Not only are a lot of Americans using (cannabidiol) CBD, these users represent all age groups. A survey conducted in January 2019 found that an estimated 64 million Americans had tried CBD in the previous 24 months. Among those users, CBD was most popular with people in their 20s with 40 percent of that age group saying they had tried it. But it also is popular among those 60 or older, with 15 percent of that age range having tried it. [1]
While there are some who are still unsure about what is CBD , others may be asking some basic questions about CBD, such as is it necessary to get a doctor’s prescription for CBD, how to use CBD and how much CBD to use.
Let’s take a look at some of these issues:
What is CBD?
CBD is one of the over 60 cannabinoids or naturally-occurring chemicals found in industrial hemp and marijuana that interact with natural receptors in the brain and body to affect pain response, among other effects. Cannabinoids work with the body’s own endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is made up of endocannabinoids or neurotransmitters that send chemical messages between neurons, which are the cells that transmit nerve impulses.
Is a prescription necessary?
A CBD oil prescription is not necessary for hemp-derived CBD. However, the requirement is different if the CBD oil comes from marijuana and contains more than 0.3% THC, which is the mind-altering ingredient that produces a high. In some states, patients can use CBD oil with more than 0.3% THC if they have a medical marijuana card or an exception.[2]
The only product currently approved by FDA that contains CBD as the main active ingredient is Epidiolex. The drug is approved for use as treatment for Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome, which are two rare types of epilepsy.
How to use CBD
When it comes to how to use CBD oil for pain or to lower stress, there is an array of available consumption methods. CBD offerings include oils, topicals, tinctures, capsules, edibles, and more. Based on need, different absorption methods will be most appropriate.
Ingestion and Sublingual Application:
Whether in capsules, food or liquid, CBD that is swallowed is absorbed through the digestive tract. With capsules, the effective dose already has been established. CBD can also be absorbed directly into the bloodstream bypassing the digestive system by holding liquid from a spray or tincture (a liquid dosed by a dropper) under the tongue (sublingual) for 60 to 120 seconds. The effects may be felt within 15 to 45 minutes.[3]
On the skin:
Topical products, including creams, lotion, balms and gels are applied to the skin over the area where there is pain. When CBD is applied topically, it never reaches the bloodstream but can be absorbed through the skin’s surface to interact with nearby cannabinoid receptors.[4] Since topical CBD use is localized, there is no need to dose too much. Assume a little cream goes a long way and start with a small amount on the problem area. After an hour or so, try reapplying. Any of the topicals that have Camphor, Lidocaine or Menthol can be applied up to 3-4 times a day.
Inhalation:
CBD can be inhaled via a vaporizing, or vape pen. Inhaled CBD tends to enter the bloodstream faster than other forms. However, controlling dosages can be difficult because how much CBD is absorbed depends on how long and hard the inhalation is.[5]
What are the effects?
CBD will affect everyone differently. Specific characteristics of an individual, such as weight, diet, metabolism, other medications, genetics, and medical conditions, as well as the formulation and quality of the CBD product itself all can influence the amount of therapeutic value that CBD will offer. Also, depending on the therapeutic needs, different CBD products may prove more beneficial than others. [6] A good idea is to track the effects of a product for a week or so to see the effect of the product.
While everyone’s response to CBD will be different, the most common results include:
- Pain relief
- More focus
- Less stress and anxiety
- Enhanced sleep
From topicals to tinctures, Lab+Blends has products to meet all these preferences and needs. Find out more about our offerings at: https://lab-blends.com/