What Is CBD Oil, and Why Are People So Into It?

Cannabidiol, or CBD, is one of many active compounds found in hemp plants. Recently, CBD oil has become a hot wellness trend and is now widely available in physical stores and online. But what are the benefits, and how do you choose a product that really works? We explain.

What Is CBD Oil?

CBD is a cannabinoid, one of over 100 active compounds in hemp plants. Unlike its psychoactive cousin THC, CBD does not cause intoxication, although some users say it induces a sense of relaxation and calm.

It works by influencing an innate physiological system known as the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The system is associated with many crucial biological functions, including regulating mood and appetite, supporting healthy sleep cycles, and reducing inflammation.

By supplementing this essential system, CBD could have a wealth of benefits for our health and well-being. Therefore, CBD oil and CBD tinctures have become extremely popular over the past few years.

These products are designed to support a healthy lifestyle; many also say they help them manage symptoms when used regularly.

They feature CBD suspended in a carrier oil or other liquid base and are generally used sublingually (under the tongue). This area is rich in blood vessels, so the idea is that holding the CBD oil there for a couple of minutes before swallowing increases its absorption rate.

CBD Oil Benefits

People use CBD oil for a wide variety of reasons. Some of the most popular of these include:

* Improving mood
* Relieving anxiety
* Managing pain and inflammation
* Supporting healthy sleep cycles

There is also evidence that CBD could help with numerous other complaints. However, these products are not a substitute for professional medical care; individuals should consult a physician before trying CBD oil for a specific condition.

If a brand makes outlandish claims about its products’ ability to treat or cure a particular illness, steer clear. Reputable manufacturers let the quality of their CBD oils do the talking and have no need to make such claims.

CBD Oil vs. CBD Tincture

There is much confusion surrounding the difference between CBD oil and CBD tincture. Many people use the terms interchangeably, and some assume that the two products are the same. But while there are certainly some similarities, there are subtle differences too.

CBD oil consists of cannabidiol-rich hemp extract suspended in carrier oil. Most manufacturers use MCT oil from coconuts as it allows for the best CBD absorption rates. There are many ways of extracting CBD from hemp plant material. However, CO2 extraction is considered the gold standard as the resulting product is both potent and pure.

On the other hand, a CBD tincture is an alcohol extract. Manufacturers use alcohol to draw out the active compounds from the plant material before straining and packaging it for use. There is nothing inherently wrong with this method, although the end result can be somewhat bitter. Therefore, many consumers prefer the experience of taking high-quality CBD oil.

Different Types of CBD Oil

Aside from the difference between CBD oil and CBD tincture, there are a few other things to consider. Several types of CBD oil are available, including full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and isolate.

Full-spectrum products contain the full range of cannabinoids and terpenes that the hemp plant produces. There are strict laws regarding the maximum amount of THC a product can contain, so CBD oil should never have intoxicating effects.

Broad-spectrum CBD is similar to full-spectrum but has had all the THC removed. These products are ideal for anyone concerned about consuming even trace amounts of the psychoactive cannabinoid.

Finally, isolates have all other compounds removed apart from CBD. They offer high levels of cannabidiol but no other cannabinoids or terpenes.

One school of thought suggests that full-spectrum products are the most effective. Many believe that the compounds in hemp work together synergistically, producing effects greater than the sum of their parts.

CBD oil is also available in numerous strengths, and choosing the right one can take time and effort for new users. A full-spectrum CBD oil 1000mg is a good place for most people to start. This potency is often in the mid-range of what’s on offer and should provide a balance between efficacy and value.

Choosing a Premium-Quality CBD Oil

The CBD market is largely unregulated, and many companies get away with selling substandard fare. Therefore, it is essential to conduct thorough research before making a purchase.

Look for a brand that uses clean ingredients and is transparent about its manufacturing processes. They should also provide up-to-date lab reports for their products to confirm their cannabinoid content and prove they are contaminant-free.

Read plenty of online reviews, and don’t be tempted by cheap products that seem too good to be true. CBD oil is definitely an item where you get what you pay for, so it’s best to go with reputation over price.