How Does CBD Oil Make You Feel?
Understanding how CBD oil makes you feel and what psychological and physical sensations you might experience is key to deciding if it’s the right supplement for you and maximising its benefits. This comprehensive guide will explore how CBD oil makes you feel, the science behind its various effects, and offer firsthand accounts to help you make an informed decision.
How does CBD oil make you feel? - The short answer
Many people who use CBD oil report that it induces mild sensations of calm and relaxation. Unlike THC, CBD oil isn’t intoxicating and won’t cause a psychoactive "high". or any form of physical or mental impairment. However, the effects are not one-size-fits-all and the sensations you experience can vary based on factors including the type of CBD, the amount you take and the state of your endocannabinoid system.
Understanding CBD Oil: An Overview
Before we delve into the specific sensations you might experience with CBD oil, it's important to clarify what CBD actually is and its legal status in the UK. This foundation will help you make an informed decision about using CBD oil and what to expect from it.
Brief Overview of Cannabidiol (CBD)
CBD is one of the many compounds found in cannabis plants of the cannabis sativa family. What sets it apart from some other cannabinoids is that it is not psychoactive. This means you won't experience the "high" associated with cannabis use, making CBD a candidate for a range of potential health applications.
Why Understanding the Effects of CBD is Important
Being well-informed about how CBD oil can make you feel is key to using it effectively. Not only will this knowledge help you decide if CBD is the right supplement for you, but it will also prepare you for its potential effects.
Moreover, understanding how it's supposed to make you feel can serve as an indicator of whether the product you've purchased is delivering its promised effects.
The Difference Between CBD and THC
While CBD and THC are both cannabinoids from the cannabis plant, they interact differently with your body's endocannabinoid system. THC produces psychoactive effects, or a "high," whereas CBD does not. The absence of psychoactive effects makes CBD a choice for those seeking relief from various conditions without altered consciousness.
What is CBD Oil?
CBD oil is primarily made from CBD extract and a natural carrier oil. Common carrier oils include MCT oil, olive oil and hempseed oil.
It's important to note that although CBD oil is sourced from plants of the cannabis genus, it is not considered the same as medical marijuana. While medical marijuana contains a wide range of cannabis-derived compounds, including THC. In the UK CBD oil should be completely THC-free (broad-spectrum or CBD isolate).
CBD oil is most commonly ingested or taken sublingually (under the tongue) generally people don’t smoke CBD oil and it’s not compatible with most vaporisers.
Legal Status of CBD Oil in the UK
CBD oil is legal in the United Kingdom, but there are strict regulations that both manufacturers and sellers must follow. The most significant rule is that CBD oil should be completely free from any controlled cannabinoids, including THC. Also, while some countries permit marijuana-derived CBD, UK CBD must be sourced from low-THC hemp plants.
CBD oil should also be compliant with the UK's Novel Foods rules. As of March 2021, this legislation requires all food products containing CBD to have a validated Novel Food Authorisation Application. This information should be published by the CBD brand but can also be found via the Food Standards Agency list of applicants.
Where to Find Quality CBD Oil Products in the UK
In the UK, buying quality CBD oil is best done through reputable online brands like Bud & Tender, known for their stringent safety protocols and excellent customer service. These brands offer detailed information on product quality, extraction methods, and provide third-party lab test results for transparency.
This allows consumers to make informed decisions, backed by customer reviews and responsive customer service teams. Online shopping also offers the convenience of comparing prices and products at your own pace.
The Endocannabinoid System and CBD
To fully appreciate how CBD oil might make you feel, it’s crucial to understand its interaction with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in your body:
What is the Endocannabinoid System?
The endocannabinoid system is a complex cell-signaling system found in the bodies of all vertebrates. It plays a critical role in maintaining physiological homeostasis—balancing and regulating bodily functions such as pain, mood, sleep, appetite, and immune response. The ECS comprises three main components: endocannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes.
Endocannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds similar to cannabinoids found in cannabis. Receptors are found throughout the body (including the central nervous system) and interact with both endocannabinoids and cannabinoids like CBD. Finally, enzymes break down endocannabinoids once they've fulfilled their function.
How CBD Interacts with the Endocannabinoid System
CBD doesn't bind directly to endocannabinoid receptors in the way that THC does, but it does influence the system in other nuanced ways. Primarily, it is believed that CBD works by inhibiting the breakdown of natural endocannabinoids by targeting the enzymes responsible for their decomposition.
By doing so, CBD increases the concentration of endocannabinoids in your system, thereby enhancing the overall activity of the endocannabinoid system. This elevated activity level is referred to as "increased endocannabinoid tone."
An increased endocannabinoid tone can be beneficial because it helps prevent endocannabinoid deficiency, a condition thought to contribute to a wide range of health issues. By enhancing the activity and effectiveness of the endocannabinoid system, CBD supports the complex interplay of physiological processes that the ECS regulates—from mood and sleep to pain and immune function. This comprehensive influence is crucial for understanding how CBD may affect your physical and emotional well-being.
The Psychological and Physical Effects of CBD Oil on the Human Body
Understanding the various effects of CBD oil is crucial for determining whether it's the right supplement for you and how best to incorporate it into your wellness routine. Below are some of the most common psychological and physical effects associated with CBD oil use:
Mood Enhancement
CBD oil is known to interact with the serotonin receptors in the brain, which can result in a better mood and overall sense of well-being. Many users report feeling calmer and happier after taking CBD oil, though these effects can vary from person to person.
Anxiety and Stress Relief
By interacting with the endocannabinoid system and affecting the release of neurotransmitters, CBD oil has been shown to have anxiolytic, or anti-anxiety, effects. Many people use CBD as a natural alternative for stress relief and management of anxiety symptoms.
Cognitive Function
While more research is needed, preliminary studies suggest that CBD may enhance cognitive function by protecting neural pathways. It has been studied for its potential role in improving focus, memory retention, and cognitive clarity.
CBD Oil and Pain Relief
One of the most widely recognised benefits of CBD oil is its analgesic properties. Through its interaction with the endocannabinoid system, CBD can help manage the perception of pain, making it a potential alternative for treating conditions like chronic pain, arthritis, and even acute pain from injuries.
CBD Oil's Impact on Mental Health Disorders
CBD oil has shown promise in the treatment of various mental health disorders, including depression and PTSD. While it shouldn't replace professional medical advice and treatment, it offers a complementary avenue for symptom management.
CBD Oil and Neurological Effects
Beyond mood and cognitive function, CBD has been studied for its neuroprotective properties. Specifically, CBD is thought to limit the damage to brain and nervous tissue through its antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and mitochondria-protective effects. Research indicates it may be useful in treating conditions like multiple sclerosis and epilepsy, although more scientific inquiry is needed to confirm these findings.
Sleep Quality
The calming effects of CBD can also extend to improving sleep quality. One of the mechanisms through which CBD helps improve sleepis by interacting with the serotonin and GABA receptors in the brain, which in turn can induce feelings of relaxation and drowsiness. Many users find that taking CBD oil before bedtime helps them fall asleep faster and enjoy a more restful night's sleep.
Gastrointestinal Effects
Although less common, CBD oil may also have an impact on the gastrointestinal system. One way CBD is believed to help with gastrointestinal issues like irritable bowel syndrome is by reducing intestinal inflammation and acting as an antagonist to certain receptors that control gut motility. Individual results may vary, but some people find relief from digestive issues through CBD oil use.
Personal Experiences: How Does CBD Make You Feel?
Understanding the personal experiences of CBD oil users can offer valuable insights into what you might expect when using the product. In this section, we will explore some of the common sentiments and reviews that CBD oil users often express, including its calming properties and its effects on consciousness.
The Calming Properties of CBD Oil
Many people who have used CBD oil describe its calming effects as one of its most prominent features. These accounts often emphasise an increased sense of relaxation and a decrease in stress levels after taking CBD. While individual experiences vary, the consensus appears to be that CBD oil can be particularly effective for short-term relaxation and stress relief.
CBD Oil and Consciousness Alteration
It's important to note that CBD oil does not induce the kind of consciousness alteration or "high" associated with THC. People who have used both substances typically describe the effects of CBD as more "subtle," "clear-headed," and "focused." Rather than altering consciousness, CBD seems to improve mood and induce a state of general well-being.
Real-life Accounts of CBD Oil Usage
Real-life accounts provide valuable insights into the feelings and sensations triggered by CBD oil. Several regular CBD users shared their experiences with us. Sarah said, "I feel like a cloud has been lifted, and I'm not weighed down by stress anymore". John describes his experience as "feeling more balanced, like I'm more in tune with my emotions rather than controlled by them." Emma shares, "Taking CBD oil gives me a sense of calm and clarity that I haven't felt in years."
User Reviews
User reviews offer a spectrum of how CBD oil impacts emotional and mental states. Mark notes, "I just feel lighter, like an emotional burden has been lifted off me." Alice says, "It hasn't cured any conditions, but I find myself drifting into a restful sleep more easily." Tim states, "I certainly feel more at peace with myself since I started using CBD oil."
Safety, Side Effects, and Interactions
Understanding the safety profile, potential side effects, and interactions of CBD oil with other medications is essential for informed usage. This section will provide a comprehensive look into what you need to know before incorporating CBD into your routine.
Common Adverse Effects of CBD Oil
While CBD is generally well-tolerated, some users may experience adverse effects. Common side effects include dry mouth, diarrhea, reduced appetite, drowsiness, and fatigue. These effects are usually mild and often dissipate with continued or adjusted use.
Precautions and FSA Guidelines
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) in the UK recommends a daily dose not exceeding 70mg unless a medical professional advises otherwise. Pregnant or breastfeeding women are advised to avoid CBD products. As always, consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking other medications.
Interactions of CBD Oil with Other Medications
CBD oil can interact with certain medications, including blood thinners and drugs affecting liver enzymes. It's crucial to consult your healthcare provider to discuss potential interactions, as CBD can either intensify or weaken the effects of other drugs.
Conclusion
As we wrap up this comprehensive guide on how CBD oil makes you feel, it's clear that the compound has a wide range of potential effects on both the psychological and physical aspects of health:
Summary of Effects
CBD oils can produce a spectrum of effects, from inducing a sense of calm and relaxation to improving mood and even offering potential relief from physical discomfort. It interacts with the endocannabinoid system to elevate the level of naturally occurring endocannabinoids, potentially contributing to an array of benefits. However, the effects can vary depending on individual factors like dosage, metabolism, and the state of one's endocannabinoid system.
Recommendations for Potential Users
If you're considering using CBD oil (or any CBD product), it's crucial to start with a reputable brand that offers third-party lab test results. Be mindful of the FSA guidelines and consult a healthcare provider, especially if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or on other medications. Always carefully consider how much CBD you take; start with a low dose and gradually work your way up to assess how your body responds to the compound.