Over the past decade, CBD has quickly risen to become one of the most popular and talked-about wellness ingredients in the world. While some stigma does persist around the compound’s association with the cannabis plants – which remains controversial for many people – this has not stopped this incredible cannabinoid from skyrocketing into public consciousness. And with more and more people becoming increasingly determined to improve their wellness, this shouldn’t come as a surprise. But how exactly can CBD oil benefits to boost your health?
WHAT IS CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of over 100 compounds – called cannabinoids – found in the cannabis plant. Its abundance in the plant, combined with its non-intoxicating nature, has helped to boost the popularity of CBD; but it’s the impressive list of potential CBD health benefits that has cemented the compound’s place as a favourite among consumers looking for a natural boost to their wellness.
Along with a number of other compounds, CBD has been found to interact with the human endocannabinoid system (ECS) – a receptor system expressed throughout the central nervous and immune systems. The ECS is believed to play a crucial role in a number of vital processes, including mood regulation, appetite, fertility, and even pain signalling. It is through these interactions, in addition to interactions with other receptor systems, that are believed to produce the health benefits of CBD oil and other products.
WHAT ARE THE POTENTIAL BENEFITS OF CBD?
Consumers in the UK and around the world have embraced CBD and cannabis wellness for a wide variety of reasons. Each person will have their own story to tell, but let’s take a look at some of the most talked-about CBD oil benefits that are being reported.
A growing body of evidence suggests that CBD may be useful in the management of a number of common complaints and ailments as well as more serious health conditions. Wellness consumers report improved sleep, reduced anxiety, and even healthier skin following the initiation of a CBD wellness routine. Furthermore, a CBD-based medical cannabis product has been approved in the UK and a number of other countries for the treatment of rare forms of epilepsy.
But it’s not just consumer reports that support these potential benefits. A 2019 case series to determine whether CBD helps improve sleep and/or anxiety in a clinical population. It was observed that over three-quarters of participants experienced reduced anxiety scores and over two-thirds reported improved sleep after a month of CBD use.
WHAT IS THE MOST COMMON USE OF CBD?
The most common reasons for using CBD were recently reported in a study of CBD users in the UK. The report shows that the most common use for CBD is self-perceived anxiety, reported by 42.6% of 387 participants. This was closely followed by sleep problems, reported by 42.5%, stress (37%), and general health and wellbeing (37%).
With CBD becoming such a popular option for anxiety and other common mental health and wellness issues, there is now a wide range of product options available. But if you’re new to the world of CBD wellness, you may have some questions. For example: What is the best CBD product for the first time? Is it healthy to take CBD every day? So, let’s answer those questions for you!
THE BEST CBD PRODUCTS FOR BEGINNERS
A quick internet search or browse at your local health shop (and even supermarkets!) will reveal a huge variety of CBD products, from CBD oils and topicals to drinks, CBD gummies, and more! So, how do you know which will be the best product for you? Well, the truth is – it depends. The only way to know for sure is to try them out and see which product best fits your needs and routine. However, there are some things that can help you to decide.
It is best to start by deciding what your aims are. For example, if you’re looking to improve a skin complaint or want to see if CBD products could help to improve joint pain, then a CBD topical may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you’re looking to add CBD to your sleep routine, CBD oils may be a better option (see our CBD Sleep Drops). There are a number of CBD oil benefits, such as diversity of administration – simply apply a few drops under your tongue or even add to your favourite drink!
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT CBD PRODUCT FOR YOUR NEEDS
With the expanding array of CBD products available, finding the right one for your personal health goals can be overwhelming. The key to making the right choice is distinguishing between and understanding your needs and preferences, as well as the specific benefits each type of CBD product offers.
If you’re seeking targeted relief, such as for localised pain or skin issues, topical products like creams and balms might be your best bet. They allow for direct application and can provide relief precisely where you need it. For those looking to address broader issues like anxiety or sleep, CBD oils or tinctures could be more suitable. These are often taken sublingually (under the tongue), allowing for faster absorption into the bloodstream.
Additionally, if you’re new to CBD and prefer a more palatable option, CBD edibles, such as gummies or capsules, offer a convenient and tasty way to incorporate CBD into your daily routine. These are also great for those who prefer not to deal with the earthy taste of some CBD oils.
Ultimately, the most important factor is to start with a product that aligns with your goals and to experiment with different types and dosages to see what works best for you. Remember, the effectiveness of CBD can vary from person to person, so patience and a bit of trial and error may be necessary to find your ideal match.
SHOULD I TAKE CBD EVERY DAY?
Consumer reports and a growing body of clinical evidence suggest that CBD could have benefits for many areas of your wellness. However, many people find that consistency is key. Integrating CBD into your daily routine may well be the most effective method, but is it healthy to take CBD every day? Well, the simple answer is: Yes!
CBD has been found to be completely safe when consumed in the recommended doses. So, what are you waiting for? See how CBD could help to benefit your health and wellness!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. Are there specific CBD products recommended for beginners?
Beginners might start with lower-potency CBD oils or edibles like gummies, which offer controlled dosing. Starting with a lower dose allows you to gauge how your body reacts before increasing the dosage.
2. Can CBD affect my energy levels?
CBD can have varying effects on energy, depending on the dose and the individual. Some people find that it helps them relax and sleep, while others report feeling more alert and focused. Adjusting the dose or timing of consumption can help achieve your desired effect.
3. How do I determine the right dosage of CBD for me?
Finding the right dosage can vary depending on factors like body weight, metabolism, and the specific condition you’re addressing. It’s often recommended to start with a low dose and gradually increase until you find the amount that works best for you.
4. Is CBD addictive?
CBD is non-intoxicating and is not known to be addictive. Unlike THC, it does not produce a “high,” and there’s no evidence to suggest that it leads to dependency or abuse.