The world of supplements can be overwhelming. Especially when it comes to newer players like CBD. There are so many different claims, myths, and promises that make it difficult to know what you’re getting for your money. (It’s a buzzword in everything from CBD-infused activewear to CBD-infused hummus.)
First-time users can gain peace of mind by doing their research to understand what they’re adding to their bodies. If you’re a newbie, fear not—we’ve compiled a beginner’s guide to taking CBD. Read on for everything you need to know when starting out!
CBD 101
Let’s get this out of the way: CBD will not get you high, or cause hallucinations, paranoia, or any of those other side effects you can think of. CBD, known as cannabidiol by scientists, is one of many compounds called cannabinoids that naturally occur in the hemp plant. It is non-psychoactive, meaning it doesn’t affect your mental state or cognition.
Though researchers are only just beginning to scratch the surface of CBD, it has proven effective in pain management, anxiety, and depression—the FDA even approved the first-ever CBD-based prescription medicine for epilepsy. It can also help users focus, prepare for or recover from a workout, and stabilize mood (among many, many other benefits)
Types of CBD
There are tons of ways to use CBD—but as a general rule, the simpler it is, the better. The main forms you’ll come across include:
- Edibles/ingestibles
- Topicals/transdermals
- Vape pens
- Tinctures
- Capsules
CBD can be inhaled, taken orally, taken sublingually (under the tongue), or used on the skin. One of the most powerful ways to consume CBD is sublingually, because the compound enters the bloodstream at a higher and faster rate—making its effects significantly more powerful.
What to look for
With so many mixed messages about CBD, it’s important to know how to read a label and make informed decisions. Though CBD is legal under federal law, it’s an unregulated substance, and product standards are left up to the brand.
Do look for key indicators of quality on a brand’s website or packaging. Some terms you’ll come across include:
- CO2-extracted CBD: CO2 extraction preserves as much of the CBD’s properties as possible, such as terpenes and the flavor profile. Other more harmful extraction methods can strip the CBD of its benefits.
- Third-party lab-tested: This means that the products have been tested for the presence of chemicals, pesticides, or other substances and validated by an independent, unbiased company.
- USA-grown hemp: This is a plus, because it gives back to the US economy and supports small farmers!
In addition to the above, you always want to look for organic, transparent, non-GMO, high-quality ingredients.
Choosing your CBD
Make sure that, whatever CBD you choose, it checks all the right boxes. If you’re using a product you trust, you’ll get all of the good stuff.
Favour Gum is free of harmful ingredients and uses transparent, high-quality sourcing methods. Our ingredients are simple, and our product is designed to have the greatest impact in a small, convenient bite. Don’t just take our word for it, though. Try Favour here!
Always talk to your doctor before taking CBD for a medical condition. Stop taking a product if you experience any negative reaction or side effects.