CBD oil has recently gained a large amount of attention despite being discovered several decades ago in the 1940s. Today, it is popular among athletes, naturopaths, and everyone in between. CBD oil’s appeal largely stems from its supposed ability to treat various ailments and promote overall health. Because the oil is so new to the mainstream scene, there is still a good amount of confusion regarding its uses, benefits, side effects, and production. There are even still concerns regarding whether the oil is legal to use in the United States or not. For the answers to all these questions and more, read this comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about CBD oil.

What is CBD oil?

Quite simply, CBD oil, or cannabidiol, is an oil that contains varying concentrations of CBD—one of the many active chemicals in the hemp plant. Because CBD oil contains minimal THC, it doesn’t have any mind-altering effects on those who use it.

How is CBD oil made?

CBD oil is made by extracting cannabidiol from hemp plants. To do so, a variety of different extraction methods may be used. The three most-common CBD oil extraction processes include CO2 extraction, olive oil extraction, and solvent extraction. Currently, the CO2 extraction method is the most advanced and widely used procedure. Following the extraction process, the resulting CBD will be diluted with a carrier oil. Examples of common carrier oils for CBD may include hemp seed oil or coconut oil.

Potential benefits of CBD oil

While the FDA has not yet substantiated CBD oil’s potential benefits, a considerable amount of research has suggested that the product may have several potential health and cosmetic benefits. These benefits include alleviating pain, improving sleep, reducing anxiety and depression symptoms, decreasing inflammation, treating insomnia, soothing nausea, and improving skin appearance and health. Due to the anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties of CBD oil, it has become increasingly popular in the cosmetic industry. Many companies now add it to their face creams, cleansers, and body lotions.

In addition to the cosmetic industry, CBD oil is also becoming popular as a homeopathic remedy for several health conditions, such as arthritis, mental disorders, type 1 diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease. Most notably, there is also strong evidence which suggests that CBD oil is effective for helping to treat epilepsy. While CBD oil shouldn’t be used as a replacement for proper medical treatment, it has been found to help reduce the number of seizures or completely stop them in those who experience epilepsy.

Side effects of CBD oil

CBD oil is typically well-tolerated even when high dosages are used. Currently, studies haven’t shown any indication that the oil may cause significant negative impacts on the mood, central nervous system, or vital signs of those who use it. However, there are a few minor side effects that have been associated with CBD oil use. While CBD oil’s side effects are not clinically defined, potential risks include:

• Dry mouth
• Diarrhea
• Reduced appetite
• Drowsiness

While the side effects that have currently been associated with CBD oil are minor, there is a chance that it may interfere with certain over-the-counter medications, dietary supplements, and prescription medications. As such, it is important to speak with a doctor before taking CBD oil in any form.

Different ways to take CBD oil

Depending on one’s personal preference, there are various ways to take CBD oil. The two main methods include topical application and oral ingestion.

• Orally: One of the most common ways to take CBD oil is by ingesting it orally. To do so, many people incorporate it into their diet by adding a couple of drops into their food and drinks. While CBD oil has a slight nutty flavor, adding it to meals or drinks does little to alter the taste. For a simpler way to ingest CBD oil, you can also choose to purchase CBD oil capsules which can be taken along with your other daily vitamins. Or, you could also try taking CBD oil via tincture. This method involves simply placing a few drops of CBD oil under your tongue and letting it absorb into your salivary glands. Tincture is one of the quickest ways to experience results when it comes to taking CBD oil
• Topically: Those who don’t want to take CBD oil orally, can also choose to take it topically by rubbing it into their skin. Depending on the benefits the user seeks to gain from using CBD oil, many people choose to rub the oil directly into their skin in areas where they’re experiencing dryness, pain, or muscle aches

How much CBD oil should you take?

When it comes to CBD oil, there isn’t ”one size fits all” dosage that will work for everyone. The proper CBD oil dosage for someone to take will vary depending on many factors. When determining the dosage that is best for you, make sure to consider the concentration of CBD, your unique body chemistry, the severity of the symptoms you wish to treat, and your body weight. Because there are so many factors to take into consideration, gauging the ideal dosage for you may require a period of trial and error. During this trial period, it is best to start with smaller doses and then gradually work up to higher quantities, depending on how your body responds. For a more precise estimate, consider consulting your physician.

Is CBD oil legal?

Despite CBD oil’s growing popularity, many still have concerns regarding the product’s legality. Currently, CBD oil can be legally used and sold in the U.S. In order for CBD oil to be legal under the federal United States law, however, it must contain less than 0.3 percent of THC. Despite this universal standard, the legalities regarding allotted THC quantities in CBD oil may vary depending on each individual state’s laws.

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