Talking to your family about CBD
With CBD's growing popularity it seems like everyone’s heard about it. Chances are, it’s come up in conversation with family members. There’s a lot of good information available. But more study is needed to fully understand the benefits. Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions like "will CBD get me high?" or "is it safe for dogs?"
What Is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a chemical compound in hemp and cannabis plants that is making big waves among health and wellness-minded individuals.
it interacts with our body on a molecular level. There is a system of microscopic cannabinoid receptors inside of every person and animal, this is known as The Endocannabinoid System (ECS). The Endocannabinoid System is one of the most recent biological discoveries to completely revolutionize our understanding of the human body. The system is a collection of microscopic cannabinoid receptors spread throughout our peripheral and central nervous systems which interacts with cannabinoids, including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or cannabidiol (CBD), as well as the endogenous cannabinoids that are produced by our own bodies. These receptors bind with cannabinoids once they enter the bloodstream and can elicit various effects — THC can famously get you “high,” for example, whereas CBD is non-intoxicating and has instead been popularized for its more subtle effects.
What does it do?
In the case of CBD, much has yet to be learned about its effects. Many people advocate for making CBD a key part of their daily routine to maintain a sense of equilibrium and to support healthy function of body and mind.
However, we must also note that the FDA has not reinforced these claims so far, and the federal prohibition of cannabis makes further cannabinoid research nearly impossible (even using hemp, which was re-legalized in 2018).
Are there any side-effects?
CBD has minimal direct side-effects, the most commonly reported of which include:
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Low blood pressure
- Light-headedness
- This compound, however, can pose a significant health risk when combined with certain prescription medications or other drugs, like alcohol. Always check with your doctor before experimenting with CBD, especially if you are taking any other prescription or over-the-counter medications.
Is CBD Safe?
A 2017 World Health Organization report notes that “cannabidiol… does not have psychoactive properties and has no potential for abuse and no potential to produce dependence.”
However, we always recommend advising everyone to consult with a doctor or medical professional before incorporating CBD into their daily routine. A health professional can advise on any potential interactions with medications they are currently taking or possible side effects.
Is CBD Legal?
Yes, it has been legal since the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, which removed hemp from its prior classification as a Schedule I substance. The bill defines hemp as cannabis containing no more than 0.3% THC by dry weight.
However, states have their own rules and regulations around use and access to CBD. While some states fully approve its use, others only permit it when prescribed by a physician or if the product contains 0% THC. Idaho and South Dakota do not approve any use outside of physician-prescribed Epidiolex. Click here to find out the legal status in your state.
What is the difference between THC and CBD?
THC is the intoxicating component of cannabis plants which is present in high concentrations in marijuana and is a Schedule I substance in the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). THC is the compound that is generally associated with the sensation of being “high.” CBD is a non-intoxicating compound of cannabis plants that offers no “high” sensation and was removed from the CSA completely via the Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018.
Is it safe for pets?
“When we feel our pet may have problems that are interfering with their quality of life, perhaps anxiety or inflammation that would be related to aging, it is a good time to explore the benefits of hemp and CBD,” says Dr. Weingardt, a holistic veterinarian and herbalist practicing in Portland, Oregon.
Weingardt has spent the past decade learning how CBD and other cannabinoids support wellness in pets and recommends the use of hemp based extracts for his patients.
“Scientific research into how CBD affects animals is just beginning and has yet to reach conclusions, but it is showing promise,” he says. He’s treated dogs and cats with hemp and its related products.
Be sure to check the ingredients in any product before giving it to your dog. Our pet CBD products include pet CBD tinctures and CBD dog chews. They contain all natural ingredients.
We advise all pet owners to check the ingredients in any product they will administer to their pet. We also recommend only choosing products that undergo third-party lab testing and have these results readily available.
Are there any health risks?
Some potential side effects of CBD are nausea, fatigue, and irritability. But the bigger question is with drug interactions. It’s always best to talk with your healthcare professional, so they can review your medications with you.
What’s the best way to take CBD?
With so many ways to experience the benefits of CBD, you may be wondering which is best. That depends on your reason for using it and what fits your lifestyle best.
If you’re interested in trying CBD, you’ll need to familiarize yourself with the cannabinoid’s various delivery methods. The most common CBD products are usually an extract or oil, sometimes in tincture form. Tinctures are the one of the most popular methods as they are taken sublingually and are absorbed faster, also by using a dropper, you can create a serving that is more accurately tailored to you. There are also CBD tablets and lozenges or, if oral consumption is out of the question, CBD topicals, salves, transdermal patches, and even suppositories are growing in popularity. For a helpful list of CBD terms read more here.
How much CBD should I take?
It varies greatly from person to person. We recommend consulting a doctor if you are seriously interested. Otherwise, the best method is to start low and go slow. Increase as needed or desired. Keep track of how much you are taking and you should soon find your optimal amount. Our tinctures come with a graduated dropper for easy measuring and our capsules offer a convenient and precise serving every time.