CBD Oil Strength Explained

In recent years, CBD, or Cannabidiol, has taken the wellness industry by storm, thanks to the myriad of potential benefits it offers, from pain relief to improved sleep. As more people become curious about integrating CBD products into a healthy lifestyle, understanding its intricacies is essential.

Among the most important aspects to grasp is the strength or concentration of CBD oil. Just as with any medication or therapeutic product, knowing the potency of CBD oil ensures that you harness its benefits most effectively.

In this blog, we will shed light on CBD potency in CBD oils, to help guide readers to make informed decisions based on their needs and optimise the potential benefits of this natural compound.

We will cover the following:

1. What is CBD Oil
2. Understanding CBD Concentrations
3. Factors Determining the Right Strength CBD Oil
4. Benefits of Different Strength CBD Oils
5. Precautions
6. Decoding Labels and Third-Party Testing
7. Is CBD Legal in the UK
8. Why Choose Running on Hempty Products

1. What is CBD Oil?

CBD, standing for Cannabidiol, is one of the many cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Unlike its famous counterpart, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is known for its psychoactive properties, CBD does not induce a ‘high’, and it is this non-intoxicating characteristic of CBD that has led to its surge in popularity as a therapeutic option for various conditions, and as a general wellness product.

➡️ It Starts with the Cannabis Plant

The journey of CBD starts in the leafy cannabis or hemp plant. Through a series of extraction processes, CBD is separated from the other cannabinoids, flavonoids, and terpenes present in the plant. The result is a concentrated form of CBD that is then mixed with a carrier oil, such as hemp seed oil or coconut oil, to produce what we commonly recognise as CBD oil.

In the UK, CBD oil is meticulously crafted from organic hemp, ensuring 100% natural sources and adhering to stringent standards that mandate less than 2% THC content.

➡️ Not All CBD Oil is the Same

CBD oil is not just limited to one type. Based on the extraction method and the components retained, there are several types:

1. Full-Spectrum CBD Oil: Contains all cannabinoids, including THC (though in legal products, the THC concentration remains below 0.3%in the US and 0.2% in the UK), along with other compounds from the cannabis plant, such as essential oils and terpenes.
2. Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil: This is similar to full-spectrum, but all traces of THC are removed, making it a middle-ground between full-spectrum and isolates.
3. CBD Isolate: The purest form of CBD, where all other cannabinoids and compounds are stripped away, leaving only isolate CBD.

As awareness and research into CBD’s potential benefits grow, so does the variety of available products. But at its core, CBD oil offers a natural alternative or supplement to traditional medications and treatments.

2. Understanding CBD Concentrations

When we talk about CBD, the concentration or strength of the product is a crucial aspect to understand. The concentration dictates how much CBD you are actually getting per dose, which in turn can influence its effectiveness.

Here’s a quick breakdown to help navigate the numbers and percentages:

1. Percentage Concentrations: Some CBD oil products will label their strength as a percentage. This represents the concentration of CBD relative to the total volume of the product. For instance, a 5% CBD oil contains 5% CBD and 95% carrier oil. The higher the percentage, the stronger the concentration.
2. ‘mg per ml’ Measurement: A more common method to indicate CBD strength is the milligrams (mg) of CBD per millilitre (ml) of oil. If a 30ml bottle of CBD oil says it contains 300mg of CBD, then each millilitre of the oil has 10mg of CBD. To break it down:
   • Low Strength CBD Oil: Typically between 1mg to 10mg per ml.
   • Medium Strength CBD Oil: Ranges from 10mg to 30mg per ml.
   • High Strength CBD Oil: Anything above 30mg per ml.
3. Calculating CBD Oil Dosage: It is essential to understand how to calculate your dose, especially if the product only provides the total amount of CBD in the bottle. If a 50ml bottle has 1000mg of CBD, then dividing the total CBD (1000mg) by the total volume (50ml) will give you the concentration (20mg/ml).
4. Importance of a Dropper: Many CBD oil products come with a dropper. Knowing the volume of the dropper (often 1ml) helps in accurately measuring your intake. If you are using a product with 20mg/ml concentration, a full 1ml dropper would give you a 20mg dose.
5. Consistency Matters: When starting with CBD, maintaining a consistent dose and observing how your body reacts is crucial. This will help you adjust the dose over time to find your ‘sweet spot.’

Understanding CBD concentrations is about ensuring you get the desired effects safely and efficiently. By being informed about what those numbers mean and how they relate to your personal needs, you can maximise the potential benefits that CBD has to offer.

3. Factors Determining the Right Strength CBD Oil

Choosing the right strength of CBD oil isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. Several factors come into play that can influence the optimal concentration for an individual. Recognising these factors can assist in tailoring a CBD routine that aligns with personal needs and objectives.

Here’s a quick guide to what you need to consider:

✅ Purpose of Use:

• Symptom Severity: Someone with severe pain may require a higher concentration than someone using CBD oil for general well-being or mild discomfort.
• Specific Conditions: Conditions such as epilepsy, chronic pain or severe anxiety might demand different strengths than using CBD for improved sleep or stress relief.

✅ Bodyweight and Metabolism:

• Weight Consideration: Generally, individuals who weigh more might require a higher dose to experience the same effects as someone who is lighter.
• Metabolic Rate: A person’s metabolism affects how quickly they process and feel the effects of CBD. A faster metabolism might require a higher dose as the body processes the CBD more quickly.

✅ Tolerance Levels:

• Just as with anything else, over time and with consistent use, a person may develop a tolerance to CBD, which means they might need to up the dose to achieve the same effects.
• It is always advisable to start with moderate strength and adjust accordingly based on personal experiences, and to contact a healthcare professional if in doubt.

✅ Method of Consumption:

• Bioavailability: Different consumption methods (e.g., tinctures, edibles, vapes, topicals) have varying rates of bioavailability, which is the amount of CBD that enters the bloodstream. For instance, vaped CBD often has higher bioavailability than oral consumables like capsules.
• Duration: Methods like vaping provide faster relief but might be shorter-lived, whereas edibles might take longer to kick in but last longer.

✅ CBD Type:

• Full-Spectrum vs. Isolate: Full-spectrum CBD contains other cannabinoids and terpenes that can have a synergistic effect, often referred to as the ‘entourage effect,’ which might influence the strength needed. In contrast, an isolate might require a higher dose to achieve the same effects.
• In short, if you are looking for the strongest products with the most effect on your individual needs, isolate CBD might not be for you. Instead, look for products with full or broad-spectrum CBD.

✅ Individual Biochemistry:

• Every person is unique, and individual body chemistry can play a significant role in how CBD is processed. Factors like genetics, overall health, and the presence of other medications can all influence optimal strength.

✅ Previous Use:

• Individuals who have previously consumed cannabis products might have an existing tolerance to cannabinoids, possibly affecting the CBD strength they require.

In conclusion, determining the right CBD strength is a personal journey. It requires patience, experimentation, and awareness of one’s own body. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if using CBD for specific therapeutic purposes or alongside other medications.

4. Benefits of Different Strength CBD Oils

As CBD oil grows in popularity, consumers are presented with a broad range of options in terms of strength and concentration. Each strength offers unique benefits tailored to different needs and situations. By understanding these benefits, you can select the right concentration for your personal goals and health requirements.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the advantages of various CBD oil strengths:

➡️ Low Strength CBD Oil (e.g., 250-500mg):

• Beginner-Friendly: Ideal for individuals just starting their CBD journey, allowing them to gauge their body’s response.
• Mild Symptom Relief: Suitable for minor ailments like slight headaches or daily stress.
• Microdosing Option: Allows for taking multiple small doses throughout the day to maintain a steady CBD level.
• Lower Risk of Side Effects: Less likely to experience any potential side effects like fatigue.

➡️ Medium Strength CBD Oil (e.g., 500-1000mg):

• Balanced Approach: Provides a middle ground for those familiar with CBD but not needing the highest concentrations.
• Moderate Symptom Relief: Addresses more pronounced symptoms, such as persistent pain, inflammation or anxiety.
• Adaptability: This can be adjusted easily by taking more or fewer CBD oil drops, giving users flexibility in managing their dosage.

➡️ High Strength CBD Oil (e.g., 1000-2500mg):

• Potent Effects: Offers pronounced relief, making it suitable for individuals with severe symptoms or conditions.
• Cost-Effective: Higher-strength oils can be more cost-effective in the long run, as less oil is needed per dose.
• Quicker Results: Stronger CBD oil can provide relief more rapidly due to the higher CBD concentration.

➡️ Maximum Strength CBD Oil (e.g., 2500mg and above):

• Therapeutic Applications: Particularly useful for specific medical conditions, such as chronic pain disorders, severe anxiety or conditions that have not responded well to traditional treatments.
• Less Frequent Dosing: Due to its high concentration, users might not need to consume it as frequently.
• Specialised Needs: Ideal for experienced users with a clear understanding of how their body reacts to CBD.

It is essential to note that while these are general guidelines, the ideal CBD strength might differ based on individual needs. For best results, it is advisable to monitor your body’s response, adjust dosages as needed, and consult with a healthcare professional, especially when targeting specific health concerns. Remember, the goal is to find the ‘sweet spot’ where the desired effects are achieved with the smallest possible dose.

5. Precautions

As with any supplement or therapeutic product, it is important to take necessary precautions. While CBD is generally considered safe and well-tolerated by most people, there are some considerations to keep in mind:

• Start with a Low Dose: Especially if you are new to CBD, start with a lower concentration and gradually increase until you find the right dosage for your needs. This approach reduces the likelihood of experiencing any mild unwanted side effects.

• Consult with Healthcare Professionals: Before integrating CBD, especially for therapeutic purposes, it is essential to discuss with a healthcare provider to ensure it doesn’t interact with existing medications or underlying health conditions.

• Consistent Monitoring: Pay attention to how your body reacts to CBD, noting any changes in symptoms or new side effects.

• Third-Party Testing: Ensure the CBD product you are using has been third-party tested. This verifies the product’s purity and ensures it doesn’t contain any harmful levels of contaminants or THC above the legal limit.

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The effects of CBD on pregnant or breastfeeding women are not well-studied. If considering CBD use during this time, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional beforehand.

In conclusion, while CBD offers numerous benefits and is safe for most users, it is essential to approach it with awareness and caution. By being informed about this product you can maximise the benefits of CBD while minimising risks.

6. Decoding Labels and Third-Party Testing

Understanding the intricacies of CBD oil labels and the importance of third-party testing can be a game-changer in ensuring you are consuming a product that is both effective and safe. CBD products, like most wellness items, come with their own language, and being able to decode this information can make a significant difference in your overall experience.

Here’s a quick guide to help you navigate:

➡️ Decoding CBD Oil Labels:

1. CBD Concentration: Typically indicated in milligrams (mg), this number tells you the total amount of CBD in the product. It is crucial to differentiate between the total CBD content and the per-serving amount.
2. Serving Size: This will give you an idea of how much CBD is in each drop, capsule, gummy, etc. It helps in determining your dosage.
3. Type of CBD:
   • Full-Spectrum: Contains all the natural compounds, including other cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. This will have a trace amount of THC but should always be below the legal limit of 0.3%.
   • Broad-Spectrum: Contains multiple cannabinoids and compounds but no THC.
   • CBD Isolate: Pure CBD with no other cannabinoids, compounds or THC.
4. Carrier Oil: CBD needs a carrier oil for stability and absorption. Common ones include hemp seed oil, coconut oil and MCT oil.
5. Expiration Date: Like any other product, CBD oil has a shelf life. Ensure you are consuming it within its optimal period.
6. Batch or Lot Number: This number can be used to trace back to specific batches in case of product recalls or quality checks.

➡️ The Significance of Third-Party Testing:

1. Product Purity: Third-party labs test to ensure the CBD product is free from harmful chemicals, pesticides, heavy metals and solvents.
2. Potency Verification: These tests confirm the actual CBD content in the product, ensuring it aligns with what is displayed on the label.
3. THC Levels: For those concerned about THC, third-party testing verifies that THC levels are within the legal limit, ensuring you consume exactly what is displayed on the bottle.
4. Presence of Other Cannabinoids: Some labs will provide a detailed cannabinoid profile, helping consumers know what other cannabinoids, apart from CBD, are present.
5. Terpene Profile: Terpenes contribute to the taste, smell, and potential entourage effects of CBD products. Labs can provide a profile of which terpenes and in what concentrations they exist in the product.
6. Unbiased Review: Since the third-party labs have no affiliation with the CBD producers, they offer an unbiased analysis of the product, ensuring consumers get an honest assessment.

➡️ Tips for Consumers:

• Ask for a COA: A Certificate of Analysis (COA) should be readily available from reputable CBD producers, either on their website or upon request.
• Check the Lab: Ensure the third-party lab is accredited and recognised in the industry.
• Scan QR Codes: Some products come with QR codes that can be scanned to quickly access the COA.

Navigating the CBD market requires a mix of product knowledge and an understanding of the importance of external validation. By paying attention to labels and ensuring your products have been vetted by third-party labs, you can confidently embark on your CBD journey, knowing you are making informed and safe choices.

7. Is CBD Legal in the UK?

One of the most commonly asked questions by those considering adding CBD to their wellness routine is regarding its legal status in the UK.

In short, yes, CBD (Cannabidiol) is legal in the UK, but there are specific regulations and conditions under which it can be sold and consumed:

• THC Content: For CBD oil and related products to be legal in the UK, they must contain no more than 0.2% THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound found in cannabis.
• Medicinal Claims: Retailers are not allowed to make unverified medicinal claims about CBD products. This means that they can’t advertise CBD products as having therapeutic benefits unless the product has been licensed for that purpose.
• Novel Food Regulation: In 2020, the UK’s Food Standards Agency (FSA) designated CBD as a ‘novel food.’ This means that any CBD product intended for ingestion (like edibles or capsules) needs to have a validated novel food authorisation application unless it can be demonstrated that it was consumed in the EU in significant amounts before May 1997.
• Prescription Medication: While over-the-counter CBD products must adhere to the above guidelines, there are CBD-based medications that have been approved for medical use in the UK. An example is Epidiolex, which is prescribed for certain forms of epilepsy.
• Selling and Production: Only registered and licensed businesses can legally produce and sell CBD products, ensuring they meet all regulations and quality standards.
• Importing CBD: If someone is importing CBD products into the UK, it is their responsibility to ensure the products comply with UK regulations, including the THC limit.

It is essential for consumers to buy CBD products from reputable retailers who provide third-party lab test results. This ensures that the product’s THC content is within legal limits and that it is free from contaminants.

8. Why Choose Running on Hempty Products?

In a market full of CBD products, each clamouring for attention, Running on Hempty‘s CBD products stand out with a unique selling point: offering CBD oil that is guaranteed to have zero THC.

➡️ The Uniqueness of 0% THC CBD Oil:

For people who are new to the therapeutic effects of CBD, the presence of THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis, can be a concern.

We, at Running on Hempty address this concern head-on. All our CBD products are derived from specially selected organic hemp plants known for their inherently low THC levels. Through a meticulous CO2 extraction process, we ensure the final product retains all the benefits of full-spectrum CBD oil while completely eliminating THC. This makes our product line truly unique. Although labelled as ‘full spectrum’ for market recognisability, it is the assurance of 0% THC that makes it stand out in a sea of others.

➡️ Shop With Us Today

Given our 0% THC guarantee, all our Running on Hempty CBD products are a top choice for customers including professionals such as police officers, nurses, and lorry drivers, who might undergo regular drug tests. They too can now enjoy the holistic benefits of CBD without any worries.

Choosing Running on Hempty is not just about selecting a product, but also embracing a brand committed to safety, transparency, and customer well-being. Visit our website today and experience the full benefits of CBD, in a completely safe way.