Thinking about exploring the use of CBD for the first time? You’re not alone. CBD has become widely popular over the last few years. So, what is CBD, how do you use it, and what is the best kind? Here’s what you need to know about CBD for beginners.
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol, aka CBD, is present in the Cannabis sativa plant along with over 100 other cannabinoids like THC, CBN, and CBG. CBD can also be found in industrial hemp. Unlike the other most popular cannabinoid, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD does not affect your thinking or induce a psychoactive effect. In other words, CBD will not make you high. This is one of the main reasons people are flocking to CBD because they can get many of the benefits of the plant without feeling intoxicated. CBD can be purchased in many different ways, including CBD oil capsules, tinctures, CBD skincare, and you can even vaporize CBD isolate.
Is CBD Legal?
Since the passing of the Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018, commonly referred to as the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp with less than 0.3% THC became federally legal. It also eliminated hemp from the Controlled Substances Act and legalized its production on tribal lands and in US territories. But, is CBD 100% legal in the United States? The answer isn’t totally black and white. Each state can create it’s own laws about CBD legality. Some states require CBD to contain 0% THC while others don’t allow CBD in food or beverage, so do your research based on your state prior to making a purchase. Some people also have concerns about CBD causing you to fail a drug test, so if you’re concerned about this, purchasing pure CBD may ease your mind.
What to Look For In CBD Products
With the rise in CBD popularity, that means there are numerous companies selling CBD and CBD products. With this wide availability, it’s even more important to know that you are getting a high-quality product from a reputable company. One of the best ways is to exclusively purchase CBD products from companies that enable customers to see the COAs. A COA is a certificate of analysis that provides the findings of third-party lab testing. This is to verify that no pesticides, heavy metals, mold, or other harmful ingredients are present. COAs can also indicate the potency of CBD.
Types of CBD
There are a few different types of CBD you can choose from, including:
Pure CBD: Pure CBD is 99.9% CBD. The other cannabinoids and compounds have been removed. It also contains 0% THC.
Full-Spectrum CBD: Full-spectrum CBD contains a full range of compounds, including cannabinoids like CBC, CBN, and CBG. It also contains flavonoids and terpenes. However, it contains less than 0.3% THC. This is still not enough THC to feel intoxicating effects.
Broad-Spectrum CBD: Broad-spectrum CBD is often considered the middle ground between pure CBD and full-spectrum. It contains 0% THC, but still has a variety of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids.
How to Use CBD
There are a variety of ways you can choose to use CBD.
CBD Oil: You can take CBD oil in capsules or from a dropper bottle. This is one of the most simple ways to use CBD, and this makes it easier to know how much CBD you are taking at once. This is an excellent option for CBD for beginners who want to experiment with how much CBD is needed to give them the desired effect.
CBD Topicals: Using CBD topically is also an excellent form of CBD for beginners. There are so many different CBD topicals you can try including lotions and moisturizers, salve, lip balm, deodorant, bath bombs, and more. CBD salves and lotions are popular for soothing dry skin or sore muscles.
How Much CBD Should You Take?
Start by reading the instructions on the packaging of whatever CBD product you decide to try. Every CBD product may contain a different amount of CBD per dose. Some people prefer to start with half of the recommended dose and see how they feel after an hour or two. Build up little by little from there to get the effect you desire. If you aren’t sure what the best dosage is for you, you can check with your doctor.
Buy CBD From Trusted Sources
CBD is easy to find with its increasing popularity. However, one of the best pieces of advice when it comes to CBD for beginners is to purchase products from a trusted company to ensure you are getting pure, high-quality CBD. Color Up has some of the highest standards in the CBD industry. Customers can view third-party testing COAs for every batch of CBD used in products. Color Up also uses high-quality, organic ingredients, avoiding artificial colors or flavors. All products are cruelty-free and not tested on animals. Visit the website to browse the pro line, life line, and pet line of CBD products.