Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a chemical compound that is currently taking the world by storm. With research suggesting that CBD has various health benefits, many are turning toward the natural cannabinoid to improve their daily lives. However, this explosion in popularity has brought about a lot of misconceptions about the cannabinoid. Many incorrectly believe that CBD cannot cause negative effects and are not as careful when consuming it as they should be. While you cannot overdose on cannabidiol, staying safe while consuming it is crucial to having the best experience you can.
Education Is Key
The first step in consuming CBD safely is to educate yourself on what exactly CBD is, where it comes from, and how it works within your body. As mentioned, CBD is a cannabinoid that is abundantly found in cannabis plant varieties. The compound is completely non-psychoactive so it cannot get you high like some of the other compounds found in cannabis. Because of this, CBD is generally regarded as safe for human consumption.
When consumed, CBD works in unique ways within our bodies' endocannabinoid system (ECS), a system primarily responsible for maintaining homeostasis, or internal balance. If you become exposed to too much stress, your body can be thrown off balance, and it can be difficult for it to get back on track on its own. Researchers have found that CBD works with the cannabinoids our bodies naturally produce (endocannabinoids) to create the balance it needs to keep you feeling your best. Whether it is pain perception, inflammation, or mood, CBD may be able to help.
Finding the Perfect CBD Product for You
Once you feel comfortable with the topic of CBD and all it has to offer, the next step in making sure you're staying safe with consumption is finding the right CBD-infused product for you. The market is booming with various different types of products, sometimes making it overwhelming to choose one. This is why understanding how each type works individually is key in finding the product that's going to produce the effects you're looking for, and the safe experience you deserve.
One of the most popular forms of CBD right now is CBD oil. CBD oil is made when the cannabis plant undergoes a strict extraction process to isolate the cannabinoid and other natural components to create a non-psychoactive oil-like substance. This form is ideal for most, as it is incredibly easy to consume, is pre-dosed with droppers, can come in different flavors, and can be quite potent. With CBD oils, you can place a few drops directly under your tongue for quick effects, or into your food or drink if you're not a fan of the taste or texture of the tincture.
You also have the option to enjoy CBD within edibles of various types. From baked treats to gummies, CBD edibles are consumed for their high concentration of CBD and yummy flavors. These types of edibles cannot get you high at all, and most of the weed flavor is completely disguised. CBD edibles can also be easily dosed, though you need to make sure to always be patient and wait at least an hour before consuming more. Edibles take longer for your body to process, so this type of CBD is ideal for those who have a relaxing day ahead of them.
CBD hemp flower is also always a good option, especially for those who aren't opposed to smoking, or want to smoke but don't want to get high. Along with smoking, vaping CBD cartridges is another great, more discreet option that is a little less harsh on the lungs. This method is also quite easily dosed, and often recommended for new consumers.
Proper Dosing and Starting Slow
When it comes to avoiding unpleasant side effects from CBD, proper dosing is one of the most important factors to consider. Consuming too much CBD is one of the few ways that cannabidiol can create an uncomfortable experience, so this is why it is always recommended to start with as low a dose as possible. Over-consumption can potentially cause nausea or vomiting, increased anxiety, or dizziness and drowsiness. While these side effects aren't killer, they're definitely not pleasant. Thankfully, they're easily avoided as long as caution is taken.
For dosing, starting low is highly encouraged, especially if you're new to the cannabis scene. This is the best way to ensure that your experience isn't too overwhelming, and it gives your body a chance to adjust to the new cannabinoids floating around. If the dose you consume doesn't yield the effects you want, you can consume a little bit more. Just make sure you're being patient: depending on your chosen method, it can take a bit of time for the CBD to work.
Consuming With the Best Intentions
The last step to safely consuming CBD is to consume with the best intentions possible. CBD comes from an extremely powerful and special plant that deserves to be treated with the utmost respect. When you go into your CBD experience with a positive mindset and the intent to better your mind and body, you're helping to ensure an ideal result. Though, it's important to note that CBD does not work for every person, so don't get frustrated if you find that cannabidiol isn't for you.
In general, staying safe when consuming CBD is a fairly simple task, but it's one that some neglect.. Every time you enjoy a CBD product, taking comfortable, measured doses with an optimistic outlook is the best way to ensure that your experience is the best it can be. Let CBD do its work within your body, and the balance it brings will have you feeling like a brand-new person.
