You've done your research, bought your first CBD product, and now that you have it, you're probably wondering how to find the right dose and whether it will be effective in meeting your needs. Rest assured, you're not alone.
These types of questions are a common concern for many people who are new to CBD. That’s understandable. When you consider the different types of products on the market and their varying concentrations, the choices can be overwhelming.
After all, we all have different needs and bodies, so we react differently to products on the market. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to make sure you choose a CBD product that meets your needs.
In this article, we present a new study that examines CBD dosage.
What is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a natural plant compound found in cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.). It belongs to the cannabinoid family of molecules. Cannabis has been cultivated on every continent for thousands of years and is one of the oldest wild and cultivated plants on Earth. Among the approximately 100 cannabinoids found in cannabis, THC and CBD are two of the best-known and most active molecules in our bodies. Unlike THC, CBD is not psychoactive at all; that is, consuming CBD does not produce any intoxicating or potent effects, and CBD is not considered a narcotic or toxic substance in this regard.
The human body has an endocannabinoid system that regulates some of our basic biological functions, such as:
- sleep,
- appetite,
- anxiety,
- mood,
- and even physical pain.
Cannabidiol is unique in that it stimulates the CB1 and CB2 receptors connected to the nervous system. Consuming CBD thus allows our bodies to better regulate these major biological functions. In France and Europe, CBD is now available in many forms:
- flowers,
- e-liquids,
- oils,
- pure crystals,
- cosmetics,
- but also in the form of honey and other edible products
There are also CBD oils specifically designed for pets (dogs, cats, rabbits, hamsters, horses, etc.). These supplements can help them cope with anxiety and everyday stress, improve their coat, or relieve muscle pain.
What are the properties of CBD?
CBD is an active compound with many beneficial properties for our metabolism. Several industries now use CBD, including the beauty, food, and pharmaceutical sectors. Today, scientists and doctors around the world are taking a keen interest in the benefits of CBD. They are seeking to better understand the full potential of this compound. The WHO (World Health Organization) has compiled a long list of potential properties:
- pain reliever,
- anti-inflammatory,
- antioxidant,
- antipsychotic,
- antidepressant,
- anxiolytic,
- detoxifying,
- neuroprotective.
According to various recent scientific studies, CBD is believed to have many medically promising properties: pain relief, anxiety reduction, reduced risk of cancer, mood improvement, metabolic balance, relief from sleep disorders, relief from depression, prevention of arthritis, and relief from certain skin conditions. Many researchers and laboratories continue to explore this molecule to better understand it and harness its properties.
How should you use CBD?
There are a wide variety of CBD products on the market. The dosage method you choose will depend on your consumption habits and the effects you’re looking for. Here’s a summary of the three most popular ways to enjoy the potential benefits of CBD:
Inhalation
This method is the fastest because CBD enters your bloodstream through your lungs in just a few seconds. You’ll quickly feel its potential soothing and relaxing effects. Inhalation is also an excellent option for those who want to stop using THC and replace it with CBD flower. You can also use an electronic vaporizer to inhale tobacco-free flowers intended for consumption.
Sublingual
You can take CBD by placing a few drops of CBD oil under your tongue, letting it sit for 60 to 90 seconds, and then swallowing it. This method allows the CBD to be absorbed through the mucous membranes, and the potential effects can be felt in about 15 to 30 minutes. CBD oil has the advantage of being easy to dose, effective, and discreet. People prone to stress or anxiety often use CBD oil because its potential relaxing effects kick in very quickly.
Oral
When you take CBD orally, it must first pass through your digestive system before entering your bloodstream, which slows down its effects. You can expect to wait between 60 and 90 minutes, depending on your individual circumstances. This method provides long-lasting results throughout the day and is very simple and discreet to use. Athletes often prefer the convenient formats of flowers for cooking and oils to add to healthy recipes. In fact, these formats also produce gradual and long-lasting results throughout the day. The same is true for people with chronic conditions.
Scientists Publish New Recommendations on CBD Dosage
Studies have shown that doses of 100 to 160 mg per day are generally safe for healthy adults.
A new study has published recommendations regarding maximum daily doses of CBD, with a dose of 160 mg considered acceptable for healthy adults. The scientific study was commissioned by the cannabis companies Canopy Growth and Charlotte’s Web to develop recommendations for the oral dosing of CBD isolate. The researchers used published data from human clinical trials and toxicity studies in animal models to determine the maximum dose of CBD as a dietary supplement.
Studies have shown that doses of 100 to 160 mg per day are generally safe for healthy adults. A total of 28 clinical trials in humans and other animal studies were reviewed and analyzed to examine the effects of CBD on the liver. The paper notes that while CBD may increase liver enzyme levels—a potential sign of damage—this has been observed only at very high doses or in combination with certain medications.
A previous study supported by 12 major CBD brands found no evidence of liver toxicity in more than 800 participants who took an average daily dose of 40 to 50 mg of CBD. The scientists also assessed other potential health risks, including effects on DNA structure and tumor incidence. An animal study found no increase in tumors over a two-year period and even observed a decrease in the incidence of hormone-dependent tumors.
Based on the hepatic effects observed in human studies, a potentially acceptable daily dose of 0.43 mg per kg of body weight per day was calculated for the general population. This value includes children and other groups that may be particularly sensitive to CBD and applies to all sources, including food. The authors also recommend that CBD-based dietary supplements follow appropriate and specific labeling guidelines regarding dosage to account for “specific populations.” The document specifies that the recommendations are “based solely on the authors’ assessment” and should not be considered regulatory guidance.
“Global consumption of cannabis-derived consumer products continues to rise despite the lack of consistent safety guidelines or regulatory oversight,” the authors stated. “A review of the current state of the science is urgently needed to provide guidance to regulators and other entities seeking to formulate consumer recommendations based on currently available data.” They added: “This assessment will likely be refined as more data become available, particularly from clinical trials using lower doses of CBD and preclinical studies on the potential neurotoxicity of CBD during development.”
Please note: As a reminder, CBD is not recommended for children or pregnant women. If you have any doubts, consult a healthcare professional.