supplements
∙3 minute read
If you like to stay up to date with the latest health and wellness trends, you’ve likely heard about CBD (cannabidiol) and its many potential uses. While it’s easy to disregard it as the next “fad”, endorsed by celebrities who make exaggerated claims about its potential, little is known about the actual science behind CBD. In this article, we debunk 7 of the most popular myths and misconceptions about CBD oil.
Will CBD oil get you high? The short answer is no. The longer answer is that when CBD oil is extracted from the hemp plant, it contains little to no tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC is the primary psychoactive component that gives the feeling of being ‘high’ when used recreationally in cannabis or marijuana.
CBD oil is completely legal in the UK – as long as the THC content is no higher than 0.2%, with no more than 1mg in any one container, and the THC is not easily separated from it. While the MHRA hasn’t licensed CBD oil as a medicine yet, it is often sold as a food supplement and can be found in health shops on the UK high street.
Although CBD and marijuana are both extracted from different varieties of the cannabis plant, marijuana is high in THC and low in CBD, while hemp is the other way around. CBD oil is extracted from the hemp plant, which can have small amounts of THC in it, but to ensure there are no psychoactive effects, this will always be below the legal limit of 0.2%.
While CBD is extracted from the cannabis plant, the same plant that marijuana is derived from, it does not have the same association with dependence. The World Health Organization (WHO) recently conducted a report concluding that CBD exhibits no indication of potential for addiction or abuse, and there is no evidence to date that contradicts this.
While CBD oil has not yet been licensed as a medicine in the UK, there have been several studies in recent years that have shown promising results. A 2018 UK study showed the potential for CBD use in treating ulcerative colitis, while a 2019 study concluded that CBD may hold benefits for anxiety-related disorders.
More controlled clinical studies are needed, but in the meantime, CBD has been shown to be completely safe to take for most people.
Like most medicines, the effects of CBD can vary from person to person. While research shows that there are minimal side effects, some users have reported tiredness and an upset stomach. While CBD has been reported to have a relaxing effect on users, it will not “put you to sleep” instantly.
Like most supplements, the time taken to feel the effects of CBD oil is dependent on the individual, as well as the method and quantity taken. Placing a few drops under the tongue, twice a day, every day is generally considered to be the most effective method. Rather than feeling the effects straight away, it takes time to build up to an optimal dosage that works for you – but it’s not recommended to exceed more than 10 drops a day.
If you’re interested in trying CBD oil, the most important thing to be aware of is where you’re purchasing it from. Always do your research, and make sure you aren’t buying a product that contains above the legal limit of 0.2% THC.
