6 things to consider when buying CBD

Since the legalization of cannabis in 2018, there have been many milestones in the recreational cannabis market. The availability of recreational products like dabs, pre-rolled joints, and edibles is widespread on the Canadian market.

To find a dispensary, one only has to walk a block or two in any large city. Most of the products you’ll find there will be the conventional cannabis product that we associate with enjoyment, relaxation, and getting high. Most cannabis products contain a high proportion of the cannabinoid THC. THC is the psychoactive component in the cannabis plant that causes a high in the brain feeling.

THC’s less known and less studied cousin, the medicinal cannabinoid CBD, is becoming commonly available at recreational dispensaries and is earning a reputation in alternative and conventional medicine. It is regarded as a great way to manage pain and anxiety.

Here are six things to consider when buying CBD products for health.

1. CBD does not get you high when you consume it.

Although it may be a cannabis product, CBD will not cause the high feeling that THC does; this makes it especially good for dealing with pain daily without worrying about the intoxication regular marijuana or opioids can cause.

If you are looking for a herbal alternative to Advil or aspirin, CBD may be something worth looking at. People can take CBD while working at their desks or doing other tasks.

CBD reduces pain and anxiety, but it is a psychological background substance. With that said, laws around cannabis and driving in Canada are strict. It is best if you never drive after taking a CBD product.

2. Like its recreational cousin, CBD comes in strains.

CBD is a product of the cannabis plant. As a result, there are Sativa strains of CBD that can boost awareness and energy; Indica strains that can help you relax and sleep better; and hybrid strains that can balance each other out to provide the best of both worlds. Most sites display what cannabis or hemp plant strain is used in the product you are purchasing.

3. There are many ways to consume CBD products.

The days of smoking Cannabis products to get their full medicinal effects are long gone; you also don’t need to take a stereotypical brownie or gummy bear. You can try a CBD tincture oil which will provide quick relief for pain and anxiety by simply placing a couple of drops under your tongue.

4. Oral consumption isn’t the only way.

CBD is most directly felt when smoked or taken in an edible form, but topicals and gels are extremely helpful for long-term, all-day relief because of their slow absorption into the bloodstream.

With plenty of new CBD products available on the market, you can try a variety of new CBD products, including CBD cooling gels and bath balms, and salves for pain and massage oils.

5. Unlike THC recreational products, you can buy CBD online

To order cannabis through the mail, expect to use the Ontario cannabis Store Website service. This service supplies all the other stores in Ontario with Cannabis products. However, CBD products can be ordered in Ontario from outside the OCS.

CBD is a product of the cannabis plant. As a result, there are Sativa strains of CBD that can boost awareness and energy; Indica strains that can help you relax and sleep better; and hybrid strains that can balance each other out to provide the best of both worlds. Most sites display what cannabis or hemp plant strain is used in the product you are purchasing. Exploring other cannabinoids like THCV may also offer unique effects depending on your specific wellness needs”

6. CBD is highly regulated

Like with any other Cannabis product, the CBD industry is highly regulated, and the Federal Government must license the retailers and manufacturers of CBD products. This means that products are high quality and unlikely to be defective or carry more THC or other cannabinoids than displayed on the product’s label.

Even though you no longer need a medical prescription to get the health benefits of CBD, have no fear that the quality control has slipped. Since legalization, commercially obtained CBD products in Canada have a reputable status worldwide as high-quality products for fighting anxiety and pain.

PHOTO: ISTOCK