What is CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is the second major cannabinoid found in cannabis plants like hemp and marijuana. Unlike the other major cannabinoid THC, CBD is non-psychoactive. The most common potential effects of taking CBD include: reduced pain, decreased muscle spasms, reduced inflammation, decreased nausea/vomiting, reduced anxiety/depression, anti-oxidant, anti-convulsant, neuro-protectant, and anti-tumor(s) qualities and more.
What is the definition of CBD?
CBD stands for cannabidiol - the second most common cannabinoid found in cannabis. THC is the other most common cannabinoid.
Where does CBD come from?
CBD is produced inside cannabis plants. CBD is produced by both marijuana and hemp plants. CBD is mostly produced in the resinous trichomes of cannabis flowers. Smaller concentrations of CBD can be found on the stalk and leaves of cannabis plants.
What is the endocannabinoid system?
The endocannabinoid system is the collection of cannabinoid receptors, endocannabinoids, and enzymes involved in the production and break down of endocannabinoids. Endocannabinoids are naturally occurring cannabinoids found within our body. The two most studied endocannabinoids are anandamide and 2-AG. The two most studies cannabinoid receptors are CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are located mostly in the brain and CB2 receptors are located mostly throughout the immune system.
How does a cannabinoid work?
Cannabinoids generally work by binding to our body’s cannabinoid receptors (CB1 or CB2). Cannabinoids like CBD can work in other ways by targeting non cannabinoid receptors in the body.
What are the CB1 receptors located?
CB1 receptors are located primarily in the central nervous system (the brain and spinal chord).
Where are the CB2 receptors located?
CB2 receptors are located primarily in the immune system.
What is the purpose of the endocannabinoid system?
The endocannabinoid system acts a homeostasis regulator in the body. Its purpose is to maintain balance.
What is CBD Oil?
CBD oil is the term used to describe a sublingual tincture of CBD. A CBD oil or tincture is made by mixing a CBD extract from a cannabis plant into a base like alcohol or hemp seed oil. The CBD oil is meant to be held under the tongue and absorbed directly into the bloodstream. A sublingual absorption provides a faster effect than absorption via the stomach (i.e. taking a CBD capsule or edible product).
Can you get high from CBD?
CBD is considered to be a non-psychoactive cannabinoid so it will NOT get you high in the way that marijuana (THC) gets you high. But CBD is known to be relaxing so you may have a feeling of calmness and relaxation. For some CBD might be too sedating; others will find the sedating effects great for insomnia.
Can you overdose on CBD?
CBD has been shown to be safe to use in high doses and will not cause a fatal overdose. However, it is possible to take too much CBD. A consequence of taking too much CBD is the increased chance of negative side effects like lethargy or drowsiness.
Are drug interactions possible with CBD?
Yes. CBD is metabolized by a group of enzymes called the CYP450. These enzymes are responsible for metabolizing many commonly used drugs. CBD can inhibit the activity of the CYP450 enzymes. While CBD-drug interactions are more likely with high doses of CBD and CBD isolates, precaution must be taken when using CBD alongside life preserving medications for serious conditions (i.e. epilepsy medications). NOTE: If you plan on taking CBD and on any medications, we recommend consulting your physician or licensed healthcare professional prior to usage.
Are there other potential side effects from taking CBD oil?
CBD oil is generally considered to be safe for most people, and few people experience side effects. However, CBD oil can be linked to the following side effects in some cases: fatigue, diarrhea, changes in appetite and changes in weight.
Will CBD cause me to fail a drug test?
Yes and no. While some brands out there will swear up and down you won’t fail a drug test, the truth is, if the product is full spectrum, there is always a chance you could trigger a positive test. Full spectrum CBD contains trace amounts of THC and taken daily that can build up in your system to a point it can trigger a positive.
It’s also very dependent on things like metabolism and body composition. If you are a runner with a very lean body, chances are you won’t trigger a positive. If you are sedentary and slightly overweight, you could trigger a positive for THC.
So, if you are required to take a drug test to maintain employment you might consider a CBD isolate product, which contains no THC, just make sure you verify that with lab reports from the batch you are purchasing.
What are CBD edibles?
CBD edibles are food products infused with CBD. Common CBD edibles products are chocolates, gummy bears, gum, lozenges, mints, etc. CBD edibles are an oral route of administration of CBD.
What is the difference in isolate CBD oil and whole plant/full spectrum CBD oil?
"Full spectrum" or "whole plant" CBD oil will contain trace amounts of THC as well as other cannabinoids. This contributes to the much-touted "entourage effect," which allows users to reap the benefits of not only the hundreds of cannabinoids but also the flavonoids and terpines present in the plant. Isolate CBD oils are made by isolating only the CBD present in the plant; THC and other cannabinoids will not be present in these oils.
How long does it take for CBD to take effect?
The length of time it takes for CBD to potentially take affect can depend on several factors with the primary reason being the route of administration. The fastest effect is usually felt from smoking or vaporization (onset of effects in minutes). Topical administration of CBD can also be felt rapidly. The next fastest effect is generally from a sublingual dosage (onset of effects in 15 - 60 minutes). The slowest effect but usually the longest lasting is felt from oral ingestion (within 90 minutes).
What strength of CBD should I take?
Selecting a starting dose may sound daunting, but it’s really pretty simple. You don’t have to get this correct right out of the gate. The reason being is, it’s best to start low and go slow.
More specifically, you can start by taking 5mg of CBD (or a little bit less) at bedtime. Stick with the same dose for a week before increasing it. Do this every week until you achieve the desired results. You might find you need less than you think. Building up gradually allows you to find out exactly how much CBD you need to alleviate symptoms.
Do you need a prescription for CBD?
No. CBD is not an FDA approved pharmaceutical or dietary supplement and you may purchase CBD without a prescription.
Is CBD Legal?
The 2018 Farm Bill made CBD legal from the federal level. In fact, it removed CBD from the Schedule 1 substance list, and legalized any and all hemp derivatives. However, some states have been slow to accept the new law and interpreting it as they please – in some cases they are still prosecuting CBD possessions. So, even though CBD can legally be shipped to all 50 states, check your local laws if you are concerned about legality. NOTE: Buyers on prep-right.com must be a minimum of eighteen (18) years of age to purchase CBD.
What else should I look for in CBD products?
- Has the product been tested by a 3rd party lab and are the results readily available?
- Does the product contain less than 0.3% THC? This is the amount considered to be safe without any psychoactive effects of THC.
- Where was the hemp sourced and how was it cultivated? The United States has higher standards and superior quality control.
- What amount of CBD is in the product? Dosage can be different based on the product. Determining your ideal CBD dosage will ensure that a product’s CBD contents meets your needs.
- Does the company have a good reputation? Check online reviews and get recommendations from doctors, pharmacists, friends and family.