It’s the new trend: Hemp dispensaries are popping up all over the place and everyone’s asking if you’ve tried it. Naturally, you might have reservations about using CBD since hemp is a sister plant to marijuana.
But the science is in: Cannabidiol, or CBD, is not only an effective treatment for issues such as pain and anxiety, but CBD actually counteracts the chemicals in marijuana that cause inebriation.
With the hype around hemp products, especially the highly concentrated CBD isolate, there are plenty of questions about its legality, its use, and how it’s different from Marijuana. Here’s the full breakdown on everything you need to know about CBD use.
ADVERTISEMENT |
The Stigma
Despite what your parents always told you about cannabis, you can rest assured knowing that hemp – and specifically CBD isolate – isn’t an illicit substance. It is one of many chemicals in cannabis plants that is not psychoactive or perception-altering.
Hemp plants are grown to contain small amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC (the perception-altering chemical found in Marijuana).
Marijuana plants are grown to contain high levels of THC, which causes psychoactivity in the brain – AKA getting high.
While Hemp and Marijuana are in the cannabis family, they are very different from each other. Think of it like this: white roses and red roses are both roses, but have genetic variations that make them very different from one another.
ADVERTISEMENT |
The Benefits
A vast spectrum of benefits can come from CBD isolate. It is not proven that CBD isolate can fully cure any ailments, but many who use it say it helps treat certain medical conditions.
Pain
The human body has an endocannabinoid system (ECS), a system involved in regulating pain, sleep, appetite, and the immune system.
Endocannabinoids are produced in the body to bind cannabinoid receptors to the nervous system. CBD interferes with endocannabinoid receptor activity, which causes pain to decrease by interacting with these neurotransmitters.
Inflammation
Since inflammation is also controlled by the ECS, CBD decreases inflammation for the same reasons it decreases pain.
Anxiety
CBD interacts with the brain’s receptors for serotonin – the chemical that influences moods and social behaviors.
ADVERTISEMENT |
Studies performed on patients with social anxiety disorder who also took CBD show they had reduced anxiety, less discomfort in their speech performance, and less cognitive impairment.
Nausea and Vomiting
CBD can be used as a digestive aid. The chemical binds with the brain’s neurotransmitters in the ECS and reduce nausea and vomiting, while also boosting appetite.
Seizures and Epilepsy
CBD is a anticonvulsant and pharmaceutical companies are beginning to use CBD in anti-epileptic medications.
ADVERTISEMENT |
Your Pets and CBD
Along with humans, animals such as cats and dogs also have cannabinoid receptors which means they can reap the benefits of CBD with you. If you use CBD yourself, you’ll understand how this can help your pets, too.
CBD Isolate vs. Full Spectrum CBD
CBD comes in two main forms and knowing the pros and cons of both will help you pick the best one for you. CBD isolate is very different than full spectrum CBD, so it’s important to know the difference and the chemical compounds of both.
CBD Isolate
CBD isolate is a pure, crystalline substance that contains 99% CBD. This CBD powder contains tiny CBD crystals and virtually nothing else. In the process of extracting the CBD, all other elements like waxes, oils, and other chemicals are removed.
ADVERTISEMENT |
Since this CBD crystalline powder contains no THC, it can’t get you high. But it can help with pain relief, anxiety, and appetite.
Full Spectrum CBD
Full spectrum CBD products such as oil contain much more than CBD. Full spectrum includes all of the chemical compounds of the hemp plant.
Full spectrum CBD might allow for the consumption of CBD at the amount nature intended, instead of the highly concentrated amount in isolate.
ADVERTISEMENT |
Since full spectrum CBD included all of the plant’s compounds, this means there are small amounts of THC in the product. While these amounts are minimal, you should be aware that even the tiniest levels of THC can still show up on a drug test.
How Is CBD Isolate Used?
There are a variety of forms and uses of CBD isolate, and the results of the product can vary based on how you take it.
Ingestion
CBD isolate can be taken internally, and it doesn’t have to be boring to consume. Many users like to mix it into cake mix, brownie mix, or even sprinkle a bit into morning coffee. Plenty of shops also sell edibles, if baking isn’t your thing.
ADVERTISEMENT |
However you decide to ingest your CBD isolate, start with small doses and don’t mix it into anyone’s food or drink without their permission.
Smoking, Vaping, and Dabbing
Sprinkling in some isolate while rolling a cigarette or joint is an easy way to take CBD without having to use a lot of it. Or even in your Vape pen. A little goes a long way with isolate.
If you don’t smoke, you can mix a little bit of CBD crystals in with your vape oil for a pick-me-up.
You can even dab CBD isolate if you prefer. Putting a small amount in your rig is a quick way to feel the benefits of CBD, especially if you’re using it for pain relief.
ADVERTISEMENT |
Topical Application
Since CBD has anti-inflammatory and pain-reducing properties, mixing some isolate in with your body lotion or face cream might help relieve persistent skin irritation.
Tinctures
Tinctures can be held under the tongue for about a minute. When taken this way, the CBD absorbs through the sublingual artery, which is close to the brain.
You can make your own tincture by mixing a little with coconut oil and holding it under your tongue, but until you know how it effects you, it’s best to stick with store-bought tinctures that you know are safely proportioned.
ADVERTISEMENT |
Where is CBD Isolate sold?
Typically you can find CBD isolate for sale at dispensaries and any place you would get hemp products.
It is also sold online if there is not a dispensary near you. CBD isolate wholesale is also an option if you’re trying to buy in bulk at lower prices.
CBD isolate is becoming more accessible as it is becoming more popular, so if there is not a shop near you, be on the lookout for ones in the near future.
ADVERTISEMENT |
The right CBD Product for You
It’s important to start with small doses until you know how it affects you. While CBD isolate overdoses are not yet proven, knowing your limits and using CBD isolate in reasonable doses will keep you feeling good.
Now that you know all about CBD isolate and its benefits, see if it works for you.
Browse our online magazine for some more healthy lifestyle tips!
ADVERTISEMENT |