CBD is out there, from supplements to cosmetic products. Its rise in popularity means that many companies are putting their eyes on it. But as consumers, we need to get the best information possible to make an informed decision. We always encourage you to do your own research and learn as much as possible about it. In this article, we highlight the CBD oil’s most popular myths and facts.
MYTH #1: CBD will get you high
Let’s define the word “psychoactive” first. The term “psychoactive” means chemical substances that change a person’s mental state by affecting how the brain and nervous system work.
With that being said, THC is the component in Cannabis that delivers the psychoactive effect, well known as “being high”. However, CBD, just like coffee or other foods or drinks, can be classified as “psychoactive” by definition. This is because Cannabidiol may help your body to achieve a balanced state giving you a better mood and overall health.
MYTH #2: CBD will make you sleepy
Contrary to the popular belief, CBD is not a sleeping pill like melatonin or other over the counter sleep aids. So, why do many people say CBD makes them sleep? Those statements are not false. The Endocannabinoid System has receptors distributed in our whole body. With CBD, some of these receptors are designed to assist basic functions like appetite and sleep. By balancing the sleep cycle it might also help you sleep better and longer.
Another theory is that a good night’s sleep might be a side effect. There are many reasons why some people don’t get enough sleep. Two of the main reasons are anxiety and stress. We do many activities throughout the day, work, school, relationships… things that all can cause unnecessary stress. And stress can cause anxiety, making sleep very difficult. Here is where CBD might help by calming the anxiety and alleviating stress which will indirectly help you sleep better and achieve your REM sleep.
MYTH #3: The higher the CBD dose, the better
This myth is clearly out of the base. While many people see results using low doses some people need higher doses of CBD to feel any improvements. The reason is that there are different factors to consider in terms of finding the proper dosage. You have to consider if you have ever used CBD before, why you want to use it, and your metabolism.
Research consistently shows that CBD’s effectiveness range is between 10 to 20 milligrams per kilograms of weight per day. Thus, on average it’s about 700 to 1,400 milligrams per day. But again, this will also depend on the results you want, if you’re a regular user, your metabolism, and the type of CBD you’re using. We always recommend starting low and working your way up if necessary.
MYTH #4: CBD has no scientific evidence of being beneficial
This is just not true. CBD has been backed with numerous studies that show evidence of having many beneficial properties to humans and animals. The FDA-approved CBD medicine Epidiolex is a great testament to CBD’s potential. There are thousands of citations in PubMed regarding CBD, Endocannabinoid System, Cannabinoid receptors, and more. As always, do your own research.
MYTH #5: You’ll get the results you want immediately
This can be true but it mainly depends on 2 things: what type of results you’re looking for and how you are administering it.
Knowing the right delivery method for you can determine how fast you’re getting the benefits that you’re seeking. From vapes, sublingual, and topicals, all of these methods of administration have its pros and cons. If you want to know what’s the best delivery method for you, read our comprehensive article “CBD guide: What’s the best delivery method for you” (click here)
Learning about your overall health starting point is another determining factor. If you have a chronic illness, CBD will not help you cure it. But it might help to manage symptoms like pain, lack of appetite and sleep. What is for sure is that one time using it is not going to give you immediately the results you’re expecting.
It may take you a week or even a few weeks to start seeing positive effects. It is recommended that you take note once you start taking CBD and monitoring any changes. That way it’s easier to see if it’s working or not and if you need to change the dosage.
All information contained in this article is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a physician or a qualified healthcare provider for any questions regarding your health and well-being.