Dedicated users have long touted cannabidiol or CBD as having medicinal properties, which is slowly being proven by more and more scientific studies. While the stigma surrounding cannabis use certainly has hampered research and development, people are starting to understand its health benefits.
In 2020, the US FDA even approved a CBD-based drug treatment recently called Epidiolex, designed to reduce the intensity of seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome (LGS) or tuberous sclerosis complex (TCS) in patients aged a year and up. While there was no doubt in many users about the medicinal nature of CBD, this landmark in cannabis use might pave the way towards greater legitimacy.
The growth in the industry
By 2024, the CBD products industry is expected to grow to a global value of over $20 billion. Many experts theorise that this explosive growth can be attributed to the extraction process, which can isolate CBD from its psychoactive sister compound, tetrahydrocannabinol or THC.
The effects and methods of consumption
People worldwide are starting to use cannabidiol with increasing frequency—especially since the compound is neither addictive nor psychoactive. Anecdotal evidence suggests that it can help alleviate feelings of anxiety and depression. People also use it to relieve pain and help with insomnia.
All these uses have led to different forms. There are ingestible types, like oils, capsules, and gummies. Many of these take about 45 minutes to 2 hours before you feel the effects; a few drops of CBD oil, on the other hand, can take just 15 minutes.
Other products may vary in terms of absorption time. Products like balms, lotions, ointments, and pastes are meant to spread out the effects over a long period rather than a quick fix. Topical methods such as these are perfect for pain relief, especially when applied directly over the affected area.
Start small
You may well know as there are no long-term negative side effects associated with the use of cannabidiol. As with anything, however, it is important to take things only in moderation. While consuming too much CBD might not cause an overdose, it can leave you feeling tired, weak, and sleepy for an extended period.
As a good rule of thumb, never ingest more than 200 milligrams of CBD per day. This can lead to drowsiness and a rather long nap. When it comes to trying a new form, start small and move up slowly. After all, it is far easier to deal with taking too little than taking too much.
Pay attention to the product details. If it says that effects can take 30 minutes to 2 hours, wait for 2 hours before using or adding more. If possible, wait beyond that to see if the effects start to settle in. At the end of the day, the CBD will react uniquely to each unique body.
Final thoughts
You shouldn’t be surprised if, in the future, CBD becomes available at every drug store and supermarket. The research is already starting to prove its effectiveness at helping with many conditions—even if the science is only meant to confirm what we already know.
If you’re looking for cannabidiol products to make yourself feel better, give us a call at Quintessential Tips. We are one of the UK’s leading home-grown cannabis shops, here to provide you with great products and service.