CBD, short for cannabidiol, is the latest health craze to hit the high street. It’s a compound extracted from hemp plants which contain less than 0.2% THC, the psychoactive ingredient that makes cannabis and weed illegal.
CBD products act on your endocannabinoid system, but unlike medicinal cannabis they don’t require authorisation from a medical professional. This means they can be bought over the counter in a wide range of products.
Medicinal Benefits
CBD is non-psychoactive, but can interact with the endocannabinoid system in ways that may alleviate pain and improve sleep quality. It is a popular choice for many people with arthritis and other chronic pain conditions, as well as those experiencing anxiety or stress.
Research suggests that it may also ease symptoms of fibromyalgia. However, more study is needed to confirm these findings (6).
In addition, it might help to reduce muscle spasticity. It is a component of the cannabis-based medicine Sativex, which has been licensed in the UK for adults with MS-related muscle spasticity that doesn’t respond to other treatments (7).
As more CBD products enter the market, consumers are faced with an array of choices. It is important to understand the different types of CBD, and how they differ, before making a purchase. It’s recommended that you use CBD under the guidance of a health professional. The UK Food Standards Agency recommends limiting daily intake to 70mg of CBD-rich oil (8).
Flavors
The best CBD products are available in a range of flavors, and you can also choose from gummies, capsules, softgels, sprays and oral drops. Capsules are a convenient way to take CBD as they have pre-measured doses, making it easy to control your intake.
Another popular choice of CBD oil UK is Blessed CBD, which offers a wide variety of different formulas. Their tincture oils come in raw and refined options, as well as full spectrum and CBD isolate varieties. The latter tends to have less of an effect because the entourage effect (where other compounds found in cannabis interact with CBD to enhance its effects) isn’t present.
Alternatively, Vibes CBD offers high-quality full-spectrum CBD oils for UK residents. Their tinctures are made with organic hemp that is grown using sustainable and ethical farming techniques. They also use a low pressure, low heat process to extract their oil and publish third-party lab results on their website.
Side Effects
CBD oil can cause a variety of side effects, but they’re typically mild and easy to cope with. They include drowsiness, dry mouth, nausea, gastrointestinal upset and changes to mood. They don’t usually interfere with existing medications but it is a good idea to consult a pharmacist or your doctor before trying new supplements, especially if you have an underlying medical condition or take prescribed medication.
It’s also worth noting that CBD can interact with certain drugs, such as benzodiazepine sedatives (like Klonopin or Ativan) and some antidepressants and herbal products like St. John’s wort or kava. These medications can increase the effects of CBD or make them less effective. This means you may need to adjust your dosage or time them differently. Taking CBD with antibiotics such as clarithromycin or rifampine could increase the chances of developing a rare type of liver failure called hepatotoxicity (32). This is due to the fact that CBD inhibits cytochrome P450 enzymes.
Ingredients
CBD works through the body’s endocannabinoid system to help maintain vital functions like sleep, appetite and pain management. The system is made up of two main receptors, CB1 and CB2. CBD and THC, another cannabinoid found in cannabis, interact with these receptors differently. CBD doesn’t cause the psychoactive effect of THC, so it won’t get you high.
Vitality CBD was established in 2018, making it a relatively new UK CBD brand. Their natural oral drops are available in a range of strengths and can be used sublingually with a convenient dropper.
The company’s products are sourced from organic hemp plants and undergo rigorous third-party testing to ensure purity and potency. Their oil drops are formulated with a mix of MCT and coconut oils for faster absorption. They also offer a water-soluble version for added convenience. Their e-liquids, oil tinctures and topical skin creams contain pure CBD isolate and are free of THC. They are available in a variety of flavours. CBD Drops UK