Cannabidiol, more commonly known as CBD, is a phytocannabinoid. Within cannabis plants, there are 113 uniquely identified cannabinoids, the most well-known being tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and CBD.
While THC gets you high, CBD does not. However, it still affects your senses, offering mellow feelings, increased comfort, and reduced pain. Many different forms of CBD are available for various potential applications. Below, we’ll discuss all the different forms of CBD.
Full-Spectrum CBD
Full-spectrum CBD includes all the natural compounds of the cannabis plant. This means some THC will be present. However, most states have not cleared THC products for legal, recreational use. As a result, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) placed a regulation on full-spectrum CBD products to contain no more than 0.3% THC.
Broad-Spectrum CBD
Broad-spectrum CBD products also include natural compounds from the cannabis plant, but not all of them. So, these products only contain trace amounts of THC, if any. Some manufacturers will remove all the THC, and the product will still qualify as broad-spectrum.
CBD Isolates
This is the purest form of CBD on the market. There should be absolutely no THC present, nor any other cannabinoids. However, unlike full- and broad-spectrum products, CBD isolate products provide fewer benefits as CBD works best when combined with other compounds in what is known as the entourage effect.
Forms of CBD Products
Gummies and Edibles
Gummies and other edible forms of CBD allow for a wide range of options, from flavors to prices. If you’ve never taken an edible before, a lower dose is considered 5mg. However, there are also a variety of potencies.
If 5mg is not enough, you can work your way up until you find a potency that works for you. Due to the nature of an edible, it will take up to an hour or two for the product to get metabolized by your digestive system. Once metabolized, the product will affect your body as a whole.
Oils
CBD oils are much more versatile than the other options. You could add a couple of drops of oil into your food or beverage and ingest it just like an edible. For a faster effect, place some drops under your tongue for 60 seconds before swallowing. This method allows the tiny blood vessels under the tongue to absorb the CBD, so you’ll feel the results in about 20 minutes.
Additionally, taking the oil sublingually increases the bioavailability of CBD by about 20% more than edibles, so the overall effect will be increased.
Topicals
These CBD products can be applied directly to your skin and use carrier oils and other ingredients for CBD-infused creams, salves, and lotions. Unlike edibles and oils, topical CBD products will only affect the area in which it is rubbed into your skin.
Where to Buy CBD Products
The sale of CBD isn’t legal in every state, so make sure you look up your state’s laws before purchasing any CBD products. There are a few ways to find CBD products in the marketplace.
You can go in person to a smoke shop or other store, order online, or use a cannabis delivery service. For example, there is a California cannabis delivery service that can bring concentrates, edibles, and a variety of flowers right to your door. Whether shopping online or in person, make sure the store’s products are tested by a third party to ensure quality and purity.
