CBD and CBD oil are all the rage right now. From tinctures at CVS to CBD massages, burgers, and lattes, it seems that there’s no limit on what can be CBD-fied. But it’s important to sort out the hype. Whether you’re completely new to cannabis, or just want some more info about the plant, this post has a little something for everybody.
What is CBD?
First and foremost—let’s settle the basics. CBD (cannabidiol) is a cannabinoid derived from the cannabis and/or hemp plant. Note: it does not come exclusively from hemp, nor is it produced by the hemp seed. Rather, CBD can be extracted from the buds or “flowers” of both plants. But, the way that laws on the subject are currently written, only CBD that has been derived from hemp is federally legal (even though it is the exact same compound as that derived from cannabis).
Aside from legality, the reason that CBD has received so much notoriety is that unlike with THC, consuming CBD does not produce the euphoric “high” typically associated with cannabis. It does, meanwhile, boast a broad array of therapeutic effects that include seizure suppression, muscle relaxant, sleep aid, pain relief, nausea reduction, cancer fighting, anxiety relief, appetite enhancement, + more that we probably don’t even know about.
How to Partake
CBD products, like their cannabis counterparts, come in many forms. You can get CBD gummies, tinctures, topicals, vape pens, beauty products, and even CBD oil for your dog. It’s great to have options, but it can make choosing what to get that much more challenging. We’ve broken it down by category to help you decide what would work best for you (or your pet):
Sublinguals
If you’re interested in approaching CBD from a more traditional, medicinal angle, then sublinguals are the way to go. They consist of CBD in a base, usually oil or alcohol, which is meant to be administered under the tongue. The CBD in the tincture can then be rapidly absorbed through the sublingual duct, taking effect almost immediately. If you do decide to go down the sublingual route, just make sure that the product fits a few key criteria for maximum effectiveness: 1) it should be made from the whole plant; 2) it should consist of a broad-spectrum of cannabinoids; and, ideally, 3) the extraction process should be lipid-infused.
Topicals
Great for muscle recovery post-workout, reducing inflammation in joints, and easing tightness and strain, topical CBD is a perfect option for those looking to alleviate localized pain and inflammation. Since you’re applying the product directly to the skin, feel free to use topical products on their own, or as a supplement to whatever CBD products you take internally. Just make sure to apply enough product and to do so frequently—sometimes it can take multiple applications for the CBD to take full effect.
Gummies
Looking for a way to consume CBD that is easy, discreet, and fun? Give gummies a try. They generally taste good and work well, though they may take a while to produce an effect, and tend to be priced higher per-milligram than other types of CBD products.
Vapes
Much like sublinguals, CBD vapes have the benefit of quick-action. Because you’re inhaling a product into your lungs, CBD readily absorbs into the bloodstream, which is perfect if you need whole-body relief fast. As with any inhaled product, just remember to be mindful of any potential residual solvents that could be harmful to your health.
Etc.
Burgers? Lattes? Mascara? Sure, you could find a way to put CBD in just about anything. The reality is, however, that unless that CBD comes from a high-quality, full-spectrum concentrate (aka not an isolate), it probably won’t do much for you, if anything at all. So if you’re in it just for kicks, then sure, get that CBD facial. But if you are looking to start a CBD regimen as part of your lifestyle, then we’d recommend sublinguals and topicals as your dynamic duo.