CBD, a compound derived from the cannabis plant, has gained attention for its potential health benefits as it is non-psychoactive.
CBD edibles, particularly gummies, have gained popularity due to their convenient and discreet nature, offering an alternative to traditional oils and tinctures.
This article offers a comprehensive overview of CBD gummies, including their definition, popularity, and important information for both beginners and experienced users interested in this popular wellness product.
What Are CBD Gummies?
CBD gummies are edible candies infused with cannabidiol (CBD), a substance extracted from the hemp plant, which is a type of cannabis plant with low levels of THC (the compound that produces a ‘high’).
These gummies are a popular choice for their ease of use and the fact that they don’t induce intoxication.
To ensure a pleasant taste, manufacturers typically add a mix of sweeteners, oils, and flavorings, and sometimes fruit juices for natural coloring. Citric and malic acids may be included to provide a zesty tang, reminiscent of citrus fruits and sour apples.
During manufacturing, CBD is first extracted and refined into a crystalline form. It’s then blended with the other ingredients and heated until everything is thoroughly dissolved. This blend is poured into molds to shape the gummies, which, once set, are coated with a wax to give them a shiny, appetizing appearance.
Each gummy consistently contains a specific amount of CBD, often around 5mg, which offers users a convenient way to manage dosage without the guesswork.
How Do CBD Gummies Work?
When consuming a CBD gummy, the digestive system breaks it down and gradually releases the CBD.
This CBD then enters your bloodstream and makes its way to your liver for metabolism. After this, it circulates back into your bloodstream and reaches your brain.
Here, CBD interacts with your body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating mood, pain sensation, and sleep.
The effects, which can take about 30 to 60 minutes to kick in, vary widely among individuals due to factors such as body chemistry and metabolism.
Some may feel a sense of calm and focus, while others notice relief from discomfort or an overall sense of well-being.
Are CBD Gummies the Same as Hemp Gummies?
No, CBD gummies are not the same as hemp gummies. The distinction lies in their key ingredients: CBD gummies contain cannabidiol, a compound extracted from the flowers of the hemp plant, which is known for its potential therapeutic benefits, including pain relief and anxiety reduction. Hemp gummies, on the other hand, are made with hempseed oil, which is rich in nutrients but does not contain CBD or THC.
Therefore, they lack the specific properties of CBD that contribute to the health benefits found in CBD gummies. Despite both being derived from hemp, their uses and effects differ significantly.
What Are the Benefits and Risks of CBD Gummies?
CBD gummies might offer various benefits, which is why users may want to try them, but it’s important not to overlook the potential drawbacks.
Let’s explore all the benefits and risks associated with CBD gummies in this section.
Benefits
CBD gummies offer a range of potential health benefits.
They are often used to address anxiety, chronic pain, insomnia, and even to aid with addiction. The FDA has approved a CBD-based medication, Epidiolex, for treating seizures, indicating CBD’s therapeutic potential.
Unlike THC, CBD does not induce a high, making it appealing for its purported health benefits without psychoactive effects.
Risks
Despite the benefits, CBD gummies also carry risks.
They can cause side effects like drowsiness, changes in mood, gastrointestinal issues, and changes in appetite. More seriously, CBD has the potential for liver injury and can interact with other medications, leading to additional health issues.
It’s also important to note that the market’s lack of regulation can lead to products containing unwanted substances like THC, pesticides, or harmful bacteria.
How to Use CBD Gummies
Now that we understand what CBD gummies are and how they work, let’s go through the steps users should follow if they want to take and use CBD gummies.
Steps
- Start with a small dose, typically 5 mg for beginners.
- Consume the gummy and wait up to 2 hours to experience the full effects.
- If you feel you need more after the initial period, you can adjust your dose as necessary, but do so gradually.
- For consistent results, consume gummies daily, keeping in mind that effects generally last 4–6 hours.
- Store your gummies in a cool, dark place away from sunlight to maintain their potency.
Tips
- When trying CBD gummies for the first time, start with a low dose and observe how your body reacts over a couple of weeks.
- Consider taking CBD gummies before anticipated stressful situations or as a supplement to other CBD products.
- If taking for sleep support, consume the gummies a couple of hours before bedtime, ensuring they don’t contain high sugar levels.
- Chew the gummies thoroughly and hold them in your mouth for a moment before swallowing to potentially speed up the onset time.
- Be mindful of your meal composition when consuming gummies, as high-fat foods may increase CBD absorption.
- Remember that individual responses to CBD can vary, so personalize your dosage and timing to find what works best for your body and needs.
- Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
Conclusion
To wrap up, CBD gummies provide a discreet and convenient way to consume CBD, offering a blend of potential health benefits without the high associated with THC.
As with any supplement, it’s crucial to start with a low dose to gauge your body’s reaction and consult with a healthcare provider to ensure safety, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
With their ease of use and controlled dosage, CBD gummies are becoming a go-to for many looking to incorporate CBD into their wellness regimen.
FAQs
Have any more questions? We might have answered them below:
Can CBD gummies cause a high?
No, CBD gummies made from hemp will not cause a high as they contain less than 0.3% THC, which is not enough to produce psychoactive effects. CBD is non-intoxicating, meaning it does not affect your mental state in the way THC does.
When do the effects of CBD gummies kick in?
The onset time for CBD gummies can vary, but typically, you may start to feel the effects within 30 to 60 minutes after ingestion. However, for some people, it may take up to a couple of hours. This variability is due to factors like your metabolism, the potency of the gummy, and whether you consume them with food.
How long do CBD gummies last?
The effects of CBD gummies can last between 4 to 6 hours, depending on the dosage and the individual’s metabolism. Some people may experience lingering benefits for a longer period after consuming the gummies. It’s also worth noting that consistent use over time can lead to more sustained levels of CBD in the body.
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