
What is CBD and What Can It Help With? πΏ
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CBD (cannabidiol) is one of many cannabinoids found in cannabis, offering a wide range of benefits and uses β most notably its ability to relax and soothe users. It is the most researched compound in cannabis and is generally considered the safest. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the second most common compound, CBD does not cause intoxication. While it is mildly psychoactive in that it can reduce anxiety, it wonβt get you high like THC does. Many users report experiencing a sense of well-being similar to THC, but without the paranoia or uneasiness that some associate with THC use.
Benefits of CBD π
Most users report relief from pain and anxiety, a sense of calm, an overall improvement in mood, and a higher quality of life after taking CBD. It is versatile; high doses may induce sleep and relaxation, while lower doses can help with alertness.
CBD has been proven as an effective treatment for various conditions, including: β Epilepsy β Insomnia β Anxiety β Depression β PTSD β Psychosis β Heart disease β Diabetes β Side effects from chemotherapy β Parkinsonβs disease β Chronic pain caused by inflammation β Neuropathic (nerve) pain
Why Choose CBD Oil Over Other Forms? πΏ
1. Faster Absorption & Higher Bioavailability β³
Taking CBD oil sublingually (holding it under the tongue) allows for faster absorption into the bloodstream compared to edibles, which must pass through the digestive system. Bioavailability refers to the percentage of CBD that actually enters your system β and with sublingual consumption, bioavailability is much higher than that of edibles.
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Sublingual CBD: Effects in 30 mins - 1 hour | Bioavailability: 35-50%
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Edibles: Effects in up to 2 hours | Bioavailability: 15-20%
2. Safer Than Vaping or Smoking π¬π
While vaping or smoking CBD kicks in faster and has slightly higher bioavailability, long-term effects of vaping are still unclear. Smoking, on the other hand, is well-known to be harmful to lung health. CBD oil is a safer alternative that still provides long-lasting benefits (around 6-8 hours), whereas smoking or vaping typically lasts only 2-3 hours.
3. Easier Dosing & Versatility π½οΈ
CBD oil is easy to dose accurately, as most brands specify the amount of CBD per drop. This makes it simple to adjust your intake as needed, unlike edibles, where CBD may not be evenly distributed. Additionally, CBD oil can be added to food or drinks, allowing you to make your own CBD-infused recipes!
4. Backed by Research π¬
Most studies on CBD have been conducted using CBD oil, rather than edibles or vapes. While more research is needed, the existing studies suggest that different methods of consumption impact how CBD interacts with the body. For results most similar to research trials, CBD oil is the best option.
5. Wide Variety of High-Quality Options π³οΈ
Sublingual CBD is the most popular form, meaning there is a vast range of products available, including:
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Isolates: Pure CBD (most processed form)
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Broad Spectrum: Contains multiple cannabinoids and terpenes but no THC
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Full Spectrum: Contains a full range of cannabinoids, including 0.2% THC (not enough to cause a high but enhances effectiveness due to the "entourage effect")
At Inspired Life, we recommend broad or full-spectrum CBD for maximum benefits.
How to Take CBD Oil & Where to Buy πΏ
As CBD has grown in popularity, many companies have entered the market β some with little experience, resulting in low-dosage, poorly made, or highly processed products. To ensure high quality, look for CBD oils extracted from real plants through CO2 extraction (like our oils at Inspired Life!).
Dosage Guide
To determine your dosage, consider using an online CBD dosage calculator that factors in your weight and condition. Once you know your ideal dosage:
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Hold the oil under your tongue for 90 seconds to maximize absorption.
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Swallow the remaining oil and wait 30 minutes to 1 hour for effects to kick in.
Note: If you're new to CBD, your endocannabinoid system may take a few days to adjust. Consistently take your daily dose for at least a week to fully experience the benefits!