indicate where they sourced their hemp from, including how and where it was grown. This helps you to build a level of trust with the brand.
Final Thoughts
We hope that this article has armed you with all you need to know about CBD oil! This method of CBD consumption is beloved by both CBD newbies and veterans alike and it’s easy to see why. Remember, begin with a low dose of CBD oil and see how it affects you. You can then experiment with your dosage if you feel the need to.
