Beginner's Guide to CBD - Frequently Asked Questions

Let’s take a look at what it is, where to buy it and what it does.

Cannabinoids

CBD or Cannabidiol is one of numerous cannabinoids found in cannabis. Cannabinoid is a chemical compound that directly and indirectly effect cannabinoid receptors to help the body maintain stability and health.

Where Does CBD Come From? CBD vs THC

Cannabidiol is derived from both varieties of the cannabis plant – marijuana and hemp. The former usually contains higher levels of THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) and lower CBD content. The latter is rich in Cannabidiol and has extremely low THC content. THC is known for its psychoactive properties while CBD has no such effect on the human body.

At the same time both cannabinoids have a great array of health benefits, some of which are manifested better when the two are combined. You could argue that CBD is psychoactive since it provides relaxation and anxiety relief, but it does not cause the euphoric “high” like THC. Indeed, CBD reduces the effects of THC, such as inebriation, sedation, and racing heart. That is why if you need THC for medicinal purpose 1:1 or even 10:1 THC:CBD ration of your preferred marijuana infused product would make for a great choice. Keep in mind that recreational dispensaries do not sell plain CBD products. All products contain some percentage of THC. If you wish to buy a CBD only edible, or vape and so on, you need to get a medical marijuana card and visit a medical store.

Health Benefits of CBD

There are many of them. Some have been proven by studies, some are being discovered as we speak with new studies on the way. According to them, CBD helps to cope with various ailments and symptoms, such as nausea, especially the post-chemotherapy kind, muscle soreness, anxiety, seizures, and more. The first CBD product to be approved by the FDA is Epidolex, which is known to decrease seizures in children with epilepsy. As the legalization rolls out in the U.S. and the world more studies will follow and help us discover all the wonderful ways that Cannabidiol can help us.

Hemp CBD vs Marijuana CBD. Is CBD Legal? Where to Buy CBD?

The plant where Cannabidiol is extracted from is called cannabis but, as we mentioned before it has two main varieties that are rather different - high THC content in marijuana plants (up to 30%) and low in hemp (no higher than 1%, usually around 0.3%). However, there is no significant difference in CBD we obtain from either of the plants. The big difference is the market regulation – marijuana CBD can be bought only in states with some form of cannabis being legal. It is done through a licensed retailer and undergoes numerous quality control stages and testing. The legality of hemp CBD is somewhere in a gray area thus lacking or having no oversight whatsoever and may even be potentially harmful. If you are looking to buy CBD oil or other CBD containing product, be wary of buying it online. Go to a dispensary near you and buy products form a well-known and trusted manufacturer.

Is CBD Safe? Can I Take Too Much of It?

As long as you buy your favorite CBD containing product from a trusted manufacturer, where you can be sure of the quality of source material, extraction, and so on you have nothing to worry about. As to the dosage – the recommended dose is about 20 mg per day, though as it is with a lot of products, it is very individual. Do not try to stuff yourself with Cannabidiol because taking too much of it will actually decrease the effectiveness. Plus you might feel sleepy and lightheaded.

Moderation is the key and you should always start with a smaller dose and be sure to consult with your physician. Consume responsibly and stay healthy!