CBD oil: A natural way to greater well-being?

More and more people are looking for ways to naturally enhance their well-being. CBD oil, an extract from the hemp plant, has established itself as a promising option in recent years, even touted by some as a cure. But how healthy is the remedy really and how can the quality of CBD oils be recognized?

What is CBD oil?

Hemp contains over 100 cannabinoids – including the psychotropic THC and cannabidiol (CBD), which is not psychoactive. These are the two most therapeutically interesting ingredients in the cannabis plant: compared to THC, CBD does not cause a state of intoxication, but it has a number of other effects. As a result, CBD has attracted more and more attention in science in recent years, especially with regard to possible anti-inflammatory effects.

CBD oil, which is also often used in cosmetics, is obtained by extracting cannabidiol from industrial hemp and is then offered in various concentrations.

How does CBD oil work?

CBD interacts with the body's own endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for regulating sleep, pain sensation, immune system reactions, and mood. Because CBD interacts with the receptors of this system, it can cause various effects. There are indications for the following positive effects:

• Pain relief: CBD is said to reduce chronic pain by inhibiting inflammation and modulating the activity of neurotransmitters.
• Improvement in sleep: CBD can improve sleep quality by reducing the time it takes to fall asleep and extending deep sleep phases. This can be particularly interesting for people with restless sleep.
• Anxiety and stress reduction: It is believed that CBD has a calming effect on the central nervous system and influences the production of serotonin, a mood-regulating hormone. Many people therefore use CBD oil to treat stress.

It is scientifically proven that CBD can reduce the frequency and severity of epileptic seizures.

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Use of CBD oil

Sublingual intake: For quick absorption through the oral mucosa, a few drops of CBD oil are placed under the tongue and held in the mouth for 30-60 seconds before swallowing.

Along with foods and drinks: If you don't like the taste of CBD oil, you can mix it into drinks and foods. However, the effect will be delayed.

Topical application: Apply directly to the skin for relief of skin problems or local pain.

© Nataliya Vaitkevich

The absorption of CBD oil is particularly effective through the oral mucosa.

Dosage of CBD oil

Depending on the product, the concentration of CBD varies. Additionally, the optimal dosage varies from person to person and the intended use, always start with a low dosage. Broadly speaking:

For pain and inflammation: 15-20 mg CBD per day

For stress and anxiety: 10-15 mg CBD per day

For sleep disorders: 15-20 mg CBD about 30 minutes before bedtime

Side effects of CBD

Since CBD – of good quality – is generally well tolerated and the range of possible positive effects is large, it is extremely attractive as a drug. However, some people may experience side effects such as diarrhea, fatigue, appetite changes, and also liver damage at high doses. Intake without medical recommendation is considered critical. Before use, a doctor should be consulted, especially if other medications are also being taken.

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CBD oil: Products

It is important to distinguish between approved CBD medicines and over-the-counter CBD products. Special caution is required because they can often look confusingly similar. While the ingredients of a medicine are pharmacologically clearly defined, this is not the case with over-the-counter products. The CBD content is not standardized here and, unlike CBD medicines, there is no safety monitoring by the drug authority.

Over-the-counter CBD products are sold as dietary supplements, mostly in the form of CBD oils. They thus belong to foodstuffs and are not subject to either the Cannabis Act or the Cannabis as Medicine Act.

CBD: Legal situation

The legal situation regarding CBD oils is complex and not entirely transparent. Because for dietary supplements with CBD, approval according to the EU Novel Food Regulation may be required, which often leads to problems in practice. Therefore, distribution is often chosen as "aroma oil, not intended for consumption."

How to recognize high-quality and legal CBD products

1. THC content below 0.2%: There should be a current laboratory certificate confirming the levels of THC, CBD, other cannabinoids as well as residues of heavy metals, pesticides, or solvents.
2. Clear labeling: Full list of ingredients, amount of CBD per drop or bottle, manufacturer address.
3. No health promises: The bottle must not feature medical claims such as 'relieves pain' or 'acts against anxiety' – without pharmaceutical approval this would be illegal.
4. Origin of hemp plants: Reputable manufacturers indicate where the hemp was grown (ideally EU agriculture, organic certified).
5. Form of sale – dietary supplement or aroma product: Legal products are sold in Germany as 'aroma oil (not for consumption)' or 'cosmetic product (CBD cream)'. Attention: If it is sold as a dietary supplement, a novel food application should be filed or a notice made.

Hemp seed oil "Premium Entourage" with 10% C'B'D combined with the full spectrum of fat-soluble plant compounds from Sunday Natural, approximately 28.90 euros

Manufactured from certified EU industrial hemp: CBD oil (5%) from Temp Crew, approx. 24.90 euros

From THC-low industrial hemp: Premium CBD Oil 20% from Hempamed, approx. 109.95 euros

Hemp seed oil "Premium Entourage" with 10% C'B'D combined with the full spectrum of fat-soluble plant compounds from Sunday Natural, approximately 28.90 euros

Manufactured from certified EU industrial hemp: CBD oil (5%) from Temp Crew, approx. 24.90 euros

From THC-low industrial hemp: Premium CBD Oil 20% from Hempamed, approx. 109.95 euros

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