Discover the Top Benefits of CBD Extract for Health and Wellbeing

Written by: Daniel Fayad, Subject Matter Expert and Website President
Published: March 15, 2024; Last updated: April 6, 2024

Are you interested in the potential health benefits of CBD extract? This concentrated form of non-psychoactive CBD, derived from hemp plants, is gaining attention for its ability to offer natural relief from conditions like chronic pain and anxiety—without the high associated with THC. Follow along as we uncover the science behind CBD extract, its uses, and its role in promoting better health.

Key Takeaways

• CBD extract, derived from the hemp plant, offers health benefits without the psychoactive ‘high’ of THC; extraction methods affect its purity and potency, and it is available in full-spectrum (with other cannabinoids and up to 0.3% THC) or isolate form.

• CBD has potential health benefits, including aiding in chronic pain management, offering mental health support, and treating various conditions related to inflammation; however, its interaction with other medications should be considered.

• When using CBD products, safety and efficacy are ensured through third-party lab testing; users should tailor their CBD dosage to individual needs and integrate it into a holistic health strategy for optimal results.

Unlocking the Power of CBD Extract

So, what is this buzz-worthy compound, and where does it come from? CBD extract is a chemical compound derived from the cannabis plant, specifically the hemp plant. Unlike its cousin, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD doesn’t induce a ‘high’ because it lacks the psychoactive properties of THC. This attribute has made CBD a popular choice among those seeking the health benefits of cannabis but without the mind-altering effects.

CBD extract, often derived from plant CBD extract, is commonly available in several forms, such as CBD oil products, including CBD oils:

• oil

• vaporized liquid

• oil-based capsules

• food and beauty products

But what sets apart high-quality CBD products is the source of the CBD. For instance, the active ingredient derived in USA Medical CBD Oil is from organically grown hemp in the fresh air of Oregon, ensuring a chemical-free and organic farming approach. This results in high-quality hemp-derived CBD products that consumers can trust.

The Essence of CBD: Extraction Methods

The extraction method mainly utilized influences the quality of the CBD extract. Advanced extraction methods like supercritical fluid extraction with CO2 (SFE-CO2) and enzyme-assisted extraction (EAE) are preferred for optimizing conditions for maximum yield and purity. These techniques focus on preserving the plant’s phytochemicals, ensuring the resultant CBD product is potent and pure. ¹ ²

However, traditional techniques such as maceration also have their place in the CBD extraction process. Using organic solvents, these methods extract cannabinoids in a more conventional approach, albeit less efficient compared to their dynamic counterparts. The extraction process can be further refined by employing mathematical models like response surface methodology, which fine-tunes variables like solvent type and extraction duration.

Full Spectrum Hemp Extract vs. Isolates

When it comes to CBD products, consumers often find themselves choosing between full-spectrum hemp extract and CBD isolates. Full-spectrum CBD contains multiple cannabis plant extracts, including essential oils, terpenes, and other cannabinoids, which may include up to 0.3% THC. This concoction contributes to the so-called ‘entourage effect,’ where the combined components enhance health benefits.

Conversely, CBD isolate is the purest form of CBD and is often sold as a fine white powder known as CBD crystals. Due to its refined nature, CBD isolate has no discernible taste or odor, making it an appealing option for those who prefer not to consume the natural taste of hemp.

Legal Landscape: CBD Legality and Regulations

While CBD offers a multitude of potential benefits, it’s worth noting that its legal status needs to be clarified. The 2018 Farm Bill federally legalized hemp and hemp-derived products containing no more than 0.3 percent THC, effectively rescheduling them from the Controlled Substances Act. However, the FDA stipulates that THC and CBD products cannot be marketed as dietary supplements.

Moreover, federal law prohibits the addition of THC or CBD to any food product introduced into interstate commerce. Apart from Epidiolex, Marinol, Syndros, and Cesamet, the FDA has not approved any other medical cannabis-derived products for medical use and actively issues warnings to companies making unproven health claims about nonprescription CBD products.

Nonetheless, CBD products containing less than 0.3% THC are federally legal, but the legality of products with higher levels of THC may vary based on state laws.

The Health Benefits of CBD Oil Revealed

Derived from hemp plant extracts, CBD oil, and hemp oil have been associated with a multitude of health benefits. The secret behind their efficacy lies in how they interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which is pivotal in regulating mood, metabolism, immune response, and memory, among other functions. The interaction with the endocannabinoid system results in controlled body temperature, calmness, and relaxation, demonstrating their influence on overall wellness. Additionally, hemp seed oil, derived from the same plant, offers its own set of benefits.

CBD oil has been associated with aiding:

• Insomnia

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Providing pain relief

Specific brands, such as USA Medical’s organic CBD oil, are tailored to foster a sense of stress-free balance in the brain and body, illustrating the potential enhancement of well-being offered by the best CBD oil products.

Chronic Pain Management

The potential of CBD oil in managing chronic pain is gaining increasing recognition. Full-spectrum CBD, which includes a spectrum of cannabinoids like CBD and THC, has been suggested by research to be more effective for pain relief than CBD isolate. An Arthritis Foundation survey found that a whopping 79% of participants are using, have used, or are considering using CBD to manage their arthritis pain.

Beyond arthritis, CBD’s ability to reduce inflammation can benefit those suffering from muscle and joint stiffness and improve workout recovery. Topical CBD products applied directly to the skin offer targeted relief for joint pain and have a unique advantage due to their localized effects.

Mental Health Support

Not only is CBD oil making a significant impact in the world of physical wellness, but it also holds promise for mental health treatments. The FDA has approved Epidiolex, a CBD oil, for the treatment of two severe forms of epilepsy. This landmark approval provides substantial evidence of CBD’s therapeutic potential for mental health conditions.

Moreover, an increasing amount of research and anecdotal evidence suggests that CBD may offer relief for conditions such as anxiety and depression. This is partly due to its interaction with serotonin receptors in the brain, which play a pivotal role in mood regulation.

Additional Therapeutic Potentials

CBD’s therapeutic potential extends beyond this. CBD oil can aid in treating inflammation-related conditions, like coronary heart disease, and potentially lower high blood pressure and stroke risks. Some animal studies even suggest that CBD could protect the heart after an attack and in cases of heart damage from diabetes.

Furthermore, CBD has potential benefits for treating skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis due to its anti-inflammatory action. Clinical use of a CBD-enriched skin ointment showed improvement in psoriasis and eczema cases without adverse effects.

The efficacy of CBD extract in treating Parkinson’s disease, schizophrenia, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and anxiety is also being explored.

CBD Products: Safety and Efficacy

Like any health product, prioritizing safety and efficacy is vital when selecting CBD products. While CBD is generally considered safe, there are documented side effects and potential risks that users should be aware of. Side effects of CBD extract can include:

• Dry mouth

• Diarrhea

• Reduced appetite

• Drowsiness

• Fatigue

There is also a risk of liver damage when ingested.

Due to the lack of FDA regulation, the safety and efficacy of CBD products are ensured through rigorous third-party lab testing. A Certificate of Analysis from third-party testing provides essential information on product potency, cannabinoid profile, and the absence of toxic substances.

Understanding Lab Testing and Certifications

Ensuring CBD products’ safety, quality, and transparency heavily relies on third-party lab testing and certifications. The cGMP certification signifies that a CBD product has been manufactured by stringent guidelines ensuring safety and quality as per the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.

A Certificate of Analysis (COA) provided by a third-party lab is essential for verifying the content of CBD products and confirming legal compliance with THC limits. COAs may reveal detailed information regarding cannabinoids, terpenes, and the presence of heavy metals, ensuring full product transparency.

Third-party lab testing can also identify potential allergens or compounds that could interact with other medications, which is vital for consumers with health conditions.

CBD and Other Medications: Interactions to Consider

Despite CBD’s numerous health benefits, considering its potential interactions with other medications is essential. Individuals must discuss CBD use with healthcare providers, especially when taking other medicines that might interact adversely with CBD.

For instance, CBD can lead to side effects such as drowsiness and lightheadedness, which may be exacerbated when combined with other medications that produce similar side effects. Using CBD in conjunction with medications metabolized by liver enzymes can cause altered drug concentrations and increased side effects.

Some medications, such as warfarin, amiodarone, levothyroxine, and certain seizure medications, have potentially serious interactions with CBD.

Choosing Quality CBD Products

To guarantee safety and efficacy, choosing quality CBD products is vital. High-quality CBD products are verified by third-party testing, adhere to strict GMP guidelines, and are free of additives such as sugar, gluten, preservatives, and dyes.

The variety and concentration of CBD products also matter. For instance, CBD Oil at USA Medical is available in various concentrations, catering to different dosage needs, from Full-Strength (3,000 mg) and Low-Strength (1,000 mg) to a formulation designed specifically for Kids & Teens (500mg).

Even the CBD Full Spectrum Gummy comprises vegan, GMO-free, 100% plant-based ingredients, exemplifying the move towards natural constituent composition in quality CBD products.

How to Use CBD Extract for Optimal Results

Once you’ve selected your CBD product, the next step involves ensuring its optimal use for the best results. The first thing to remember is that CBD should be considered as one aspect of a holistic health strategy and not a panacea for health issues.

Choosing the proper CBD formulation based on your primary health condition, like products rich in terpenes for better sleep or topical balms for localized pain relief, can help maximize benefits. For precise dosing of CBD oil, a 1 mL graduated glass dropper can be used, allowing individuals to adjust their intake based on effectiveness and personal health needs.

The recommended method of consumption is to place CBD oil under the tongue using the dropper and hold the oil for 2-5 minutes to maximize absorption.

Tailoring Your Dosage

Tailoring your CBD dosage to suit your individual needs is an essential aspect of the process. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you:

1. Start with a low dose, typically 20 to 40 milligrams per day.

2. After a week, increase the CBD dosage gradually by 5 mg.

3. Continue this process until the desired therapeutic effect is achieved.

Following this guide, you can find the correct CBD dosage for your needs. ³

Factors to consider when adjusting the dosage of CBD include:

• Body weight

• The condition being treated

• Body chemistry

• The concentration of CBD in the product

It is crucial to document CBD intake and symptom improvement, making adjustments to dosage according to personal response and health improvement.

Versatile Forms of CBD Consumption

CBD products come in various forms, each with its unique benefits. These include:

• Edibles like gummies and capsules

• Sublingual options like oils and tinctures

• Topical solutions like creams and ointments

• Inhalable products like CBD vape pens and cigarettes

The onset time for CBD to take effect varies by form; inhalable products provide quick results, whereas edibles and capsules have a more delayed onset. The bioavailability, or the rate and extent CBD is absorbed, differs between product forms; inhalation and sublingual administration often have higher absorption rates than oral ingestion.

Combining CBD with a Healthy Lifestyle

CBD’s potential health benefits can be further amplified when incorporated into a healthy lifestyle. A balanced approach to health care involves using CBD alongside proper diet and regular physical activity. Using CBD as part of a pre-and post-exercise routine can aid in improving the function and mobility of joints, which is beneficial for individuals with arthritis or multiple sclerosis.

Optimizing overall wellness and workout recovery is best achieved by merging hydration, nutrition, and stretching routines with CBD. Remember, CBD is a supplement meant to support, not supplant, a balanced lifestyle.

Summary

CBD extract has proven to be a versatile supplement with many potential health benefits. Its uses range from pain management to mental health support, and with ongoing research, the list of its therapeutic potentials continues to grow. However, it’s crucial to choose high-quality, lab-tested CBD products and consult healthcare providers before starting CBD, especially when taking other medications. CBD is not a cure-all, but when used responsibly and as part of a balanced lifestyle, it can certainly contribute to overall wellness.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does CBD extract make you feel?

CBD extract may make some people feel relaxed, calm, and less anxious, while others may not notice significant changes in their well-being. It is not intoxicating and does not cause the “high” typically associated with cannabis use.

Is CBD the same as marijuana?

No, CBD is not the same as marijuana. While CBD is a component of marijuana, it does not cause a “high” and is derived from the hemp plant or manufactured in a laboratory.

Is CBD extract the same as CBD oil?

CBD extract and oil are often used interchangeably but are not different. CBD oil typically refers to a concentrated cannabidiol extract, which can be made from a whole plant extract or concentrated CBD isolate blended with a carrier oil.

Are there any side effects of using CBD?

Yes, using CBD extract may lead to side effects such as dry mouth, diarrhea, reduced appetite, drowsiness, fatigue, and a potential risk of liver damage when ingested. Be cautious while using CBD products.

Can I use CBD with other medications?

It’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before using CBD with other medications, as some medicines may have serious interactions with CBD, such as warfarin, amiodarone, levothyroxine, and certain seizure medications.

References

Lazarjani, M. P., Young, O., Kebede, L., & Seyfoddin, A. (2021). Processing and extraction methods of medicinal cannabis: a narrative review. Journal of cannabis research, 3(1), 32. https://doi.org/10.1186/s42238-021-00087-9

Al Ubeed, H. M. S., Bhuyan, D. J., Alsherbiny, M. A., Basu, A., & Vuong, Q. V. (2022). A Comprehensive Review on the Techniques for Extraction of Bioactive Compounds from Medicinal Cannabis. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), 27(3), 604. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27030604

Millar, S. A., Stone, N. L., Bellman, Z. D., Yates, A. S., England, T. J., & O’Sullivan, S. E. (2019). A systematic review of cannabidiol dosing in clinical populations. British journal of clinical pharmacology, 85(9), 1888–1900. https://doi.org/10.1111/bcp.14038

Written by Daniel Fayad - Subject Matter Expert and Website President

Dan Fayad is a results-driven healthcare administration expert and content writer. With a Master of Health Administration from the University of Southern California, he’s carved a niche for himself in the dynamic world of healthcare and business development. Dan uses his experience to educate and empower people on their wellness journeys.