Oils, gummies, capsules and more: A detailed breakdown of CBD

There’s a lot to know about CBD, oils, capsules, gummies and other edibles. The age-old adage “knowledge is power” rings true in this context, especially if you are considering using these kinds of preparations as a herbal remedy to treat one or more ailments.

CBD: What, why and how?

Therefore, let’s start the knowledge gain process by considering a comprehensive definition of what CBD is.

According to the US National Library of Medicine, CBD or cannabidiol is a chemical compound from the well-known sativa plant.

At the outset of this discussion, it is essential to note that it’s a naturally occurring substance used in products like oils and edibles to impart a feeling of relaxation and calm. Unlike THC, CBD is not psychoactive.

As an aside, hemp does not contain large amounts of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). It contains a high concentration of CBD, and its THC levels are below 0.3%. Other plant strains can have up to 25% THC.

Extracting CBD from plant material

In this context, the amount of THC in a plant is not relevant. It’s the CBD percentage in a plant strain that matters. Therefore, when starting to extract it from a plant, it is more cost-effective and time-efficient to begin with a cannabidiol-rich plant.

There are several different ways to extract cannabidiol from a plant. While the extraction is not the primary focus of this article, it is worth providing a brief explanation because some of the methods used are not as safe and effective as others. This becomes relevant when deciding what CBD brand and products you are considering using.

In summary, all methods that use neurotoxic solvents like butane and hexane can leave residues that are not safe for human consumption. Therefore, it is essential to avoid using products where the cannabidiol has been extracted using one of these chemicals.

The safest extraction mechanism is the CO2 extraction method. It uses carbon dioxide under high pressure and critically low temperatures to isolate, maintain, and preserve the oil in its purest form. Consequently, the final product is reliable, strong, and chlorophyll-free.

Making infused extra-virgin olive oil is the most inexpensive method that is also safe. The only challenge with this end-product is that it is perishable so must be stored in a cool, dark place until used.

The different CBD-based products

There are many different cannabidiol-based products available as both natural recreational and medicinal preparations. Therefore, this article’s constraints only allow for a few of the essential products to be discussed. Should you wish to know more, there is an all-inclusive guide available from VSAVI that contains everything you want to know about CBD.

At this juncture, it is essential to note that oil products cannot be legally sold in the UK as medicinal preparations. Therefore, they are sold as food supplements.

CBD drops

These drops are manufactured from CBD and extra-virgin olive oil. And they are used as a food supplement. You can put several drops directly under your tongue or add them to your food or a drink, except alcohol, coffee or tea.

Saliva helps break down the cannabinoid in the oil, facilitating its absorption into the bloodstream. Thus, putting the drops under your tongue is the best way to consume this product.

Gummies

MedicalNewsToday.com describes gummies as “a form of cannabidiol (CBD) edibles.” They are edible candies or sweets. They are found in a wide range of colours, flavours, concentrations and shapes.

In summary, they are an easy and tasty way of consuming it. Some of the most common reasons for using gummies are pain management and relief from anxiety and depression.

CBD skin balm

As highlighted above, hemp has high concentrations of naturally occurring cannabidiol, extracted and used in skin balms or preparations with cold-pressed hemp seed oil, coconut oil and shea butter.

It’s important to note that when using a this kind of skin balm, there is just under a 100% chance that its oil will never reach the bloodstream. The human skin is not permeable, and it blocks most substances from entering your body and getting to your bloodstream.

It is also claimed to be a powerful antioxidant, preventing the skin from drying out and helping the healing process.. Examples of skin conditions where it is worth considering using this kind of skin balm are diabetic sores and psoriasis.

CBD capsules

Capsules such as the Softgels are gel-like capsules filled with a CBD preparation. They are ingested orally and are often used for pain relief, inflammation and anxiety. Because the capsule is absorbed in the stomach, the same dose is not as effective as oil drops taken under the tongue. However, the capsules are easy to use and give a more consistent, measured dose than the oil preparation.

Final thoughts

As highlighted earlier in this discussion, these products are only a few of the many different types of products available for consumption. Determining the safety of a specific item is up to you, and you should speak with a healthcare professional. Therefore, it is essential to research the backstory to a particular preparation before purchasing and ingesting it. A product’s safety will become an issue if the cannabidiol is not extracted in conditions that are not similar to a biotechnical laboratory: do your due diligence before shopping.

The editorial unit

The material contained in this article is of the nature of general comment only and does not give advice on any particular matter. Recipients should not act on the basis of this article’s information without taking appropriate professional advice.