What Is CBD Oil? Uses, Benefits & More
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Cannabidiol CBD is becoming increasingly popular as the next big thing in the health and wellness industry.
You may see it marketed as an add-in booster to your post-workout smoothie or morning coffee, with claims that it can potentially help with conditions like anxiety, depression, and insomnia.
These potential benefits make it appealing to people looking for more natural treatments. However, as a fairly new treatment option, it’s important to learn about the risks and healthy benefits of cannabidiol oil and how to take it.
So, what exactly is CBD, and why is it so popular? Let’s find out!
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What Is CBD Oil?
CBD oil is a product derived from the cannabis plant, specifically from the hemp variety, which contains high levels of cannabidiol (CBD) and low levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
Unlike THC, CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not produce the “high” associated with marijuana. Cannabidiol oil is typically extracted from the cannabis plant using methods like CO2 extraction, which ensures the preservation of its beneficial compounds.
Cannabidiol oil is widely used for its potential therapeutic benefits [1]. It has been reported to help with conditions such as anxiety, chronic pain, inflammation, and epilepsy.
You can consume the oil in various forms, from tinctures to capsules, to edibles or topically, making it a great alternative for those searching for natural remedies.
Where Does CBD (Cannabidiol) Come From?
CBD (cannabidiol) is a natural compound found in cannabis plants, specifically within the resinous flowers of hemp and marijuana varieties. It is one of over a hundred cannabinoids identified in cannabis and is most abundantly found in the hemp plant.
Hemp is preferred for CBD extraction because it contains higher concentrations of CBD and only trace amounts of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive component that produces the “high” in marijuana.
How Is CBD Oil Made?
As for how cannabidiol oil is made, the process involves extracting it from the hemp plant. This is typically done using methods like CO2 extraction, which involves using carbon dioxide under high pressure and low temperature to pull CBD and other beneficial compounds from the plant material.
CBD users prefer this method for its ability to produce a pure and high-quality extract. Once extraction is complete, CBD can be further processed and refined into various products, including CBD oils.
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What Does CBD Do in the Body?
CBD (cannabidiol) interacts with your body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). ECS plays an important role in maintaining your body’s homeostasis.
The ECS consists of cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2), endocannabinoids, and enzymes. What CBD does is that it indirectly influences these receptors and helps modulate various physiological processes.
For instance, CBD can potentially help reduce your chronic pain by impacting endocannabinoid receptor activity and interacting with neurotransmitters. Some studies claim that CBD also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help with conditions like arthritis.
Types of CBD Oil
There are several different different types of cannabidiol oil available today, including:
Isolates
CBD isolates are the purest form of CBD, containing 99% pure CBD. During the extraction process, everything contained in the plant matter is removed, including any traces of THC, terpenes, waxes, oils, chlorophyll, and more.
This leaves behind pure cannabidiol CBD in crystalline form. Isolates are ideal for those who want to avoid THC entirely or prefer high doses of CBD without other compounds.
Broad-Spectrum Oils
Broad-spectrum CBD oils contain multiple cannabinoids, terpenes, and other beneficial compounds found in cannabis plants, but they have been processed to remove all THC.
Meaning you can benefit from the entourage effect, where different compounds work synergistically to enhance the therapeutic effects without the risk of consuming THC.
Full-Spectrum Oils
Full-spectrum CBD oils contain all cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds found in the medical cannabis plant, including trace amounts of THC (less than 0.3% as per legal standards).
This type of oil is popular for its potential to produce the entourage effect, which may enhance the therapeutic benefits of CBD. However, the presence of THC might be a concern for those subject to drug testing or sensitive to THC.
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What’s the Best Way To Take CBD Oil?
There are several different ways you can take CBD oil, including:
Inhaled
Inhalation through vaping or smoking provides the fastest onset of effects because CBD is absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the lungs.
This method is ideal for those seeking immediate relief from symptoms such as chronic pain or anxiety. However, inhalation may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with respiratory issues.
Sublingual (Under the Tongue)
Taking cannabidiol oil sublingually involves placing drops under the tongue and holding them there for about 60 seconds before swallowing.
This allows the CBD to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the mucous membranes, providing faster effects than oral consumption.
Oral
Oral consumption of CBD includes capsules, gummies, and other edibles. This method is convenient and discreet, with the effects taking longer to onset.
This is because CBD has to pass through the digestive system and liver before entering the bloodstream. Oral CBD provides a longer-lasting effect, making it suitable for sustained symptom relief.
Topical
Topical CBD products, such as creams and lotions, are applied directly to the skin. This method is effective for localized relief of pain, inflammation, and skin conditions, as the CBD interacts with cannabinoid receptors in the skin.
Topical application does not result in CBD entering the bloodstream, so it does not provide systemic effects.
Transdermal (Patches or Gels/Creams)
Transdermal patches or specially formulated gels and creams allow CBD to be absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream.
Using CBD transdermally provides a steady release of CBD over time, offering long-lasting effects and systemic relief. Transdermal application is beneficial for those seeking consistent CBD levels without frequent dosing.
Benefits of CBD Oil
When it comes to cannabidiol oil or hemp seed oil, the potential benefits are several, including:
Pain Relief
Cannabidiol oil may offer potential health benefits for pain relief. Research suggests that it could help relieve pain, reduce inflammation and interact with neurotransmitters, potentially easing inflammatory and neuropathic pain and discomfort and help with cancer related symptoms [2].
Supports Brain and Nerve Conditions
Cannabidiol oil might also support brain and nerve health by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in neurological functions. Some studies indicate that it could help manage conditions like epilepsy and multiple sclerosis [3].
May Help Treat Anxiety
For folks dealing with anxiety, there’s good news. Cannabidiol oil may also help with anxiety management. Preliminary research suggests it might have calming effects on the nervous system, which could reduce anxiety symptoms [4].
Might Help Treat Schizophrenia
There is some evidence in clinical trials suggesting that cannabidiol oil might help with schizophrenia by potentially reducing psychotic symptoms [5]. However, more research is needed to fully understand its effects.
May Support Sleep
If you have trouble sleeping, cannabidiol oil may also support better sleep quality. It is believed that CBD oil for sleep might help with insomnia and improve overall sleep patterns by promoting relaxation [6].
May Lower High Blood Pressure
Cannabidiol oil might help lower high blood pressure. Some studies suggest it could reduce stress and anxiety, which are known contributors to hypertension, potentially leading to improved cardiovascular health [7].
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What Are the Side Effects of CBD Oil?
CBD oil, while potentially beneficial, can have some side effects. Fatigue is one commonly reported issue, where you may feel unusually tired or lethargic after using CBD oil.
Some users experience gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea, which can be uncomfortable and inconvenient. Nausea and vomiting are also potential side effects, though these are less common and often related to dosage.
Additionally, cannabidiol oil might lead to a decreased appetite, which can be problematic for individuals who need to maintain or gain weight. Weight changes, whether gain or loss, have been noted as well, although these effects are usually mild.
As with any supplement, it’s important to start with a low dose and monitor how your body responds.
Dosage: How Much CBD Oil Should I Take?
While the right dosage of CBD oil can vary based on individual factors, health professionals may recommend cbd oil to adults and ask them to start with a low dose. This can be 5-10 milligrams per day, and gradually increase it while monitoring your body’s response.
For specific conditions, dosages might range higher, but it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to tailor the dosage to your specific needs and ensure it’s safe, especially if you are taking other medications.
Always follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer and consider keeping a journal to track the effects and adjust the dosage accordingly.
Can CBD Oil Have Harmful Interactions With Other Medications?
Cannabidiol oil has the potential to interact with other medications. It can affect how the body metabolizes certain drugs by inhibiting the activity of cytochrome P450 enzymes in the liver, which are responsible for drug metabolism.
This interaction can lead to higher levels of certain medications in the bloodstream, increasing the risk of side effects or toxicity.
It’s important you consult with a healthcare provider before using CBD oil, especially if you are taking prescription medications, to avoid any harmful interactions.
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How Do I Get a Prescription For CBD Oils?
To get a prescription for CBD oil, you typically need to consult with a healthcare provider. In some regions, especially where medical cannabis is legal, a doctor can prescribe CBD oil for specific medical conditions.
The process often involves an evaluation of your health condition and a discussion about the potential benefits and risks of using CBD oil. If approved, the doctor will provide a prescription, and you can obtain the CBD oil from a licensed dispensary or pharmacy.
How Do You Use CBD Oil?
CBD oil derived from cannabis sativa or indica can be used in various ways depending on the intended effect and personal preference. The most common method is sublingual administration, where you place a few drops of CBD oil under your tongue and hold it for about 30-60 seconds before swallowing.
This method allows for quick absorption into the bloodstream. CBD oil can also be added to food or beverages, applied topically to the skin, or used in a vaporizer for inhalation.
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Is CBD Oil Legal?
The legality of CBD oil varies by country and, in the United States, by state. In general, CBD oil derived from hemp, which contains less than 0.3% THC, is legal at the federal level in the U.S.
However, some states have specific regulations that may restrict its use. CBD oil derived from marijuana, which has higher THC levels, is subject to stricter regulations and is only legal in states with medical or recreational cannabis laws.
Is CBD Oil Safe for Pets?
CBD oil is generally considered safe for pets, and many pet owners use it to help manage anxiety, chronic pain, and other conditions in their animals. However, you must use a product specifically formulated for pets, as human CBD oil may contain ingredients that are harmful to animals.
Now, let’s talk about dosage. It’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian to determine the appropriate amount and to monitor your pet’s response. You don’t want to guess this part — getting it right makes a big difference.
While side effects are rare, they can include drowsiness, dry mouth, and lowered blood pressure. So, always keep an eye on your furry friend and consult your vet if you notice anything unusual.
Where To Buy CBD Oil
You can buy CBD oil from the following brands:
FOCL - Best CBD Brand Overall (Save 25%)
Tommy Chong - Browse Nano CBD
Delta Extrax - Professional Customer
FAB CBD - Save with Promo Deals and Discounts
Best CBD Brand Overall: FOCL
Pros
Wide range gluten-free and vegan CBD products
Get 25% back promo deal
Free shipping on orders exceeding $40
USA-grown hemp
Cons
Shipping times slightly longer
FOCL is a renowned CBD vendor known for offering high-quality CBD products derived from organic hemp plants. The company is committed to excellence, focusing on advanced, science-backed plant-based nutrition.
With over 250 verified customer reviews, the FOCL Good Night Full Spectrum Sleep Gummies are a top seller. These melatonin-free gummies are formulated with full-spectrum CBD to promote sleep.
Other popular products include the Chill Out Gummies for relaxation and stress relief. FOCL also offers CBD oils, such as the Daily Calm Broad Spectrum Drops in various flavors, CBD products for pets, and CBD creams for chronic pain relief.
FOCL provides free shipping on orders over $40, ensuring a cost-effective shopping experience. Additionally, the company offers a 60-day money-back guarantee, allowing customers to return unused products within two months for a full refund.
New customers can alsp take advantage of a 25% cash-back promotion on their first order, making it an attractive choice for those exploring CBD options.
>> Check the best prices for CBD oils at FOCL
Browse Nano CBD Products: Tommy Chong
Pros:
Featured in popular publications like Forbes, CNN, and MSNBC
No pesticides used
Great customer care service
Wide range of gummies, tinctures, and CBD topicals
Cons:
Returns subject to a $4.95 restocking fee
Tommy Chong offers a diverse range of in-house products designed to help you relax or boost your energy levels. With over two decades in the CBD market, Tommy Chong has established a strong presence, with best-selling products featured in Forbes, CNN, and MSNBC.
Their reputation is further enhanced by their in-house manufactured nano CBD products, which provide easier absorption and quicker onset times.
A popular product is Cheech and Chong’s Cruise Chews - Full Spectrum Delta-9 THC/CBD Gummies, which come in packages of thirty.
Additionally, you can find Tommy Chong’s Good Vibes Energy Tincture online, a full-spectrum nano CBD product that is gluten-free and GMO-free. Another notable product is Tommy Chong’s Nice Dreams Sleep Tincture, made from organic hemp and verified by third-party labs for safety and potency.
While Tommy Chong does not offer free shipping, they do provide full refunds for unsatisfactory products, subject to a $4.95 fee. To process a return, you must contact their customer support team via phone or email within fifteen days of receiving your order.
>> Check the best prices for CBD oils at Tommy Chong
Professional Customer Support Team: Delta Extrax
Pros
Free shipping on orders above $75
Great blog section with valuable information
Readily available third-party testing lab tests
20% discount for new customers
Cons
Slightly limited selection of CBD-based products
Delta Extrax stands out with its almost round-the-clock professional assistance via email and phone. Their website also features an extensive Blog section that covers all the basics and more about CBD products.
The CBD brand ensures all its products are made with natural ingredients, guaranteeing organic quality with every purchase. Delta Extrax is renowned for its high-quality Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC products, catering to more experienced cannabis consumers.
However, they also offer a range of CBD products, including the popular THCa 7000mg Gummies | Adios Blend. With over 580 verified customer reviews, these gummies are among the top sellers. The Adios Blend line features other high-potency gummies, each containing 7,000mg of CBD and other cannabinoids like THC.
Additionally, Delta Extrax offers disposables like the THCa Live Sugar 7G Disposable and the THCA 4.5G Disposable, all made from USA-grown hemp and natural ingredients.
Delta Extrax processes orders Monday through Friday, from 8am to 5pm, using USPS. They offer free shipping on orders over $75. However, they do not ship to Mississippi, California, Colorado, Delaware, and a few other states.
Refunds are available for unopened items, and customers receive their refunds within seven business days of requesting.
>> Check the best prices for CBD oils at Delta Extrax
Save With Promo Deals and Discounts: FAB CBD
Pros:
Get a 20% discount on your first order
Discounted prices available
Free shipping on orders exceeding $99
Featured in publications like Ministry of Hemp and Business Insider
Cons:
Live Chat feature not available 24/7
FAB CBD is a CBD company recognized on the Prestigious Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing companies in the USA, a testament to its stellar reputation. Since its founding in 2017, FAB CBD has significantly expanded its product line. Many of its top-selling items, including CBD oil and gummies, have been featured in Ministry of Hemp, LA Weekly, and Business Insider.
Known for offering excellent promo deals and discounts, FAB CBD provides a 20% discount on your first order and up to 50% off on select CBD oil and gummies.
FAB CBD offers a diverse range of products, including CBD oil for sleep, gummies, topicals, and animal-free tinctures. A popular product is the FAB CBD Anytime + Sleep Bundle, often available at a 33% discount.
Another standout is the FAB CBD Salve, containing approximately 1,000mg of full-spectrum CBD, offering both cooling and heating effects with essential oils and a soothing scent.
Additionally, FAB CBD sells tinctures, such as the Natural CBD Oil, available in flavors like mint, citrus, berry, and vanilla for those who prefer something other than the natural hemp flavor.
FAB CBD provides free shipping on orders over $99, making it easier to stock up on your favorite products. They accept returns within thirty days of purchase, though shipping fees are non-refundable. For refunds, customers can contact the company’s customer care team for assistance.
>> Check the best prices for CBD oils at FAB CBD
FAQs
Here, we answer a few frequently asked questions about cannabidiol oil.
What Is the Benefit of CBD Oil?
Cannabidiol oil is good for its potential health benefits, including reducing anxiety, alleviating pain, improving sleep, and supporting overall well-being.
The best part about CBD oil is that unlike THC, another compound found in cannabis, CBD does not produce a “high.”
What Is Just CBD Oil Used For?
Just cannabidiol oil is primarily used for its potential therapeutic benefits. It may help with anxiety relief, pain management, inflammation reduction, and improving sleep quality. Some people also use it for skin conditions and general wellness support.
What Is the Downside of CBD Oil?
While cannabidiol oil is generally well-tolerated, some potential downsides include dry mouth, diarrhea, reduced appetite, drowsiness, and fatigue.
Additionally, CBD can also interact with certain medications, affecting how they work.
Who Should Avoid Taking CBD?
People who should avoid taking CBD include pregnant or breastfeeding women due to limited research on its safety.
Folks taking medications that may interact with CBD or individuals with liver conditions should also steer clear of CBD.
Can CBD Oil Get You High?
No, cannabidiol oil does not get you high. Unlike THC, CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not produce the euphoric effects typically associated with cannabis use.
The Takeaway
Cannabidiol oil has great potential for improved health, offering numerous benefits such as reducing anxiety and better sleep.
Still, you need to keep in mind that it should be taken carefully and under the supervision of a healthcare provider (as with any dietary supplements), if you suffer from any health conditions or are taking prescription medications.
When taken with proper care, cannabidiol oil can significantly enhance your health and overall quality of life.
>> Check the best prices for CBD oil here
References:
Singh K, Bhushan B, Chanchal DK, Sharma SK, Rani K, Yadav MK, Porwal P, Kumar S, Sharma A, Virmani T, Kumar G, Noman AA. Emerging Therapeutic Potential of Cannabidiol (CBD) in Neurological Disorders: A Comprehensive Review. Behav Neurol. 2023 Oct 12;2023:8825358. doi: 10.1155/2023/8825358. PMID: 37868743; PMCID: PMC10586905.
Atalay S, Jarocka-Karpowicz I, Skrzydlewska E. Antioxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Cannabidiol. Antioxidants (Basel). 2019 Dec 25;9(1):21. doi: 10.3390/antiox9010021. PMID: 31881765; PMCID: PMC7023045.
Nouh RA, Kamal A, Oyewole O, Abbas WA, Abib B, Omar A, Mansour ST, Abdelnaser A. Unveiling the Potential of Cannabinoids in Multiple Sclerosis and the Dawn of Nano-Cannabinoid Medicine. Pharmaceutics. 2024 Feb 7;16(2):241. doi: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16020241. PMID: 38399295; PMCID: PMC10891830.
Bystritsky A, Khalsa SS, Cameron ME, Schiffman J. Current diagnosis and treatment of anxiety disorders. P T. 2013 Jan;38(1):30-57. PMID: 23599668; PMCID: PMC3628173.
Davies C, Bhattacharyya S. Cannabidiol as a potential treatment for psychosis. Ther Adv Psychopharmacol. 2019 Nov 8;9:2045125319881916. doi: 10.1177/2045125319881916. PMID: 31741731; PMCID: PMC6843725.
Shannon S, Lewis N, Lee H, Hughes S. Cannabidiol in Anxiety and Sleep: A Large Case Series. Perm J. 2019;23:18-041. doi: 10.7812/TPP/18-041. PMID: 30624194; PMCID: PMC6326553.
Qiu T, Jiang Z, Chen X, Dai Y, Zhao H. Comorbidity of Anxiety and Hypertension: Common Risk Factors and Potential Mechanisms. Int J Hypertens. 2023 May 25;2023:9619388. doi: 10.1155/2023/9619388. PMID: 37273529; PMCID: PMC10234733.
The information regarding cannabis, cannabis-related, THC and CBD products is for informational and educational purposes only, not substituting professional medical advice or treatment. We do not promote or endorse the use, sale, or distribution of cannabis where it's not legally permitted. The legality of cannabis varies by state and jurisdiction, and we urge users to comply with all federal, state, and local laws concerning its use and sale. We encourage users to consult with healthcare professionals. We might earn a commission if you make a purchase through one of the links. McClatchy's Commerce Content team, which is independent from our newsroom, oversees this content.
