CBD Oil – The New Kid On The Block
CBD Oil has become the next big thing, but what’s the hype all about? Here, we separate fact from fiction.
CBD is an abbreviation for cannabidiol, because, you guessed it, it’s extracted from cannabis, but unlike possession of the bud itself, the oil is legal. So, will it get you high, addicted or experiencing side-effects?
Firstly, no – CBD oil will not get you high. THC is the psychoactive compound in cannabis that’s responsible for that, and CBD oil is checked to make sure that THC is not present once the oil has been extracted. CBD is the compound that makes cannabis-users relaxed, so is not responsible for the paranoia that can come alongside a bad experience with cannabis. It’s not addictive either. Finally, in terms of side-effects, it is possible to experience negative side-effects such as nausea or irritability, but it’ll depend on how much you’ve had. As with coffee, where it would be a bad idea to give someone who has never had it a triple-espresso on an empty stomach, CBD companies recommend that you introduce it slowly into your diet so that you can manage how you’re feeling and notice any change in your levels of stress or anxiety.
What does it do?
CBD is quite new and there’s still a lot of research being undertaken on it. In general, this research seems to be across three main areas – stress, sleep and pain. That’s because your endocannabinoid system is involved with these processes within your body. One of the founders of TRIP claims it helped reduce pain and helped him get sleep before his wedding after a nasty knee injury. The founder of Pollen, who sell CBD-infused CBD gummy bears, started using CBD products to help with anxiety and stress. There is also a lot of misinformation out there, and whenever a new product comes on the market it can be touted as a miracle cure for one thing or another. But as with all new products, the bigger the claim, the more suspicious you should be.
How do I use it?
CBD oils come in pre-prepared products, like those mentioned above, or you can buy droppers to add it to your food or drink. If you have an oil diffuser, you can also add a few drops of CBD in with your favourite smells. One thing worth noting is that at high temperatures, the CBD oil might break down and become less useful, so if you add it to food, do it after you've cooked it, rather than at the start.
Is it for me?
As with all products supported by anecdotal evidence, the answer is try it and find out! It’s very easy to add into your diet through drinks or snacks, and if you suffer from stress, bad sleep or pain, you may find this product helpful. If it works for you, you should find yourself feeling more relaxed – but make sure to eat a balanced diet, get plenty of rest and do all the other things you would normally do too – and maybe turn off the news…
