How to Calculate CBD Content
CBD can be a lot of fun, but taking the correct dosage is important as with other natural supplements. Whether you’re new to CBD or are experimenting with new forms of CBD usage, here is what you need to know about the importance of proper dosing and how to calculate the dose that’s right for you.
What Is CBD?
CBD, also known as cannabidiol, is found in marijuana and hemp. During the 1990s, scientists began studying marijuana for potential benefits and discovered the endocannabinoid system- a system of receptors within the human body that responds to compounds called endocannabinoids. The endocannabinoid system has been shown to regulate a variety of the body’s functions, including sleep, appetite, and even mood. While endocannabinoids are naturally produced within the body, they are also found in cannabidiol.
During their research, scientists also found that CBD has potential benefits while not producing the psychoactive or “high” effects of THC.
Is CBD Legal Everywhere?
Unfortunately, some places in the U.S. still prohibit the use of CBD, especially CBD that has been derived from marijuana. Several states have completely decriminalized marijuana and CBD for recreational use, some have it for medicinal use only, and others do not allow CBD in any form. At this time, the FDA has approved CBD for the treatment of certain seizures, and federal courts have ruled that a doctor may recommend CBD. However, marijuana continues to be a Schedule 1 drug under DEA guidelines.
Marijuana vs. Hemp CBD
While CBD can be extracted from both hemp and marijuana, CBD extracted from hemp has a lower THC content. By law, hemp is required to contain equal to or less than 0.3% THC. On the other hand, CBD extracted from marijuana may have a higher concentration of THC.
Is CBD Safe?
While CBD is natural, it can cause side effects- especially if you are taking too much. However, CBD is well-tolerated by the majority of the population. Potential side effects of CBD include loss of appetite, fatigue, dry mouth, drowsiness, and even diarrhea. CBD is also known to interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners.
If you are concerned about taking CBD or are taking medications, we recommend that you consult with your doctor before you add CBD before your regimen. You should also ensure that you take the recommended CBD dosage.
Another thing to consider is the purity and quality of your CBD product, which is why we recommend buying CBD from a trusted source such as Flora CBD.
Why Is CBD Dosing Important?
In addition to avoiding potential side effects of CBD, consuming the proper dosage will also help maximize the effects of CBD to help prevent overspending on CBD that you do not need. If you buy CBD that is too strong, you risk adverse effects and spending more money than needed. On the other hand, if your CBD is not potent enough, you’re again spending more money on CBD because you’re buying more at a lower dose.
Remember, CBD affects everyone differently, so you will need to experiment before finding the ideal dosage. We recommend starting with a low dosage and waiting for the effects. You should expect that CBD will take about 45 minutes to kick in, so start slow and see what happens after the first 45 minutes. If you are not feeling the effects, consider adding a bit more. If you feel like you have taken too much, give yourself time for the effects to wear off and make sure that you are taking less the next time.
If you are taking CBD for the first time, you should consider giving yourself several hours to react to potential effects, and you should be in a safe space. Remember that while CBD has minimal psychoactive properties, you should not operate a motor vehicle if you feel impaired by CBD.
How Do You Know the CBD Dosage?
There are several ways to know your CBD dosage, depending on your product. Most of the time, the manufacturer will label the CBD products and provide dosage guidelines. Here’s what you need to know:
Service Sizes with Edibles
The serving sizes are labeled on the packaging of most edibles. If you buy edibles that do not have concentration and dosage guidelines, you should seriously reconsider taking those edibles.
Serving Sizes with Tinctures
Tinctures will also have dosage guidelines. However, working with a dropper is a bit less precise when compared to consuming an edible with a defined dosage.
Smoking CBD
CBD can be smoked via a vape pen or via a hookah with shisha. As with a few other forms of CBD, the concentration would be pre-set. However, the number of times you smoke the CBD would be up to you.
Topical CBD
In addition to being ingested, CBD can also be applied via topicals like creams, lotions, and even bath oils.
Choosing the Perfect Product
There are many ways to ingest CBD for recreational and medicinal reasons. Choosing the perfect product for your needs is the first step to proper dosing. Remember, as with other medications and supplements, consistency is key to success.
We recommend trying different products until you find a product that you like and can take conveniently. For some people, topical CBD works the best, while others prefer edibles, and still, others prefer to have the tincture to either ingest directly or enjoy in foods like cookies or brownies.
Calculating Your Servings Is Easier Than You Think
Calculating your servings sounds intimidating, but it is just simple math. Based on the content listed on the packaging, you’ll want to divide by the dosage. For instance, if a product has 200 mg of CBD in a 10 ml container, you can divide 200 by 10 to end up with 20 mg per ml. Or, if an edible has 20 mg and you take half, you’re taking about 10 mg.