Guide to CBD Oils
What is CBD?
CBD oil is a fabulous food supplement rich in cannabinoids and terpenes, which help to bring balance to our bodies and minds by interacting with the endocannabinoid system in our bodies.
The benefits of CBD oil are wide and varied and it is sold legally in the UK as a food supplement. The World Health Organisation stipulates that CBD oil is non-toxic, non-addictive and non-psychoactive. You can buy CBD oil from our shop here.
What does 'CBD' stand for?
CBD stands for cannabidiol, which is one of over a hundred different compounds known as cannabinoids.
It is proven to be a non-psychoactive cannabinoid meaning when you take it, you won’t feel high. This unique feature of CBD is what makes it so great and appealing for taking care of ourselves, holistically.
Where does it come from?
CBD oil is derived from a strain of cannabis plant called hemp sativa. Hemp sativa naturally grows with very low levels of THC, so it is legal in the UK. It contains high levels of CBD (cannabidiol) and over 100 different healthy cannabinoids. CBD and other cannabinoids are not psychoactive or physically addictive.
What is the Endocannabinoid System?
In 1992, Dr. Raphael Mechoulam, an Israeli scientist, discovered that every human and many animals have a system present in their bodies known as The Endogenous Cannabinoid System or Endocannabinoid System. This system is activated by cannabinoids.
Our bodies create cannabinoids, which are used by the endocannabinoid system to maintain balance (homeostasis) in the body. However, unfortunately most of us are unable to create enough of our own cannabinoids and therefore our endocannabinoid system may be out of balance, resulting in poor health.
The endocannabinoid system has often been described as the most important system in the body for maintaining long-term health.
Research suggests that taking CBD oil helps your body to create more of the cannabinoids needed by this system, in turn helping to maintain balance and wellbeing in the body.
Learn more about the quantities of CBD that are included in each of our products here.
What are the benefits of taking CBD Oil?
CBD had been used for many thousands of years until it was unfortunately prohibited in the 20th century due to its connection with cannabis. CBD and hemp are now fully legal in the UK and the EU but sellers of CBD oil cannot make medical claims regarding its benefits.
When hemp and CBD were legalised a few years ago, many people began to take CBD and other cannabinoids extracted from hemp plants to top up their cannabinoid levels and bring more balance to their endocannabinoid systems.
Taking CBD oil helps your body to create more of the cannabinoids that your endocannabinoid system needs to help maintain balance and wellbeing in the body. It is vital to keep this system working well as it helps our immune systems, protects our brains, helps us manage stress and generally keeps our bodies in balance.
UK Home Office regulations prevent us from providing any medical claims regarding CBD’s efficacy. We cannot give any recommended dosages for particular issues.
Having said that, there are thousands of reviews, forums and studies published online and a good starting point is here Medical News Today
Does CBD affect sleep?
Some people sleep well on CBD, others don’t. It usually depends on the reason why sleeping is difficult. For some, CBD can help relax the body and mind so that sleeping becomes easier. On the other hand, some people notice an uplifting, energising effect, which could make falling asleep more difficult. Should you notice that falling asleep proves more difficult, then take your last drops of the day some 2-3 hours before sleeping.
Studies have also shown that the amount of CBD you take can affect whether you feel sleepy or not. Generally the more CBD you take the more likely you are to feel tired. This is due to the biphasic properties of CBD (see below).
Can I take CBD with other medication?
It is wise to check with your doctor before using CBD oil if you are using other medication. According to the World Health Organisation CBD oil is non-toxic, non-addictive and non-psychoactive and there have never been any reported cases of overdoses or serious side effects.
In some studies, certain doses of CBD have been known to temporarily deactivate Cytochrome P450 (CYP450), a class of liver enzymes responsible for the breakdown of some clinically prescribed medications. This can lead to the delayed breakdown and prolonged activity of administered prescription medications (as well as some OTC medications).
While not believed to be life-threatening, it is advisable to pay attention to any changes in health whilst taking medications alongside CBD and always visit your GP if you are concerned about any new symptoms.
Some people already have anomalies in the CYP450 enzyme system, which can impact the way they metabolize CBD, as well as certain medications. For these individuals it may be necessary to re-evaluate the dosage of CBD.
What if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
If you are thinking about using CBD oil whilst pregnant or breastfeeding you should consult with your GP.
Can children take CBD?
We do not sell CBD oil to children or anyone under the age of 18. If you are thinking about giving CBD oil to someone under the age of 18 you should consult with your doctor.
For more on how to take our CBD products for maximum efficiency, and for more about the science, see part 2 of our guide here.
