Over the past few years, the study and use of cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD, for its potential role in treating a variety of health issues has gained traction. However, its use remains controversial, with confusion surrounding what it is and ways in which it affects the human body. Despite the controversy around CBD, it is now legal in several states where marijuana is not. Knowledge about the possible health benefits, use, potential risks, and legality of the compound will help consumers to make informed decisions. Here are a few things you should know about CBD dosage.
What is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a type of cannabinoid, a natural chemical compound found in the cannabis sativa plant. However, it is essential to note that CBD does not contain the “high” associated with marijuana. How the plant is bred plays a crucial role in determining the levels of CBD. Most CBD oils come from industrial hemp since they are known to have a higher content than marijuana. There are several methods of extracting the compound, after which the extract is added to a carrier oil known as CBD oil. The CBD products in the market have varying strengths, making it possible for people to use them in various ways and for different purposes.
How CBD Works
The human body produces specific cannabinoids on its own. The body also has two receptors for cannabinoids: the CB1 receptors and CB2 receptors. Although CB1 receptors are found throughout the body, many of them are present in the brain. The CB1 receptors in the brain affect pain, mood, coordination and movement, memories, appetite, thinking, and a host of other functions. CB2 receptors, on the other hand, are found in the immune system and affect inflammation and pain. CBD tends to direct the body to use more of its cannabinoids it and produces antipsychotic effects. By doing so, CBD seems to reduce pain and anxiety as well as enhance mental function, according to studies.
Uses of CBD
Proponents of CBD oil claim that it has the potential to treat a wide variety of health issues. These health problems range from everyday ailments to chronic health conditions.
Side Effects
There have been concerns about the possible side effects that CBD may have on people who use it. Some reported side effects include low blood pressure, dry mouth, drowsiness, and lightheadedness. Other side effects that CBD may trigger are anxiety, nausea, vomiting, changes in mood, changes in appetite, and diarrhea.
Besides these side effects, there are special precautions and warnings about CBD. In case you are pregnant or breastfeeding, there is no reliable information that cannabidiol will be safe for mother and unborn baby. There are also reports that high doses of cannabidiol could worsen tremors and muscle movement if you have Parkinson’s disease.
Ways to Take CBD
Whether the target for CBD is your brain, immune system, or any other location, it has to travel through your bloodstream to get there. How you ingest it and how quickly your body gets rid of it determine how long CBD will work in your body. There are different ways of using CBD products, with some people benefiting from a combination of delivery methods.
Oral – CBD can either be ingested or absorbed directly into the bloodstream by placing it underneath the tongue. You can take CBD oil, tinctures, powder, edibles, and capsules orally.
Inhalation – inhaling CBD takes it through the lungs before it reaches the bloodstream. Taking vape pens and high-CBD cannabis by inhalation is the quickest way to get it circulating in your system.
Topical – creams and lotions are applied on the skin to relieve pain, inflammation, and reach targets such as muscles.
Vaginal and anal – applying CBD on vaginal and anal tissues has the most potent effect on muscles, pain-perceiving nerves, and inflammatory cells.
Dosing
The CBD dosage you take has a direct relationship with the amount of the compound that your body will absorb. However, whether you are a first-time user or experienced user, you should start with familiarizing yourself with how CBD works. There is no specific way to tell the right CBD oil dosage for any individual. Similarly, there is no one-size-fits-all dosage when it comes to CBD. Generally, determining the best CBD dosage will depend on the following factors:
– The concentration of CBD
– The weight of the individual using CBD
– The severity of the condition you want to treat
– The desired effects
– The individual’s body chemistry and tolerance
Generally speaking, as with any substance, it is advisable to start with small amounts and lower concentrations, before increasing as time goes by. Such a move will help to avoid the severe and adverse side effects that the compound could bring.
Calculating the Best Dosage
To calculate the best dosage, you have to take into account your body weight as well as the effect level. However, you should always consult your physician before you try CBD for the first time. A doctor who knows your medical history can best calculate the right CBD dosage.
Dosing Guide for Different CBD Products
There are several forms of CBD from which you can choose. Here is how you can take them based on their concentration.
Oil and tinctures – These can either be mixed with food or applied sublingually. These typically contain a concentration of 100 mg to 5000 mg.
Vape oil – Vape oil is inhaled using a vape pen, producing immediate effects. The concentration range of vape oil is typically 200 to 1500 mg.
Edibles – You can ingest these forms of CBD. One edible will typically contain a concentration of 5 to 100 mg.
Topicals – Creams and oils are applied to the skin and vary by your application preference. Concentration is usually in the range of 250 to 1500 mg.
Can You Take Too Much?
One of the questions you would wish to ask is “can you overdose on CBD oil?”. While extensive information on the long-term health effects of CBD may not be available, reports show that it is impossible to overdose on CBD. Cannabinoids are also considered to be non-toxic, less addictive than other drugs and produce few, non-threatening side effects.
There is a general lack of FDA regulation for most of the CBD products available in the market. It is, therefore, important for consumers to seek the expert advice of a medical professional before using or determining the best dosage. With the wide selection of CBD products online, talking to your doctor will go a long way in helping you avoid some of the adverse side effects and health problems associated with CBD.