If your curious about CBD products – and it’s reasonable to be, as they’ve become very popular very quickly – and want to try them out, it can still be difficult to make a choice about the best way to take CBD, or even if you need it.
Today we’re here to help, so you can make an informed decision about if CBD is right for you, and the best way you can use the products for your specific circumstances.
How Does CBD Work?
The short answer is – we’re still working on that. The full uses and efficacy of CBD are still a matter of scientific study, but we can understand more by looking at what CBD actually is, as a chemical compound.
CBD, short for cannabidiol is a lipid: a fat-soluble molecule. It’s derived from the cannabis plant, which is, yes, a controlled drug. Fortunately, WHO recently published a study into the potential for harm in the use of CBD products, and found very little. Their official conclusion was that CBD did not form “addictive pathways” in the brain (unlike, for example, caffeine) and does not function as an intoxicant, affect your judgement or alter your perceptions (unlike, for example, alcohol), which has opened it up for legal sale.
CBD binds to receptors both in your endocannabinoid system and the nervous system targeted by clinical drugs, creating a range of effects. It has similar effects to some SSRIs, meaning it can function as an antidepressant or anti-anxiety remedy (to some extent, for some, and likely not as a full replacement for those suffering serious mental health conditions). It also seems to stimulate cannabinoid production in your body, enhancing the function of your endocannabinoid system overall.
Taking CBD
One of the primary ways of taking CBD is using a dropped to take a dose of CBD oils under your tongue – sublingually. Here they are absorbed quickly, and the oil gives the molecule good ‘bioavailability’, meaning more of it can be absorbed. This and vape juice are good choices for taking CBD if you’re managing an acute issue: spikes of pain or anxiety you need a fast acting solution to. CBD gummies are also a popular option when it comes to consuming CBD and THC, as they come in all sorts of flavours. As many people don’t like the taste of natural THC, flavoured products are one of the most popular forms of the product. Websites like this one discuss the most popular brands, flavours and strengths of these.
If you’re dealing with a chronic condition, requiring ongoing management, edibles and teas may be better solution. Whether you’re buying them premade, or dropping CBD oil into your standard cuppa, make sure CBD beverages include milk, butter or some other kind of fat: lipids aren’t soluble in water and they need to dissolve for your body to absorb them and use them!
