The term CBD has been thrown around more in recent years. Its growing popularity is for several reasons, with many vouching for its effectiveness in reducing anxiety, improving sleep, and treating conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease.
CBD stands for cannabidiol, a natural derivative of marijuana or hemp. However, CBD doesn’t contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component of cannabis. Therefore, if you ingest CBD, you won’t feel high but could take advantage of its medicinal benefits.
Yes, CBD is legal in the UK, but manufacturers and retailers must follow several regulations. Firstly, there should be minimal traces of THC. All CBD products must contain less than 1mg of THC per product or less than 0.2% THC generally. Numerous quality control measures should also be implemented across production processes. However, due to the rise in the popularity of CBD, several suppliers may curb UK regulations. If you’re concerned about what CBD products to try, ensure you carry out research and purchase from trusted vendors such as a pharmacy.
If you’re looking to try CBD, there are three types of CBD products that you can buy in the UK.
This type of CBD is the only one that will contain any trace of THC. Whilst at minimal levels, full-spectrum CBD also includes flavonoids and terpenes that are natural in hemp and cannabis. In other words, these components have distinct smells and taste similar to marijuana, but of course, you won’t be feeling any effects.
Similarly, broad-spectrum CBD contains flavonoids and terpenes like its full-spectrum counterpart. The only difference is that the traces of THC are removed.
Often referred to as a ‘pure’ form, CBD isolate removes all THC, flavanoids and terpenes from the product. Manufacturers employ complex chemical extraction and distilling procedures to do this.
Due to the increasing popularity of CBD, there seem to be endless products which allow you to take advantage of their benefits. Below, we explain some of the most popular options.
Available in full-spectrum, broad-spectrum and isolate, CBD oil is one of the most prevalent ways to ingest it. You essentially place a drop of the oil under your tongue and let it sit there for a couple of minutes before you swallow. Doing it this way is because it absorbs quickly into your bloodstream.
If you would prefer to ingest CBD like you’re taking a tablet, a CBD capsule may be the way for you to go. Whilst it may take longer to absorb into your bloodstream, it’s easier to track the dosage you’re consuming. Again, CBD capsules are available in all three forms.
There has been a rise in the popularity of CBD products that you apply to your skin, typically the wrists. Either in the form of a balm, cream or lotion, they are designed to stimulate the endocannabinoid receptors found in your skin. Also known as topical CBD products, all three forms are available as a cream or balm.
Another super-easy way to ingest CBD, edibles are also one of the tastiest ways to consume them. CBD edibles take longer to enter your bloodstream as it needs to go through the digestive system but are most effective when paired with fatty acids. You can make CBD edibles using oil or purchase a range of products spanning chocolate, sweets and gummies.
Studies have shown mixed results regarding how CBD helps sleep. Even research that concludes that CBD can improve sleep quality and duration cannot explain why this is the case explicitly. The effects can vary from person to person, depending on what CBD dosage you consume too. Much advice suggests discussing this with a medical professional first, starting on a low dosage and gradually increasing it if you feel the need.
With all this being said, there’s some evidence that CBD can help reduce cortisol, the stress hormone. Researchers found that it could affect the release of cortisol, essentially acting as a sedative. A recent study looked into the link between anxiety, poor sleep and CBD. Their results determined that 25mg was an adequate dosage to combat anxiety symptoms and improve sleep. However, following up with the participants showed mixed results, with many reporting improved sleep, but 25% said their sleep had worsened. Therefore, the study concluded that CBD might be able to improve sleep in the short term but is not a long-term solution.
With the rise of CBD’s popularity, it’s only natural to wonder whether it’s effective in helping people living with insomnia. Anyone affected by insomnia will experience trouble falling asleep and staying asleep throughout the night. Due to the reasons explained above, CBD can help alleviate insomnia-related anxiety, but only on a short-term basis. Aside from this, little scientific evidence demonstrates the link between CBD and improved insomnia symptoms. Yet, don’t let this deter you. Many testimonials state its effectiveness, so it could be worth talking to your GP.
If you’re struggling to sleep, there are several other ways to approach improving it. For example, setting a sleep schedule, being active during the day, and avoiding large meals and electronic devices before bed are all strategies which can be easy to implement. For those who have tried this, your mattress may be what’s causing you to lose out on quality sleep. With Mattressman, you can find the right bed for you, ensuring your body is supported the way it needs to be. Please explore our website today, and be on your way to super sleep.
