So you have decided to try out CBD! We’re excited to share information we have learned about CBD usage, for those who have never tried it before. For more background information on where CBD comes from, check out our article on the plants we grow.
The first question I had when getting started: Is it legal? I would check the world population review’s page to determine if you live in a CBD friendly state. The regulations are relaxing as regulators become more educated on the benefits of CBD, so if your state does not allow it, keep checking!
The following is a quick and dirty run down of how we suggest getting started.
Choosing the right variety
Three classifications of CBD are used generally. Some manufacturers may use these terms interchangeably because of a lack of oversight, so it’s helpful to understand what they mean when buying products.
Isolate
CBD isolate is highly processed, and contains little else. It is devoid of other compounds found in the hemp plant, and so is limited in its benefits. The isolate is a good way to gauge your response to CBD, but we prefer products with minimal processing.
Broad Spectrum
Broad spectrum CBD has less processing than isolate, and contains other beneficial compounds found in the plant. It usually contains no THC, or trace amounts.
Full Spectrum
Full spectrum CBD has the least amount of processing, and retains many of the compounds found in hemp, to produce what researchers call ‘the entourage effect’. It can contain trace amounts of THC (up to 0.3%) as dictated by law.
The Choice
Everyone has different needs and expectations when it comes to CBD, but our company values clean, minimally processed products that retain as much goodness from the hemp plants we grow as possible.
Choosing the right CBD product
There are many different varieties of products available, it’s almost overwhelming. We always encourage first time CBD users to choose the way they feel most comfortable using it. The most popular products fall under three categories: oils & tinctures, edibles, creams & lotions.
Oils & Tinctures
A tincture is a glass bottle with a dropper, and is used to drop a specific amount of CBD oil into your mouth, a recipe, a drink, skin etc. Make sure to check if the oil is ingestible or topical! I remember being a little intimidated when first seeing a tincture, but they are very simple to use. Check out this article on using gold oil for skin care.
Edibles
The most common ingestible product with CBD are gummies. The concentration in these products varies, and they come in many different flavors.
Creams & Lotions
Topical creams and lotions are a great way to gently enjoy the benefits of CBD. There is also a wide variety of products, with varying concentrations and types.
The Choice
With all products, it is important to buy from reputable companies. These will be companies that offer documentation including third-party lab tests, certificates of analysis (COA’s), organic information, etc. Because the industry lacks a strong regulatory presence, the more information the better!
Choosing the right concentration
Many factors go into what amount of CBD is right for you. Just like when drinking, a person’s weight, metabolism, and type of intake heavily influences the extent to which you feel the effects. The higher the concentration, the less you have to use to get noticeable results.
The general rule of thumb: start slow, and increase gradually!
Safe usage
Some people feel mild fatigue or an upset stomach. This could be a result of too high a dose. CBD can interact with medications, so be careful and ask your doctor about interactions.
