If you’ve heard of CBD but feel like you don’t know that much about it, this article is for you. CBD can be confusing, so we’ve taken the absolute basics and put it all together in one place for you. Everyone has to start somewhere, and we’re here to help! This is CBD for beginners — the ultimate CBD guide for those new to this supportive ingredient. This is the article for you if you’ve ever asked any of these questions:
- What is CBD?
- Is CBD Legal?
- What’s the difference between THC and CBD?
- What different CBD products are there?
Then read our CBD guide for all the answers and more.
Topics Covered
What Is CBD?
CBD is short for cannabidiol. It comes from the cannabis plant and is one of around 120 chemicals found within the plant. Cannabidiol is a type of cannabinoid, a chemical which appears naturally in humans. Cannabinoids from plants are called phytocannabinoids.
How CBD Differs From THC
CBD and THC both come from hemp or the cannabis plant. However, there is a significant difference between CBD and THC. THC is the chemical that gives marijuana users a “high.” It has psychoactive qualities and is associated with adverse and unwanted effects, as well as being illegal in many states.
CBD has no psychoactive effects and is extracted carefully to ensure THC levels are kept so low as to be negligible.
How Is CBD Extracted?
CBD oil extraction happens in a couple of different ways. CBD comes typically from hemp plants which are deliberately rich in CBD. The CBD has to be extracted carefully to avoid contamination from any of the other chemicals, like THC.
Liquid solvents may be used for CBD extraction. This is an inexpensive method, but the solvents are flammable, and they may also draw chlorophyll into the CBD oil, which can make it taste bitter.
CBD oil CO2 extraction is another method. This method is considered the most up to date, and because of that, it is the most expensive. A closed-loop extractor uses pressurized Co2, pumping it through the raw hemp which extracts the vital CBD oil. This is the safest method for consumers as it can be carefully controlled throughout ensuring the highest quality CBD oil with no contaminations.
Types of CBD Products: Top 4 Products
#1 CBD Oil
The most popular and most well-known way to take CBD. CBD oil comes in a variety of strengths, ranging from 100mg to 3500mg. A dropper is used to place CBD oil under the tongue. The oil is then left there for 30 seconds before swallowing. A lower strength is nearly always recommended for beginners until you get used to how much your preferred daily amount of CBD is.
#2 CBD Edibles
CBD edibles include gummy candies which can come in a variety of shapes, colors, and flavors. CBD gummies are a fun and easy way to introduce CBD into your daily regimen and are easy to take with you when you’re on the go.
#3 CBD Beverages
CBD infused beverages include tea and coffee, making them really easy to slide into your everyday routine. It’s so easy to replace your morning cup of Joe with a CBD-infused coffee and reap the benefits. Here is a bit more information about CBD infused food and drink.
#4 CBD Topicals
CBD topicals mean products such as CBD cream, which may be applied directly to the skin. These creams and treatments are aimed at those who might suffer from aching joints, sore muscles, or even irritated skin. Additional ingredients such as relaxing lavender and soothing chamomile combined with the gentle massage of applying the cream help make this a well-rounded treatment which people may find beneficial.
Some CBD topicals combine the potential benefits of CBD and other botanicals with the same ingredients as heat relief cream, to give a holistic treatment that targets problem areas and may provide fast and effective relief.
Other products include capsules and vividly flavored oils, so there are lots of different ways to take CBD- something for everybody.
Is CBD Legal?
CBD oil laws state that as long as CBD contains less than 0.3% THC, it is perfectly safe and therefore entirely legal. Anything over 0.3% automatically becomes classed as marijuana and only available via prescription, and even then, only in certain states.
Takeaway
CBD oil products are made from cannabidiol, carefully extracted from the cannabis plant, also known as hemp. CBD oil and its products contain no THC, and are considered safe, and may provide support to your wellness routine. CBD can be taken as drops of oil, gummies, or even topically on the skin. It’s all about finding the right product for you!
If this CBD beginner’s guide has left you wanting to know more, visit this blog for lots more information about all things CBD related.
