Did you know that 33% of adults in America have used CBD at least once? And that 14% of all American adults report using it on a regular basis?
The explosive popularity of CBD has led this hemp derivative to go from a niche fad to an international wonder in a matter of a few years.
Since garnering public attention back in 2013, it has become a household item for many people.
If you're new to CBD, you may have a few questions, such as: what kinds of CBD products are available? What's the proper CBD dosage? Is CBD safe for me? Etc.
These are all valid queries, and each one of them, as well as many more, will be addressed and answered in this article.
CBD: What is it?
Many people link CBD to marijuana. And while this is understandable -- being that there is a strong connection between the two -- they're not as closely related as you might have originally anticipated.
When you break it down, CBD is essentially an imitation of marijuana. It's mainly a copy of the botanical Cannabis sativa -- to put this into perspective, think of CBD in terms of being a close cousin of the hemp plant.
They're related but they're not exactly the same.
Plants of the cannabis variety carry two commonly occurring compounds: CBD, also known as cannabidiol. And THC, an acronym for tetrahydrocannabinol.
Both of these compounds are referred to as cannabinoids. However, even though they derive from the same source (hemp plants), they affect the human body quite differently.
THC tends to have more mind-altering effects that CBD seems to lack. And this explains why THC gets you high, whereas CBD doesn't.
These compounds can be found in both marijuana as well as hemp, but the proportions are what separates them.
The levels of THC in hemp are lower, whereas the levels of CBD are higher. Now, with marijuana, those variables are reversed -- there are higher levels of THC and lower levels of CBD.
List of CBD Products
Because of the unprecedented success of CBD, an inordinate amount of products have hit the market to cater to consumers. And in order to find the best method for your CBD consumption, you first need to know what your options are.
Here are a few of some of the most popular CBD products that are currently available:
CBD Oil
There are a myriad of companies that specialize in the making of CBD oil. And many of these oils have the ability to relieve conditions such as stress, pain, and sleep issues.
Additionally, CBD oil may help elevate moods and sharpen focus.
Sour Gummy Bears
Hemp CBD gummies provide you with the best of both worlds: not only do you get a delicious taste that will make your mouth water every time, but they can also help you gain relief from stress and worry.
CBD Body Lotion
CBD lotion can be paired with other botanicals like chamomile, bergamot, and other essential oils. CBD body lotion provides a relaxing feeling of tranquility when applied. Additionally, it has a clean application process; meaning it's not sticky or greasy.
With such a vast array of products to choose from, you will most certainly find something that suits your needs. It may be a good idea to experiment with a few of these product lines to see which ones you enjoy most.
Dosage of CBD: What's the Right Amount?
When it comes to CBD oil dosage, nothing is set in stone. The appropriate amount is going to vary on a case by case basis.
This can oftentimes be confusing for many people. And for good reason. Not even the FDA has a comprehensive guideline regarding how much CBD to take.
This is because the majority of CBD products land outside of the realm of FDA policies. As a result, there is no formal framework to follow that will give you a "correct" answer.
Consequently, what this means is that it's up to you to be responsible as it pertains to your CBD consumption. You do this by exercising sound judgment and common sense.
And one of the things common sense dictates is...
Speak with Your Doctor
Before making any supplemental changes to your lifestyle, be sure to consult with your doctor or a medical professional first. Talking with such an individual will educate you on CBD products, the effects they have, as well as your current condition.
Determining Dosage
There are a couple of factors to bear in mind when trying to determine your dosage. First, the method in which you will consume the CBD. And second, the specific product your are thinking of consuming.
There are a few ways to consume CBD, they are as follows:
- Capsules
- Sublingual oils
- Topicals
- Edibles
As the popularity of CBD continues to grow, more products will continue to hit the shelves.
Elements That Might Effect Dosage
Any prescription, medication, drug, etc. that you consume should be done responsibly, and only once all the variables are considered. And this principle also applies to CBD consumption.
Your CBD dosage is determined by factors, such as the condition you're trying to remedy, your personal threshold or tolerance, as well as the type of CBD product you're considering.
However, a primary factor for the appropriate dosage will typically be the condition you're treating.
Another determinant for CBD dosage is your weight. People of a heavier stature -- generally speaking -- will have more of a tolerance, and as a result, will need a larger dosage.
And the same is true in reverse for people who are a little lighter in weight class.
How to Calculate CBD Dosage
A smart way to determine the proper CBD dosage is by understanding your particular ailment. Depending on what you're attempting to remedy, you will adjust your CBD proportions based on that factor.
It's also important to keep in mind the strength and potency of your particular product as well.
All of these variables must be taken into account when determining the proper dosage amount for yourself.
An appropriate measurement will include the following variables:
- Your body size as well as your weight
- The gravity or seriousness of your ailment
- Your CBD tolerance
- Your particular biological makeup (consult with your doctor)
- The strength of the product you're consuming
An effective strategy for uncovering the proper dosage is to begin at a low dosage (5 mg, for instance), and see how you react to it. Then gradually increase it, if need be, until you begin quelling your ailments.
Dosage Based on Condition
The more chronic or severe the condition, the higher the dosage you may want to consume. If you aren't taking enough CBD based on the ailment you're trying to heal, then you'll just be wasting your product.
CBD Dosage: Four Ways to Find the Right Dose
The optimal way to begin using CBD is to start at your low potency threshold. Always begin at the lower threshold potency level, especially when you are new to CBD.
Here are four simple steps to give you an even more accurate dosage.
1. The Optimum CBD Dosage
Determine the proper level of potency based on the weight class you reside in. Everything begins with this initial step.
A good rule of thumb is to try 1 mg of CBD for every 10 pounds. For example, if you weigh 150lbs, then you might want to see how 15 mg of CBD affects you.
From there, you can adjust accordingly in whatever way you see fit.
2. Make Out the Strength of Your CBD
The strength of your CBD will be a determining factor in how much of it you'll need to relieve your ailments. So do your homework and ensure that you're well aware of the levels of potency that you're getting in your CBD oils.
3. Adjust the Dosage to Suit Your Body Type
The last and final phase of this whole procedure is all about fine-tuning all of the previous steps. You are essentially refining the method until you lock in on the exact ratio of potency, CBD dosage, etc. that works best for your particular ailment and body type.
This last step is a never-ending process. You'll always be tweaking the above variables and polishing your formula.
Getting Your CBD Dosage Just Right
As you can see, there are many factors and variables that will contribute to the optimal CBD dosage. However, by understanding what needs to be considered, you'll be armed with the data you need to make an informed decision.
If you're curious about learning more or have any questions, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us today.