CBD is the latest health craze to hit the high street and online shops, with claims it can help everything from anxiety and insomnia to pain and even cancer. But what exactly is it, and how does it work? We asked dietitian Emer Delaney to find out.
CBD (cannabidiol) is a compound that’s found in the cannabis plant, also known as hemp. Unlike the THC found in the marijuana plant that gives you the ‘high’, CBD is non-intoxicating and has no psychoactive effects, so it can be used legally in products such as oils, sprays and capsules.
It works by targeting cannabinoid receptors in the brain and body, which are responsible for a number of different processes including sleep, stress, mood and appetite. CBD interacts with these receptors to provide an overall calming effect, which can be particularly helpful for those who suffer from anxiety and depression. It may also be able to relieve pain caused by a range of conditions, including arthritis, chronic fatigue and chronic inflammation.
The popularity of CBD has led to an explosion in the choice of products available, with CBD oil and drops now sold in many supermarkets and independent health stores. However, it is important to remember that not all CBD products are created equal. In fact, a recent analysis of CBD products in the UK found that two-thirds of the tested products contained less than 90 per cent of the claimed amount of cannabidiol, while one product contained zero cannabinoids and seven had trace amounts of THC, a controlled cannabinoid.
If you want to make sure that you’re getting the best CBD product possible, look for one with third-party lab testing and high-quality ingredients. One brand to consider is Blessed CBD, which offers a wide range of products designed to suit a variety of dietary and lifestyle needs. The company is also committed to sustainability and transparency, with all of their products being vegan, gluten-free, cruelty-free, non-GMO and cGMP certified.
Another great option for discerning consumers is Vibes CBD, which uses the latest chromatography methods to extract pure cannabidiol from the finest quality hemp plants. This is then blended with base oils to create a range of high-quality CBD e-liquids, oil tinctures and topical skin creams. All of the company’s products are third-party lab tested to verify the purity and cannabinoid content.
Finally, FAB CBD is a USA-based brand that makes highly potent CBD oil in large batches and then sells it to customers in the UK. The company’s ultra-concentrated oils are perfect for those who need high levels of CBD to manage a specific condition, and their oils are the most cost-effective on the market. The company also has a range of other products, such as capsules and muscle gels. Like Blessed CBD, all of its products are third-party lab tested to ensure they meet the highest standards. FAB CBD is also an excellent choice for those looking to avoid THC in their products. CBD Oil UK