CBD has quickly become a popular supplement that many people include in their daily wellness routine as part of a balanced lifestyle. In this post we will be taking a deep dive into CBD to give you all the information you need to work out which CBD solution is right for you.
What is CBD?
CBD is an abbreviation for cannabidiol; one of the active, naturally occurring cannabinoid compounds found in the cannabis plant. Although it is derived from cannabis, CBD is very different from the cannabinoid THC which people commonly associate with the plant.
Unlike THC, CBD is completely devoid of psychoactive properties and, in line with UK law, CBD products must be processed to remove THC in order to be legally sold.
Cannabidiol is one of the most prevalent cannabinoids found in the hemp plant, and our bodies actually contain a system of cannabinoid receptors which help to regulate many different bodily functions. CBD is similar to the endocannabinoids that our bodies naturally produce, and so can interact with these cannabinoid receptors.
CBD is anecdotally reported to assist with better sleep, ease chronic pain, and help manage mental health conditions like anxiety. However, research into the effects of CBD from a medical standpoint is ongoing, and if you are considering using CBD to manage any health conditions you should first consult your GP and confirm it will not interfere with any existing medications you are taking.
Is CBD legal in the UK?
Yes, CBD is legal to buy in the UK as it is processed to remove all but trace amounts of THC, and so does not possess any psychoactive properties. Legally, CBD products must contain less than 0.2% THC to be sold in the UK.
As with anything, there is unfortunately a black market for illicit CBD products which claim to contain higher levels of THC. These products are not legal and have likely not been subject to the necessary testing and quality control. CBD products are available in most vape shops, pharmacies, and health food stores so you should always make sure you are purchasing from a reputable retailer to ensure a high quality and safe product.
Can CBD make you high?
Because CBD is carefully processed to remove any THC it is devoid of any psychoactive properties and will not make you high. CBD products are designed to be used as a supplement as part of a healthy and balanced lifestyle.
What CBD solutions are available?
There are many different ways that CBD can be taken into the body, dependent on the users chosen dosage and their personal administration preferences.
CBD e-liquids
It has been found that vaping CBD e-liquids is one of the most effective ways to use CBD, as the vapour can cover a larger surface area for optimal absorption. However, you cannot just put any CBD oil in your vape, you will need to purchase a specifically formulated CBD e-liquid.
These e-liquids are best used in a starter vape kit with a low wattage setting, preferably between 10 – 20 watts. This allows the e-liquid to be vapourised without burning or compromising the CBD.
CBD e-liquids are premixed so there is no need to add anything to the e-liquid before using it. You can mix your CBD e-liquid with another e-liquid of a similar VG/PG ratio if you want to dilute the CBD content before using it, however it is not recommended to mix it with a nicotine containing e-liquid as nicotine can counteract the CBD and render it ineffective.
If you want to give CBD vaping a try but are a bit nervous about having to learn to use a vape kit, a specific CBD vape kit like the Hûrb Breeze may be a great option to consider. These devices have a simple design with no settings or need for refilling, just insert one of the prefilled pods and it is ready to use. Once the pod is empty, you can simply replace it with a new one.
Depending on your preferences, CBD e-liquids are available with the natural taste of CBD which has a herbal, green tea type flavour, or with fruity or sweet flavours that make the natural taste more palatable for those who do not enjoy it.
CBD oils and tinctures
Another popular way of administering CBD is in the form of an oil or tincture taken orally. They usually come in a dropper bottle with a pipette for easy dosage control, and require the user to hold the liquid under their tongue so that the CBD can be quickly absorbed sublingually into the bloodstream. They can then be swallowed.
CBD oils have a naturally herbal flavour, similar to green tea, but as with CBD e-liquid flavoured options are also available for those that do not enjoy the natural taste of CBD oil.
Some of these oils combine CBD with other supplements such as MCT oil, or medium-chain triglycerides, which are form of fatty acid that can quickly be converted into energy without being stored as fat reserves. You can read more about the benefits of MCT in our blog post ‘What is MCT oil?’
CBD gummies
If you want to be able to take CBD orally but would prefer something simple which can fit into even the busiest daily routine, CBD gummies might be the way to go. These pre-portioned gummies allow you to take your daily CBD supplement in a second without having to think about dosage. Plus, the sweet gummy makes them enjoyable, especially if you are not partial to the natural flavour of CBD.
CBD balms and topicals
CBD balms and topical treatments offer a more targeted way to use CBD, letting you include it in your skincare routine. They often also combine other ingredients like essential oils to offer aromatherapy benefits also, such as lavender, eucalyptus and lemongrass. Whether you're looking for something to help ease sore muscles after a workout, or something to help you relax and unwind.
If you are interested in introducing a CBD supplement to your daily routine, head into your local Evapo store or check out our website to see our full range of CBD solutions.
It is advisable to consult your GP before introducing a new supplement into your routine.
