Learn all about CBD
What is CBD?
Find natural calm with CBD extract. Non-intoxicating compound promotes relaxation, comfort & balanced sleep. Experience potential relief!
Benefits of CBD
- Helps manage certain severe types of epilepsy (that don't respond well to other treatments), especially specific conditions in children[ref]
"CBD shows promise for anxiety, sleep issues, and chronic pain, but much evidence is still early stage ('preliminary'). Product quality varies hugely. Look for products clearly stating CBD amount, with proof of testing by an independent lab ('third-party certificate of analysis'), and few extra ingredients."
- Dr. Ethan Russo, Neurologist and Director of Research and Development at the International Cannabis and Cannabinoids Institute (source)
How to use CBD
Dosage
Highly individual. Common ranges: 10-160mg daily (anxiety/stress), up to 300mg (sleep). Depends on person and reason for use.
Timing
Effects often felt in 15-60 mins if taken under the tongue ('sublingually'). Can take morning or evening based on desired effect.
Notes
ALWAYS start low (5-10mg) and increase slowly. How much your body absorbs ('bioavailability') varies – under-the-tongue oils absorb better than capsules.
Who should take CBD?
- Adults dealing with anxiety or high stress
- Individuals having trouble sleeping
- Those looking for alternative ways to manage pain
- Not advised for pregnant/breastfeeding women or those with liver problems
How does CBD work?
CBD works indirectly with the body's systems. It doesn't bind strongly to the main cannabinoid receptors like THC. Instead, it seems to help the body's own natural endocannabinoids (like anandamide, the 'bliss molecule') last longer by blocking the enzyme that breaks them down. CBD also interacts with other body receptors, including serotonin receptors (affecting mood), vanilloid receptors (involved in pain signals), and potentially others linked to bone health and cell growth.
Frequently asked questions
Natural sources of CBD
CBD comes from Cannabis sativa plants. The main legal source is hemp, a type of cannabis specifically grown to have very low THC (≤0.3% in many regions). Different cannabis strains ('chemotypes') have different CBD/THC levels. CBD isn't found in other common foods or plants.
Potential side effects & risks
Warnings
Product quality and actual CBD content vary wildly. Products might contain THC or contaminants not listed on the label. Not recommended during pregnancy/breastfeeding. Use cautiously if you have liver disease.
Side effects
Generally well-tolerated. Mild effects can include dry mouth, reduced appetite, drowsiness, fatigue, or stomach upset. High doses might affect liver enzymes (a sign of liver stress).
Interactions
Can interact with blood thinners, thyroid meds, and drugs processed by common liver enzymes ('cytochrome P450'). May increase levels of some epilepsy drugs, anxiety meds ('benzodiazepines'), and cholesterol drugs ('statins'). Check with doctor if on medication.