CBD edibles have a long history, with cannabis enthusiasts incorporating cannabis extracts into their food and drinks. Now, as hemp-based CBD gains popularity, there's a wide range of options, from gummies to chocolates and more. But what are CBD edibles?
They're delightful treats infused with cannabidiol, a cannabis compound believed to offer health benefits without the high. While many swear by their effectiveness, conclusive evidence is lacking. Before trying them, consider these 8 important questions. Let's get started!
What Is Cannabidiol?
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a phytocannabinoid extracted from Cannabis sativa via methods like CO2, solvent, or alcohol extraction. It can be further refined into Full-Spectrum, Broad-Spectrum, or Isolate CBDs and incorporated into various products.
Most cannabis products are derived from hemp, thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill that categorizes industrial hemp as non-psychoactive, with less than 0.3% THC. THC is typically derived from the marijuana plant. There are many kinds of THC including delta-8 and delta-9 THC.
CBD can be taken orally or topically to possibly alleviate mental or physical discomfort. It interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) by binding to CB1 and CB2 receptors, but further research is needed to understand this interaction fully.
CBD edibles come in different types, and choosing the right one requires discussing your needs with a healthcare provider and some informed experimentation.
Why Should I Take CBD Edibles?
CBD edibles come in various forms like gummies, chocolates, flavored tinctures, syrups, and beverages, with new options continually emerging as CBD gains popularity. But what's the motivation behind taking them?
The benefits of CBD edibles are akin to their more conventional counterparts when used at the right dose tailored to your needs. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference.
Are you seeking a convenient, delicious way to integrate CBD into your daily routine? Do you dislike the natural taste of CBD? If so, edibles provide a delightful and enjoyable solution to make CBD consumption easy and enjoyable.
What Are CBD Edibles’ Risks? Are They Safe?
Yes, generally safe. No reports or studies indicate CBD toxicity from reputable sources without harmful additives. Safe consumption is around 1,500mg per day; exceeding this may cause side effects like diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and drowsiness. Many of those can be potentially harmful depending on the situation.
Caution is needed if taking medications with grapefruit contraindications, as CBD may interact with them. Additionally, individuals sensitive to THC should use CBD edibles cautiously because of potential trace THC content.
You should be cautious of where you get your CBD. Although the $5 CBD oil at the gas station is appealing it often contains harmful chemicals.
Consult your healthcare provider for safety and maximum efficacy when incorporating CBD edibles into your daily routine.
Can I Get High From CBD Edibles?
The likelihood of getting high from CBD edibles is low but never zero, especially if you’re taking marijuana-based CBD edibles, which can have a THC concentration of at least 5mg to 10mg.
If you’re sensitive to THC or just don’t want to risk getting “high” in general, we recommend sticking to Broad-Spectrum or Isolate CBD products derived from industrial hemp.
How Will CBD Edibles Make Me Feel?
To build on Question #4, the effects of CBD edibles will depend on their THC content. At high concentrations, THC can cause intoxicating effects including altered perceptions of time, hallucinations, memory loss, loss of consciousness, and impaired movement. This can be any kind of THC including a form of THC called Delta THC.
CBD edibles with low THC content, on the other hand, can provide a relaxing and calm sensation, which can possibly assist with mental and physical discomfort when taken at just the right doses.
Are CBD Edibles Legal?
The 2018 Farm Bill legalized CBD edibles and products with up to 0.3% THC at the federal level. However, regulation varies by state because of the FDA's limited ability to oversee CBD and THC safety and efficacy.
Some state laws like Idaho prohibit CBD products, even within the federal THC limit. In contrast, states like Washington, South Carolina, and Montana allow CBD from industrial hemp stalks. However, there are restrictions. For example, they do not allow it to be added to food and drinks.
For more information about CBD legality and restrictions, check out our blog “Is CBD legal in my state?”.
Are CBD Edibles More Effective Than Other CBD Products?
The CBD industry is constantly evolving to enhance bioavailability. One innovation is nano-formulation, where the derived CBD is turned into tiny particles for rapid absorption (up to 100% absorption within 15-30 minutes). However, nano-formulated CBD's effects are shorter-lived compared to regular CBD edibles.
Another crucial factor is THC and CBD concentration. Full-spectrum CBD edibles harness the entourage effect, but they contain a slight THC content (0.3%). For those sensitive to THC, Broad-Spectrum CBD (minimal THC) or Isolate CBD (0% THC) is recommended.
The third factor depends on age, gender, and health status. If you have noticed that CBD isn't working the way you hoped, any of the factors above may be causing the issue.
Lastly, the delivery system matters; sublingual CBD consumption can increase bioavailability by 13-19%, while CBD edibles provide longer-lasting effects for relaxation, and CBD oils and tinctures may assist with physical or mental discomfort. Choose accordingly.
How Do I Find Quality CBD Edibles?
To find the right CBD edible, you need to consider the following factors:
- Your health needs
- CBD potency, quality, and bioavailability
- CBD seller integrity
- CBD product certification and/or third-party testing
- CBD raw product sourcing and manufacturing quality
- CBD palatability
- Other personal factors
We discuss the first five points in-depth in our “How to choose the right CBD product.”
So, Are CBD Edibles Right For YOU?
Are you looking to spice things up with a CBD product that also doubles as a tasty treat? Can your health concerns benefit better from taking CBD edibles?
With the help of your healthcare provider, you can get a better picture of how CBD edibles can (or cannot) possibly assist with your needs.
Remember that conclusive evidence for CBD efficacy is still underway, so having expert guidance on matters regarding your health is key to fully enjoying CBD’s benefits without putting your safety at risk.
Also, remember to only buy from reputable sellers who provide third-party-tested, organic, and highly bioavailable CBD edibles to make sure you get your money’s worth. Once you do, then exploring the vast ocean of options before you can become a more enjoyable experience!
Why Buy From Zatural
Zatural offers a wide range of CBD products. Zatural has everything from Full Spectrum, Broad Spectrum, Nano, and Isolate CBD edibles. Zatural has excellent CBD gummies, chocolate, honey, and more!
Each edible has 3rd party lab test available, made in the USA with organically grown hemp and packaged in a GMP-compliant facility. Click below to go to our amazing selection of CBD Edibles.
For educational purposes only
*FDA DISCLAIMER -These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.