We all know that self-care is crucial to our well-being, but sometimes it can feel like a chore.
And then sometimes, self-care can be a sweet treat. And that’s the beauty of CBD gummies!
In a market filled with unfamiliar products, CBD gummies are a welcome reminder of simpler times. But there’s still much to know about them!
In this guide, we’re giving the entire low-down of CBD gummies and their benefits.
What Are CBD Gummies?
CBD gummies are chewy, gummy edibles made with cannabidiol (CBD), which is a unique cannabinoid that’s found in hemp plants.
The evidence behind CBD is nothing short of fascinating, and the number of folks reporting to benefit from this special little compound continues to grow. And when CBD takes the form of a gummy, the possibilities become a lot more colorful and delicious.
Just like the gummies you know from your childhood (and now), gummies take endless forms: bears, worms, cherries, sharks, whatever you can think of! And with flavors from peach to sour apple, there’s certainly something out there that you will love.
And if that’s not the best part about CBD gummies, their discretion certainly is. While CBD vapes and even capsules can turn a few heads, no one will look twice at someone enjoying a handful of gummy worms!
As a result, CBD gummies can be enjoyed wherever you are, whether it’s in the office, your car, or in the comfort of your home.
Types of CBD
If you’ve already taken a look at CBD gummies for sale, you might have already noticed that some gummies might be labeled as either “full-spectrum,” broad-spectrum,” or “CBD isolate.”
What does any of this mean?
CBD comes from hemp, but it’s only one of the hundreds of compounds in the plant, which are known as cannabinoids, AKA, the spectrum of cannabinoids. And while it’s not considered a significant amount, this does include a very small amount of THC.
In each of these types of products, you can have all of the cannabinoids together, all of them except THC, or just CBD.
Let’s break it down:
Full-spectrum CBD
Full-spectrum CBD gummies contain all of the cannabinoids present in hemp, as well as the terpenes and oils. While this does include THC, no CBD product will legally contain more than 0.3% of it. Some individuals favor this option because they believe it can trigger the entourage effect, which is the theorized synergy between all parts of hemp, potentially making the product more effective.
Broad-Spectrum CBD
Broad-spectrum CBD gummies contain all of hemp’s cannabinoids except for THC. This tends to be a favorite of those who wish to get the benefits of full-spectrum hemp, but none of the THC.
CBD Isolate
CBD isolate is an extracted form of CBD. This means that when a product contains CBD isolate, there are no other parts of hemp included.
What Are the Benefits of CBD Gummies?
So why take CBD in the first place? What are the benefits of CBD gummies, anway?
Aside from convenience and flavor, CBD gummies may provide a number of benefits. And while all of these benefits require more research to be proven, CBD gummies may be freely explored by the individual, and they can see if CBD works for them.
Here are just a few possible benefits of taking CBD gummies:
CBD Gummies for Relaxation
Mental health has become a massive issue in the past few decades, and stress is one of the most common disorders among individuals.
While the research on its stress-relieving effects are still in its infancy, CBD is quickly becoming a popular option among those looking for a tasty wind-down treat at the end of the day. Some find it so relaxing, in fact, that it’s even popular for a good night’s sleep!
CBD Gummies for Pain & Discomfort
Perhaps one of the biggest reasons people seek out CBD is for pain relief.
While there’s still not enough evidence to prove that CBD can replace conventional pain medications, more individuals are incorporating CBD into their regimen for easing daily discomfort.
CBD Gummies for Breaking a Smoking Habit
Anyone who’s ever quit smoking will tell you it’s hard, no matter how motivated or strong-willed the person may be.
And to make matters worse, most aids to help quit smoking, like patches and gum, aren’t super effective.
But could CBD gummies help you quit smoking?
It’s still not fully understood how CBD helps people quit smoking (if it does), but its stress-relieving reputation may be helpful to those trying to kick a habit. That being said, it’s important to remember that no single product is going to break an addiction, and that when quitting, you need to create a support system of people who love and support you, along with the help of a medical professional who can give you the proper guidance.
Can CBD Gummies Get You High?
CBD is a cannabinoid that’s related to THC. And this is often why people ask the question:
“Can CBD gummies get you high?”
In short, no.
Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t possess any of the psychoactive properties. That being said, there are full-spectrum CBD gummies that contain THC, albeit no more than .3%. Theoretically, some people could be affected by this amount, but they would have to be extremely sensitive to THC.
All the same, there are CBD gummies that contain absolutely no THC: CBD isolate and broad-spectrum CBD gummies. For those who worry that even the slightest amount of THC may give them an unwanted reaction, these make great options.
Are CBD Gummies Addictive?
Some individuals worry that CBD gummies and similar products are addictive or habit-forming.
If you’ve had similar concerns, rest assured! CBD is not addictive, and there is even some evidence suggesting that it may help break some habits, particularly those associated with substance abuse.
Are CBD Gummies Vegan?
When folks are looking for a CBD product they can enjoy, of course they deserve one that aligns with their dietary and ethical requirements.
And so, the question is justified: are CBD gummies vegan?
Some, but not all.
Unfortunately, not all CBD companies cater to these needs. Nonetheless, there are companies out there that make specifically vegan gummies, which are typically made with fruit pectin instead of animal gelatin for a gummy, bouncy chew.
How Long Do CBD Gummies Take to Start Working?
When it comes to CBD gummies, the time it takes to kick in is a major question people ask us.
So how long do CBD gummies take to start working?
Ultimately, this is going to vary with each individual. No two bodies are the same, and this goes for CBD experiences, too!
However, most fall under a time frame between 45 minutes and 2 hours. That being said, there will certainly be individuals who fall outside of this time frame.
As far as lasting effects, this depends a lot on the potency and dosage of the gummy. But keep in mind that because gummies and other edibles stay in the digestive system, they tend to last longer than other CBD products. With that in mind, edibles tend to last around 5-6 hours.
Side Effects of CBD Gummies?
Since CBD gummies first made their debut in the industry, they’ve been well-tolerated among most consumers.
But as with all products, side effects may occur in some individuals; particularly the following:
- dry mouth
- drowsiness
- suppressed appetite
- diarrhea
If you’re new to CBD gummies, it’s important to start out at a small dose—not only to observe the effects, but to gauge your own tolerance as well. You may find that you only need 1 or 2 gummies to enjoy its benefits!
In one 2020 Review from the Journal of Clinical Medicine Research, experts evaluated a series of studies from the past decade–mainly studies that used orally-administered CBD, and included a placebo group.
Throughout these studies overall, it’s overally indicated that CBD is a safe substance. On top of that, a few instances of evidence were found supporting CBD’s anxiolytic effects, and there was evidence supporting that CBD may help “improve psychotic symptoms in schizophrenia patients.”
However, it’s also noted in this review that there is some disparity among studies due to factors like population and dosage, and that further studies overall will be needed to prove CBD’s beneficial effects.
Are CBD Gummies Safe?
As long as you make sure to shop from a reputable source that uses third-party testing, and makes their products with quality hemp, you can rest assured that CBD gummies are safe.
With that in mind, it’s worth noting that overdosing from a lethal dose is impossible, since nothing about the compound inhibits the region of the brain that’s responsible for respiratory functions.
That being said, it’s pointed out in one 2016 article from Methods Rep RTI Press that even with the growing popularity of CBD edibles like CBD gummies, there’s still some confusion surrounding the market for customers.
However, we see much of this issue resolved when it comes to reputable brands. In order to stay reliable, CBD brands must offer consistent quality and clear labeling. But we’ll get more into this later!
First, let’s talk about how CBD gummies work.
How Do CBD Gummies Work?
The human body is an elaborate work of machinery, which is more or less controlled by the brain. And because your brain can’t stay in direct contact with every part of the body at once, it needs a way to communicate and send transmissions–enter the endocannabinoid system.
The endocannabionoid system is an extensive network of receptors that exist throughout the body, while keeping track of all activity throughout the body in order to maintain balance.
When an imbalance occurs in the body, it leads to a signaling of molecules known as endocannabinoids, which are absorbed into the receptors to influence their actions.
There’s a number of different receptors in the endocannabinoid system, and each one receives a different type of molecule in order to serve a specific function. And as we’ve discovered, hemp-derived cannabinoids like CBD can interact with the endocannabinoid system in our bodies.
In one 2018 study from the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, experts examine the ways in which cannabinoids and CB receptors interact with each other, and how these interactions affect the rest of the body.
CB1 receptors, in particular, have gained massive interest over the past few years, largely because of their role in mediating the psychoactive effects of THC. Upon further research, the CB1 receptors have been shown to be incredibly versatile but with obstacles. For instance, CB1 is noted for its potential as a drug target for various diseases, but it’s also strongly associated with some of the more undesirable symptoms.
Through this challenge, researchers have been prompted to focus more on the often-forgotten CB2R, among other cannabinoids–found in both cannabis and the human body. And as a result, researchers have become more invested in the ways in which cannabinoids like CBD interact with the rest of our bodily systems.
The article further points out that studies have emerged in the past decade that have just begun to unpack how complex the endocannabinoid system truly is. That being said, it’s important that research on the endocannabinoid system takes into account the region and condition, as well as any additional neurotransmission systems involved.
And in Frontiers in Psychiatry, one article was published that discussed the roles of the endocannabinoid system for other functions in the body like reward signaling, as well as its relationship with substance abuse disorders. The article posits that CBD may have a future in sustaining abstinence in those trying to break an addiction.
What to Look for When Shopping for CBD Gummies?
When deciding on the CBD gummies you’re going to take home, it’s easy to get caught up in all of the different brands and products available, especially when so many of them exude a sweet, candy-like appearance.
But when choosing the best CBD gummies for you, don’t let the appealing colors and flavors distract you.
Instead, make sure to consider a few different factors when choosing your CBD gummies. Above all, the CBD content should be considered first, but there are a few other matters to take into consideration when you shop:
Hemp Source
In general, the premier products in the CBD industry are made from organically-grown hemp. This is because hemp plants have a reputation for absorbing everything in the soil they grow in–both good and bad. Because of this characteristic, the main goal with growing hemp is to minimize contamination in the soil, which means avoiding pesticides and testing for heavy metals.
Potency
You can find CBD gummies for sale in a wide variety of different strengths, and the best one for your needs will create an effect that you notice, while staying cost-effective long-term.
You may notice CBD gummies for sale containing 5, 10, 25, 40, and 50 mg of CBD per individual gummy. A typical CBD gummy serving size is 1-2 gummies, so if your daily dose is 20 mg, you can match it up by opting for 10-mg gummies and taking 2 at a time.
Quality of Ingredients
There are many different brands out there that boast outright about making their products only with organic ingredients, when in fact many formulas feature organic CBD, and that’s about it.
While high-quality CBD is key in a good CBD gummiy, it’s crucial to remember that it’s not the one determining factor. Make sure to shop from brands that put effort into every ingredient, including the coloring, sweeteners, and whether they offer vegan-friendly or sugar-free formulas.
Lab Reports
Due to the legal status of CBD in the United States, CBD products are virtually unregulated by the government, so quality and accountability is each brand’s responsibility. And needless to say, not every brand upholds this responsibility.
To avoid the unreliable brands, stick with companies that practice third-party testing. Third-party lab testing is when CBD companies send a sample of their batches to independent labs, where they’re analyzed for CBD content, terpene profiles, pesticides, heavy metals, and more.
And in the case of the most reputable CBD brands, you can count on them to not only third-party test their products, but to additionally include their lab reports on their site.
User Reviews
When online CBD sellers first came to be, it was once possible for brands to fabricate reviews on their sites. Nowadays though, this is no longer possible, as brands are now required to use third-party reviews services in order to guarantee that the reviews are authentic.
As a result, the reviews you read online should accurately reflect the true quality of the products, but it never hurts to check out reviews from external sources, like forums and Reddit.
How Many CBD Gummies Should You Take?
There’s a wide range of questions people tend to ask when they start shopping for CBD gummies, one of which being: how many CBD gummies should I take?
And unfortunately, there is no single definitive answer to this question.
This is for a few reasons, one of which being that CBD gummies can vary in potency. Additionally, though, factors like age, metabolism, and reason for taking CBD gummies will play a role in the appropriate dosage.
Typically, most gummies will contain 10-50mg a piece, and if you’re new to CBD, you can start out on the lower side, with 1-2 gummies as one serving.
If you don’t feel any effects after taking your dose, raise it by another 10 mg and consider the effects. Once you’ve found that ideal dosage, you can stick with it.
Here are more tips for dosing your CBD gummies.
Tips for Dosing CBD Gummies
One of the benefits behind CBD gummies is that they’re easy to dose, thanks to their consistent, even sizing.
In some cases, folks might take a few gummies at a time, while others might divide their dosage throughout the day.
In one 2019 systematic review from The British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, researchers conclude that while further research is needed to gauge the dosing of CBD for different medical contexts, it appears that CBD offers the most efficacy when taken at 1-50 mg/kg/d, with higher doses leading to particularly positive outcomes.
And while there’s no standard dosing for CBD gummies, there are ways to align a dosage with your oen potency needs, making your CBD gummies more effective (and more affordable) in the long run:
- Purchase and portion out high-potency gummies. If you purchase gummies with 40-50 mg of CBD, you can divide them into halves or even quarters, and use half of the gummy one day, and the other half the nextday.
- Increase the dosage in mild increments. You can get experimental with the potency and size of your gummies, and when you’re trying CBD gummies for the first time, lower potencies in smaller increments can be used to gradually increase your dose and make adjustments as needed.
- For potent effects, try purchasing high-strength CBD gummies. Some CBD gummies can contain 40-50 mg of CBD, so 2 before bed may be enough to put yourself to sleep at night, so you can wake up in the morning feeling extra well-rested.
When to Take CBD Gummies?
Aside from how many gummies you take, the when plays a major role, as well. CBD gummies tend to have a delayed release, which means you’ll want to plan ahead for when you need them. For instance, you may have a couple CBD gummies in the morning to help you focus while staying above the morning grind stress. In this case, try taking your CBD gummies before heading on your commute.
Similarly, you’ll want to time your CBD appropriately if you’re looking to support a better night’s sleep–generally, individuals tend to experience the most success after taking gummies 2 hours before bed.
Essentially, the best time to take CBD gummies will depend on your own needs and preferences. Just remember that there’s a delay with the release in your body, and your scheduling should be straightforward.
And as mentioned before, CBD doesn’t possess psychoactive properties of any kind, so you shouldn’t anticipate any mind-altering effects.
As a substance with strong adaptogenic properties, the ultimate goal of CBD is to create homeostasis. And likewise, we all take CBD gummies for different reasons, and these reasons should feel supported by CBD gummies.
That being said, it’s worth noting that if you purchase full-spectrum CBD gummies, there is a chance of trace THC existing in the formula. If the CBD oil is hemp-based, THC levels should be less than 0.3%.
What is Better: CBD Oil or CBD Gummies?
When it comes to both CBD gummies and CBD oils, you’re going to experience a different set of pros and cons for each.
For instance, CBD oils tend to kick in more quickly than CBD gummies, which must be digested so that the CBD can enter the bloodstream.
However, CBD gummies are especially beneficial for beginners in CBD–especially those who might find themselves a bit unsure how to use it.
In one 2016 article from Methods Rep RTI Press, experts concede that CBD edibles, including CBD gummies, have become exceptionally popular as a way to consume CBD.
And while CBD oils require measurement with a dropper, measuring CBD gummies is as simple as counting them out. And let’s be honest: they taste way better.
Where to Buy CBD Gummies
CBD gummies are growing in popularity. They are becoming as common as CBD tinctures and topicals. Here are a few of the most popular places to buy CBD gummies.
Health Stores/Pharmacies
With the skyrocketing of CBD gummies and other edibles, the rising demand has led to their availability in places like health food stores, vitamin shops, and pharmacies.
Of course, this can be a beneficial option, especially for those who don’t live near a CBD shop or dispensary, but live relatively close to a pharmacy that carries the basics in CBD.
However, themain downside to these locations is that the personnel won’t be specially trained on the subject of CBD, and may possess limited knowledge of the products themselves.
Dispensaries
If there is a medical or recreational marijuana program in your state, there’s a good chance that you’ll find CBD gummies in your local dispensary.
When accessible, dispensaries are a fantastic place to shop for CBD gummies, as well as any other CBD products you might fancy. And along with all of the benefits you’d expect from shopping for CBD gummies in-person, you can also count on those working behind the counter to be exceptionally trained and knowledgable, and they can weigh in on the best dosage for your needs.
However, if the state you live in only allows medical marijuana, purchasing anything from a dispensary will require a valid medical marijuana card, and if you can’t obtain one from a doctor, this won’t be a viable option.
CBD Stores
Aside from dispensaries, CBD stores are becoming another option, especially when it comes to shopping for CBD gummies.
And while the personnel at these shops might not possess the same breadth of knowledge as those at a dispensary, there’s still a good chance that you’re going to find the high-quality CBD gummies you deserve.
That being said, it’s recommended that you seek out a reputable company that practices third-party lab testing.
Barbara is a freelance writer and a sex and relationships adviser at Dimepiece LA and Peaches and Screams. Barbara is involved in various educational initiatives aimed at making sex advice more accessible to everyone and breaking stigmas around sex across various cultural communities. In her spare time, Barbara enjoys trawling through vintage markets in Brick Lane, exploring new places, painting and reading.
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