CBD oil has become increasingly popular in recent years and has been shown to have a variety of health benefits, including reducing pain and inflammation, promoting relaxation and sleep, easing the symptoms of Menopause and reducing anxiety and depression. But what exactly is CBD oil, and how does it work in the body?
What is CBD?
Firstly, it is important to understand that CBD, or cannabidiol, is a naturally occurring compound found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol), the other notorious and notable chemical compound found in cannabis, CBD is not psychoactive, meaning it doesn’t cause a “high” sensation. Instead, CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is responsible for regulating various physiological and cognitive processes such as mood, appetite, and pain.
What is the Difference Between Medicinal Cannabis and CBD?
Medical cannabis and CBD are related, but there are some crucial differences between the two.
Medical cannabis refers to the whole plant or parts of the plant, that is used for medical purposes. This includes both the psychoactive compound THC and the non-psychoactive compound CBD, as well as other cannabinoids and terpenes. Medical cannabis is typically consumed by smoking, vaporizing, or ingesting it in some form.
CBD on the other hand is just one of the many compounds found in the cannabis plant. It is non-psychoactive and does not produce a “high” as THC does. CBD is typically extracted from the cannabis plant and then used in a variety of products, including oils, tinctures, capsules, and topicals.
While medical cannabis and CBD may be used for similar medical purposes, the differences lie in their composition and method of consumption. Medical cannabis may contain varying amounts of THC and other compounds, which can produce different effects and may not be suitable for everyone. CBD, on the other hand, is generally well-tolerated and has very few side effects.
Are CBD and CBD Oil the Same Thing?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound found in the cannabis plant. It is one of over 100 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, but unlike THC, CBD does not produce a psychoactive effect or a “high.” CBD can be consumed in various forms, including oil, tinctures, capsules, edibles, and topicals.
CBD oil, on the other hand, is a specific type of product that contains CBD and a carrier oil, such as hemp seed oil or coconut oil. CBD oil is made by extracting CBD from the cannabis plant and then diluting it with a carrier oil. It is typically consumed orally by placing drops under the tongue or mixing it with food or drinks.
While CBD refers to the compound itself, CBD oil refers specifically to a product that contains CBD and a carrier oil. CBD can also be found in other products, such as gummies, creams, and balms.
It is important to note that not all CBD products are created equal and therefore, it is always advised to choose products from reputable manufacturers and to check the ingredients list and country of origin for potential allergens or interactions.
Does CBD Oil Derive from the Hemp Plant?
Medicinal CBD oil is extracted from the Cannabis sativa plant, which is one of the two main species of the cannabis plant. The other species is Cannabis indica. Both species contain varying levels of CBD, THC, and other cannabinoids and terpenes.
Hemp, a variety of Cannabis sativa, is commonly used to produce CBD oil. Hemp contains high levels of CBD and very low levels of THC, making it a preferred choice for CBD production. In fact, many countries have legalized the production of hemp for this exact purpose.
Is CBD Legal?
The legality of CBD oil varies depending on the country or state in which it is being used. In general, CBD oil derived from hemp is legal in many countries, while CBD oil derived from marijuana is only legal in states or countries where marijuana has been legalized for medical or recreational use such as Canada and Uruguay. Other countries may have more strict regulations surrounding CBD oil and may require a prescription for its use.
CBD derived from hemp is legal in many countries, including the United Kingdom and the US, as long as it contains less than 0.3% THC. This low level of THC ensures that the product will not produce a psychoactive effect.
It’s important to note that even if CBD oil is legal in a particular country or state, it may still be subject to certain regulations and restrictions. For example, some states in the United States may require CBD oil products to be tested for purity and potency or may require certain labelling requirements.
Why Choose Hemp-Derived CBD Products?
While CBD can be derived from both hemp and marijuana plants, the majority of CBD products on the market are made from hemp and they can be easily accessible and purchased online and in many stores.
Hemp is preferred for CBD production because it contains high levels of CBD and very low levels of THC, making it legal and safe for consumption. Since CBD is typically consumed for its health benefits rather than its psychoactive effects, most manufacturers use hemp to produce their CBD products.
When purchasing CBD oil, it’s important to choose products from reputable manufacturers and to check the label for the amount of CBD and any other ingredients or additives.
How is CBD Oil Made?
CBD oil is made by extracting CBD from the hemp plant and then diluting it with a carrier oil, such as hemp seed oil or coconut oil to make it easier to consume and to ensure accurate dosing. Hemp seed oil and coconut oil are popular carrier oils because they are healthy and have a mild flavour that doesn’t overpower the taste of CBD.
There are several methods of CBD extraction, including CO2 extraction, solvent extraction, and olive oil extraction.
After the CBD oil has been made, it is typically tested for quality and purity to ensure that it is safe for consumption. CBD oil products should have a label that lists the amount of CBD in the product, as well as any other ingredients or additives.
How CBD Works in the Body?
CBD, or cannabidiol, works in the body by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is a complex network of receptors, enzymes, and endocannabinoids that helps to regulate various physiological and cognitive processes.
The ECS has two main types of receptors, known as CB1 and CB2 receptors. CB1 receptors are primarily located in the brain and central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are found throughout the body, especially in the immune system.
When CBD is consumed, it interacts with both CB1 and CB2 receptors, as well as other receptors and enzymes in the body. However, unlike THC, CBD does not produce a psychoactive effect or a “high.” Instead, CBD has been shown to have a variety of potential health benefits, including reducing pain and inflammation, promoting relaxation and sleep, and reducing anxiety and depression.
CBD may also have a balancing effect on the ECS, helping to maintain homeostasis in the body. This may be why CBD has been investigated for its potential in treating a variety of conditions, including epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and cancer.
While the research on CBD is still in its early stages, there is promising evidence for its multitude of benefits. However, it’s important to note that CBD may not work for everyone, and it is always best to research potential side effects and talk to an expert or healthcare professional before using CBD or any other supplement.
What is CBD Oil Used For?
CBD oil has been used to help with a variety of health concerns, and successfully applied in clinical trials for chronic pain, anxiety, sleep disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, cancer treatment, pain relief, easing the symptoms of Menopause, anxiety disorders, and inflammatory and neuropathic pain associated with health conditions such as multiple sclerosis. While research is still ongoing, many people have reported positive effects from using CBD oil in a variety of conditions.
The Health Benefits of CBD Oil
While research is still ongoing, here we have listed some of the health benefits of CBD:
Pain Relief:
CBD has been shown to reduce pain and relieve symptoms of chronic pain, arthritis and multiple sclerosis. It works by reducing inflammation and interacting with receptors in the body that are involved in pain regulation.
Inflammation:
CBD has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to reduce inflammation throughout the body.
Anxiety and Depression:
CBD has been found to help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, although more research is needed to fully understand its effects. It works by interacting with receptors in the brain that are involved in mood regulation.
Easing the Symptoms of Menopause
CBD oil has been found helpful in managing menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and insomnia. This is because CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a vital role in regulating a range of bodily functions, including mood, sleep, and pain perception.
Sleep Disorders:
CBD may help to improve sleep quality and reduce insomnia, particularly in people with chronic pain or anxiety. It works by reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation.
Neurodegenerative Disorders:
CBD oil has been investigated for its potential in treating neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. It works by reducing inflammation and protecting the brain cells from damage.
Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders:
CBD oil has been investigated for its potential in treating epilepsy and other seizure disorders. In fact, the FDA has approved a CBD-based medication called Epidiolex for the treatment of certain types of seizures.
Cancer-Related Symptoms:
CBD may help to reduce symptoms related to cancer treatment, such as nausea and vomiting. It may also have potential anti-cancer properties, although more research is needed to fully understand this.
Skin Conditions:
CBD has potential benefits for skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis, due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It helps to reduce the production of sebum, a type of oil that can contribute to acne.
Is Cannabis-based Medicine Safe?
Harvard Medical School has extensively researched the potential health benefits of CBD oil and the Harvard Health Blog has published several articles on the topic, including a 2018 article titled “Cannabidiol (CBD) — what we know and what we don’t” and a 2019 article titled “CBD: Safe and effective?”.
The articles discuss the potential health benefits of CBD oil for conditions such as anxiety, pain, and epilepsy, as well as the need for further research to fully understand its effects on the body. While more research is needed to fully understand the full health benefits and risks of CBD oil, Harvard Medical School’s research suggests that it may have promise as a treatment for certain conditions.
Non-Medical Uses of CBD Oil
CBD oil is not only used for its health benefits but also for a variety of non-medical purposes. You don’t have to be ‘ill’ to use CBD. It is for everyone, however healthy you may be, it provides a source of protein, essential nutrients, dietary supplements, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fatty acids, like omega-3.
Here we have listed some of the non-medical uses of CBD oil:
Skincare:
CBD oil has potential benefits for the skin due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It may help to reduce inflammation, redness, and acne, and it also has anti-ageing properties.
Beauty:
CBD oil is increasingly being used in beauty products including makeup, hair care products, and bath and body products. It helps to improve the overall health and appearance of the skin and hair.
Pet Care:
CBD oil is also being used for pets, particularly dogs and cats. It may help to reduce anxiety, pain, and inflammation in pets, and may also help to improve their overall health and well-being.
Cooking:
CBD oil can also be used in cooking and baking and is often used as a substitute for other oils or fats. It adds a unique flavour to dishes, and may also provide potential health benefits.
Relaxation:
CBD oil may be used for relaxation and stress relief and is often added to bath products, candles, and other products designed to promote relaxation. There is even evidence that cannabidiol may reduce cigarette consumption!
Types of CBD Oil
Not all CBD oil products are created equal, and it’s important to choose products from reputable manufacturers and to check the ingredients list for potential allergens or interactions.
There are several types of CBD oil available on the market:
Full-spectrum CBD oil:
This type of CBD oil contains all of the cannabinoids and terpenes found in the cannabis plant, including trace amounts of THC (less than 0.3%). The idea behind full-spectrum CBD oil is that the different compounds work together to enhance the overall health benefits of the oil. However, because it contains THC, it may not be legal in all countries.
Broad-spectrum CBD oil:
This type of CBD oil contains all of the cannabinoids and terpenes found in the cannabis plant, except for THC. This makes it a good option for people who want the benefits of the entourage effect without consuming THC.
CBD isolate:
This type of CBD oil is pure CBD and contains no other cannabinoids or terpenes. CBD isolate is typically used in products like gummies, where a precise dosage is needed.
Nano CBD:
This type of CBD oil is made by breaking down CBD molecules into nanoparticles, which are then more easily absorbed by the body. The idea behind nano CBD is that it may provide faster and more effective relief than traditional CBD oil.
CBD oil with added ingredients:
Some CBD oil products may contain added ingredients, such as melatonin for sleep or turmeric for inflammation. These products are designed to provide specific health benefits beyond what CBD alone can offer.
When choosing a type of CBD oil, it’s important to consider your personal needs and preferences. Full-spectrum CBD oil may provide the most benefits, but it may not be legal in all areas. Broad-spectrum and CBD isolates are good options for people who want to avoid THC, while nano CBD may provide faster relief. Adding ingredients can provide additional benefits, but it’s important to choose products from reputable manufacturers and to check the ingredient list for potential allergens or interactions.
How to Use CBD Oil?
CBD oil can be consumed in a variety of ways, depending on the individual’s preferences and needs. Here are some common methods of consuming CBD oil:
Sublingual:
One of the most popular ways to consume CBD oil is to place drops under the tongue and hold them there for 30-60 seconds before swallowing. This allows the CBD to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the capillaries under the tongue, which can result in faster and more effective absorption.
Oral:
CBD oil can also be consumed orally by adding it to food or drinks or by swallowing capsules or gummies. This method of consumption can take longer to take effect, as the CBD has to pass through the digestive system before it can be absorbed into the bloodstream.
Inhalation:
CBD oil can be inhaled by using a vaporizer or by smoking CBD-rich hemp flower. This method of consumption can result in fast-acting effects, but it may also be harsh on the lungs and may not be suitable for everyone.
Topical:
CBD oil can also be applied topically to the skin, either in the form of a cream, lotion, or balm. This method of consumption is often used for localized pain or inflammation and may not have systemic effects.
Dosage and Recommendations
When it comes to dosage and recommendations for CBD oil, it is important to emphasize that there is no one-size-fits-all approach. The ideal dosage will depend on a variety of factors, including the individual’s weight, the condition being treated, and the method of consumption.
We recommend starting low and slow and experiementing with dosage, products and the times that suit you best to find a Therapeutic dose that is just right for you and where you really start to feel the benefits of CBD.
Our recommended dosage details are listed on our products pages and you can view all our CBD Oil Products here.
Choosing a Reputable Distributor
When buying CBD oil online, there are a few things to look out for to ensure that you are purchasing a high-quality and safe product.
Here are some tips:
- Read the Label: Before making a purchase, read the label to ensure that the product contains CBD and to check for any other ingredients or additives. Look for the amount of CBD per serving and the source of the hemp used to make the oil.
- Check for Third-Party Testing: Look for products that have been third-party tested for purity and potency. Third-party testing can provide additional assurance that the product contains the amount of CBD listed on the label and that it is free from contaminants like pesticides or heavy metals.
- Check Reviews and Ratings: Look for reviews and ratings of the product and the company from other customers to ensure that they are reputable and provide high-quality products and customer service.
- Avoid Unrealistic Claims: Be wary of products that make unrealistic or exaggerated claims about their benefits. CBD oil is not a miracle cure, and it’s important to choose products that provide accurate and honest information.
- Check the Company’s Reputation: Do some research on the company before making a purchase. Look for information about the company’s sourcing practices, manufacturing processes, and customer service.
- Price: While price is not always an indication of quality, extremely low-priced products may be an indication of low quality or potential safety concerns. Be wary of products that are significantly cheaper than other similar products on the market.
What Sets Us Apart?
There are a plethora of cannabidiol extracts sold online, therefore it is paramount that you know what to look out for.
Running on Hempty is a friendly, family-run business based in the UK. We specialise in CBD oil, hemp and natural products to enhance your health and overall well-being.
Our Personal Experience
Our business was born out of our personal experience of using CBD oil for treating various medical conditions in our family.
As a mum, I was looking for natural ways to help relieve pain for my girls who have suffered, and still do between them, with endometriosis, M.E, and Lyme disease, as well as anxiety. We looked into using CBD as a natural pain relief and once we tried it, I was blown away by the health benefits and the difference it has made to us as a family. We took our time to find a trustworthy supplier, and our business grew from there. We have been using CBD products ever since and we can certainly vouch for CBD’s transformative powers in our personal experience.
We pride ourselves on excellent customer care and we can guarantee that all our hemp-derived CBD products and nonprescription CBD products are sustainably sourced and organically grown.
Our Guarantee
We at Running on Hempty only deal with trusted and accredited hemp suppliers and growers. We can guarantee that our products are fully traceable, THC-free, lab certified and 100% safe and natural.
Sustainability
We prioritize sustainability in all our operations and we strive to use eco-friendly packaging wherever possible. We source our hemp from sustainable farms to minimise our environmental impact.
Transparency
Quality and transparency are key in all that we do. We ensure that our products are pure, potent, and free from contaminants.
Variety
We are proud suppliers of a variety of tried and tested CBD oil products to suit different needs and preferences, such as oils, capsules, gummies, tea & coffee and topicals. We also offer products with different strengths and flavours to cater to a wide range of customers.
Customer Service
Excellent customer service is everything to us. We take the time to get to know our customers’ needs and we always provide helpful and knowledgeable support. We also offer personalized recommendations to help our customers choose the right products for their needs.
View Our CBD Products
If you are looking to experience the healing powers of CBD oil in a safe and natural way, don’t hesitate to try our CBD products.
If you have any queries at all, feel free to contact us for advice. We would be delighted to help you.
