Learn About CBD

In recent years, the popularity of CBD products has soared globally, with an increasing number of users incorporating CBD into their health and wellness routines.

One of the key factors driving the wide use of CBD products is the growing interest in natural approaches to health and wellness. Most people are seeking alternatives to conventional pharmaceuticals and are turning to CBD as a potential solution.

CBD is perceived as a more holistic option, as it is derived from a plant source and is often marketed as a natural remedy for various health conditions.

There has been a significant increase in public awareness and education surrounding CBD. Most people now have access to a wealth of information through online resources, articles, and personal testimonials, which has helped demystify CBD and promote its use.

But what exactly is CBD? And why is it so popular? In this guide, we will explore why CBD products have gained traction recently, highlighting the potential benefits and the role of HEMPE CBD products in meeting the growing demand.

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is an active ingredient derived from the hemp plant.

 

Hemp vs. Marijuana: What’s the Difference?

Both hemp and marijuana belong to the same species, Cannabis sativa, and the two plants look somewhat similar. However, substantial variation can exist within a species.

In the US, the FDA's 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp from the legal definition of marijuana in the Controlled Substances Act. However, CBD products containing more than 0.3% THC still fall under the legal definition of marijuana, making them illegal at the federal level.

In the UK, similar measures apply, with empirical data presented in governmental studies of consumer CBD products deeming insufficient evidence in humans to establish a threshold dose for psychoactive effects, deeming CBD legal.

The defining difference between hemp and medical marijuana is their psychoactive component: tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC. Hemp has 0.3% or less THC, meaning hemp-derived products don’t contain enough THC to create the “high” traditionally associated with marijuana.

CBD is a compound found in cannabis. There are hundreds of such compounds, which are termed “cannabinoids,” because they interact with receptors involved in a variety of functions like appetite, anxiety, depression, and pain sensation. THC is also a cannabinoid.

Difference Between Hemp and Marijuana

CBD Potential Health Benefits

Scientists are still learning about the health benefits of CBD and how it affects the body. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Epidiolex, a medicine that contains purified CBD from hemp, to help treat rare seizure disorders.

Scientific evidence by FDA has concluded that this drug is safe and effective for this intended use hence clarifying CBD potential benefits. The FDA's top priority is to protect the public health. Evidence notes that CBD may possess anticonvulsant properties.

Research into other potential benefits of CBD continues. At present, evidence indicates that it may be useful for:

  • chronic pain
  • anxiety
  • addiction
  • sleep disturbances

In addition to the above, CBD can also help with overall well-being. However, while it may ease moderate or severe symptoms, it may be less effective at addressing mild symptoms.

The American College of Cardiology also notes that CBD may have some benefits to cardiovascular health due to its potential anti-inflammatory effects. However, the institution adds that more research investigating dosage and potential drug interactions is still necessary.

Other marketed products and uses of CBD may not be FDA-approved. Always check the CBD legal status of a particular country before use.

What WHO Says About CBD

A critical Review Report by WHO indicates that in humans, CBD exhibits no effects indicative of any abuse or dependence potential. CBD is generally well tolerated with a good safety profile. Reported adverse effects may be a result of drug-drug interactions between CBD and patients’ existing medications. 

Several countries have modified their national controls to accommodate CBD as a medicinal product. To date, there is no evidence of recreational use of CBD or any public health-related problems associated with the use of pure CBD.

The Effects of CBD

Side effects of CBD include nausea, fatigue, and irritability. CBD can increase the level of blood thinning and other medicines in your blood by competing for the liver enzymes that break down these drugs. Grapefruit has a similar effect with certain medicines.

People taking high doses of CBD may show abnormalities in liver-related blood tests hence signs of liver injury.  Many non-prescription drugs, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), have this same effect. So, you should let your doctor know if you are regularly using CBD.

A significant safety concern with CBD is that it is primarily marketed and sold as a supplement, not a medication. Currently, the FDA does not regulate the safety and purity of dietary supplements. So, you cannot be sure that the product you buy has active ingredients at the dose listed on the label.

In addition, the product may contain other unknown elements. We also don't know the most effective therapeutic dose of CBD for any particular medical condition.

How CBD Can Affect Your Health

CBD can influence health in various ways. Research suggests that CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, impacting mood, sleep, and stress levels. Users have reported potential benefits such as reduced anxiety and improved sleep quality.

Potential Harms, Drug Interactions and Side Effects

Using CBD products is not risk-free. Both the FDA (US) and FSA (UK) have limited long-term data on CBD safety.

As such, please consider these possible side effects and adverse effects before using CBD:

  • Liver damage
  • Interference with other drugs you are taking, which may lead to injury or serious side effects
  • Drowsiness or sleepiness
  • Diarrhoea or changes in appetite
  • Changes in mood, such as irritability

Is CBD Bad For You?

When taken by mouth: CBD is possibly safe to take orally in appropriate doses. Doses of up to 200 mg daily have been used safely for up to 13 weeks. With the guidance of a healthcare provider, a specific prescription CBD product (Epidiolex) has been used at higher doses and for longer durations.

When applied to the skin: There isn't enough reliable information to know if topical CBD application is safe or what the side effects might be.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: It may be unsafe to take CBD if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. CBD products can be contaminated with other ingredients that may be harmful to the fetus or infant. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Children: It is possibly safe for children to take a specific prescription CBD product (Epidiolex) orally in doses up to 25 mg/kg daily. This product is approved for use in children with certain conditions who are at least 1 year old. It isn't clear if other CBD products are safe in children.

HEMPE CBD Products

Hemp-derived CBD products can be applied topically through creams, balms, and other products. Topical forms of CBD are effective in reducing pain and inflammation, especially in localised areas.

A good example is the use of HEMPE CBD Muscle Gels. These gels are made with natural ingredients like CBD (cannabidiol), and eucalyptus oil, to help reduce inflammation and relieve pain fast. Some people who have used CBD before believe it can treat chronic pain as well.

Hempe Muscle Gels

Frequently Asked Questions About CBD

Curious about cannabidiol and how it may improve your way of living? The following FAQ segment addresses common queries, providing insightful answers to help you navigate the world of CBD - from understanding its origins to clarifying usage and legal aspects, you'll find the information you seek in our comprehensive guide.

Is CBD the Same as Cannabis?

CBD and THC are substances found in the cannabis plant. They’re both cannabinoids, but they affect the body differently. CBD does not have the psychoactive effects of THC.

Is CBD Considered a Drug?

In 2018, the FDA removed CBD from its list of controlled substances. While it’s no longer considered a drug on its own, CBD can be found in the drug Epidiolex, which the FDA approved to treat seizure disorders.

What's the Difference Between Hemp and Medical Cannabis?

Hemp and medical cannabis are two varieties of the Cannabis sativa plant. Hemp contains higher levels of CBD and little THC, which is why most CBD is made from hemp crops.

What is the Difference Between CBD and CBN?

CBN is another type of cannabinoid, although not much of it is found in the cannabis plant. It’s derived from the exposure of CBD to heat and light.

Like CBD, CBN doesn’t produce a high. It has similar effects on the brain as CBD, though more research is needed to understand it.

For more product-specific FAQs, please see our dedicated HEMPE FAQs section, along with the FAQs on each of our individual products.

The Bottom Line on CBD

As the CBD industry continues to evolve, consumers need to make informed choices when selecting CBD relief products

HEMPE’s commitment to quality, transparency, and sustainability makes it a reliable choice for those seeking CBD relief products that meet the highest standards. By prioritising customer satisfaction and providing access to educational resources such as this guide, we empower individuals to make informed decisions about their health and wellness.

Now that you've learnt the basics, we sincerely hope you're now in a position to fully embark on your CBD journey with confidence, knowing you are investing in products that are backed by integrity and a commitment to excellence.

Do you still feel a need for more information on CBD? If so, please contact our support team today and we'll be more than happy to assist you on your quest for more knowledge about this truly wonderful natural ingredient that mother nature has gifted us.