You’ve probably already heard about the recent craze surrounding CBD products and how it appears to be gaining popularity at an exponential rate in the newly emerging market for legal cannabis products. Cannabidiol has emerged as one of the most popular and fastest-growing healthcare products in recent years. Based on research, one out of every three adults in the United States has used cannabidiol products at some point in their lives (check here). And it’s no surprise since natural health products are becoming increasingly popular as alternatives to over-the-counter medications.
In fact, there are a wide variety of cannabidiol products available today, and you can find them almost anywhere. You can find them in any health food or vitamin store, as well as other places such as supermarkets, where you’ll likely find a wide range of options such as oil, gummies, baked goods, soap, tea, and so on.
Various factors contribute to cannabidiol’s widespread acceptance of its uniqueness and promise. However, even though cannabidiol is becoming increasingly popular, it is still shrouded in controversy and uncertainty. From neighborhood pharmacies to the floor of the Senate, people are debating the upsides and downsides of these enticing innovative products.
In addition, there have been numerous studies. Some people believe that it has various health benefits that we can reap from consuming it. Concerning the controversy, CBD has been associated with marijuana, leading some to question its safety. But let’s learn about it first.
So, What Is CBD?
Cannabidiol, also known as CBD, is the second leading active component in cannabis (marijuana). When it comes to medical marijuana, CBD is typically extracted from the hemp plant, a cousin of cannabis. It is one of the hundreds of ingredients in both cannabis and hemp, and it does not, by itself, produce euphoric effects. Also, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), cannabidiol exhibits no signs of abuse or dependence potentials. Since it is also non-psychoactive, you can’t get addicted to it.
Hemp Vs. Marijuana
Perhaps you’re concerned with its association with both recreational and medical marijuana. Well, yes, CBD is a part of the plant. But THC, another active component of marijuana, causes “high” to those who consume it in high dosage, especially in cannabis.
Cannabis or marijuana contains an immense amount of THC than CBD. On the other hand, hemp has less than 0.3% THC and a significant amount of CBD, offsetting the psychotropic effects of THC.
Is CBD Legal?
Cannabis has remained prohibited in many parts of the world. On the other hand, hemp became legal in the United States due to the 2018 Farm Bill. And in most parts of the United States like Florida and Colorado, CBD is readily available, despite its exact legal status being still up in the air. CBD is now legal in all 50 states, though with varying degrees of restriction.
CBD Products
Flower
The flower variation is quite popular because it provides the option of smoking, which has long been a favorite of hemp enthusiasts worldwide. And, of course, you can consume them without becoming intoxicated. It comes in the form of raw flowers and pre-rolls, as you can see on cheefbotanicals, which can be smoked or vaped, depending on your preference. In fact, one of the primary reasons for the increase in popularity of hemp flowers is the potency. Through smoking, the product can be quickly absorbed into the bloodstream by the body, with results taking as little as 30 seconds.
In addition, some people simply enjoy the flavor profile of CBD flowers, while others seek the soothing and relaxing results that can be obtained by smoking hemp. Many people are turning to hemp smokes as an alternative to traditional tobacco cigarettes.
Oil
CBD oil is produced by extracting the oil from the hemp plant’s seeds, flowers, and stalks. It is the most potent and costly of all the CBD products available, yet it is the most convenient and versatile form in the market. It can be used in so many different ways, and that’s what makes it so unique. You can make a beauty regime by mixing it with your personal care products.
You can also infuse CBD into food ingredients to create CBD-infused snacks and baked goods. Also, if you want to get instant effects (see here: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/cbd-oil-benefits), you can ingest this form through the vape method.
In addition to cannabinoids, fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins and nutrients can be found in this form. It’s easier to dose as you can control the amount you’re taking.
Gummies
Gummies are chewable tablets taken orally to help overall wellness, including sleep, pain management, stress control, and anxiety reduction. Thanks to their potency and wide range of flavor options, these cannabidiol-infused gummies can provide you with the most convenient and enjoyable way to consume cannabidiol.
Although cannabidiol may have different effects on different people, gummies are an excellent option for people interested in trying CBD for the first time because they are small and discrete. Another advantage is that they are simple to dose because they do not require measuring spoons or droppers.
Capsules
Capsules offer greater precision in dosing and greater convenience (you can take them anywhere and don’t need a liquid dropper). They don’t have the grassy taste and mouthfeel of hemp-derived tinctures, which some people find off-putting. This is an excellent start if you want a daily dose of cannabidiol and get its long-term benefits.