Cannabidiol, more popularly known as CBD, has become a star ingredient in various health and wellness products since its discovery and bountiful research. This wonder compound comes from the strains of the cannabis plant, whether belonging to the Cannabis sativa or Cannabis indica variety, and extracted primarily from the leaves, flowers, and stems of the plant. 

When people hear about CBD, they usually associate it with the ‘high’ feeling, thus some people avoid using these products. But they’re unaware of what they’re missing. In this article, various perspectives and knowledge about CBD will be given to light, which will serve as your guide in responsibly consuming the prevalent fruit of CBD–CBD oil. 

What Is CBD? Can It Make You High?

The cannabis plant has more than 100 existing cannabinoids, with CBD among the most abundant. Contrary to popular belief, cannabidiol is a non-intoxicating and non-psychoactive compound found in the plant and is often confused with another greatly known cannabinoid, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

When exploring the wonders of using CBD, you should first understand that CBD doesn’t make you high because THC does this. While they exactly have the same molecular structure, the atomic arrangement differs from one another, causing the mind-altering effects of THC. 

CBD Extraction Methods

In order to harvest this wonder compound, manufacturers will have to effectively isolate the CBD compound from other cannabinoids. However, some CBD products use CBD oils containing lesser-known cannabinoids called the full-spectrum CBD oil, which will be elaborated later. 

Generally, CBD is immersed in a carrier oil to activate its molecules. Since CBD is a fat-soluble molecule, fatty oils like multi-chain triglycerides (MCT) oils will work best as a carrier oil. 

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But how are they exactly extracted from the plant material? Here are the most common extraction methods used:

  • Oil Extraction: The easiest CBD extraction method where the cannabinoids of the plant material are activated through heating and then submerged into a carrier oil to bind cannabinoids into the oil molecules.
  • Steam Distillation: As its name suggests, this process uses steam to evaporate the oils of the plant, then condensed into oil form. It can be unreliable because steam generated from extreme heat can damage the plant and lower its efficacy. 
  • Solvent Extraction: This method uses two types of solvents: hydrocarbons or natural solvents. In hydrocarbon solvent extraction, solvents like butane and propane are used for extraction, but they can leave toxic residues. On the other hand, natural solvents are safer but result in lower CBD concentration and chlorophyll residues that affect the taste. 
  • Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Extraction: CO2 in its gaseous and liquid state, along with the plant material, is put into pressurized chambers. Currently, CO2 extraction is the most efficient method yet is the most expensive. 

Types of CBD Oil

While looking for a CBD oil, you’ll encounter different CBD oil terminologies that might seem confusing at first. CBD oils are mainly grouped into three classifications, which determine the ingredients and degree to how the product was manufactured:

  • CBD Isolate: This type of CBD oil contains the purest concentration of CBD (99%) without any other cannabinoids and compounds. If you’re looking into a CBD oil product without any THC content due to psychoactive effects, CBD isolates are perfect for you. 
  • Full-Spectrum CBD: Being the opposite of isolates, full-spectrum CBD comprises all phytochemicals found in the plant material, including CBD, THC, terpenes, flavonoids, and lesser cannabinoids. If you want to maximize your CBD consumption, full-spectrum CBD is the way to go as it offers an entourage effect where all these active compounds work together to deliver enhanced health benefits. 
  • Broad-Spectrum CBD: As a hybrid of CBD isolates and full-spectrum CBD, the broad-spectrum CBD has CBD and other phytochemicals except for the mind-altering THC. If you still want the best effects of the product without being high, try this CBD oil variant. 
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Benefits of Consuming CBD Oil

More and more people are jumping into CBD consumption because of its therapeutic benefits that support overall health and supplement the treatment of some health conditions. Since CBD oils, particularly isolates and broad-spectrum, have little to no amounts of psychoactive THC, they’re ideal for health and wellness consumption rather than for recreational purposes. If that’s the case you may be wondering, does CBD oil make you hungry?

Listed below are some potential benefits of consuming CBD oil backed by scientific evidence:

  • Improves sleep quality
  • Alleviates pain and discomfort
  • Reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression
  • Combats skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis
  • Relieves symptoms associated with cancer, such as nausea, vomiting, and pain
  • Possesses neuroprotective properties

Ways To Consume CBD Oil

Along with its numerous benefits, CBD oil is loved by CBD users and enthusiasts because of its versatility and effectiveness for different purposes. You can be playful and experimental with your CBD oil as long as you’re following the daily recommended dosage. 

To harness the best effects, check out these ideal ways to consume CBD oil and CBD-derived products:

  • Sublingual Consumption: CBD oil is placed under the tongue for a while before being swallowed by the user.
  • Oral Consumption: CBD products such as capsules, tablets, and gummies can be consumed orally. You can also use CBD oils and add a few drops to your favorite recipes.  
  • Vapor Inhalation and Smoking: Using vaporizers and vaping devices, you can add CBD juices that’ll be transformed into vapor. 
  • Topical Application: Skincare and body care products containing CBD can be applied to the skin superficially to problematic areas. Some products include CBD creams, lotions, serums, and balms, to name a few.
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Tips In Choosing The Best CBD Oil

With the growing popularity of CBD oil products in the market, it’s important to purchase a high-quality CBD oil that can satisfy your needs without compromising your health. Take note that CBD and other cannabis-derived products aren’t regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), so you should make sure that the product has a third-party lab analysis certification. 

Moreover, organic cannabis plants grown in the United States have the strictest cultivation standards, and these products always contain less than 0.3% THC. Look for these tags or labels in the product packaging. 

Bottom Line

Undoubtedly, CBD oil is a magnificent product for therapeutic and wellness benefits that people of all ages can consume. However, if you’re planning to incorporate CBD oil into your health routine, make sure to consult with your physician first to identify any potential complications with your health and medication. Do note that CBD oil isn’t meant as a sole treatment for a health condition but only acts to supplement it.