Across the country, people are using CBD oil and sprays to help them sleep better, reduce stress and anxiety, ease pain and more. It’s the latest health craze to hit the high street, but what exactly is it, and does it really work? Emily Ray investigates.
CBD stands for cannabidiol, and it’s a chemical extracted from the cannabis plant. But unlike the psychoactive part of the plant, THC, which is illegal in the UK and causes a high, CBD doesn’t cause any intoxicating effects.
Because of this, it’s a popular natural remedy for a wide range of health issues. It’s believed to interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) to produce its benefits. The ECS helps regulate key bodily functions including the use of hormones, the body’s immune response and how it processes energy from food.
It’s also thought that CBD can help ease depression, reduce pain from arthritis and other chronic conditions. There’s plenty of anecdotal evidence to back up these claims, but it’s important to remember that there isn’t enough scientific research on the drug to prove its effectiveness in treating certain conditions.
In fact, it’s still a class B drug in the UK and there aren’t any medical guidelines for it. However, two forms of CBD-based medicine are already available on prescription in the UK – one called Epidyolex, which reduces seizures for people with severe epilepsy, and Sativex, which is used to relieve muscle stiffness and spasms in multiple sclerosis.
While the popularity of CBD is increasing, it’s not without its critics. Many products on the market aren’t properly regulated, and it can be difficult to know which brands have strict standards. As a result, there are a lot of fake or low-quality products out there.
There are seven main types of CBD product available, with each containing different ingredients and delivering a slightly different experience. The most common type of CBD is an oil, which usually comes in a bottle with a dropper that you place under your tongue to absorb the liquid. The amount of drops you need to take will vary by brand, but current advice from the UK’s Food Standards Agency recommends that healthy adults only take up to 70mg a day.
This is a very good oil from a well-respected brand that understands the hemp plant. It’s organic and cold pressed, and it contains a full range of cannabinoids and terpenes as well as the legally required minimum amount of THC. Our testers found it effective for easing stress and promoting more restful sleep. It’s sugar free and comes in a delicious chocolate-hazelnut flavour.
It’s worth mentioning that if you are taking any medications it is best to consult a doctor or pharmacist before you try CBD, as it can affect how they work by binding with the cytochrome P450 enzymes in your body. These include some anti-coagulants, anti-depressants, antibiotics and beta-blockers. It can also interfere with some antipsychotic medications. CBD Oil UK