What are CBD gummies?

What You Need To Know About Cbd Gummies

Gummies aren’t your kids’ gummies anymore. No, no, they are very much for adults now. And not only that, it’s medicine, man!

To help the medicine go down, considerate manufacturers have dreamed up the brilliant idea of making yummy CBD gummies good for your head and tummy, full of restorative cannabidiol.

Huh? What’s that? Let’s explain.  

What is CBD?

CBD is cannabidiol, a chemical compound, a phytocannabinoid derived from the cannabis plant. It was discovered in 1940. Incredibly, your body already has built-in endo receptors for cannabidiol, in its endocannabinoid system. CBD acts the same way as a standard dietary or nutritional supplement, which is its FDA categorization.

Studies are finding that CBD possibly has a number of practical, useful applications that can provide relief for a variety of conditions. It can often be found over the counter in many health stores. 

First, it’s important to know the difference between the three different kinds of CBD. 

Full Spectrum CBD is an extract that contains all the naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis plant, which includes terpenes and oils. Generally, this means it includes the additional compounds that possess psychoactive properties, like THC. 

Broad Spectrum CBD is between Full and Isolate. In broad-spectrum CBD, the THC is removed while still preserving the other compounds found in the plant. This allows the CBD to produce the “entourage effect”, which will be explained later.  

Well then, what is Isolate CBD, the last category? It’s what it sounds like, in layman’s terms. The CBD is isolated. An isolate is the purest form of a compound. All other compounds found in the plant, like flavonoids and plant parts are removed. Sort of the opposite of full spectrum. 

Consumers and patients are turning to this Isolate CBD for many different reasons. Of course, since it is a supplement and can interact with other substances in the body, consult a doctor if you are thinking of treating yourself with CBD even as a common consumer. 

The number one reason people are experimenting with CBD is pain. It is used in extreme cases like arthritis and multiple sclerosis while others use it simply for its anti-inflammatory properties. It can even be used to treat migraine headaches. 

Some studies have shown that CBD can be helpful in treating anxiety. Studies have shown it reduces stress in animals. It can be useful for social anxiety or just generalized anxiety. Test groups have reported an increase in quality of life after just three weeks. 

CBD has also shown to be a potential sleep aid. Endocannabinoids are believed to play a big part in our sleep cycles. A specific endocannabinoid called anandamide may also regulate mood and memory. Science is still exploring the topic. 

Although CBD comes in many forms, gummies are probably the easiest to swallow.

The Skinny on CBD Gummies

Ingredients vary in CBD gummies. Some have naturally occurring cannabinoid oils, others use hemp extract. Some are made with organic fruit juice or with fructose and added flavors. Best to thoroughly read the description. They even come vegan!

Also, be mindful of the purity of the gummies. You want the ingredients to be from responsible farmers who use good hemp. 

Now, it is important to point out that these are not the kind that get you high. I repeat, in case you are high, these are not the kind that get you high. They contain no THC, the psychoactive substance in marijuana that produces euphoric feelings. There are gummies that do contain THC so be vigilant. 

You should know a little about percentages when you are diving into the world of gummies. The packages should be clearly marked with relevant percentages. 

Gummies come in a variety of packaging and also a variety of flavors, to make the experience palatable to all kinds of tastes. Sometimes sweet, sometimes sour. 

How the Effects Can Affect You

Don’t dive into CBD gummies with a laissez-faire attitude. Keep in mind that they will take some time to kick in. Patience is a virtue and your best friend in this case. 

CBD is absorbed into your bloodstream just like most supplements, through the digestive system, so it can take up to 45 minutes for you to start feeling something. Good advice is to wait until you are sure there are no recognizable effects before increasing your dosage.

One of the keys is finding your ideal dosage, without going over it. Start small, be diligent, and increase your dosage in conservative increments until you feel the relief you need.

The effects will likely last at least four hours, possibly double that. There are a number of factors that can influence the strength of the effects, such as an empty stomach, metabolism, and of course how much you took. Generally each gummy can contain anywhere from two to five mg, sometimes more. 

An empty stomach is not recommended since like any other supplement, the gummy moves through your digestive system before being absorbed into the bloodstream. 

Making Your Own

You don’t necessarily have to buy CBD gummies, although it is recommended. You can make your own, it’s not hard. 

It is recommended to use CBD oil in homemade gummy ops. You will need gelatin and pureed fruit. You can also use good old jello. Or get fancy. 

Here’s a great recipe for sleep gummies!

Safety First 

Your body is your temple, so precaution is necessary when you are introducing a new substance into your system. CBD is no different. As they say, safety first!

Some medications are not compatible with CBD supplements. This is because in some cases supplements can block key receptors from processing the medication or vice versa. Medications that can be affected by the interaction include steroids, antidepressants and some antibiotics. There’s a good-sized list of medications that could be problematic so best check that list more times than Santa Claus. 

Also, be aware of something called the “entourage effect”. This is a theory that CBD works best together with all the hemp plant compounds, contributing to a positive effect on overall health, magnifying and maximizing its therapeutic value.  

Don’t take extra if you don’t feel like it’s working. Wait, then consult a professional. 

A lot of people are self-medicating with CBD, especially for anxiety. There are consumer options and professional options. Do your research.

There are age limits. Of course, only a minimum. Adults of any age are recommended to take CBD gummies if it works. And as always, keep out of the reach of children. 

Be aware that while it is legal to take CBD gummies, it can show up on a drug test. Federally, CBD products on the market cannot contain more than .003% THC. Any more than that and you’re busted on schedule 1 boulevard.

Don’t let that scare you. Pop yourself a yummy gummy and wait to see if it works for you!