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Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurocognitive disorder, which significantly impacts everyday life. As being the most common cause of dementia, AD contributes to substantial memory loss, impairment of language, problem-solving, and other thinking abilities.

According to statistics, AD is a real cause of up to 60 to 80% of the elderly people population, obviously varying in the mildness of disease. According to estimates, in the United States, 10% of people older than 65 have Alzheimer’s ailments.

It is predicted that over 120 million people will have AD by 2050 due to a lengthened lifespan. Percentage of people with progressive symptoms increase with age:

• From the age of 65 to 74: 3%
• From the age of 75 to 84: 17%
• From the age of 85 and older: 32%

Chances of dementia increases as brain inflammatory processes are often ongoing, and they build up as we age. Additionally, such an increase can be triggered by various factors like head injuries, alcohol abuse, or other disease processes.

AD is more common in women. Such a suggestion is possibly associated with a higher level of women’s life expectancy. The predominance of patient numbers in developed countries is related to the increase in the number of older people.

AD Clinical signs

Patients have symptoms and signs of dementia, which affects all aspects of life, but it takes time for dementia to develop. The most common first manifestations of AD are:

• Loss of short-term memory (for example, people who ask repetitive questions, often misplace items, or forget their purpose).

Other cognitive disorders tend to involve many functions, including the following:

• Impaired reasoning and problem solving, poor judgment (for example, patients may not be able to manage a bank account, make poor financial decisions).
• Linguistic dysfunction (e.g., difficulty thinking with ordinary words, speech and/or writing errors).
• Dysfunction of visual-spatial orientation (e.g., inability to recognize faces or everyday objects).
• Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive disorder, but may also have periods of stable, non-progressive course (plateau).
• Behavioral disorders (e.g., vagrancy, agitation, loudness, persecutory delusions) are also common.

Mechanism of formation

Mutations in genes encoding the synthesis of amyloid precursor proteins (presenilin I and presenilin II) can lead to autosomal dominant forms of Alzheimer’s disease even before old age. Thus, in sick individuals, the synthesis of amyloid precursor proteins is impaired, which leads to the accumulation and deposition of fibrillar aggregates of beta-amyloid, in turn, beta-amyloid is the main component of senile plaques, which consist of degeneratively altered axons or dendrites, astrocytes and glial cells located around the amyloid nucleus.

Two hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease are:

• Extracellular beta-amyloid deposits (in senile plaques);
• Intracellular neurofibrillary tangles (paired coiled filaments).

Beta-amyloid deposition and neurofibrillary tangles result in the loss of synapses and neurons, which in turn leads to gross atrophy of the affected areas of the brain, typically beginning in the medial temporal lobe.

The mechanism by which amyloid-beta peptide and neurofibrillary tangles cause this damage is not fully understood. There are several theories.

The amyloid hypothesis states that progressive accumulation of amyloid-beta in the brain causes a complex cascade of events resulting in neuronal death, loss of neuronal synapses, and progressive neurotransmitter deficiencies; all of the above contributes to the development of clinical symptoms of dementia. Researchers agreed that one possible explanation for such abnormal protein accumulation is the variety of genetic mutations in these proteins.

Prion mechanisms have been identified in Alzheimer’s disease. In prion diseases, a healthy cell surface protein called prion protein is converted to a pathogenic form called a prion. The prion then triggers the conversion of other prion proteins similarly (like a virus), resulting in a marked increase in abnormal proteins, resulting in brain damage. It is believed that in Alzheimer’s disease, beta-amyloid in cerebral amyloid deposits and tau in neurofibrillary tangles are of the prion type with the property of self-reproduction.

The etiology of AD is multifactorial. Between 5 and 15% of cases are familial, half of which are early-onset (younger than 65 years of age) and are usually associated with specific genetic mutations. At least five different loci, located on chromosomes 1, 12, 14, 19, and 21, influence the onset and progression of Alzheimer’s disease.

The most common mutations occur in several proteins: APP, PS1, PS2, and the most common gene APOE-4. The last one is the first risk gene identified and remains the gene with the most substantial impact on being at risk. Researchers estimated that between 40-65% of people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s have the APOE-e4 gene. A well-known fact that we all inherit a copy of each gene from each parent. Those who inherit one copy of altered APOE-e4 from their mother or father have an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Those who inherit two altered copies from their mother and father (due to random assortment) have an even higher risk, but not a certainty. Besides, APOE-e4 may tend to make symptoms appear at a younger age than 65, depending on the level of mutation in the gene itself.

APP (Amyloid precursor protein (APP) discovered in 1987, is the first gene with mutations found to cause an inherited form of Alzheimer’s. This gene is directly related to amyloid formations in the brain.

Variations in PS1 and PS2 (presenilin-1,2) are also a common cause of familial AD. Early-onset familial AD, in most cases, is a result of APP, PS1, PS2 autosomal dominant mutations, which means that one copy of an altered gene from one parent is enough to trigger the disease.

In most cases, genetic risk only becomes problematic when coupled with a particularly unhealthy lifestyle and environmental factors. Nowadays, a science called epigenetics studies the correlation of genetic predisposition and environmental attributes of the disease. Such outer factors in AD can be heart disease, hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes, heavy alcohol consumption, and even brain injury can increase the likelihood of developing AD.

Recent studies suggest that traumatic brain injury (TBI) can be a very robust factor, leading to AD or dementia advancement. Numerous in vivo studies demonstrate the following pathophysiology – Aβ plaques are reported in up to 30% of post-mortem TBI patients. There is a suggestion that TBI may induce the acceleration of misfolded protein formation and aggregation, possibly through axonal damage during brain injury, and perhaps building upon the pathogenesis of AD.

Alterations in this vascular system contribute to a reduction in global cerebral perfusion leading to brain dysfunction and cognitive impairment. Furthermore, high blood pressure promotes atherosclerosis in cerebral arteries, blocking the cerebral blood supply (Ninomiya et al., 2011), leading to lacunar or cortical infarcts, and, ultimately, cognitive impairment. It has been suggested that the link between cerebrovascular disease (CVD) and AD is even much more important than the influence of aging (Love and Miners, 2016). Some of these common risk factors shared between CVD and AD are hypertension, diabetes, atrial fibrillation, atherosclerosis, hypercholesterolemia, and apolipoprotein E (ApoE) genotype.

Cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) is a condition where Aβ deposits accumulate within the walls of the meningeal and intracerebral arteries, arterioles, and very rarely, veins and capillaries. It engenders a thickening of vessel walls and constriction of the vascular lumen, thereby promoting potential micro-aneurysms. This pathology increases the risk of developing hemorrhages, ischemic lesions, and encephalopathies, resulting in profound cerebral damage that contributes to neurodegeneration and cognitive dysfunction (Ellis et al., 1996; Haglund et al., 2006). CAA is associated with a more rapid cognitive decline in demented and non-demented persons (Pfeifer et al., 2002). Certainly, CAA has a close association with AD and additive effects on the risk of developing dementia through AD pathology.

Heart disease (atrial fibrillation, arrhythmias, or cardiac arrest) causes a reduction in cerebral perfusion, leading to nerve cell damage (Kwok et al., 2011), brain dysfunction, and cognitive decline (Alosco et al., 2013).

Sleep-wake cycle disturbances are proposed as one of the earliest symptoms seen in AD. A usual sleep cycle consists of several stages N1, N2, N3( non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep), followed by REM sleep. During REM sleep, the brain is highly active as it is being rewired and is considered the most critical part of the sleep-wake cycle. With aging, the sleep pattern is altered by a reduction in sleeping time and REM sleep.

An increase in the amount of light throughout the sleep-wake cycle leads to an increase in insoluble tau and memory impairment since continuous light input suppresses the production of the hormone melatonin that regulates the sleep-wake cycle (Di Meco et al., 2014)

A MeDi consists of a low intake of saturated fatty acids, such as meat and poultry; a low-to-moderate consumption of dairy products, such as cheese and yogurt; a moderate amount of alcohol, such as wine; and a high intake of vegetables, legumes, fruits, cereals, fish and unsaturated fatty acids.

Medi has been shown to reduce oxidative stress by decreasing intracellular reactive oxidative species, apoptosis, and cells containing telomere shortening.

Several studies point out that the polyphenols in the natural olive oil in the MeDi regimen are the main active components to prevent AD (Omar et al., 2018). Oleuropein aglycone, present in extra virgin olive oil, induces autophagy, decreases the amount of aggregated proteins, reduces inflammation, and improves cognitive function seen in AD (Grossi et al., 2013; Cordero et al., 2018).

On the contrary, a high-fat diet (HFD) raises the risk of developing obesity, leading to increased chances of developing diabetes and, therefore, promoting the development of cognitive deficits, and perhaps AD.

This disease is characterized by feelings of sadness and loss of interest in ordinary things. A common triad of symptoms seen includes anhedonia, low energy or fatigue, and depressed mood. Depression is a common symptom seen in people suffering from AD (Drevets and Rubin, 1989; Lyketsos et al., 1996). There is a debate about whether depression is a risk factor for developing AD, rather than just a symptom. Recently, several clinical studies bolstered the idea of depressive symptoms as a crucial risk factor for cognitive decline and AD.

Neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin play a crucial role in the development of depression and AD pathology (Chen et al., 1996; Jacobsen et al., 2012). Serotonin helps regulate mood, social behavior, and memory, whereas dopamine functions in motor control and reward-motivated response. Therefore, these two neurotransmitters could be vital in the conversion of depression into AD. In AD mice, dopaminergic neuronal loss in the midbrain leads to memory impairment (Nobili et al., 2017), whereas restoration of dopamine release improves cognitive dysfunction (Guzman-Ramos et al., 2012). In depression, there is a decrease in dopamine production, leading to a loss of reward-motivated and low levels of serotonin have been associated with depressive behavior since serotonin regulates mood and social behavior.

Stress increases the production of Aβ and enhances the formation of amyloid plaques by increasing corticotropin-releasing factor release, which leads to an increase in neuronal activity, stimulating the production of Aβ, and demonstrating a link between depression and AD development (Dong and Csernansky, 2009).

Smoking leads to cognitive impairment and decline shown by faster reductions in verbal memory and slower visual search speeds (Richards et al., 2003). Additionally, cognitive decline in smokers is directly proportional to the number of packs they smoke per day (Kalmijn et al., 2002). Indeed, it is known that smoking has adverse effects on cardiovascular diseases, which, as mentioned, are risk factors of AD, stressing out the deleterious importance of tobacco in promoting dementia. Historically, smoking has been considered a preventative measure from developing AD, as many have stated that nicotine improves short-term cognitive performances and inhibits amyloid formation (Brenner et al., 1993; Lee, 1994). Nicotine has been proven to reduce APP secretion (Lahiri et al., 2002), inhibiting Aβ aggregation. The mechanism by which smoking may lead to an increased risk in AD development is uncertain. Further studies need to be conducted for potential mechanisms responsible for a possible increased risk of AD development.

Alcohol consumption is considered a significant risk factor for many health problems. A combination of smoking and drinking can have a more impactful effect on AD incidence than just one of those habits (Zhou et al., 2014). A potential mechanism proposed for alcohol to induce AD is by decreasing lymphatic function (Lundgaard et al., 2018). The lymphatic system plays an integral part in removing brain waste, including Aβ.

Since alcohol decreases glymphatic function, heavy drinking could induce Aβ accumulation by reducing its clearance triggering the cognitive abnormalities seen in alcohol use and AD.

• Lack of physical activity

Under normal circumstances, an elderly individual without dementia diagnosis will exhibit hippocampal volume shrinkage of 1%–2% each year (Erickson et al., 2011).

AD patients performing a moderate exercise program for a year exhibited a slower decline in the capability to achieve daily living activities and amelioration of the physical impairment (Rolland et al., 2007; Pitkälä et al., 2013). Some other studies have also found that aerobic exercise can improve memory performance and cognitive function in aging. Although all these studies indicate that exercise may be useful in reducing the clinical symptoms observed in AD patients, no reviews report its effect on amyloid deposition and how physical activity may prevent developing AD in the at-risk population.

Most of the studies compiled in this review evaluate the effect of risk factors when the AD-associated pathological changes are already present. Still, very few analyze the potential factors in preventing the onset of the disease, rather than further development. Hence intervention of potential risks is highly recommended for either prevention or even amelioration of clinical symptoms of AD since most of these actions will also benefit general health status.

Finding therapy for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is perhaps the greatest challenge for modern medicine. So far, there are not many current treatment methods, and there is no specific targeted drug. For blocking the disease progression, medications have to interfere with all pathogenic steps, which are responsible for all the clinical symptoms- formation of amyloid plaques, neurofibrillary tangle formation, inflammation, and oxidative damage, and metabolism dysregulation.

However, modern medicine suggests the following:

Cholinesterase inhibitors (CIs)

A proposed strategy is to help CIs enhance cholinergic transmission to delay the degradation of acetylcholine between the synaptic cleft. For now, there are three CIs approved for the treatment of mild to moderate AD:

• Donepezil (Pfizer, New York, NY, USA);
• Rivastigmine (Novartis, Basel, Switzerland);
• Galantamine (Janssen, Beerse, Belgium) (Farlow et al., 2002).

The following drugs have been regarded as the standard and first-line treatment for AD.

N-methyl- D-aspartate antagonist

Another therapeutic option for AD moderation is called memantine (Lundbeck, Valby, Denmark). This drug serves as an uncompetitive and moderate-affinity N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) antagonist. It is believed to play a neuron-protective role from excitotoxicity. However, there are frequently reported adverse events in memantine trials- dizziness, headache, and confusion.

Combination therapy

Studies by Tariot. et al., 2004 showed that from combination use of memantine and donezepil showed a significant benefit in parallel groups of patients with moderate to severe AD symptoms over placebo groups of patients. Such therapy showed a gradual increase in cognitive function, language, ADL, behaviors, and the global state of patients.

Treatment of psychological and behavioral symptoms

According to a large observational study, behavioral symptoms can be divided into four major groups with high prevalence: 38 % psychosis (e.g., delusions), 59% affective symptoms ( anxiety, depression), 64% hyperactivity (reactivity, aggression, disinhibition) and 65% apathy. (Zec and Burkett, 2008).

• Psychotic symptoms and agitation/aggression in AD patients are commonly treated with antipsychotics (olanzapine, risperidone, quetiapine, ziprasidone, and aripiprazole).
• For depression episodes, combined selective noradrenaline and serotonin inhibitors (SNRIs), such as Mirtazapine, venlafaxine, and duloxetine, are widely used as antidepressants.
• The class of benzodiazepine drugs is used to reduce agitation and anxiety.

Despite decent efficacy levels and widespread use, all of these medications have serious adverse effects. For instance, acetylcholinesterase inhibitors may cause diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and significant weight loss (Kaduszkiewicz et al., 2005), while memantine is sadly known to cause hallucinations, dizziness, and fatigue (Herrmann et al., 2011)

It is evident that drugs currently used for the treatment of AD have weak beneficial effects on cognitive function or offering some relief. They slow down but do not stop or reverse the disease progression, highlighting the need for new, more effective therapeutics.

CBD (also known as cannabidiol) is a naturally occurring compound found in the cannabis plant. In fact, CBD is one of over 100 compounds originated from the cannabis plant, including THC (delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol), terpenes, flavonoids, omega fatty acids, and others.

It’s fair to ask how this substance affects well-being. It is a typical false impression that CBD has the same psychedelic effect as THC. However, CBD is entirely non-psychoactive, which means it does not create the euphoric feelings associated with other types of cannabis compounds. CBD, extracted from industrial hemp, contains less than 0.3% THC, which is considered legal.

People who currently use CBD products claim that CBD helps them to feel calm and relaxed and thus even helps them cope with everyday life problems. Depending on the type of cannabis strain and proportion of compounds in it (for instance, CBD: THC ratio), there is a considerable variety of other beneficial effects. Cannabidiol is available on the market in different forms, such as tinctures, edibles, oils, liquids for vaping, flower buds from smoking joints, etc. So anyone can choose a suitable way of consumption up to their preferences.

In 2006 a team of University of Connecticut researchers published a study in Molecular Pharmaceutics reporting that cannabis “could be a considerably better suppressor of the malformed proteins abnormal clumping than any currently prescribed treatments.” We can only hope that predicted cannabinoid-based medications “will be the new breakout medicine treatments of the near future.”

Some studies suggest cannabis could help to manage:

• Behavioral symptoms of dementia (agitation and aggression)
• Nausea relief
• Good sleep promotion/ help with insomnia
• Pain ease
• Anxiety, depression reduction
• Improvement of cognitive abilities and memory
• Cancer-related symptoms alleviation
• Acne treatment
• Antioxidant (reduce oxidative stress)
• Diabetes prevention
• Substance abuse treatment
• Antipsychotic effect

Minor side effects of cannabis consumption

• Mouth dryness
• Lowering of blood pressure
• Drowsiness
• Fatigue
• Can interfere with other medications

The science behind CBD

In 1990 it was discovered that there are endocannabinoids (“endo “means “originating within the body”), which are the constituents of the endocannabinoid system in the human organism. They act as a bioregulatory mechanism for most inner processes and have receptor sites throughout the body. So, the two key eCBs circulating in your body are Anandamide and 2-ArachidonoylGlycerol.

The Anandamide molecule operates throughout the endocannabinoid system and is involved with appetite, memory, and even pregnancy. 2-AG has been associated with our emotional states, protection from seizures, and maintaining cardiovascular health. Even more, 2-AG is responsible for the feeling of orgasm during sexual intercourse.

Cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2)

CB1 receptors are among the most spread receptors in the entire nervous system, which makes them essential for the healthy functioning of the brain. Depending on what area of the brain they are located in, they can be regulators of your mood, memory, motor function, or perception of pain. However, when THC binds to CB1 receptors, it can activate the psychoactive properties of cannabis.

The highest density of CB2 receptors is found in the immune system, especially in the spleen. These CB2 receptors are responsible for the inflammation moderation and our immune response to pathogens. In terms of therapeutic effects, CBD plays a more vital role than CB1, which we will discuss further.

Most cannabis compounds can bind to both CB1 and CB2 types of receptors, and this is also true for both the endocannabinoids — Anandamide & 2-AG. However, the phytocannabinoid CBD doesn’t directly trigger either receptor. Instead, it modifies the receptors’ ability to bind to cannabinoids.

The ECS regulates most physiological systems in the body, but above all, the nervous system helps achieve the balance that allows individual nerve cells to communicate. The ECS is disrupted in both Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.

How CBD works

• First, CBD weakly activates cannabinoid type II (CB2) receptors, which reduce the inflammatory response.
• Secondly, CBD blocks the breakdown of the brain’s endogenous cannabinoid, 2-AG, by modifying the receptor and thereby increasing 2-AG levels and further activation of CB2 receptors.
• Lastly, CBD activates the PPARg receptor, which reduces brain inflammation in AD.

Both PPARg receptor activators and microglia inhibitors have shown promise in human clinical trials but have been limited by prohibitive side effects. CBD may achieve these effects with a better side effect profile.

In a mouse model of PD, treatment with nabiximols (Sativex®), cannabis-based pharmaceutical approved in 30 countries outside the USA, resulted in improvement in dopamine neurotransmitter function, and reduced oxidative stress (akin to “rust” of the nervous system), as well as leading to improvements in anxiety and self-injury behaviors.

Both THC and particularly CBD are known to be neuroprotective agents that hold the potential to slow or perhaps even halt the degenerative process. On the symptom side, THC as a single agent has proven beneficial in AD patients in reducing nocturnal agitation, improving sleep, and appetite. There is also the possibility of making a real difference in slowing or abrogating the pathological processes in Alzheimer’s, but so far, there are only rodent trials available.

A study by Ana M.Moreno et al., 2011 has investigated the effects of CBD on cognition in a pharmacological model of AD. Three-month-old mice were intraventricularly injected with 2.5 μg of fibrillar Aβ. Then they were treated with 20 mg/kg CBD using daily injections for one week and later three times/week for the following two weeks. To observe the CBD treatment effect, mice were assessed in spatial learning (Morris Water Maze), the social preference test, and fear conditioning paradigms. (A. Moreno et al., 2011. )This study was the first to demonstrate CBD’s ability to prevent social recognition deficits (which is a common hallmark of AD). Treatment was able to reverse the cognitive deficits of Aβ-treated mice. Hence, it provides the first evidence that CBD may potentially be a preventative treatment for AD, particularly relevant for social withdrawal symptoms and facial recognition.

The combination of CBD and THC also showed efficacy in AD-related processes in vivo. One of the studies conducted by Casarejos et al. (2013) investigated Sativex’s effects in a mouse model with tauopathy. This mouse model was primarily a model for frontotemporal dementia, parkinsonism, and lower motor neuron disease. Sativex treatment was shown to decrease gliosis, increase the ratio of glutathione, which is a body antioxidant, thereby showing neuroprotective and antioxidant properties. Importantly, Sativex showed a reduction of Aβ and tau deposition in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex and increased autophagy (Casarejos et al., 2013), thus implying that although the mouse model is not directly related to AD, the therapeutic benefits are.

In 2015 the second study conducted by Aso et al. compared the effect of CBD, THC, and a CBD-THC combination in the APPxPS1 (mutated APP and PS1 genes) mice. Even though mice had an early symptomatic phase of AD (~6 months), all types of treatment improved memory deficits in the two-object recognition task. Interestingly, only CBD-THC combination could prevent the learning deficit seen in the active avoidance task. It also decreased soluble Aβ42 levels and changed plaque composition while CBD and THC individually did not (Aso et al., 2015).

Antioxidant

Oxidative stress, as mentioned earlier, is another key contributor to Alzheimer’s disease progression. It further leads to the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) or so-called free radicals that interfere on the cellular level. ROS play an essential role in several cellular and signaling pathways at physiological concentrations (cell cycle regulation, phagocytosis, and enzyme activation), hence, excessive generation of ROS leads to several harmful effects including DNA, lipid, and protein damage. Additionally, when Amyloid Beta-protein is present, it elevates a reactive type of oxygen species even more in the adjoining cells through the membranes’ exchange process.

The overall oxidative stress process leads to neuronal loss along with the deprivation of synapses within the brain, which therefore leads to memory loss and other neurological symptoms. You may ask how cannabis can help?

THC and CBD are potent antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties. As brain inflammation is thought to be a significant contributor to AD, there is no surprise that anti-inflammatory drugs, like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs; e.g., ibuprofen) reduce the risk for developing AD. But if these drugs are used chronically, they can interfere with kidneys and liver work. It was already shown and tested that CBD can be widely used with limited side effects, and are mostly considered safe for adult and senior use.

Microglia inactivation

Microglia are brain cells, similar to neurons. They comprise 10% of the brain cells and are activated following injury or disease, like an immune response of the brain. Although the purpose of microglia is to protect other brain cells, their chronic activation leads to more harm than good. Activated microglia release glutamate, cytokines, and other harmful substances which, over time, kill neurons. So, CBD helps to reduce microglia activation through CB2 receptors interaction. Not surprisingly, activated microglia is another less commonly known hallmark of AD pathogenesis. When other medications stop microglia from producing harmful substances but also showing side effects, CBD offers a well-tolerated strategy.

Neuron protection

Meanwhile, it’s useful to say that since 2003, the US federal government has held a “medical patent” for the marketing of cannabinoids as neuroprotective agents. The patent states that cannabinoids are “useful in the treatment and prevention of a wide variety of associated oxidation diseases such as inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. The cannabinoids are found to have particular applications in limiting neurological damage following ischemic insults, such as stroke and trauma, or in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and HIV dementia.”

CBD has shown a great result in alleviating AD symptomatology and promising conclusions in preventing AD disorder in rodents. However, due to ethical reasons, there are still no studies on people to determine the effects of CBD oil or its components on the treatment of AD.

According to Redstorm Scientific here is the list of the top 10 cannabis strains which help in treating Alzheimer’s disease:

1. Electric Kool-Aid (Hybrid)
2. Dutch Dragon (Sativa)
3. Acapulco Gold (Sativa)
4. Lavender Haze (Sativa)
5. Green Crack (Sativa)
6. Bio Jesus (Hybrid)
7. LSD (Hybrid)
8. White Russian (Hybrid)
9. The OX (Indica)
10. Blissful Wizard (Hybrid)

Most commonly prescribed CBD oils for AD patients:

• CBD Pure (CBD isolate)
• Elixinol
• Koi CBD

All of these oils are strictly THC free, organic, and derived from industrial hemp.

Correct dosage of CBD

We already understood that any inflammation is a signal that your body’s homeostasis is not maintained. However, everyone’s endocannabinoid system, responsible for homeostasis regulation, is unique and finding a standard dose for any ailments. Lauren Wilson, the co-author of the book “Healing with CBD,” suggests that potential consumers should first consult their doctor and do the research before stepping onto CBD track because CBD can interact with other prescribed drugs making them more or less effective. Also, anyone can start to keep track of the CBD treatment journal to observe how the CBD makes you feel. You can write down a dosage they’re taking, which product, and how it makes you feel, find your optimal dose, or in scientific terms, a “sweet spot.” But it is essential to understand that the sweet spot will be different for everyone.

Dr. Ethan Russo, a board-certified neurologist and a current director of Research and Development of the International Cannabis and Cannabinoids Institute, strongly recommends not to wait when the first signs of dementia appear, but to tackle them in advance. Here are some of the preventative activities you should do to lower the risk of AD:

• The best current approaches beyond the current pharmacopeia offers include an active lifestyle: aerobic activity and daily mental exercises.
• Mediterranean diets (rich in monounsaturated olive oil and omega-3 fats from fish) with anti-inflammatory fruits and berries are strongly recommended.
• Use of probiotics and prebiotics. You can easily find such cultivated medium in shop organic multi-culture yogurts, kefir, Lacto-fermented vegetables, and supplements in capsules. Prebiotics from vegetable matter like acacia fiber, slippery elm, burdock root, and again supplement in pills) provides an optimum feedstock for the beneficial gut bacteria.
• Use of potential antioxidants like mitoquinone, vitamin E, Ginkgo biloba, natural polyphenols such as green tea, wine, blueberries and curcumin, fatty acids, folic acid, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 supplementations.
• Regular physical activity (which is healthy in many cases).
• Lowering the risk of stress, but we all know that, unfortunately, it is inevitable. CBD provides an excellent remedy for preventing anxiety and reducing your inner worries
• Quit unhealthy habits such as smoking and alcohol abuse.
• An alternative solution to dosing with phytocannabinoids (CBD, THC) is to boost your body’s natural endocannabinoid production. In such a way, your body can deliver eCBs to your body parts that are in the most need.

Anastasiia Myronenko

Anastasiia Myronenko is a Medical Physicist actively practicing in one of the leading cancer centers in Kyiv, Ukraine. She received her master’s degree in Medical Physics at Karazin Kharkiv National University and completed Biological Physics internship at GSI Helmholtz Centre for Heavy Ion Research, Germany. Anastasiia Myronenko specializes in radiation therapy and is a fellow of Ukrainian Association of Medical Physicists.

As a botanical compound, CBD relies on specialist manufacturers to unleash it from hemp plants. It remains a source of intrigue and controversy as it continues to circulate in the ever-changing world of contemporary wellness. While news of CBD’s potential promise has travelled far and wide, it may not be appropriate to take with you on every trip. In this article, we’ll introduce some international CBD travel guidelines (as of April 2021) and explain why you should avoid travelling with CBD to the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and numerous other destinations.

As we begin our journey into the realms of wellness and travel, we mustn’t skip the first step: understanding what CBD is. Cannabidiol (or CBD in its abbreviated form) is a natural compound found in the leaves, flowers, and stems of cannabis Sativa plants. Manufacturers generally extract CBD from the hemp subspecies – a plant known for its non-intoxicating chemistry and versatile uses. According to specialised global agencies such as the World Health Organisation (WHO), pure CBD is a safe and relatively low-risk substance with no evidence of any intoxicating or addictive properties. While other forms of cannabis consumption (such as smoking marijuana) can make you “high”, this is mainly due to the presence of a psychoactive molecule called THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).

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In recent years, CBD has taken the cannabis-derived wellness movement by storm. It’s widely consumed through best-selling products such as CBD oil – a combination of CBD extract and plant oils (such as coconut and hemp seed oil). By placing one or two drops under your tongue, you may begin to feel any potential effects of CBD oil in as few as fifteen minutes. For your reference, it’s good to keep in mind that this substance is also present in other hemp-themed food supplements (such as CBD gummies), vape accessories, and cosmetics (such as CBD balm).

Is CBD Legal?

At this point, you may find yourself asking a pertinent question: Is CBD oil legal? In short, the legal status of CBD varies greatly depending on where you live or where you’re travelling. Understandably, the relationship between CBD and the law is something we’ll be reflecting upon quite a bit throughout this article. In Britain, authorities deem it a legal substance on two primary conditions:

• Legal CBD must come from licenced hemp crops.
• Products must have non-intoxicating chemistries, with no more than 0.2% THC.

In most cases, the law does not require CBD manufacturers to provide customers with official documentation to confirm their lab results. Consequently, some poor-quality ‘CBD’ companies and scammers attempt to fly under the radar while maintaining illegal practices. You can protect yourself from any nasty surprises by choosing a premium brand that can offer you an official Certificate of Analysis (COA) from an accredited, third-party laboratory.

Anecdotes about CBD have travelled far and wide – particularly regarding its potential promise and possible wellness benefits. You’re not alone if you’ve heard family members, friends, and even strangers talking about this intriguing hemp compound. According to the personal stories circulated by frequent users, CBD might possibly impact some common discomforts and wellbeing symptoms. While these personal accounts are an inspiring place to start, it’s vital to source information from fact-based evidence.

The field of CBD research is growing at an impressive rate, but there remains a great deal more to discover. So far, preliminary research paints a fascinating picture of CBD regarding how it might affect our sense of wellbeing. CBD-themed food supplements and cosmetics are not “cures”, “medicines”, or “treatments”, but they might just help you to feel better from day to day. Some of the most publicised potential benefits of CBD consumption may possibly include:

• Reducing some common symptoms of anxiety and other mood disorders
• Impacting how you interpret some signs of pain
• Influencing some inflammation signals
• Improving your sleep

Now that we’ve observed some of the general possibilities that inspire people to take CBD in everyday life, let’s explore why it might be a useful substance to travel with.

Why Travel With CBD Oil?

Why do people travel with CBD products? Rather than stowing them away in your suitcase, hemp-derived supplements and cosmetics might be worth keeping close to hand (in line with the law, of course). CBD may possibly impact some of the physical and mental experiences we commonly associate with public transport. Below, we’ve summarised a few reasons why using CBD on the go might affect your comfort levels while travelling. It’s helpful to keep in mind that some of these points may even apply to pets in transit.

CBD For Fear of Flying

Otherwise known as aviophobia, the fear of flying is a relatively common phobia that may affect over 6% of the general population. While most of us feel some degree of discomfort when we’re inside an aircraft, some people who have aviophobia find the thought of flying so terrifying that they avoid planes at all costs. If you can relate to this struggle, you’re not alone. However, you may find that it makes your world feel a bit smaller – as flying is often the gateway to international travel. If you feel debilitated by your fears, you should speak to a licenced psychotherapist who can help you overcome your phobia. However, you may also find CBD a helpful supplement to experiment with as part of your broader self-comfort ritual. Currently, there is no research exploring CBD as it relates directly to aviophobia. However, there is a growing body of research indicating that CBD might potentially impact symptoms of anxiety:

• CBD may possibly help to reduce some behavioural signs of stress.
• It might affect your focus and contribute to your self-perceived sense of ‘calm’.
• It may potentially decrease some anxiety-related complaints.

Some people anecdotally claim that hemp-derived wellness products fit in with their more comprehensive strategies to overcome excessive worrying and fear-based thoughts.

CBD For Symptoms of Travel-Induced Nausea

Nausea while travelling is a reasonably common issue that occurs when our brains feel overwhelmed by conflicting signals. For example, during a rural car ride, your muscles perceive jolting sensations, while your eyes may only perceive blurred landscapes through the window. While some passengers may be relatively unaffected by this confusion, others might begin to feel unwell – experiencing nausea and headaches. Understandably, these issues can quickly spoil an otherwise pleasant journey and potentially motivate people to avoid long trips. If you are prone to motion sickness or ‘travel sickness’, you may be able to relate to this struggle. Hemp extracts certainly can’t “cure” or “treat” these discomforts, but CBD may just be worth exploring for the long haul.

Emerging studies suggest that hemp extracts may potentially show some promise in reducing some of the uncomfortable symptoms commonly experienced when travelling at speed.

Researchers indicate that CBD might possibly help by:

• Impacting some symptoms of nausea and vomiting
• Affecting some inflammation symptoms that can arise in moments of stress
• Influencing how your body interprets some headache-related pain signals

Public transport often requires us to sit in allocated seats for prolonged periods – especially during international journeys. Sometimes, brief trips can be interrupted by unexpected delays that leave us ‘stuck’ as we wait for services to resume. Alongside the frustration that these incidents can cause, we can also suffer aches and pains due to tense body language and a lack of movement. Here, it may help to use a neck pillow or take a brief stroll whenever time and circumstances allow. It’s also possible that CBD may impact muscle contractions and pain symptoms.

Preliminary research indicates that consuming CBD might offer possible benefits, such as:

• Influencing some discomforts associated with tense or overworked muscles
• Impacting some symptoms of digestive cramps
• Affecting your muscle movements

CBD For Sleep

Whether you’re moving between time zones or waking up at the crack of dawn for a ‘red eye’ flight, it’s vital to invest in your sleep while travelling. As we know, sleep is an irreplaceable physiological process that we depend upon to survive and function optimally in daytime hours. It also helps us to recover from normal wear-and-tear and maintain our general wellness. Poor sleep can wreak havoc on our short-term travel plans and long-term wellbeing. Can CBD be your secret to feeling refreshed and well-rested while travelling? According to current evidence, CBD may possibly influence your rest patterns by:

• Impacting some signs of daytime sleepiness
• Reducing some symptoms of insomnia
• Improving the duration and self-assessed quality of your sleep

While we’re still waiting for conclusive evidence to arrive, it appears that CBD might possibly be your ticket to a more restful journey. However, to avoid any sudden halts, it’s vital to know the rules regarding CBD and travel. As you may imagine, these policies vary from country to country. Let’s explore the territory.

Departure Zone: Preparing To Travel With CBD

While some exciting potential benefits have helped put CBD on the map, you should exercise reasonable caution before taking it with you on any international travels. Depending on the national laws upheld by authorities in your chosen locations, a small bottle of CBD oil may be enough to derail your travel plans. In the worst-case scenario, arriving in a country where CBD is illegal could leave you facing severe criminal charges – possibly even the death penalty. While CBD products may be portable, they aren’t necessarily travel-friendly. As a result, it’s crucial to do thorough research to ensure you won’t end up in a compromising position. When in doubt, it’s a good idea to speak with your airline or travel provider.

Before we introduce some of the general CBD policies maintained in different countries and continents, it’s essential to keep some key points in mind:

• As a hemp-derived extract, CBD tends to face scrutiny wherever you go.
• CBD products without lab reports may be contaminated with illegal substances.
• Transit officials rarely have the facilities for testing the THC content of CBD oil.
• If you’re flying, all hand-luggage liquids must comply with relevant restrictions.

Without further ado, let’s begin our brief tour of CBD travel policies. First stop: the UK and Europe.

Travelling With CBD In The UK and Europe

United Kingdom

Can you travel with products containing CBD in UK territories? As we briefly touched upon earlier in this article, CBD is legal for travel in the UK. However, there are numerous conditions to make this possible, and CBD products that fail to comply with relevant laws are categorised as controlled substances. Strict government requirements establish the framework for classifying whether CBD is appropriate for public consumption. For your reference, the conditions are as follows:

• CBD products must contain as little THC as possible – with an upper limit of 0.2%.
• UK authorities must be able to trace CBD products back to licenced hemp farms.
• CBD products should comply with the FSA ‘novel food’ guidelines.

Within these parameters, travelling with CBD in the UK is relatively straightforward. A similar set of criteria is used to determine the legal status of CBD in countries like the Republic of Ireland. However, if you’re travelling to the UK or Ireland from the USA, you should keep in mind that CBD products that are legal in the USA may be illegal in the eyes of British and Irish laws.

CBD Throughout Europe

When it comes to regulating CBD products, most European countries (particularly European Union members) adopt a similar approach to the UK. However, it’s crucial to be aware of some significant differences. Before exploring some of these variations in closer detail, we must establish that not all countries in Europe tolerate popular cannabis extracts such as CBD. CBD products are still illegal in Armenia, Andora, Monaco, and Montenegro, and Slovakia. If CBD is banned in a country you’re visiting, you should never attempt to travel with it. Numerous countries in Europe treat cannabidiol as a legal grey area. Therefore, it’s imperative that you thoroughly investigate any policies that may affect you on your travels.

The table below reviews some of the preliminary possibilities for travelling with CBD oil to the most popular European destinations:

Country	Travel-Friendly?	THC Limit	Other Restrictions
France	✔	0.2%	No marijuana-derived CBD is allowed
Italy	✔	0.6%	Italian CBD is not tolerated in other European countries.
Spain	✔	0.2%	Topicals only
Portugal	Grey-area	0.2%	Prescription letter may be needed
Turkey	Grey-area	0%	For medical use only – prescription letter required
Austria	Grey-area	0.3%	Prescription letter may be needed
Greece	✔	0.2%	May require a COA
Germany	Grey-area	0.2%	Prescription letter may be needed
Belgium	✔	0.2%	3-gram weight limit
The Netherlands	✔	0.2%	5-gram weight limit

Since Europe is an extensive landmass representing many different nations, cultures, and policies, travel experiences vary from place to place. If you’re considering taking CBD with you on your next trip, it’s vital to seek advice from your airline provider or transit authority representatives.

Travel With CBD To The Americas

The United States

While the United States’ national anthem sings about ‘the land of the free’, US officials don’t take controlled substance laws lightly. According to the US Transportation and Security Administration (TSA), recreational cannabis and its associated substances remain illegal in the eyes of US federal law. Yes, even though states such as California legalised marijuana in 2016. With this being said, the TSA website states that there are exceptions for hemp-derived ‘products that contain no more than 0.3 per cent THC on a dry weight basis or that are approved by FDA’.

You can fly with CBD products that meet these requirements. However, it’s important to note that the TSA does not tolerate CBD derived from species of cannabis other than hemp, as these tend to have illegal concentrations of THC. As we know, rules can also between states, so it’s vital to investigate the status of hemp-derived CBD in the specific region you plan to visit. Due to the changing nature of legislation, you should make an effort to stay up-to-date before your travels. At this point, it’s crucial to note that:

• CBD products are currently illegal in Idaho, Iowa, Nebraska, and South Dakota
• Roughly one-third of states do not tolerate foods and beverages infused with CBD
• CBD oil is tolerated in most states, under specific criteria.

While TSA officers do not specifically search travellers for cannabis, they always have the final say on whether you are permitted to enter the country with certain substances. If you’re flying with CBD oil in the USA, there is a strong likelihood that it will catch TSA officers’ attention during routine security screenings. As long as you cooperate with federal and state laws, THC limits and agricultural regulations, there is nothing to worry about.

Canada

As you may know, Canada made international headlines with the 2018 Cannabis Act – when it became the second country in the world to legalise all forms of cannabis. Consequently, there are no limits to travelling with CBD within the country’s national borders. When it comes to international trips, it’s important to note that you cannot take CBD (or any other cannabis products) into or out of Canada. In summary, you can only travel with CBD on internal Canadian flights. If you’re a tourist over the age of 18, you can purchase CBD from national retailers once you’ve arrived in Canada and use it during your stay. If you are crossing the Canada-US border, it’s normal for security officers to be strict when checking for cannabis and associated substances.

South America

As we know, some countries in South America face considerable challenges when it comes to drug trafficking. Consequently, most countries in the continent classify CBD as a controlled substance that’s either completely banned or legal for medical purposes only. Thus, travelling with CBD in South America is generally a no-go unless you visit a country that will accept it with the support of a doctor’s prescription. According to the Latin American Post, the general status of CBD is as follows:

• You may be able to travel to Mexico with CBD products with up to 0.2% THC.
• If you travel with an official doctor’s prescription, you might be allowed to take regulation-compliant CBD products to Argentina, Chile, Peru, and Paraguay.
• Travelling with legal CBD in Brazil requires a prescription from a Brazillian doctor.
• It’s currently illegal to travel with CBD in all other South American countries.

The Caribbean

Countries such as Jamaica are known worldwide for their unique appreciation of cannabis plants, but how do extracts like CBD fare in the Caribbean? There are thirteen sovereign island nations in the Caribbean, and many tourists visit this part of the world to enjoy tropical scenery, laid-back culture, and vibrant art. However, you may be surprised to hear that some Caribbean authorities deem CBD a controlled substance. One possible reason for this may be the region’s diverse influences, since it has political connections with The Netherlands, Spain, the UK, and the USA.

If you’re considering travelling to the Caribbean with CBD, it’s crucial to know that:

• CBD is currently illegal in ten of the thirteen sovereign island nations.
• CBD is legal in Jamaica, Antigua, and the US Virgin Islands.

Unless you have a direct flight to Jamaica, Antigua, or the US Virgin Islands, you should not travel to the Caribbean with CBD.

Is CBD Tolerated In Africa?

While Africa is a vast continent made up of over fifty different countries, there is currently a reasonably uniform approach towards regulating CBD. Even though many parts of Africa offer ideal climates for cultivating hemp crops, cannabis and its derivatives (including CBD) are entirely banned. As a general rule, you cannot travel with CBD to Africa. However, there is one exception: South Africa.

In 2019, motions passed by the national Department of Health rendered South Africa the first (and only) country in Africa to tolerate CBD. While this decision was monumental, it presented strict conditions and is subject to review, so it’s best to stay up-to-date on the situation. According to current requirements from the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA), legally compliant CBD products must contain:

• 0.001% THC per product (or less)
• 0.0075% CBD per product (or less)
• A label detailing a daily dose of 20mg or less

While travelling to South Africa with CBD may be feasible within these regulations, you should keep in mind that most CBD products sold in the UK, Europe, and the USA usually contain at least 1% CBD and up to 0.2% THC. If your CBD product exceeds the concentrations detailed in South African regulations, you’ll need a doctor’s prescription to enter the country with it.

Travelling With CBD To The Middle East and Asia

CBD in The Middle East

Middle Eastern countries maintain highly conservative attitudes regarding controlled substances, and most authorities classify CBD as an illegal narcotic. Visiting the Middle East with cannabis or cannabis derivatives such as CBD is the equivalent of drug trafficking – an offence punishable by death in some regions! Technically, some forms of doctor-prescribed CBD are legal in Israel. Still, we strongly advise that you never travel to the Middle East carrying CBD or any other hemp/cannabis products for the sake of your safety and wellbeing.

CBD in The UAE

As journalist Arnaud Siad summarised in a 2019 travel news report, the UK Foreign Office recently warned travellers against the substantial dangers of bringing CBD products into the United Arab Emirates (UAE). In 2020, a British tourist faced a 10-year prison sentence for travelling to the UAE with CBD vape oils in her suitcase. Did you know that you can also face penalties for the possession of illegal drugs if UAE officials detect controlled substances in your bloodstream? Consequently, it may also be wise to refrain from using any CBD products in the days before your flight to the UAE is scheduled.

Travelling With CBD Throughout Asia

Second only to the Middle East, Asia is one of the world’s strictest regions regarding CBD. While Western opinions of hemp and its potential benefits have been changing rapidly over the past few years, many Asian governments believe that any form of cannabis consumption may potentially be dangerous, addictive, and life-threatening. Consequently, CBD is illegal throughout most of Asia. Rather than risking jail time or severe penalties, we strongly recommend that you travel CBD-free when visiting China, Russia, or anywhere else in Asia. The only exception here is India: where you can take legal CBD products containing up to 0.3% THC.

If you’re sure that your chosen CBD product contains zero THC, you might possibly be eligible to bring it with you into some Asian countries. For example, this allowance may apply in Japan – provided that you choose a hemp product from a Japanese manufacturing company. The main reason for this condition is that Japan operates a strict zero-tolerance policy regarding THC. To ensure that there are no unwanted contaminants in imported CBD products, Japanese developers distil them before making them available.

If you need to travel with doctor-prescribed cannabis products for medical reasons, some countries in Asia may allow it (subject to firm conditions). It’s vital to research this further before reaching any conclusions.

Travel With CBD To Australia and Beyond

According to a recent article in The Guardian, the Australian government has deemed CBD an acceptable substance for public consumption – on the condition that manufacturers first obtain more evidence to prove its potential benefits. Psychopharmacologist Iain McGreggor has suggested that it might take up to a year before CBD products are available. But what about travelling to Australia with CBD? Currently, you can only bring CBD products with you to Australia if you have an official doctor’s prescription. Otherwise, it is against the law.

Similar rules apply in New Zealand, where the national Customs Service discourages visitors from attempting to bring any cannabis derivatives across borders – even prescribed medical products. However, there may be a referendum regarding the legalisation of recreational cannabis in New Zealand in the future. For your information, CBD is also illegal in Samoa, Fiji, and most other Oceania countries.

Unless the current regulations change, we recommend that you don’t bring any CBD products with you on your travels to Australia and beyond.

Throughout this article, we’ve learned that CBD is a natural hemp compound that may offer some possible wellbeing benefits when consumed. So far, studies indicate that it might potentially impact symptoms of pain, inflammation, disturbed sleep, and anxiety. By association, there may be a possibility that using products such as CBD oil could affect your comfort levels while travelling. It might just help you to feel more refreshed – especially if you’re experiencing common symptoms of nausea, headaches, muscle tension, and travel-related anxiety. The preliminary evidence is limited, but it paints an intriguing picture. We cannot overstate the value of carrying out proper research and being well-prepared. In fact, it might just save your life (and your holiday). Travelling with CBD should never be a matter of spontaneously tossing a bottle of CBD oil in your bag and hoping for the best. In some cases, this kind of haphazard decision-making may potentially result in legal complications and even death sentences! For example, taking CBD into countries that deem it an illegal substance is a form of drug trafficking. You need to be aware of changing legislation to operate in a compliant manner wherever you are. You should also consider any airline policies, lay-over destinations or connecting flights that may impose additional restrictions.

If, after careful consideration, you do decide to travel with CBD, it’s essential to ensure that it is legal and choose a brand that can provide you with a COA. This document substantiates the precise chemistry of your CBD and any additional compounds it may contain. If you qualify for a doctor’s prescription, it’s also wise to take a copy of any relevant papers with you on your travels. When in doubt, always leave your CBD products at home.

Our goal in writing this article is to provide you with a thought-provoking and informative introduction to travelling with CBD in countries where it may be permitted. The details we’ve provided are accurate to our publication date. However, given the changing nature of legislation and the fact that societal attitudes towards cannabis are evolving dynamically, it’s vital to seek travel advice from experts. It’s always wise to follow the instructions given by airline representatives, customs officials, government websites, and legal advisors on this subject.

Anastasiia Myronenko

Anastasiia Myronenko is a Medical Physicist actively practicing in one of the leading cancer centers in Kyiv, Ukraine. She received her master’s degree in Medical Physics at Karazin Kharkiv National University and completed Biological Physics internship at GSI Helmholtz Centre for Heavy Ion Research, Germany. Anastasiia Myronenko specializes in radiation therapy and is a fellow of Ukrainian Association of Medical Physicists.

Cannabidiol (CBD) is an active ingredient extracted from the hemp plant, and is widely known as a popular addition to your health, wellness, and self-care routine.

In addition to that, the other potential benefits of consuming CBD are said to include the potential to be soothing, balancing, and relieving, as well as being a great natural addition to your daily life.

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With many potential benefits to explore, CBD is becoming an increasingly popular supplement in the world of personal wellbeing. Today, we shall answer some of your frequently asked questions!

Let’s be clear – there’s so much more to the hemp plant than 4/20!

Surpassing the recreational hype of euphoric highs enjoyed by pot smokers all over the world (legally or otherwise), the hemp plant has now been utilised in ways that revolutionise the way we look at our health and well-being.

Cannabidiol, more popularly known as CBD, is now making a name for itself for its treasure chest of potential uses. Skyrocketing to popularity in recent years, CBD has become a guiding light in the mainstream world of self-care, even taking over the health and beauty aisles.

Despite its exponential growth, the world of CBD oil often remains an area filled with misconceptions and confusion. Today, we shall make that a thing of the past. Separating the fact from the fiction, this article will tell you everything you need to know about CBD, answering your most-asked questions!

Cannabidiol, more commonly referred to as CBD, is a compound derived from the hemp plant that is marketed to contain an array of potential benefits. As it continues to gain momentum in recent years, this organic, natural supplement can now be used in a wide range of applications in everyday life with the aim of improving users’ overall well-being.

The hemp plant contains over a hundred compounds that can be isolated and extracted from the plant to produce hemp-derived products, such as CBD oil, which is classified as a food supplement. CBD product requirements also include the absence of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), or its presence in extremely low levels, allowing CBD to remain non-intoxicating and is deemed non-addictive with no danger to lead to dependency in users. In fact, there is even a limit of 1mg of THC per product in CBD supplements!

The law surrounding CBD oil has now opened the doors for greater fields of study to explore its potential uses and effects. This has led to the anticipation of emerging evidence to support the purported benefits of CBD.

The absence of intoxicating properties has progressed the use of CBD oil to being an accepted and valued part in many well-being enthusiasts’ daily routine, allowing users to potentially receive the many possible therapeutics CBD oil has to offer.

How is CBD oil made?

The hemp plant possesses over a hundred compounds, which can be extracted from the stalks, leaves, and flowers of the plant to produce CBD oil.

In essence, there are three categories of CBD oils which differentiate themselves depending on the compounds chosen for extraction from the hemp plant, these are; 

This contains all the compounds found in the hemp plant to produce CBD oil in its most authentic, natural form. Compounds present include CBD, terpenes, flavonoids, and low levels of THC.

Like full-spectrum, broad-spectrum CBD oil also extracts many of the hemp plant’s compounds including CBD and terpenes. However, broad-spectrum CBD is THC-free.

Free of THC, terpenes, and flavonoids. CBD isolate extracts purely CBD from the hemp plant for 99.9% purity. 

There is no agreed superior form of CBD; instead, it must depend on the user’s individual needs and preferences.

The term “hemp oil” is often used interchangeably to refer to CBD oil and hemp seed oil. The common use of this blanket term for oils derived from the hemp plant often confuses new users. However, despite the increasing number of brands looking to heavily market the inclusion of hemp-derived ingredients in their products under the term “hemp oil”, the two forms possess very different uses and potential benefits. 

The differences between CBD oil and hemp seed oil originate from the parts of the hemp plant that they are extracted from. While CBD oil is produced by extracting compounds from the stalks, leaves, and flowers of the hemp plant; hemp seed oil is created purely from the small seeds of the hemp plant which are cold-pressed to create a highly-concentrated, nutrient-rich oil. 

The core difference between these hemp-derived products is that hemp seed oil contains no cannabinoids, unlike CBD oil. While hemp seed oil is highly regarded for its inclusion of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids, its absence of cannabinoids result in the belief that hemp seed oil possesses no possible non-nutritional benefits.

Internal problems are a rising issue, and can too often have a devastating impact on the sufferer’s health and well-being. In fact, every year, it is estimated that one in four people in England alone will suffer from some form of mindset issue. Thankfully, those who are feeling out of balance have provided positive anecdotal evidence for the use of CBD oil.

As sleep issues are a common side effect of the need to take a break and take it easy, taking the time to unwind is believed to show an improvement in users’ sleep quality.

Studies and anecdotal evidence provide knowledge that CBD shows great potential to potentially impact users’ well-being and may make an excellent addition to your time as you compose yourself and take a break.

CBD is quickly rising in popularity amongst those who suffer from the need for relief and support.

Anecdotal evidence purports the use of CBD oil, finding a combination of CBD and THC found in legal full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD may be effective in supplementing your journey towards relief.

Research into the use of CBD for support and relief is ongoing. However, there is promise to imply its potential use.

CBD has also been closely linked to certain head-area support. When this area is in need of relief or support, daily life can feel debilitating.

Reports suggest CBD’s possible properties may be successful in providing support and providing general relief management.

CBD For Skin

CBD has also recently made waves in the world of beauty, with hemp-derived products taking over the skincare aisles. Known in the industry as the new must-have oil, CBD is now a highly sought-after ingredient in topical skin care products. 

When combined with dead skin cells, the overproduction of sebum (oil that is produced by our skin) in the skin’s sebaceous glands creates clogged pores and is one of the leading causes of imbalance. However, CBD is believed to balance already-healthy skin.

CBD oil affects everyone differently. Not to mention, consuming CBD is often the best (or only) way for us to figure out how it would benefit you. Another side of this is the potential for side effects. Like anything we take to potentially provide relief and balance to our daily routines, CBD may be accompanied by side effects.

If side effects occur, they are usually mild and depend on the used dose of CBD oil and should disappear within two to four hours.

Can you Overdose on CBD?

Although some minor side effects may occur, the use of CBD products is safe and, even in large quantities, it is not considered to lead to serious health effects. In fact, in 2011, scientists studying the use of CBD in humans concluded that even regular use of large doses, namely up to 1,500 mg of CBD per day, were well tolerated.

No cases of CBD having a strong toxic effect or CBD overdose have been reported, and CBD remains considered safe for human consumption.

Is CBD Legal in the UK?

As CBD and THC share the common fact that they are both extracted from the hemp plant, there is often confusion surrounding the legality of CBD.

If you’re new to the world of CBD and are thrilled to learn more about what kinds of benefits you might experience, you’re probably curious to know the legality of this hemp-derived product. Whilst legal to be bought and sold in the UK and most of Europe, CBD oil and other related products must meet certain standards and requirements.

Legalisation in the UK

Whilst Bulgaria was the first country in Europe to sell CBD products; the UK has soon become the leader of mass CBD sales, with a report by the Centre for Medicinal Cannabis (CMC) stating that the CBD product sector has become one of the fastest-growing industries in the well-being product market in the UK. By 2025, the same report estimates that the CBD market could be as big as the herbal supplement market if it continues to increase at its current rate. Furthermore, despite the fact that almost all cannabinoids are treated in accordance with the law on drug abuse (1971) in the UK, CBD is not and is instead considered a food supplement. 

Strict rules and regulations stipulate that CBD is legal in the UK and most of Europe, as long as compounds are extracted from hemp plants containing no more than 0.2% THC, to produce CBD products with THC levels of less than 1 mg.

Despite common confusion, CBD remains legal in many countries worldwide, including the USA, Canada, Colombia, Argentina, Uruguay, Belgium, Bulgaria, Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. However, we always recommend checking the legality of CBD in your area to avoid any disappointment or complications.

Despite the many potential therapeutic benefits CBD has to offer, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) strongly advises against pregnant or breastfeeding women using CBD, THC, and recreational marijuana.

In addition to pregnancy, consuming hemp-derived products containing THC whilst breastfeeding also carries warranted concern, as THC can be transferred and remain in breast milk for up to six days after consumption. 

Research surrounding the potentially harmful effects of the use of CBD during pregnancy and whilst breastfeeding is ongoing. Despite a lack of conclusive evidence, reports and findings collected so far give us strong reasoning to denounce CBD consumption during pregnancy and whilst breastfeeding.

CBD As A Food Supplement

According to the Medicines & Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), as of 2016, CBD products could only be advertised and sold as medicines for medicinal purposes with a license. Therefore, CBD products available to be legally sold and bought in the UK and most of Europe are classed as food supplements.

First things first, let’s explore how users can consume CBD oil as a food supplement.

Ways to Consume CBD

With so many forms of CBD now available, bioavailability should be a key consideration when deciding on your chosen method of delivery. Bioavailability refers to the degree and rate in which a substance enters the body’s bloodstream. This is crucial for CBD, as it dictates when and how much of the compound reaches the user’s bloodstream.

The most popular forms of delivery include; sublingual, oral, topical, and vape CBD. Let’s now explore each method to decide which form is most appropriate for your lifestyle and needs.

Sublingual administration refers to CBD tinctures and oral sprays which are administered by placing a few drops of CBD oil under the user’s tongue. Sublingual CBD is considered one of the most simple and effective ways of receiving the supplement while retaining a high bioavailability rate. Its high bioavailability rates are made possible because CBD held under the tongue can be absorbed through the sublingual gland for direct entrance into the user’s bloodstream. As the sublingual method allows CBD to bypass the liver which degrades the potency of CBD, this form of delivery is believed to have up to 35% bioavailability.

Pure isolate CBD carries nutty and earthy notes, often considered to be bitter to the taste. For those who find the taste of pure isolate CBD unappealing for use sublingually, full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD oils are the preferred option as they contain terpenes that make for pleasant consumption.

CBD oil is consumed orally via swallowing the user’s choice of edible CBD products. Due to the rising popularity of CBD, there is a wide range of tasty CBD products available on the market, from CBD gummies and capsules to CBD-infused beverages. Furthermore, as CBD is fat-soluble, this food supplement is most successfully absorbed into the bloodstream when digested alongside a high-fat snack or meal. 

Oral consumption of CBD oil is often the preferred method of consumption due to its convenient and discrete nature, as well as masking the natural, earthy flavour of CBD in edibles that appeal to the individual. Therefore, edibles are a great option for first-time users of CBD, with a variety of edible products available to suit every taste! 

However, for CBD consumed orally to reach the bloodstream, it first must pass through the body’s digestive system. CBD’s passage through the digestive system is a long process; taking up to two hours before it reaches the user’s bloodstream. During this process, CBD contends with the digestive acids and enzymes before absorbing into the user’s bloodstream. This journey to the bloodstream means oral CBD can take longer for the user to feel any potential effects, and due to the loss in potency, it may require users to consume higher amounts to receive their correct dosage of CBD. However, users should be mindful to wait for the full amount of time for the CBD to reach their bloodstream so as not to exceed their recommended dosage. Overall, it is believed the bioavailability of oral CBD is low compared to other methods of delivery, coming in at around 4 to 20%.

Despite the length of time it takes for oral CBD to reach the body’s bloodstream, it actually remains in the body for longer than other delivery methods. A study found that the average length of time CBD molecules remain in the body was 4.2 hours when orally consumed.

Topical CBD includes infused creams, lotions, and balms which are applied to the skin. However, as our skin acts as a barrier, it hinders CBD absorption- in fact, little (if any) CBD is estimated to enter the bloodstream at all, if administered topically.

Despite its low bioavailability levels, topical CBD is ideal for targeting specific skin areas. For example, topical CBD is highly effective for potentially delivering nurturing qualities wherever you’re craving assistance by simply massaging the cream or balm into the affected areas. Furthermore, CBD is believed to potentially possess effects which, when teamed with terpenes found in full and broad-spectrum CBD, may help to nourish the skin.

Vaping CBD

Vaping allows the user to inhale their CBD dose and is considered to have some of the highest rates of bioavailability. Through a process called decarboxylation, CBD is turned into airborne droplets which are inhaled into the lungs and absorbed through a thin mucus membrane into the user’s bloodstream, where the compound may support your wellbeing.

As this delivery method allows for the fastest absorption (through the user’s lungs and into their bloodstream) CBD can retain a bioavailability level in the range of 34 to 46%.

Where Can I Get CBD Oil?

To receive the best CBD products, it is critical that you only buy CBD products from trusted websites, stores, or pharmacies.

The popularity of CBD has created what can be considered a ‘green rush’ in the marketplace. The influx of manufacturers and brands looking to capitalise on this market has unsurprisingly led to low-quality, cheaply manufactured CBD products reaching the consumer market. Such products not only are thought to carry lower bioavailability rates (requiring the user to consume more CBD to make up for the lack of effects felt, making them more costly and wasteful) but they are also thought to be very unsafe when compared to their lab-tested counterparts.

Due to holes in current CBD regulations, brands are not required by law to include how much CBD is present on their product’s labels. This lack of transparency can lead to disappointingly low CBD percentages (and sometimes overly high THC levels that run the risk of having an intoxicating effect.)

A 2017 study unearthed some of the hidden truths of low-quality CBD oils, finding some commercial brands of food-grade hemp seeds to contain THC concentrations that were up to 1,250% higher than the legal limit. Hemp seed oil naturally contains no THC, which demonstrates the risk of contamination that is possible in low-quality manufactured hemp-derived goods and highlights the need to purchase CBD from trusted sources, with each batch coming complete with a certificate of analysis.

To ensure peace of mind whilst shopping with Alphagreen, all products available are third-party tested and contain a certificate of analysis (COA), providing quantifiable evidence on the contents of compounds present. This ensures brands are transparent and forthcoming about their ingredients, reporting the cannabinoid content, terpene profile, pesticide, and heavy metal content of their products.

Your Guide to the Ideal Dosage of CBD

There is no ‘one size fits all’ approach to CBD dosages, therefore finding your optimal dosage will require a bit of trial and error!

Hence, your optimal dosage of CBD will depend on many variable factors, including your:

• Age
• Weight
• Height
• Metabolism
• Body mass index
• Chosen form of CBD
• Purpose for consumption

For further guidance, this table provides recommendations for calculating the amount (in mg) of CBD to consume:

We suggest starting with a small dosage and building up to finding the optimal dosage that works best for you.

CBD has carved out a solid niche for itself in the mainstream when it comes to those looking to nurture their daily self-care routine, with many health and well-being enthusiasts anecdotally purporting CBD oil’s successful potential benefits to impact their overall well-being or health. Demand has been answered with an increased consumer choice of CBD products, with the market predicted to witness continued exponential growth.

Anastasiia Myronenko

Anastasiia Myronenko is a Medical Physicist actively practicing in one of the leading cancer centers in Kyiv, Ukraine. She received her master’s degree in Medical Physics at Karazin Kharkiv National University and completed Biological Physics internship at GSI Helmholtz Centre for Heavy Ion Research, Germany. Anastasiia Myronenko specializes in radiation therapy and is a fellow of Ukrainian Association of Medical Physicists.

Key points

• Cannabis grinders break nugs into smaller pieces that are easier and more convenient to roll into a blunt. The increased surface area also helps create a smoother and richer smoking experience.
• While store-bought pre-made grinders work the best, household alternatives can grind ganja just as efficiently. One of the more prevalent alternatives is the coffee grinder.
• Coffee grinders are generally inexpensive, portable and easy to use. They provide a consistent grind that can also be used for other herbs and spices like tobacco or peppercorns.
• When using a coffee grinder to grind cannabis, remember to go for a coarser, low-power setting. Doing so prevents over-processing, which could otherwise turn your nugs into fine powder unsuitable for smoking.
• While a coffee grinder can work for you, you’re still better off with a conventional pre-made grinder for your weed. You risk over-processing your nugs, losing invaluable kief, and even injuring yourself with a coffee grinder.

Introduction

If you’re looking to grind cannabis without a grinder, all hope is not lost. Yes, it is possible to use your fingers and scissors to cut up some weed and roll it into a joint. You can also use other household items you probably already have in your home, such as knives, pepper mills, and more!

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However, if you’re looking for an easier way of grinding marijuana, we suggest using a coffee grinder instead. A coffee grinder transforms your ganja into finer rollable goods in seconds or minutes (depending on what kind of grinder you use).

Curious as to how this nifty kitchen device can make your weed-high life easier? This guide will teach you how a coffee grinder can help you roll (and why maybe you shouldn’t use it).

Coffee grinders 101: What are they, and how do they work?

A coffee grinder is a small kitchen appliance that uses sharp blades to shred, chop or grind food. As the name suggests, it’s commonly used to grind coffee beans for use in a French press or espresso machine. Alternatively, the device can be used for spices and herbs (like marijuana).

How to grind weed in a coffee grinder?

Most coffee grinders are made of plastic or metal. They contain two parts: a hopper that holds the food and a grinding mechanism (usually on top).

You load the weed into the hopper, turn on the grinder and push down a button or lever. The blades inside spin around at high speeds, chopping up your ingredients into small pieces.

In a way, a coffee grinder functions similarly to your typical weed grinder. It was only a matter of time (and imagination) for potheads to catch on to this.

Once they did, they started wondering if they could use a coffee grinder to break up their weed instead of purchasing an expensive herb grinder.

Sure enough, it works! But there are some things you should know before trying it for yourself.

Using coffee grinder for weed – Pros and Cons

Suppose you don’t have a dedicated grinder. In that case, many suggest just using your fingers or scissors to cut the weed before rolling a joint. The problem with this method is that you may not have a grind that is as fine as you want them to be. So comes the question: can you use a coffee grinder to grind weed?

This section will discuss the pros and cons of using a coffee grinder for weed. Note that this is an alternative method and not a replacement for your herb grinder.

Advantages of grinding weed with a coffee grinder

Quick and easy grind: Chopping your weed with scissors or another tool can be time-consuming, but using a coffee grinder is much faster. It only takes seconds to grind up your cannabis, making it an excellent option for those in a rush.

Leaves you with harvestable kief: Using a coffee grinder to grind up your weed will leave you with kief at the bottom of the container. Kief is a fine powder with a high concentration of THC and other cannabinoids, making it an excellent way to get more bang for your buck.

Great for people with disabilities: A coffee grinder (particularly an electric one) is an excellent option for people with disabilities who want to grind up their weed. It’s easier to operate than other tools that can be used for this purpose, making it a more accessible option. Those with hand injuries, arthritis and the like will find much comfort in the electric option.

Disadvantages to grinding weed with a coffee grinder

The grinder gets dusty fast: This is both a boon and a bane. A dusty grind means that you’ll be left with much precious kief. For starters, kief is one of the most potent forms of cannabis. This means you’ll have more THC, which is good if you’re looking to get high.

If you manage to harvest all this kief, then good for you. You can use kief in many ways, including cooking with it. Kief is also an excellent way to get high if you don’t have any other materials available for smoking or vaping. That being said, the harvesting process can be quite a struggle.

Lack of mechanism or compartment to harvest kief efficiently: Unlike your regular herb grinders, a coffee grinder is not designed to collect all that powdery resin left after a grind. The only way to get this kief is by manually scraping it off the sides of your grinder and collecting it in a separate compartment.

Risk of overprocessing your herb: Coffee beans are harder and sturdier than ganja. Running your stash in a coffee grinder without considering how coarse of a grind you’re doing can lead to weed that’s as fine as powder.

If using a manual coffee grinder, remember to go low and slow. For electric grinders, go for the coarsest setting possible to avoid overprocessing. Grind weed with a coffee grinder too fine, and you’ll get an unsatisfying smoke session.

A coffee grinder can have drawbacks, but it does not mean you should ignore this option. That said, you might be better off with a conventional grinder like Alphagreen’s Ceramic Grinder Crusher.

Ceramic grinders are a great option for beginners and experts alike. They’re easy to use and maintain, which makes them a perfect choice for anyone who doesn’t want the hassle of dealing with more advanced equipment. Best of all, they’re easily transportable, unlike most coffee grinders out there.

How to choose a coffee grinder for your weed

So you’ve settled with a weed coffee grinder to do your nugs-to-powder business for you. Now that’s out of the way, it’s time to settle the score: which coffee grinder should you use?

Do you use the fanciest ones that can cost as much as £250+ or more budget-friendly options? What about electronic versus weed manual coffee grinders? And which blades work best for cutting up weed (yes, coffee grinders come with different blades)?

There’s a lot to unpack when it comes to choices. And the options can be overwhelming at the very least. But with some know-how and knowledge, you can make the right choice for your needs.

And that’s what we’re here for! Here are some pointers to help you choose a coffee grinder for your weed:

Blades

Before anything else, the most important thing to consider when using a coffee grinder for weed is to look at the insides. A coffee grinder that’s suitable for cannabis grinding is going to have diamond-shaped blades. These are the best choice for grinding cannabis because they’re incredibly sharp and can easily cut through the plant matter.

If you see a coffee grinder with circular or round blades, it’s not designed for grinding weed. This design will leave you with chunks of herb unsuitable for rolling into a joint.

Manual versus electric

There are different types of grinders, and each one comes with its own set of benefits and disadvantages.

Manual: These are the most affordable options, but they take a little more effort than electric ones since they require manual grinding. They’re also not suitable if you’re looking to grind large amounts at once since they can be pretty slow.

Electric: These work just like an electric juicer or mixer, so all you have to do is press a button, and they’ll do all the work for you. A small electric coffee grinder is more expensive than a manual one, but it’s faster and more convenient overall.

Price

Manual grinders are the cheapest option, but they’re also the slowest and most inconvenient. Some grinders around the budget area (£8 above) also tend to have round blades, which are not suitable for ganja grinding.

Your best bet is to go for ones with diamond-shaped teeth. These models tend to range from £15 all the way up to the hundreds of price points. Needless to say, you need not splurge on a coffee grinder if you’re solely using it to grind up cannabis. One with diamond blades at any price point should do the job just fine.

However, if you can spend a bit more, we recommend going with a dedicated weed grinder from Alphagreen, which will be much better than any coffee grinder. 

Construction

These come in two different types: plastic and stainless steel. Plastic ones are cheaper than their stainless steel counterparts since they don’t last as long or work. Still, this is definitely the way to go if you want something more durable.

Keep your coffee grinder clean after use

Coffee grinders can turn larger nugs into refined pieces suitable for smoking or dabbing. Though they get the job done, your coffee grinders can quickly become saturated with gunk, residue, and stick resin. We recommend minimally cleaning your coffee grinder after every use while doing a deep clean every so often.

Maintaining your coffee grinder (regular routine)

After every use, the grinder gets dusty quickly. Remember not to throw out this fine dust (aka kief) because they contain some of the highest concentrations of cannabinoids, terpenes, and resin from your secret stash.

Here’s what you can do to collect all that precious dust:

• You can wipe down the inside with a dry paper towel. Only use a wet paper towel when cleaning sticky and stubborn residue you can’t collect anymore.
• You can brush off the dust particles with a makeup brush or toothbrush (for more stubborn particles). Remember to give the device a shake and collect the kief onto a bowl or dry paper towel.
• You can also use rubbing alcohol to clean off any sticky residue that won’t come off using water alone. Make sure to rinse it thoroughly before using it again.
• You can also use an air compressor to blow out the inside of your grinder. Use a toothpick or similar object to poke at any stuck bits of residue.

Other useful tips

Aside from the regular cleaning, there are other tips you can use to maintain your grinder and make it last longer.

Don’t leave the device open or unattended while not in use: This will help prevent dust from building up inside the grinder and causing damage over time. Your coffee grinder does not need all that excess dirt, that’s for sure.

Keep your grinder out of direct sunlight or heat: Heat can cause plastic parts to warp and crack, while direct sunlight can damage the paint or surface of your coffee grinder. You should also avoid dropping your grinder on a hard surface, particularly if you have plastic parts. This will also damage your grinder and could cause it to leak or malfunction.

Use caution when cleaning your coffee grinder: You should never use anything but mild soap and warm water for cleaning purposes, as harsh chemicals or solvents can damage the device. If your coffee grinder is made from stainless steel, know that there are certain solvents like acetone that can damage the surface of stainless steel and cause it to lose its shine.

Avoid using your weed coffee grinder for other purposes: If you plan on using a coffee grinder to grind your ganja, it’s best if you keep it that way —nothing more and nothing less. Consider investing in another device (or another grinder) if you plan to grind up some spices or coffee beans too.

If you really need to scratch that itch, why not buy a conventional cannabis grinder instead? The Alphagreen Ceramic Grinder Crusher has everything you need (and want) from a cannabis device. It’s 100% food-safe, easy-to-use, and portable —not to mention, it grinds ganja just like a dream.

Final Thoughts

Grinding weed with a coffee grinder requires some practice and patience, but it can be done. As long as the grinder is clean and free of any residue from previous foods, it should work just fine.

Just remember that it’s not the perfect way to do so. It’s much better to find a designated grinder for your cannabis needs. If you’re serious about your cannabis and want to get the best grind possible, then a dedicated grinder is the way to go.

Anastasiia Myronenko

Anastasiia Myronenko is a Medical Physicist actively practicing in one of the leading cancer centers in Kyiv, Ukraine. She received her master’s degree in Medical Physics at Karazin Kharkiv National University and completed Biological Physics internship at GSI Helmholtz Centre for Heavy Ion Research, Germany. Anastasiia Myronenko specializes in radiation therapy and is a fellow of Ukrainian Association of Medical Physicists.

References

https://mambagrinders.com/blogs/articles/can-i-use-a-coffee-grinder-to-grind-weed

https://zamgrinders.com/blogs/weed-grinders/coffee-grinder-weed

https://knowyourgrinder.com/best-coffee-grinders-for-weed/#how-to-choose-a-coffee-grinder-for-weed

This article is an in-depth guide to CBD market research and analysis. We’ll cover what market research is, how to perform your analysis, and areas of research that are particularly relevant to the CBD market, before answering all your most frequently-asked-questions on the subject.

Do you ever wonder how the top CBD brands stay one step ahead of the competition, on top of the trends, and on everyone’s lips? While it might be tempting to believe their success is all due to luck, money, and good timing, in reality finding success in the CBD market is all about the market research and analysis you’re able to do.

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Whether you’re a small business owner or you’re looking to build a huge brand name within the CBD industry, you’re going to need to conduct market research- and we’re here to help. How else will you know which products will sell well, how to structure your latest marketing strategy, how customers think of you, and what’s ‘normal’ within the CBD market? Research allows your business to establish a baseline, to set reasonable goals, and surpass them!

In the world of hemp-based wellness, things are constantly changing. After all, CBD has only been commercially available since the late 2000s, and it’s only recently that the compound has become well-known and widely available. While laws restricting the use of recreational cannabis remain in place in many places, the public (and country-wide regulations) are easing their ideas of what cannabis-derived compounds (like CBD oil) can achieve.

With more CBD brands forming every day, building a solid industry reputation isn’t an easy task- but it isn’t impossible, either. In this article, we’ll walk you through the importance of CBD market research, how to conduct market research, the challenges around it, and how to overcome them. Who knows? The CBD industry is still relatively new and growing- maybe through research, you’ll discover an untapped market, a new potential use for CBD, or other such advantages sure to place your brand head-and-shoulders above the competition.

What is Market Research?

Market research is simply the act of gathering information, intelligence about your niche- and the broader CBD market. This can involve diving into every part of your business (and taking a look at what your competitors are up to as well), such as:

• Marketing strategies
• Branding decisions
• The social media your brand uses (and how you use it)
• The market you’re targeting
• Your customer service practices
• The products you sell

As a CBD business, you want to have as broad a view of the industry as possible, understanding the public opinion of your CBD products, as well as what competitors are up to. When conducting market analysis, you want to close the gap between what your customers want and what your products actually deliver- whether that’s by altering your products, or tweaking your marketing strategy to target a different pool of consumers.

Essentially, market research helps your CBD business to:

• Avoid mistakes
• Appeal more to your target market
• Compete better with others in your niche
• Identify opportunities your competitors may be missing
• Stay on top (and ahead) of trends

Researching your target market and competitors can also help you develop a unique brand identity, which is vital for survival within an increasingly oversaturated CBD market. By playing to your strengths and knowing the weaknesses of your competitors, you can stand out from the crowd of less-than-premium CBD brands clamouring for attention.

The goals for many CBD businesses can be aided with thorough market analysis. For instance, it is vital to establish your brand as an authority on CBD and wellness within the industry. If customers can’t trust your products with their health, they won’t buy them- simple as that. If customers are looking for a specific type of product and you don’t produce it, they will buy from a brand who does… unless you give them an excellent reason not to.

Here are a few fast facts about how doing market research can help you:

• Suppose you don’t care about consistently improving customer experiences with your brand and products. In that case, you run the risk of losing current and potential customers to businesses with stellar customer service and exciting products.
• Statistics and industry analytics tell you what’s going on in the industry, while research will help you understand why current trends are happening- and how you can benefit from them.
• Research helps you think from a customer’s perspective, which is vital for long-term brand survival and success in the increasingly competitive CBD industry.
• An ineffective marketing strategy is often a result of not enough research and too much guesswork and intuition, even by well-intentioned marketers. Bad ideas are far less likely to come from people who have taken the time to research and come up with an educated opinion based on what their consumers actually want.
• CBD market research can also help you figure out what has been done before by other brands, allowing you to see what works well and what can be a waste of your team’s time, budget, and resources.

Types of Market Research

What is Primary Market Research?

Primary research allows you to collect information first-hand from your customers. This can tell you about the different types of people buying your CBD products, and help you to target different groups more effectively in the future. There are several types of primary research businesses can use to gather information first-hand:

Specific Primary Research- this method of research is best for those businesses who have already done research into the current market and surrounding industry, and who know what is most important for their business’ continued survival. This form of research often asks specific questions prompted by broader research, inspecting a particular section of your audience and really honing in on what they want from your CBD products. Examples of specific primary research include:

• Focus groups
• Consumer interviews
• Specific surveys

Exploratory Primary Research– this may not provide you with huge statistics that look good on marketing presentations. However, this form of market research will help you identify general trends within your target market, as well as any issues within your current business practices that could be standing in the way of success. While this kind of research tends to involve small sample sizes and personal interactions over inspecting massive market trends, it’s still helpful to keep in mind how your business may impact individual consumers. Examples of exploratory primary research include:

• Customer surveys
• Customer quizzes
• Customer interviews

What is Secondary Market Research?

Secondary market research is less personal than primary research. However, it is no less vital to your business! Often, this type of CBD market analysis will be readily available through things like:

• Market statistics and data
• Current trends
• Sales data from your business
• Other industry data gathered from various third-party sources

Public resources are an invaluable form of gathering business intelligence in any industry, and particularly to the CBD market. This type of secondary market research is often free to access and learn from, backed by government bodies, and updated regularly.

Other forms of secondary market research may come from commercial agencies- though this can be costly to access, it’s often worth the investment to access specific information about your target market.

However, internal data from your own business can also count as secondary research, as (while the information doesn’t come directly from customers) it is still an accurate reflection of who is interacting with your CBD brand. Whether it’s knowing your customer retention rates or understanding which products sell best, internal research sources can often be underestimated when considering different types of market research.

Why is Market Research Important?

Aside from all the potential benefits that CBD market research can give to your brand, it’s important to factor in how complex, and confusing selling products to human beings truly is. Marketing asks a simple question: what do people want, and how do we give it to them? While the question itself is fairly simple, the answer is often complicated- hence why so many brands sell the same product, like CBD oil!

However, some brands are able to answer this question better than others. By studying them and building on their proven marketing techniques, your brand can fulfil the needs of any potential consumers better than others on the market.

CBD market research helps you answer the most essential questions of running a business, such as:

• What prices are people willing to pay for my products?
• What colours and packaging do people prefer to see on the shelf?
• What dosages, potencies, and types of CBD do consumers prefer?
• What problems do my customers have, and how can my products solve them?

By making yourself an ideal brand, you can easily appeal to your ideal consumer- so, in a way, industry analysis is simple… albeit difficult to implement! With all the different potential benefits and uses of CBD, it can be tempting to try to target all potential customers at once- however, if you make your marketing strategy too vague, you risk not appealing to anyone at all.

Effective marketing strategies will help your target market effectively decide whether or not your products may be helpful for them- and whether they should buy from you exclusively. As such, it’s important to study similar, successful brands in your niche to ensure you are correctly communicating your brand’s public image to your target audience.

Areas of Market Research for CBD Brands

We’ve already discussed how marketing can be difficult, even if the theories behind it are simple enough. However, what challenges do CBD brands face as they attempt to market their products? How businesses target their potential consumers is increasingly complicated and automated, with artificial intelligence and big data playing a significant role in much of the CBD industry.

Regardless of whether you’re a new CBD business owner or a veteran within the industry, you’re likely to encounter the same challenges when it comes to how to market your CBD products.

Customer Confusion and Lack of Education

It’s often tricky for consumers to understand the complex world of CBD, with an infinite amount of dosages, potential benefits, and consumption options. As a brand, it’s your job to understand where the confusion lies, and simplify the issues for your consumers. Many customers are often confused regarding questions such as:

• Is CBD legal?
• Is CBD safe?
• What is CBD?

If you can understand why customers are confused, you can also help to clear up this confusion- and establish your CBD brand as an authority within the industry at the same time!

Lack of CBD Regulations

When it comes to things like the potential potency of CBD products, as well as prices, the market is largely unregulated. As long as a product doesn’t surpass a certain amount of THC (the intoxicating compound found within cannabis), it’s generally considered legal. However, the lack of solid regulations often prompts mentions of the ‘wild-wild West’ in comparison to the CBD industry.

Depending on where you live, CBD can be called a supplement, medication, drug, therapeutic aid, or food additive. However, many of these names are also forbidden across certain borders, so it pays to be aware of local, national, and international CBD laws before you invest heavily in a particular CBD label or marketing strategy.

The new and ever-changing landscape of the CBD market can make everything from growth to marketing harder for brands to decipher. Depending on where you live, you may only be able to grow cannabis Sativa (hemp), and only have a certain amount of various cannabinoids within your products. With regulations varying from country to country (and often state-to-state), it’s hard to tell where you stand. As such, it’s vital to research upcoming regulatory changes within the CBD industry, as well as consider how they may change the future of the industry.

For instance, when then-president Trump signed the 2018 amendment to the Farm Bill, he enabled the wide-scale distribution of CBD products on a commercial level across the United States. This didn’t just impact American CBD companies, but also those overseas and in Canada who were waiting for the opportunity to expand into the States.

Prices Often Vary, Even for Premium CBD Products

With the incredible amount of variation that exists between CBD brands, it’s no surprise that prices can often seem more like on-the-spot inventions than genuine reflections of value. However, this doesn’t mean that all CBD products are terminally overpriced, as there are still many factors worth researching that can ‘hike up’ the price of your CBD products, such as:

• How your CBD is grown from the hemp plant- organic products, as a rule, are more costly to produce and certify. In some places, the soil or environment may not be as suitable for growing hemp, resulting in lower yields or the need for indoor growth methods- and more expensive final products.
• Third-party lab testing- as a general rule, any reliable CBD brand will use third party testing in order to ensure their labelling is accurate and their products are free of any unwanted additives, GMOs, pesticides, etc. However, sending your products to an independent laboratory can also be fairly costly.
• The type of extraction method you use (many brands aim for a compromise between quality, efficacy, and budget; going for either ethanol or CO2 extraction.)
• Potency and cannabinoid content- people are generally willing to pay more for a more potent dose of CBD, or a full/broad-spectrum product with a good range of other compounds from the original plant.

Even factors that, on the surface, don’t have a lot to do with your final product, can still wind up affecting your final price tag. Suppose your company is employing a fair amount of scientific experts to help with everything from growth to formulation and efficacy. In that case, this means you have more expenses to cover- and that means charging a little more for your CBD oils. Likewise, a prime business location will often come with exorbitant rental costs you’ll need to consider when pricing your products.

At the end of the day, two things matter:

• Can customers afford your products?
• Are you making a profit from your products?

Until the answer to both of these questions is a resounding yes, it’s worth looking at how other businesses are accomplishing their goals, and tweaking whatever you’re doing wrong.

CBD Oil is a Competitive Market

We’ve mentioned studying the competition already. However, why is this?

Aside from being the norm in just about any industry, the CBD market is exceptionally competitive, adding to its ‘wild West’ reputation. New brands appear every day, while others fade into obscurity when they can’t keep up. Many brands make the mistake of being too much like their competitors, selling too similar products, and simply not being memorable enough to encourage repeat purchases from their customers.

To avoid making basic mistakes and industry faux-pas, you may wish to see your competitors through several perspectives while researching:

• A classic competitor, essentially a threat to your business
• Something to aspire to, almost as a mentor
• Someone testing the waters, hinting at good or bad business opportunities before you take them

While the CBD market began reasonably narrow, with consumers essentially only able to buy oil, nowadays, the landscape of the CBD industry is constantly broadening. CBD drinks, food, tinctures, suppositories, and even pet treats are all on the market- and they’re just the tip of the iceberg! With every new type of CBD product that becomes available, a competitor taps an untapped market and gains a whole new clientele.

As part of CBD’s versatility, there are a thousand different niches where you may find sales, by targeting those interested in potentially:

• Improving their wellbeing
• Living with anxiety or pain symptoms (or both)
• Exercising
• Pursuing interests in yoga, spirituality, meditation, etc;
• Canna beauty (via CBD cosmetics)

It is often the CBD companies that do their research on the competition and one-up them with strategies that (on the surface) have nothing to do with CBD that come out on top. An excellent marketing strategy employing good use of SEO, PR, influencers, social media, email marketing, and other online ways of reaching your target market can help set yourself apart from competitors.

Increasing Target Market for CBD Products

The ever-increasing variety of CBD products may indicate a lot of competition and over-saturation within the CBD industry. However, it also shows us something else: the target market for CBD is still expanding, too.

Analysing which products are coming into existence (and which are already doing well) is vital when it comes to deciding what products your CBD brand should sell. In addition, how these products are formulated, packaged, and marketed, as well as inspecting the type of person specific products appeal to, will serve your business well.

For instance, a different type of person will buy a CBD bath bomb when compared to someone looking for a CBD tincture, as these products have different qualities and potential benefits. When inspecting what type of CBD product you should sell, think about:

• Any new products that might appeal to your current target market
• What problems your target market has that CBD may be able to solve
• Do you have an idea for a new product that isn’t tried-and-tested by other brands, but which may give you an edge over your competition if it’s a success? Can you finance its production?
• Marketing strategies you can use to sell your products, and if they’ve worked for other businesses
• Are these CBD products legal to sell where your business is located?
• Do these products align with who you are as a business, and will they support your current goals?

It’s vital to consider your target market before entertaining these questions- what niche does your business occupy? What sells well for a CBD cosmetics brand may not suit a business aiming to sell CBD for dogs, after all!

Distributing Your CBD Products

Once you’ve assessed the competition and decided on products (all based on market research, of course), it’s time to think about how you’ll distribute your CBD products. After all, what could be more important than having your products actually reach the customers? Marketing and research teams should be involved with your CBD brand’s distribution strategies, and help you decide which channel is right for you.

Common examples of distribution channels in the CBD industry include:

• Online marketplaces
• Brick-and-mortar retail stores
• Natural ‘organic’ food stores (typically brick-and-mortar)
• Gas stations
• CBD dispensaries, cafes, massage parlours, and other businesses which can include CBD in their products or services

The most effective marketing strategy for your CBD brand will vary depending on how your product will reach the customer- you may wish to use one or multiple of the above methods, depending on what your market analysis tells you is best, of course!

Research Into CBD

Researching the most recent studies, surveys, and case studies surrounding CBD can open up new niches, products, and uses for your products that you may never have considered before. As the regulations surrounding CBD come into place, they must be reinforced with scientific data- and your marketing strategy should be no different. Most premium CBD brands will place a strong value on the scientific efficacy of their product, whether they sell CBD oil, food, skincare, or pet treats.

While CBD marketing laws widely prohibit making medical claims in any form, most countries don’t have anything against linking to scientific studies, which just-so-happen to reinforce your identity as a CBD brand for those with anxiety, chronic pain, or insomnia symptoms. Just make sure any studies you do cite come from reputable sources, such as universities, government bodies, or other certified laboratories.

The Future of the CBD Industry

Looking into CBD market forecasts and the current size of the industry are a crucial part of research. Essentially, it answers the two vital questions many business owners find themselves asking on a daily basis: where am I right now, and where am I going?

Researching the wider market can help you decide:

• What’s trending?
• What’s about to trend?
• Where do you see your business in the next year? What about the next five years? (Try not to plan too far in advance, especially given the fast-flowing nature of the CBD industry)

Being able to form an educated opinion regarding the future of the CBD industry can help you with everything we have discussed today- and then some!

As a business owner, it’s likely you are constantly assessing the internal processes of your business, as well as how to improve conversion rates and spread awareness about CBD. Ensuring that your strategies for improvement are backed up by hard evidence, industry analysis, and statistics is the best recipe for success.

There are many different places to look for industry trends, such as analysing:

• What products are popular at the moment, and why
• The opposite- what isn’t doing well, or is slowly fading out over time
• What has sold well in the past
• Any ‘evergreen’ classics in the industry which are bound to sell well no matter what, such as CBD oil
• Any issues many people are dealing with at the moment (for instance, cases of anxiety spiked during the start of the COVID-19 pandemic)

Knowing where the CBD industry is headed can influence everything we’ve talked about here, from formulation to distribution and pricing.

Study the Wider CBD Market

Once you know what’s going on with your local and national CBD industry, take a look at the international market. Many of the larger CBD brands out there have already gained something of a monopoly on their local markets and respective niches, and are looking to expand into the overseas CBD markets in:

• Latin America
• Asia
• Mainland Europe

Much of your broader market research is likely to correlate with national trends. However, it’s worth inspecting what works on a wider scale when your business is solidly working towards larger goals of global expansion. 

When researching the international CBD market, you should consider:

• Is CBD legal to sell in the country (or countries) you’re considering? 
• Can hemp be cultivated in the country you’re considering?
• Is there a market for CBD products there?
• Does the general public have disposable income to spend on ‘luxury’ products like CBD?
• Who will your target audience be in this country, and (even if they are similar to your local customers) how will cultural differences affect your marketing strategy?
• What does the future of the CBD industry look like for this country?

Ways to Do Market Research

Now that you know what to look at during market research, how can you begin to conduct it in a way that best suits your business? We’re here to take you through the best ways to gather information about your niche in the CBD industry.

Ask the Customer Directly

This often falls under the umbrella of ‘primary market research’, however asking the customer directly (treating them as a person, not a statistic or conversion to be made) is often the best way of gathering transparent information about what’s working for your business and what needs to change. 

• Interviews and in-person consultations with potential customers allow you to assess how they feel about your brand, products, and other facets of your business.
• Focus groups allow you to test possible marketing strategies and new products on a small sample size of people before they head out into the broader market. This means that you’re more likely to prevent mistakes and predict what will work well by paying attention to feedback from your carefully selected focus groups.
• Many brands also look into customer loyalty and satisfaction, using their customer service practices, review outlets, and on-site surveys to discover how current customers think about their business practices.
• Similarly, you may wish to research how current customers use your products, if they have any issues with your current business practices (is customer service below-par? Is shipping unsatisfactory?), and anything which may reflect poorly on your CBD brand’s reputation.

Branding-Related and Internal Business Research

Branding is a large part of making your business stand out from the rest of the CBD industry- and as such, it should play a significant role in your market research.

As part of branding, many marketing teams will have an idea of an ‘ideal customer’- usually an average person from your target market who the team keeps in mind when designing marketing material. Often, the ‘ideal buyer’ will not be far from the truth- and by researching people similar to your ideal buyer, who they are, what they believe, and what CBD products they prefer to buy, you’re more likely to appeal to them.

Separating your target market into segments is another common way marketers may research potential customers. Perhaps your brand wants to appeal to males between the ages of 30-40 with certain hobbies- by looking into these demographics, you’re more likely to know what they expect from a CBD brand, and how to effectively turn them into brand loyalists.

Researching brand awareness within your current pool of customers is also an excellent way to see how your brand is perceived by your target market, as well as discover what parts of your current branding strategy are working well. If it isn’t memorable, it’s worth investigating why; likewise, if your branding is successful, how can you continue this? What do your customers associate with your products, and how can this be used to your advantage?

One of the most obvious ways to conduct internal research into the CBD market is by turning the focus inward and studying how your own marketing strategies and campaigns have been received. Have they improved sales? Is it worth experimenting with something new? You’ll only know through careful analysis!

Market-Related Research

We’ve already talked about the importance of researching the wider CBD market, but it bears repeating that you must examine:

• CBD product pricing- look at what your target market is willing to pay, and what other brands are charging for similar products
• CBD products themselves- is there some must-have natural ingredient everyone is adding to their CBD skincare, edibles, or oils? Can you incorporate it into your products?
• The competition- what are other CBD brands in your niche selling? What marketing strategies are they using? What do they have that you don’t (especially if it’s something which may appeal to your target market)?
• How to make yourself unique- for all the success looking at the competition can make you, if you fail to differentiate yourself from the rest of the CBD industry, you’re likely to fail in the business as well.

Questions to Ask During CBD Market Research

Before you conduct market analysis involving customers, you should meticulously plan your question, conversation, and strategy to ensure everything stays on task.

When researching your audience, ensure you’re aware of your target:

• Age
• Location
• Gender
• Profession (and income)

As well as any issues they may be dealing with on a daily basis that CBD may be able to help with, such as symptoms of chronic pain, anxiety, depression, sleep issues, and sexual issues.

When conducting research using customer interviews and focus groups, ensure you cover all questions you want to ask- in order of importance, and in a way that makes the conversation flow well- nobody likes a clunky, awkward interview! Be respectful of your consumer’s time, and they are likely to repay you with their interest.

Don’t make the mistake of treating the interview like a script- conversation should still be natural, even if you have not-so-secret ulterior motives for having it! In general, the questions you ask should be as open-ended as possible, encouraging detailed answers rather than keeping things to a simple yes-or-no.

In general, you could structure your interview in five broad sections:

1. Asking About the Consumer’s Background:

This is where you do the ‘housekeeping’- learning the basic statistics you need about the customer, such as their:

• Age
• Job
• Disposable Income
• Hobbies
• Why they take/ are interested in CBD

2. Understanding Why They’re Interested in CBD

While you aren’t selling anything to them at this part of the interview, you should still understand how they came to have an interest in CBD, what problem they had that may be solved with CBD, etc.

Building a baseline about what they knew regarding CBD before, during, and after the challenges they’ve faced is crucial. Whether it’s a challenge with their physical health, mental health, or general wellbeing, this information could heavily influence future marketing strategies- as well as help you understand what type of products your consumers are most enthusiastic about.

3. Asking Specific Questions

When narrowing down the types of questions you ask the consumer, ensure you find out:

• How did they research- online? Via a book? Talking to friends and family?
• Where did they go once they knew the basics?
• What words did they specifically search? (this can be helpful for SEO purposes)
• Who was the best source of information?
• How could their research process have been made simpler?

Ask about everything from who they talked to (friends, family, industry professionals) to where they looked for an official source on CBD. How did they conduct the bulk of their research? Search engines, websites, big-name brands, etc, can all help you to build a picture of where the average consumer will find an ‘industry authority’ whom they trust for information about their health.

4. Learning How Consumers Make Conclusions

Once you know the specifics of how the customer has gathered their knowledge of CBD, you may follow their train of thought to discover:

• Which CBD authority they consider most trustworthy and influential
• Which criteria they think are most important in making decisions about CBD- whether that’s for pure research purposes, or deciding which product to buy
• Who (and what) had the most influence over their final decisions about CBD’s efficacy and which product they decided to give a try in the end

5. Making Your Own Conclusions

When you wrap up your interview, your focus should be on improving the customer’s future experience. What would their ideal product look like? How would it be different from their everyday experience?

Try to ensure the meeting ends on a high note- thank the customer for their time and allow them to ask any questions they may have.

Final Thoughts

By now, you likely understand why it’s crucial to conduct CBD market research. Having data to backup your business strategy can help inform your decisions in everything from product development to marketing. Looking to your competitors and customers alike to gather information can serve you well when it comes to carving out your own unique niche in the industry.

Research also offers you the ability to change what doesn’t work for your business, what doesn’t appeal to your customers, and to avoid mistakes. When conducting market research, make sure you are exploring for unbiased information, rather than cherry-picking what agrees with your personal opinions from the start. Be specific when you need to be specific, and open-minded at every stage of the process.

In short, research can help you better your business by looking at the industry through a fresh lens- whether it’s that of the consumer or your competitor(s). Through research, dedication, and action, you can better your business outcomes and find success.

Anastasiia Myronenko

Anastasiia Myronenko is a Medical Physicist actively practicing in one of the leading cancer centers in Kyiv, Ukraine. She received her master’s degree in Medical Physics at Karazin Kharkiv National University and completed Biological Physics internship at GSI Helmholtz Centre for Heavy Ion Research, Germany. Anastasiia Myronenko specializes in radiation therapy and is a fellow of Ukrainian Association of Medical Physicists.

Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) stands out among the most common forms of vitamin D in the human diet. Vitamin D3 is mostly found in animal-sourced foods, such as eggs (especially yolks), cheese (in particular, cheddar), fatty fish (such as sardines or salmon), and yoghurt. Meanwhile, the most common problems of vitamin D3 deficiency include depression, developing osteoporosis, difficulties in walking, fatigue and malaise feeling, and muscle aches.

Vitamin D plays a paramount role in regulating bone growth and promoting the absorption of calcium. In essence, the human skin produces vitamin D during exposure to sunlight. However, when people live at high latitudes or spend most of their time indoors, they need to get vitamin D from their diet. With that in mind, fish oils, fatty fish, egg yolk, butter, and liver remain the best dietary sources of vitamin D. At the same time, one might face difficulties in getting adequate amounts of the nutrient from diet alone. Therefore, billions of people across the world experience vitamin D deficiency and consume supplements.

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Whenever you regularly lightly clad without sunscreen or spend sufficient time outdoors, you may be getting all the vitamin D you need. However, in countries farther away from the equator, this duration of exposure does not apply, and you might need more time to achieve similar results. Still, one should keep in mind that sunburns remain a major risk factor for skin cancer. Hence, you should be careful and avoid spending too much time in the sun without sunscreen, especially with light-coloured skin.

Vitamin D represents a family of vitamins with a similar chemical structure. The most commonly found members of vitamin D in the human diet include vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). Those types differ in a few important ways, though both of them help people meet their vitamin D requirements.

In this article, we will explore the health benefits of vitamin D3 and the differences between vitamin D2 and vitamin D3.

Vitamin D2 and Vitamin D3: What Is the Difference?

Vitamin D2 and vitamin D3 differ according to their food sources. In particular, Vitamin D3 is only found in animal-sourced foods, while D2 mostly comes from fortified foods and plants. Since, vitamin D2 is cheaper to produce than vitamin D3, this makes it the most common choice for fortified foods. As for vitamin D3, the skin produces it during sunlight exposure. In particular, ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation from sunlight invokes the formation of vitamin D3 from the compound 7-dehydrocholesterol located in the skin. A similar process takes place in mushrooms and plants, where UVB light triggers the formation of vitamin D2 from ergosterol, a compound from plant oils.

When it comes to upgrading your vitamin D status, vitamin D2 and D3 are not equal despite both being effectively absorbed into the bloodstream. The liver metabolizes vitamin D2 and vitamin D3 into 25-hydroxyvitamin D2 and 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 accordingly, collectively known as calcifediol or 25D. This is the vitamin D complex, which circulates in the blood and directly reflects the levels of vitamin D in the body’s stores. Calcifediol is also commonly cited as the “active form” of vitamin D. Health professionals usually measure calcifediol (25D) levels when they order lab tests to check vitamin D amount in the body.

Most studies confirm that vitamin D3 remains more efficient at raising blood levels of calcifediol than vitamin D2. For instance, one study in 32 older women has established that a single dose of vitamin D3 was twice more effective compared to vitamin D2 at raising calcifediol levels. Some scientists have even raised concerns about whether vitamin D2 supplements could be of lower quality than D3 supplements due to being more sensitive to fluctuations in temperature and humidity. For these reasons, vitamin D2 supplements could degrade quickly over time. Nevertheless, it is pretty unknown whether this information is relevant to human health.

Several studies have also researched whether supplementation with vitamin D2 or D3 produced a higher blood level of calcifediol. One studyissued by the National Institutes of Health has explored post-menopausal elderly women with vitamin D deficiency. The study compared the effects of receiving a single high dose of vitamin D2 or vitamin D3 on calcifediol levels. Eventually, vitamin D3 produced about twice the amount of circulating calcifediol in the selected population group versus that of vitamin D2.

A separate clinical trialcompared a ten-week regimen of twice-weekly 50,000 IU dosing of both vitamin D2 and vitamin D3 in demographically matched groups. As a result, vitamin D3 has also been found to show a superior effect in producing higher levels of or calcifediol compared to vitamin D2.

Still, consumers should not worry about the quality of their vitamin D2 supplements until new research proves otherwise. Some storage measures should be met, though, such as keeping the supplements at room temperature, in a closed container, out of direct sunlight, and in a dry place.

Vitamin D2 and Vitamin D3: When Should We Take?

Cholecalciferol (also known as vitamin D3) is applied as a dietary supplement in case of the lack of vitamin D in the diet and remains within a class of medications called “vitamin D analogs”. The body requires cholecalciferol for healthy bones, muscles, nerves and to support the immune system. Vitamin D3 helps the body to employ more of the calcium located in foods or supplements.

People facing vitamin D deficiency typically include breastfed infants, people with dark skin and limited sun exposure, older adults, obese people, patients suffering from a gastrointestinal disease (GI), Crohn’s disease, and celiac disease. Cholecalciferol is also used alongside calcium to prevent and treat bone diseases such as osteomalacia (softening and weakening of bones resulting from vitamin D deficiency), osteoporosis (a condition when the bones get thin and weak and break easily), and rickets (softening and weakening of bones in children caused by lack of vitamin D).

Cholecalciferol typically comes as a gel capsule, capsule, chewable gel (a.k.a. gummy), liquid drops, or a tablet. People usually take it once or twice daily depending on their age and medical condition. Cholecalciferol supplements often come in combination with other medications and vitamins. Cholecalciferol is usually sold without a prescription. However, doctors might prescribe it to treat certain conditions. Cholecalciferol liquid drops can be added to children’s food or drink.

All forms of vitamin D3 supplements are available over-the-counter (OTC). Hence the FDA does not allow the production companies to make treatment claims. Still, vitamin D3 is frequently used off-label to treat vitamin D deficiency, hypoparathyroidism and prevent osteoporosis.

As for vitamin D2, it is often prescribed to treat hypoparathyroidism (decreased thyroid hormone secretion), vitamin D resistant rickets, and hypophosphatemia (low levels of phosphorus in the blood). Vitamin D2 is commonly used in both over-the-counter formulations for vitamin D insufficiency and prescription. However, the FDA does not support treatment claims for over-the-counter vitamin D2 supplements.

Regarding the drug interactions of vitamins D2 and D3 with other medications, they are quite possible. When taken with aluminum hydroxide, Vitamin D might precariously increase the serum levels of aluminum. Hence, this combination should be avoided. Hydrochlorothiazide, among other types of thiazide diuretics, might increase calcium levels in the blood to a dangerously high level when combined with vitamin D. Therefore, health professionals should monitor the people prescribed with both thiazide diuretics and vitamin D supplementation. Certain drugs might also reduce the absorption rates and effectiveness of vitamin D supplements. Cholestyramine, and other bile-acid sequestrants, are the example of drugs that will impede vitamin D absorption. Hence, cholestyramine should not be administered with vitamin D at the same time.

The Health Benefits of Vitamin D3

Vitamin D3 has a direct role in many aspects of health and also might have an impact on up to 2,000 different genes within the body. Vitamin D receptors are located in almost every cell. When vitamin D3 binds to a cell receptor, it turns some genes on or off, thus inducing changes at the cellular level. Certain studies have suggested that binding vitamin D3 might turn on immunoprotective genes, turn off cancer-causing genes, and even command cells which minerals to absorb.

In addition, vitamin D3 influences many other important body processes, such as:

Healthy bones often result from good vitamin D3 admission since it helps to control and regulate the body’s ability to soak up calcium and phosphorus. These two compounds provide strength and density to the skeleton and teeth.

The presence of vitamin D can also impact heart function. Several studies have shown that insufficient levels of vitamin D might correlate to an increased probability of a heart attack. Some researchers also believe that vitamin D might keep heart muscle cells from growing too large and improve cardiovascular endurance. Consequently, this prevents the thickening of the walls of the ventricles, which might cause a heart attack by blocking blood flow.

Vitamin D3 braces the pancreas and sets off the process of insulin production. This is essential for efficient management of blood sugar levels and helping diabetics to have better control over the disease.

According to the study from Boston University, people with high blood pressure used to experience relief after the increase of vitamin D3 levels. This is because vitamin D3 significantly reduces renin concentration. Renin stands for an enzyme produced by the kidney with an effect on blood vessels.

Positive impact on mood stands among the most significant benefits of vitamin D3. Many people generally feel a way happier when the sun shines after suffering from the seasonal affective disorder. This is because the synthesis of vitamin D3 happens during direct exposure to UVB rays. Also, the increase of vitamin D consumption could effectively reduce the symptoms of clinical depression alongside other treatments.

Some research suggests that by increasing vitamin D3 consumption, it is possible to slow the progress of prostate tumors. Other studies show promise that combining vitamin D3 with more fiber might reduce the risk of developing polyps leading to colon cancer.

The combination of vitamin D3 and calcium remains another helpful combination. A four-year trial established that those post-menopausal women who received both vitamin D3 and calcium supplements had a 60% less likelihood of developing cancer. Scientists have also studied Vitamin D3 for the potential treatment of breast cancer. In the study of 166 women under treatment, approximately 70% had lower levels of vitamin D.

Vitamin D3 Deficiency and Its Consequences

In recent years, doctors have started to treat vitamin D deficiency and its consequences more seriously.

The most common problems of vitamin D deficiency include:

• Depression
• Developing osteoporosis
• Difficult walking
• Fatigue and malaise feeling
• Muscle aches and weakness
• Pain in bones leading to stress fractures

According to some estimations, approximately 32% of adults and children are deficient in vitamin D3, and about 50% of the world population remains at risk for developing a vitamin D3 deficiency, mostly due to the sun factors.

They include:

• Darker skin tone that is capable of absorbing a smaller amount of sunlight
• Living in highly polluted areas, which filter out UV rays
• Living in areas with little direct sunlight, especially in areas with tall buildings
• Spending more time indoors than out
• Taking certain medications that might reduce vitamin D3 levels, for example, barbiturates and statins
• Working ‘graveyard’ shifts without an opportunity to get into the sun regularly

In order to prevent vitamin D3 deficiency, one might take several measures. Apart from getting more sun, people might find the nutrient in a range of foods such as eggs, cheese, sardines, salmon, and yoghurt.

Supplemental vitamins might also help, especially the recommended intake of 1,000 IU per day. At the same time, receiving clearance from a health professional remains crucial. A blood test is usually sufficient to determine vitamin D3 deficiency and daily dosage.

Vitamin D3 and Contemporary Diseases

• Neurodegenerative disorders

Today, vitamin D3 deficiency has been implicated as serving a role in a number of neurodegenerative disorders, despite the lack of sufficient clinical research. At the same time, there is rather entrancing evidence that low levels of vitamin D3 create an additional risk factor for multiple sclerosis (MS). MS is a dangerous condition when the immune system attacks the central nervous system and causes axon degeneration and demyelination. In many instances, MS is related to decreasing exposure to solar UV radiation. Some studies suggest that a lower risk of MS corresponds to high circulating levels of vitamin D3.

There is also certain evidence that vitamin D3 deficiency is relevant to Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. In particular, treating ageing rats with calcitriol prevented decreases in neuron density and reduced hippocampus shrinkage. These results imply that vitamin D3 could have a preventive role in treating neurodegenerative disorders, although more research into this area is needed.

• Vitamin D3 and COVID-19 Pandemic

Vitamin D has split scientists during the COVID-19 pandemic. While several studies have claimed that vitamin D and its forms can fight coronavirus, others argued that it was of no benefit. Nevertheless, the recent UK Government review has confirmed that there was a lack of sufficient evidence that the increase in the daily dosage of vitamin D or D3 could prevent or somehow treat COVID-19. A number of experts from multiple Government agencies, including Public Health England, examined different scientific studies from around the world. Subsequently, the selected team, introduced by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), made the conclusion that a direct relationship between COVID-19 and the deficiency of vitamin D and its forms was ‘not possible’ due to insufficient trials.

At the same time, certain studies have confirmed that many people getting COVID-19 do not have sufficient levels of vitamin D in their bodies. Moreover, the sickest patients are often deficient in vitamin D and D3. Still, the question remains whether getting infected causes vitamin D levels to rapidly fall down or whether the deficiency of vitamin D makes people more vulnerable to COVID-19. Therefore, NICE urges the UK population to take no less than ten mg (400 IU) of vitamin D or its forms daily from October till early March.

Arguments on the link between poor COVID-19 outcomes and vitamin D deficiency started to emerge as early as May 2019. However, the lack of gold-standard medical research remains the major problem. Only the University of Cordoba in Spain has conducted some serious research up to date. In particular, the researchers distributed high doses of calcifediol, also known as vitamin D3, to 50 patients diagnosed with COVID-19. There were zero registered deaths among the volunteers who received the vitamin. Nevertheless, however, two of the 26 patients in a control group without calcifediol died. Only one patient who took calcifediol was brought to intensive care, while half of the participants in the control group went to ICU.

Still, several scientists have denounced the study on the basis of small sample size, insignificant to make firm conclusions regarding the impact of vitamin D3 on COVID-19 patients. However, the study by the University of Cordoba remains the most promising on the subject up to date and corresponds to earlier research that eliminating vitamin D3 deficiency might cut mortality rates from COVID-19 pandemics.

The studies by Tehran University and Boston University have shown that hospitalised patients with COVID-19 with sufficient vitamin D levels were 51.5% less likely to die from the virus. The later analysis of 235 hospitalized patients with COVID-19 also suggested that patients with sufficient vitamin Dlevels had a particularly lower risk of falling seriously ill and requiring ventilation. Moreover, patients with an abundance of vitamin D experienced less inflammation. However, this study has also had certain weaknesses, such as taking into account such corresponding factors as smoking and social-economic status.

Currently, researchers from the Queen Mary University of London perform a randomized trial on the possible beneficial impact of taking vitamin D and its forms on patients with COVID-19. In October 2020, a group of 5,000 volunteers was tasked with receiving high vitamin D doses for regular consumption during the following six months. Experts will then assess whether the participants were at lesser risk of getting COVID-19 and developing a severe state of the disease during the winter.

• Vitamin D3 and Pre-Menopausal Women

Supplementation with a combination of vitamin D3 and omega-3 may have multiple health benefits on pre-menopausal women with vitamin D deficiency, say Jordanian researchers. Some studies also report a relationship between estrogen metabolism and vitamin D. The decline of estrogens during menopause results in a decrease in bone density, increased bone turnover, and elevated fracture risk. Musculoskeletal discomfort might facilitate mood disturbances, impair quality of life, and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Vitamin D deficiency might aggravate multiple diseases that occur during menopause. Taking into account that menopause and vitamin D deficiency generate risk factors beyond bone health such as affective, cardiovascular, cognitive, and metabolic disorders, all peri- and post-menopausal women should strive to obtain sufficient vitamin D status.

Older women, especially those who are not exposed to sunlight for staying homebound, remain at risk of vitamin D3 deficiency. Hence, women aged 19 to 50 ideally should take 15 mg (600 IU) of vitamin D on a daily basis. Women over 50 should receive a higher dose, up to 20 mg (800 IU). Even though it is possible to follow a diet rich in vitamin D, the best solution is still to take a supplement.

People should abstain from consuming cholecalciferol in the following circumstances:

• Allergic reaction to vitamin D
• Hypercalcemia (high levels of calcium in the blood)
• Hypervitaminosis (high levels of vitamin D in the body)
• Malabsorption (any condition that makes it difficult for the body to absorb nutrients from food)

Additionally, people should inform healthcare professionals if they have ever had allergies, diabetes, electrolyte imbalance, kidney disease, or heart disease. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also consult doctors on the use of cholecalciferol since too much vitamin D3 can potentially harm a nursing baby or an unborn baby. Parents are advised to abstain from giving cholecalciferol to children without medical advice.

Generally, no common side effects have been observed in therapy involving either vitamin D2 or D3. In most cases, side effects related to vitamin D result from hypervitaminosis D, a very rare condition that occurs in case of overconsumption of vitamin D. This is sometimes seen in patients who take megadoses of vitamin D, leading to vitamin D toxicity. Thus they build up dangerously high levels of calcium in the blood leading to constipation, frequent urination, nausea, and vomiting. When left untreated, calcification of organs and soft tissues can occur alongside irreversible renal failure.

Vitamin D regulates bone growth, plays a crucial role in immune function, and promotes the absorption of calcium. The human skin produces vitamin D during exposure to sunlight. However, when people spend most of their time indoors or live at high latitudes, they need to get vitamin D from their diet. Butter, egg yolk, fish oils, fatty fish, and liver remain the best dietary sources of vitamin D.

The most common forms of vitamin D in the human diet include vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). These two forms differ from each other according to their food sources. In particular, D2 mostly comes from fortified foods and plant sources, such as mushrooms, while vitamin D3 is only found in animal-sourced foods. Vitamin D2 is cheaper in production than vitamin D3. Hence it remains the most common choice for fortified foods.

Most existing studies suggest that vitamin D3 remains more efficient at raising blood levels of calcifediol than vitamin D2. Some scientists have even raised questions about whether vitamin D2 supplements were of lower quality than D3 supplements due to being more sensitive to fluctuations in humidity and temperature. Nevertheless, it is pretty unknown up to date.

Despite the lack of sufficient clinical research, vitamin D3 deficiency has been considered as one of the leading factors in a range of neurodegenerative disorders. At the same time, there is sufficient evidence that low levels of vitamin D3 contribute to an additional risk factor for multiple sclerosis. There is also certain evidence that vitamin D3 deficiency relates to Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease.

People should abstain from consuming cholecalciferol due to the following conditions: hypercalcemia (high levels of calcium in the blood), hypervitaminosis (high levels of vitamin D in the body), malabsorption (any condition that makes it difficult for the body to absorb nutrients from food), as well as an allergic reaction to vitamin D.

All kinds of vitamin D3 supplements are usually available over-the-counter. Hence the FDA prevents the production companies from making treatment claims. Still, vitamin D3 is frequently used off-label to treat hypoparathyroidism, vitamin D deficiency, and osteoporosis.

Generally, no common side effects have been observed with the use of vitamin D2 and D3 in therapy. In most instances, vitamin D-related side effects result from hypervitaminosis D, a very rare condition that might happen after the overconsumption of vitamin D. This is sometimes seen in patients who take large doses of vitamin D and later experience vitamin D toxicity.

Anastasiia Myronenko

Anastasiia Myronenko is a Medical Physicist actively practicing in one of the leading cancer centers in Kyiv, Ukraine. She received her master’s degree in Medical Physics at Karazin Kharkiv National University and completed Biological Physics internship at GSI Helmholtz Centre for Heavy Ion Research, Germany. Anastasiia Myronenko specializes in radiation therapy and is a fellow of Ukrainian Association of Medical Physicists.

In this article, we’ll take you through the reasons why it’s not too late to get involved with the CBD market. The CBD industry has been booming since 2008, and is facing worldwide expansion as a constant influx of new products and businesses continues to create opportunities for brand owners and investors alike.

If you’re interested in the CBD industry, you’re not the only one. Over the past decade, interest in CBD (and the entire cannabis plant) has dramatically increased, with decades-old legislation being altered and relaxed in order to meet public demands for hemp-based supplements. Far from the seedy reputation of recreational cannabis and illegal drugs, the all-natural compound known as CBD is constantly highlighted in recent studies for its potential to impact symptoms of:

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• Anxiety
• Depression
• Pain
• Inflammation
• Sleep issues
• Sexual issues

With such a widespread reputation and increasingly recognised potential for wellbeing, many people are curious to try CBD oil, edibles, vapes, or other products for themselves. The business-minded among you are probably wondering what CBD business opportunities are out there, while others are asking the question we’re here to answer: is it too late to tap into the CBD market?

The short answer is no. The CBD market is still growing, with many opportunities and niches undiscovered. While at first the primary products on the market were CBD oil, topicals, and infused foods, nowadays, everything from CBD suppositories to pet treats are readily available, with almost a third of transactions occurring online rather than via brick-and-mortar stores. Essentially, any product can be infused with CBD- which means there are still many opportunities within the ever-growing industry that are yet to be acknowledged by the broader market.

On the investment side of things, provided you put your money towards a trustworthy CBD company with a solid reputation, great products, and a good grasp on the needs and trends of the market, investing in CBD can be quite lucrative.

While past wellness trends have centred around weight loss and being intensely productive in order to perfectly ‘sculpt’ your body, CBD provides consumers with something increasingly valuable: a connection to nature. As we move towards a post-pandemic world, people are going forward with a healthy amount of self-reflection, leading to beliefs such as:

• Working too hard will lead to burning out, not material success
• Time in nature is more important than time spent on the couch

As a result of these changing attitudes, CBD is increasingly the talk of many towns (and cities) across the world. Within Europe, the UK seems to be leading the majority of market growth and demand, while across the pond, the US and Canadian markets are expanding- both in terms of demand and in terms of what is allowed by their respective regulations.

In this article, we’ll examine the main reasons why it isn’t too late to tap into this ever-increasing market, whether you’re thinking of investing in a company or starting a business all on your own.

The International CBD Market

There are many industries that CBD has conquered, such as:

• Food and beverage
• Health and wellness
• Beauty and skincare
• Self-care
• Exercise
• Pet food, treats, and other products

And many more! The wide-ranging possible applications of CBD mean that many business owners and investors with diverse industry experience are eager to dip their toes into the cannabis market.

The ever-shifting nature of the market can often make things complicated for those without previous business experience, particularly in light of constantly changing regulations set by organisations such as the FDA (in the United States) and MHRA (in the UK). Regulations can affect everything from the growth and distribution of CBD products to where they can be sold and how they can be formulated to begin with. Throughout Europe and the UK, CBD is only legal as long as the products are derived from industrial hemp and contain no more than 0.2% THC (the intoxicating compound found in cannabis).

Thankfully, many regulations across the board are relaxing alongside public attitudes, with more than half of the population in the UK and US believing that cannabis-derived products should be legal.

With some sources predicting the CBD market will experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 50% between 2021 and 2030, it’s worth looking at the world’s largest markets for CBD in a little more depth.

The UK CBD Market

Approximate market value: £690 million each year

In the UK, the CBD market is considered the largest in Europe, with one 2021 study even claiming that it is the second-largest in the world, behind the United States (which we will discuss shortly). The universities of Nottingham, King’s College London, and Aberdeen respectively all rank in the top 25 academic institutions when it comes to publishing cannabis-based research, making the UK prolific not just in terms of CBD consumption, but also paving the way with research.

The European CBD Market

Approximate market value: €403.4 billion

The recent expansion of the CBD market in Europe is primarily due to progressive regulations beginning to form across many countries throughout the EU- encouraging everyone from entrepreneurs to investors to get involved with the industry.

These relaxing regulations seem set to continue on their course, with Luxembourg announcing plans to legalise recreational cannabis (the first EU country to do so). Many believe that this may lead to similar policies becoming adopted throughout the rest of Europe, broadening the market further. While the stigma of recreational cannabis as an illegal drug may still hang over the heads of many CBD business owners and potential investors, the fact remains that such attitudes are becoming increasingly antiquated in the face of the ‘green wave’ sweeping across the world.

With a predicted compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of almost 70% enabling the market to reach an expected value of €3.2 billion by 2025 alone (according to 2021 industry insights from Prohibition Partners), the European CBD market is undoubtedly one to watch in the coming years.

The Canadian CBD Market

Approximate market value: $2.6 billion

Canada is often credited with having one of the most progressive approaches to cannabis-related legislation, having legalised recreational cannabis back in October of 2018. A report by the Brightfield Group inspected the Canadian Cannabis Market as a whole. They found that in recent years, cannabis (and CBD) consumption has grown both online and via brick and mortar stores, as well as more competitive prices that were impossible to maintain in a pre-legalisation landscape.

Lower prices resulted in an increase in sales, while the increased consumer base seen within the Canadian cannabis industry has gone a long way towards lessening the controversy that previously surrounded the cannabis plant. With adult-use cannabis rising by over 100% in 2020 alone (and predicted to continue growing in subsequent years), it’s likely that the stigmas which once surrounded cannabis will melt away entirely for future generations.

The Canadian cannabis market has used the head start of their industry to focus on building an excellent global reputation for:

• Excellent product quality
• Consumer education, loyalty, diversity, and care
• Building well-known brands

Currently, many Canadian cannabis companies are looking towards expanding their business throughout the United States, and even across the Atlantic in the United Kingdom or Europe.

The US CBD Market

Approximate market value: $3.5 billion USD

Hemp production was legalised on a broader scale than previously imaginable back in 2018, when then-president Trump signed the Farm Bill. While the United States is widely credited with kick-starting the ‘CBD trend’ as far back as 2008 (when it was first commercialised in California and Colorado), cannabis as a substance still experiences a complicated relationship with federal law. Regulations for cannabis and CBD products can vary hugely from state to state, resulting in complications for investors and business owners across the country.

The 2014 Farm Bill legalised hemp (and by extension CBD) for research purposes, however, Trump’s 2018 amendment removed this caveat- ensuring there could be a future for commercial CBD (and, further down the line, other cannabis products).

In the present-day United States, CBD products are primarily regulated differently from state to state. Still, they are generally considered legal- provided it is derived from the hemp (Sativa) strain of the cannabis plant.

By now, you’ve likely realised that regulations are still in their infancy from a global perspective, meaning that we’ll likely see less of a ‘green wave’ and more of a green explosion when international shipping and commerce is allowed to begin in earnest.

With this in mind, let’s briefly look into what is perhaps the most significant factor behind the rapid expansion of the global CBD market: why people are buying it.

Why People Take CBD (and Love it!)

The driving force in any market will be rooted in public demand for the product- the CBD market is no different. People love CBD for three main reasons:

• It’s non-intoxicating, so it won’t make you ‘high’
• It has a broad range of potential health benefits
• Scientific studies are beginning to provide evidence supporting CBD’s efficacy

While the benefits of CBD may include anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety, as well as possible pain-relieving and sleep-improving qualities, without consumer trust in the CBD brand, no business is likely to succeed. Each of the above reasons why people take CBD is tied into the other:

• People become interested in CBD because it’s non-intoxicating and legal to try
• When they are educated about the potential effects of CBD, this interest peaks
• Studies (and other scientific evidence) provide a trustworthy basis to reinforce their interest, and enable customers to make the right purchases for their needs.

People take CBD to potentially impact their mood, sleep patterns, and general wellbeing. People of many age groups (primarily between 21-35) are trying CBD for a multitude of reasons. General trends show that younger groups prefer to use CBD for their mental health, while older groups use CBD for pain and inflammation symptoms.

Rather than an antiquated picture of a ‘stoner’ from the sixties touting tie-dye t-shirts and fringe jackets, the average CBD user could be anyone you know, from the old lady next door who suffers from arthritis to a university student struggling under academic pressures. This broad range of benefits for most age groups and demographics makes CBD an excellent investment- and certainly more than just a rising trend. In a world where 25% of the UK population struggles with mental health issues like anxiety, and 35-51% experience chronic pain symptoms, CBD’s reputation as a therapeutic supplement seems more in-demand than ever.

This is reflected in the constant broadening of the market, wherein more and more products are appearing infused with CBD than ever before- from bath bombs to condoms and pet treats! With big-name brands like Starbucks and Coca-Cola looking into creating new cannabis-derived products, the expansion of the CBD industry doesn’t seem likely to stop anytime soon.

Why It Isn’t Too Late to Tap Into the CBD Market

So, with all the above in mind, is it too late to invest in the CBD market, or start a CBD business? Absolutely not! Here are six reasons why now is a great time to get involved in the world of cannabis products- whether it’s by investing in stocks, starting a business, or partnering with an existing CBD brand.

1. CBD is Legal (and Current Regulations are Relaxing!)

Across the UK, US, and much of Europe, CBD is legal. Not only this, but debates are fairly open regarding the use of cannabis as a whole for medicinal and recreational purposes. Most places have already approved of medical cannabis, with attitudes towards recreational use becoming more progressive as the industry develops.

The legalisation of CBD means that the compound is liable to continue expanding into other more prominent industries, such as:

• Beauty
• Food and beverages
• Pet products
• Skincare
• Mindfulness

And many others! Legalisation also enables the research of CBD, which in turn may open the door for more benefits and effects of the compound than previously considered. Further research will also reinforce the current efficacy of CBD, leading to improved consumer trust and repeat purchases.

Additionally, FDA-approved drugs derived from cannabis, such as Epidiolex, are often cited when considering the future of CBD legalisation. If CBD were to be similarly approved in a medical or pharmaceutical sense, it might carry implications for the treatment of symptoms of many conditions, such as epilepsy.

Research into CBD ensures customers learn vital knowledge that often leads to repeat conversions, such as:

• CBD is a legal, safe substance
• CBD may help with a range of health issues and symptoms
• CBD won’t get you ‘high’
• CBD is suitable for a wide range of people with many lifestyles

1. Increasing Demand for CBD Products

One survey by Alphagreen, conducted on 5,000 consumers, highlighted the fact that almost eight million people were already using CBD in the UK alone- and that was just in 2020! Worldwide, many have started using CBD products for everything from their general wellbeing to specific health conditions. Other interesting figures from the survey include:

• 42% of UK adults use CBD for pain relief
• 21% use CBD for symptoms of insomnia
• 19% use CBD for anxiety symptoms

While eight million consumers may seem like a large amount to begin with, when you factor in the idea that almost 30 million people throughout the United Kingdom live with symptoms of chronic pain, the industry’s potential for growth seems very promising. Indeed, with a predicted compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21.2% between now and 2028, the CBD industry’s growth reflects increased consumer demand for the compound.

It’s simple: as more customers learn about the benefits of CBD oil, many will be eager to try it and see if the compound may affect their wellbeing. As such, one primary duty for most CBD business owners is to educate their potential consumer base surrounding the truth about CBD and its effects. Once customers are adequately educated about the products, then they can choose the right type of CBD for them- from topicals to tinctures, full-spectrum to isolate.

As with many products within the wellness industry, while there is a demand for CBD, customers are also conscious of the quality of any compounds they’re ingesting or rubbing into their body. As such, many accept higher prices- as long as they receive premium CBD products in return!

1. Other Industries Are Placing Stakes in the CBD Market

If you’ve ever shopped for CBD, you’ll know why other industries are so relevant to the CBD market. CBD is everywhere, infused into everything from shampoo to your favourite food. Sectors that are closely entwined with the state of CBD are:

Many of these sectors have already grown, and show no signs of stopping anytime soon. By entwining CBD products with industries we already know are worthy investments, success is as certain as can be. Many CBD businesses have already figured this out, and have specialised in one kind of CBD product- whether it’s cosmetics or CBD mints.

CBD skin cream may soothe acne and tired muscles, while infusing the compound into your morning coffee can keep you calm through the caffeine buzz. It seems that, for every problem created by the modern world (sore muscles from hunching over a desk all day, anxiety from the general state of things, etc) CBD may present an answer.

CBD’s appeal as a natural plant compound, often grown organically, also eases marketing efforts- even as it breaks into new markets. Smaller niches of the CBD industry, such as CBD topicals and skincare, are still growing- and it’s worth looking into how businesses in any of the above markets associated with CBD are doing before investing in a specific business in any particular niche.

When other industries do well, the CBD businesses who are involved with them will see success- it’s that simple.

Additionally, it’s worth considering that CBD has only really been around in a commercial sense since the late 2000s. There are more products that may come to light as ‘cannapreneurs’ invest their time, energy, and creativity into exploring and creating new niches. While classic CBD oil generally remains the most popular product on the market, perhaps a new product no one has considered before will create an all-new ‘green wave’!

Steering away from the well-known qualities of CBD oil and into more niche products such as CBD coffee, tea, topicals, tinctures, and other products can help consumers see how CBD can fit into their daily routine. What’s more, with a never-ending amount of terpenes, flavours, scents, packaging, and other differentiating factors, it’s simple enough for CBD products to differentiate themselves from hemp-free competitors.

1. CBD Comes With a Wide Target Market

CBD oil (and other associated products) can appeal to people of all ages, genders, occupations, and interests. While its efficacy still needs to be solidified in the scientific world, anecdotal evidence is providing consumers with an extensive range of potential effects and benefits of trying CBD. Throw in the clever marketing tactics many CBD brands are already using, and turning a curious customer into a CBD lover seems simple.

CBD appeals to a wide range of people: athletes will use CBD topicals for recovery and symptoms of muscle soreness, while office workers may use CBD to supplement a sore back or workplace anxiety. Busy housewives may place a drop or two into their morning coffee to potentially help them stay on track with the day’s itinerary- there’s really no known limit to what CBD can help the consumer with, making marketing to a wide target demographic a challenging (yet rewarding) task.

With this being said, who’s actually buying CBD? When we look at the figures, we see that:

• Somewhere between 8-11% of UK adults use CBD.
• All ages (over 18 or 21, depending on where you live) purchase CBD products. However, the majority of purchases are made by those under 35.
• Those with a higher education are more likely to buy CBD.
• Men and women purchase CBD relatively equally (though in the UK, it is mainly females who dominate the market).
• Older groups are more likely to use CBD for pain symptoms, while younger groups tend to use it as a supplement for their mental health and anxiety.

With such an all-encompassing target market, the CBD industry is able to appeal to a massive range of consumers, which makes for a substantial business opportunity if you’re looking to get involved with the CBD market, or invest in a hemp-based business.

1. Most of the CBD Market Takes Place Online

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, industries around the world have had to adapt to increasingly-online markets, as brick-and-mortar stores are less and less viable. While this may seem like a bad thing (and for many industries, it is), the CBD market has made a remarkable recovery- pre-pandemic figures indicated that 27% of CBD purchases were made online, while many businesses never had brick-and-mortar stores to begin with.

The fact that so much of the CBD market takes place online is a massive strength, as many people also turn to Google to educate themselves about CBD in the first place. As a result, many CBD businesses are branching into SEO and content creation in order to educate their customers and establish themselves as authorities within their niche. While CBD is still making a name for itself as a legal commercial supplement, there is much opportunity to be found when it comes to cannabis-based education. For those with experience in content creation, tapping into the current CBD market could be an excellent move.

Recent data from Google Trends indicates a sustained interest in CBD over time- mainly from Canada, the UK, and Ireland. Social media platforms like Facebook, Reddit, Twitter, and Instagram have all seen CBD-related hashtags pop into existence (and cover the trending pages) despite guidelines forbidding paid advertisements for CBD brands. The online popularity of CBD may be seen as a testament to both consumer love for the compound and the power the internet has over this market.

1. The CBD Market is Still Growing

As research continues to be done, and the risks associated with recreational marijuana are no longer associated with CBD oil, the time is right to invest in the CBD market- before it is too late!

There are still many new types of CBD products to be discovered, marketing breakthroughs to be made, stigma to diminish, and overly restrictive laws to be rewritten. We previously stated that the CAGR for the global CBD industry may be over 50% between now and 2030- and that growth is likely to continue far beyond this decade as new avenues continue to open for everyone’s favourite cannabis constituent.

Final Thoughts

By now, you know that it most certainly isn’t too late to tap into the CBD market– sales are far from stagnant, interest is greater than ever, and there are still developments to be made! In a world where wellness is increasingly synonymous with returning to nature and calming down for a mindful moment, CBD seems set to conquer the market. Suppose you have the business acumen, start-up capital, or interest in investing. In that case, you owe it to yourself to investigate all the latest CBD business opportunities the market has to offer!

Anastasiia Myronenko

Anastasiia Myronenko is a Medical Physicist actively practicing in one of the leading cancer centers in Kyiv, Ukraine. She received her master’s degree in Medical Physics at Karazin Kharkiv National University and completed Biological Physics internship at GSI Helmholtz Centre for Heavy Ion Research, Germany. Anastasiia Myronenko specializes in radiation therapy and is a fellow of Ukrainian Association of Medical Physicists.

This article will elaborate on some of the more popular diets out there, illustrate how CBD works with the ECS to indirectly affect your appetite and even discuss how mood and appetite are more closely linked than you might think. The aim of this article is to look at the pros and cons of each popular diet, to encourage you to consider what makes a diet ‘balanced’. Despite the many fads, trends and dietary myths, we hope to debunk some popular-help beliefs and look at diet and nutrition in a compassionate, and non-restrictive way. With some added insight into making your nutritional palette a little more balanced, some information about how a daily intake of CBD might encourage a healthier palette and some facts on how a happier, balanced mindset (with CBD) can promote healthier eating habits without upsetting the balance of the Endocannabinoid System, this article hopes to educate, inform and reassure a wide range of people!

There’s plenty of scattered information on diets out there, just as there’s plenty of scattered information about CBD. And the two have often been closely discussed- since CBD, also known as cannabidiol, tends to have a positive impact on the way the body works by helping to modulate mood and appetite, it can be a useful supplement to keep us on track with our healthy eating habits. As it so happens both mood and appetite are incredibly important when looking at nutrition and diet. Appetite seems obvious enough- we need to find supplements which complement our dietary habits, allowing us to feel balanced, full and energised without suppressing appetite in an unhealthy way or raising metabolism to such a high degree that we end up binge eating to compensate. A regular dosage of CBD allows us to keep our appetites steady- its purpose is to modulate and regulate, promoting balance. And this sense of balance tends to infuse into our mood.

But first, what are some of the more popular diets out there? And do they work?

A ‘Healthy Diet’

The word ‘diet’ is often misconstrued as a fad meant to keep us either skinny and miserable or guilty for enjoying foods high in sugar and fat. In reality, the word ‘diet’ has a humble origin: it translated to the food that we eat on a daily basis. We can have a diet rich in saturated fats or a diet extremely low in calories- either of these are still defined as a diet. And it’s up to you what foods you choose to eat, restrict or limit in your diet.

Often, there’s no two ways about it: the type of diet best for you is often personal. It depends on your body type, what foods give you energy and what balance means to you. At Alphagreen, we prioritise health and wellness first of all- so we will never recommend limiting yourself in any way. For us, diets are just another definition of mindful eating- a healthy relationship with food means that it’s out there for us to try and enjoy, but nothing should be eaten in excess on a regular basis. Everything in balance and moderation is our motto; and anything more complicated than that should be talked over with by a professional dietician.

But for many, who want to make a personal ambition out of fitting a certain weight or keeping fit and healthy, specialised diets are the way to go. The ones we recommend in this article are heavily researched, typically healthy and tend to provide effective results. But before embarking on any diet, it’s important to check what’s right for your body, what makes you feel good and energised, and, most important, never to compare yourself to anyone. No matter what your body type is, you’re beautiful. And since studies have shown that your weight doesn’t directly correspond to how healthy you are, we think it’s safe to say that you don’t have to embark on a complicated, calorie-counting diet unless you really want to. Mostly, if you do choose to embark on a new diet, it’s important to still listen to your body’s needs and try to eat as intuitively as possible.

Ketogenic

A keto diet is a low carb, high fat diet. Aside from helping to lose weight, studies tell us that this diet is healthy for a number of reasons. For one, because is significantly reduces LDL (low density lipoprotein) cholesterol especially in people who naturally gravitate towards high cholesterol levels or are overweight/obese. It also raises HDL (high density lipoprotein) cholesterol- HDLs, or ‘good cholesterol’, are beneficial for you because they carry LDLs to the liver for breakdown. Without HDLs, LDLs are left to build up in the arterial walls, preventing blood, with all its nutrients and oxygen, from reaching vital organs. When blood can’t reach the heart or brain, it leads to heart disease or stroke- these are often caused by a buildup of LDLs in the arterial walls . Keto is also responsible for lowering blood sugar levels, preventing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and also lowers the levels of triglycerides which can be harmful when left to build up, causing something known as hypertriglyceridemia. There’s nothing wrong with a few triglycerides to keep our energy levels high. You might have heard of building up calories- these are what triglycerides do. Research tells us we want to be keeping triglyceride levels at around 150 milligrams per deciliter.

Since a keto diet is just a diet low carbs, it’s pretty flexible with the rest of the food groups. The principles of keto rely on keeping the diet 75% healthy fats, 20% protein and 5% carbohydrates. Here’s some the the more nutritional foods which are prioritised in a keto diet:

Seafood- fish and shellfish are often recommended for keto dieters, which is great news since seafood such as salmon, musselfs, sushi, squid, prawns and so forth contain selenium, potassium and B vitamins in varying degrees of abundance. Selenium, especially, is a valuable mineral. Research shows that a diet with more selenium can uplift the mood, improve cognition and help by quickening metabolism. Alongside this, the American Heart Association recommends eating seafood once to twice a week for a healthy heart. Fish and seafood tends to contain high levels of essential omega-3 fatty acids which are vital for a healthy heart, keeping immunity and energy levels up, keeping the skin clear and glowing and can also boost cognition, keep you alert and uplift the mood.

Vegetables- In particular, non-starchy vegetables (so no yams or potatoes) are absolutely encouraged in a keto diet. Since most vegetables are high in fibre (keeping the gut clean and healthy), tend to contain a wide range of nutritional vitamins as well as plenty of antioxidants. Green vegetables, like spinach and broccoli also oftentimes contain high levels of iron and folate- perfect to improve blood oxygenation, circulation, colouring and overall maintaining high energy levels. Since vegetables can be adapted and infused into a wide range of recipes, can substitute red meats, provide colour and can be chopped, seasoned and snacked on, it’s hard to give a reason not to eat them.

White Meat- meat and poultry is also encouraged- for high levels of protein to provide all that energy, B vitamins and some other nutrient-dense minerals. Since carbs do provide a lot of energy, substituting with meat (or even fibrous, protein-rich pulses and nuts with plenty of bulk, such as lentils or chickpeas, if you’re a vegetarian) is necessary to keep you satiated for longer. White meat has also been connected to good cholesterol and may provide some antioxidants. Keep your meat high quality and organic if you can.

Keto also allows for nuts and eggs and greek yoghurt (all great sources of protein), berries, dark chocolate and olives (to keep your sugar cravings level- also both olives and dark chocolate are full of beneficial antioxidants), and low carb alternatives to regular staple foods like zucchini or shirataki noodles. These low carb versions are particularly beneficial for those who find themselves craving carbs- they let you make all the dishes you miss, with a keto-friendly twist.

We recommend the keto diet for those who want a safe, flexible diet to lower cholesterol levels and aid their weight loss journey.

Vegan

A vegan diet is often purely plant-based- so no dairy and no animal products (including honey, eggs, chocolate and cheese). Since vegan diets are often rooted in moral and environmental concerns, those who choose to become vegan do so as a lifestyle- so many vegans won’t wear leather, fur or cosmetics which have a background of animal cruelty.

Diet-wise, veganism is pretty healthy– when done correctly, with the right range of foods to ensure that the correct amount of calories are going into the body, the vegan diet has shown to significantly improve heart health, lower LDL cholesterol and reduce chances of cancer and diabetes. Because of the emphasis on plant-based ingredients, research has shown that a balanced vegan diet, with the right range of plant-based nutrients, contains more antioxidants, vitamins C and B and might even help to improve cognition in the brain.

A vegan diet cuts out any animal-based products and replaces them with plant products.

Fruits and Vegetables- These are high on the vegan diet. Fruits and vegetables contain high levels of antioxidants, natural sugars, vitamins and minerals. Green, leafy vegetables such as broccoli, spinach and cabbage are also essential to keep calcium levels up and a hefty portion of soya (solid or in drink form) and unfortified cereal is recommended to keep B-12 levels high.

Plant/Nut Milk- Since the vegan diet is lacking in any kind of dairy, alternative milks like oat, hemp, hazelnut, cashew, almond or soya are recommended. They’re often infused with dairy, protein and, according to the type of milk, are typically high in fibre, vitamins and minerals.

Beans, Nuts and Pulses- For protein and fibre, beans, nuts and pulses (think: all types of raw nuts, chia, lentils, chickpeas, broad beans, green beads, red kidney beans and so forth) are essential to keep energy high, the gut nice and healthy and muscles strong. Since no meat or dairy product is allowed, a vegan diet must compensate for the dip in protein. Walnuts are an essential source of omega-3 fatty acids, which vegans don’t get due to not eating any seafood. Since dieticians recommend fatty acids are essential nutrients, it’s important for vegans to substitute what they’re missing in their diet with nuts and beans, which are substantial, full of nutrients and satisfying.

Oils- Since a vegan diet is devoid of omega-3 fatty acid, which is essential for a lot of things, from cognition to heart health, vegans are urged to cook their meals in flaxseed oil, soya oil, or rapeseed oil (also, these oils can be drizzled on a salad).

We definitely recommend a vegan diet if you want to help the environment while cutting dairy and meat out of your life. It’s important to keep protein and B-12 levels as high as possible, however. A diet rich in nuts, vegetables, pulses, beans and soya is essential for a good protein intake. Zinc, B-12, vitamin D, calcium and iron nutritional supplements are highly recommended to compensate for the few elements missing in a vegan diet. Vegan protein powder is also a great way to get energy levels going in the morning.

The raw food diet is pretty similar to the vegan diet- except many scientists recommend staying clear of this diet as a long-term thing. This is because many researchers do claim that the raw food diet can’t supply the right calories to sustain a person for too long- and articles elaborate on this, stating clearly to the general public that a raw food diet is an overhyped fad, sustained for so long by misguided beliefs that eating raw and unprocessed fruit and vegetables means that natural enzymes are retained and not destroyed by cooking heat. The raw food movement also claims that toxins are released when we cook food. In truth, many health experts state that this simply isn’t true. But before we begin, let’s actually look at what a raw food diet contains:

Fresh Fruits/ Vegetables- Basically any vegetable or fruit that’s not been cooked.

Nuts/ Grains/ Nut milks- Again, as long as it isn’t exposed to heat, nut milks are good to drink for extra protein and calcium throughout the day. Although nuts do contain some measure of protein within them, it’s hard to get your daily nutritional intake of protein with these, alone.

Raw Eggs/ Raw Meat- This one’s a little tricky. Since a raw food diet is one which allows only raw foods then raw eggs and meat can be eaten. Of course, in most cases, raw eggs and meat are unsafe to consume without thoroughly cooking. Unless it’s something like sushi or salmon which is safe to eat raw, meat and eggs, eaten uncooked, can contain harmful microbes such as Campylobacter and Salmonella which can make you seriously ill. Most raw food diets leave out the meat for this reason, making it a tricky diet to follow, as you can’t get all your protein content from vegetables, fruits and nuts. Since a lot of protein-rich beans need to be cooked for digestibility (and as the poisonous glycoprotein, lectin is present in all raw beans including lentils, kidney beans and chickpeas) eating raw or even undercooked beans is strongly discouraged.

It is true that raw vegetables tend to contain all their nutrients, which does get lost in the cooking process- but this decrease isn’t as much as the raw food movement might have you believe. Take tomatoes, for example- the staple ingredient in many dishes, from any type of pasta to a rich and fragrant curry. We can rest assured that, not only does the vitamin C content in cooked tomatoes only decrease by a maximum of 29% (within the span of 30 minutes) but studies have also shown that cooked tomatoes release a powerful antioxidant known as cis-lycopene- the levels of this antioxidant rise by 35%. This is an extremely beneficial trade off, since we get a lot of our vitamin C in a normal, balanced diet- many fruits, salads and even the chillies we garnish contain vitamin C. But, we are told, lycopene is less common in our diet.

Likewise, when it comes to the rest of the vegetables, from broccoli, peppers, spinach, brussel sprouts, carrots and more, studies actually tell us that steaming is the way to go, as vegetables release more antioxidants when cooked. Not just reserved for vegetables, cooking meat doesn’t diminish the protein content, and cooking eggs actually allows more protein to be better absorbed by the body- without any chance of harmful microbes sitting on raw meat and eggs to enter the system.

Typically, those who follow a raw food diet on a long term basis tend to suffer from nutritional deficiencies.  A study shows that 70% of women on raw food diets suffered from menstrual irregularities of which 30% got amenorrhea (when the menstrual cycle ceases altogether). Likewise, a pure raw food vegan diet is also linked to low fertility levels due to lack of calories, tooth decay due to an excess of acidic fruits, weak muscles and bones due to low levels of vitamin D and calcium, and extreme nutrient deficiencies.

So, we don’t recommend this diet- especially not on a sustained and long-term level. However, the raw food diet does draw on some useful nutritional statistics, such as infusing more fresh fruit in the diet to increase vitamin C, fibre and antioxidant levels or consuming more nuts for protein and healthy fat content. Likewise, eating more whole grains can improve heart health and steaming, frying or boiling raw vegetables on low heat for less time can preserve the nutritional integrity of a dish. Raw fish such as sushi, nilgiri and sashimi with seaweed can also be extremely beneficial to the diet, supplying a beneficial cocktail of omega-3, antioxidants, protein, magnesium, iron, iodine and so much more.

We recommend taking aspects and features of this diet that make sense to you and applying accordingly- fresh fruit as a dessert or wholegrains for breakfast can make a great addition to a diet. Make sure that everything is eaten in balance and modulation. Most of all, remember that there’s serious benefits to cooking your food- from enjoying something hot and restorative to killing those harmful microbes.

Paleo

Named after the Paleothilic era, this diet is based around a diet led by those hunters and gatherers who lived from 2.5 million to 10,000 years ago. A paleo diet consists of lean meats, fish, nuts, seeds, fruits and vegetables- which is simple and non-restrictive enough. The main food group a paleo diet excludes is dairy, grains, potatoes, beans and legumes. Since the paleo diet relies on a diet rich in the foods that hunters and gatherers ate, it pretty much rejects all the foods produced from farming- which is a relatively modern phenomenon. Paleo diets, much like keto, are pretty popular with those who want to lose or maintain their weight as well as those who are allergic to dairy.

Since the paleo diet limits refined sugars and saturated fats, many have claimed it to be a great way to a healthy, energised system. Since the diet focuses on protein, vitamins, fiber and minerals and keeps carbohydrates and saturated fats to a low, it’s considered effective to a point. It’s clear to see that, when balanced out, paleo might well restore energy,  infuse the body with healthy fats and, with a regular intake of fish and seafood, keep iron, omega-3 and iodine levels high. Since the nutrient levels in the paleo diet seem well-modulated, there doesn’t seem to be any harm in carrying out this diet. Connected to exercise (a paleo diet stresses the importance of activity- just as the Paleolithic people were often quite active)  weight loss, heart health, low blood sugar and high levels of HDL and low cholesterol, paleo has made a good public reputation for itself. However, despite word of mouth claiming that the paleo diet is pretty good for maintaining a healthy body, research can’t quite put a finger on whether this diet is as effective as people claim it to be. Many scientists state that paleo doesn’t have enough evidence to be effective nor has it shown any ‘real clinical effects’ in altering health in a significant way.

Here’s what the paleo diet contains:

Lean Meat- Including pork, beef, poultry and fish, a paleo diet stresses that these types of meat are essential. Since lean meat is typically low in fat, it’s considered the healthiest type of meat. However, that’s not to say that much red meat isn’t filled with salt and saturated fat- so best to keep the pork and beef at a low.

Game- Includes quail, venison and bison. Game, while not typically infused in the modern diet, can come nutritiously high, containing levels of iron, zinc and omega-3 and typically being low in fat. Game mostly always comes lean- but it can be heavily salted and naturally high in saturated fats.

Fruit/ Nuts- Typically high in fibre, vitamins and minerals, fruit is recommended in a paleo diet. Nuts are also pretty highly considered in this type of diet, which is beneficial since nuts have protein, healthy fats, fibre and calcium.

Eggs- High in protein, omega-3 and HDLs, eggs are allowed, in moderation.

A paleo diet will typically exclude artificial overly-processed foods, sweets, dairy, chocolate, cereal, cured meat and anything else which can’t be found in the wild. This makes the diet anti-inflammatory, nutritious and balanced enough to be followed with some ease.

Once again, we recommend consulting a nutritionist about trying this diet out if you feel it might benefit you. Since there’s not enough evidence to back this diet up, we recommend keeping it short-term and supplementing any missing nutrients- such as the typically low levels of calcium and vitamin D which are associated with diets. Since paleo revolves around eating a lot of meat, it isn’t suitable for vegetarians. And since a lot of red meat and game naturally contains fat, this diet shows best results when accompanied with regular aerobic exercise.

Because the way our mood is has often been closely linked to nutrition, mental health and nutrition have become mutually inclusive topics. Not only does good nutrition tend to make us happier, since diets with high fibre, healthy fats and lot of vitamins and minerals can reduce inflammation, promote an active, healthy gut (where a lot of the feel-good hormone serotonin hails) and make us feel more alert and energetic, a regular intake of healthy, nutritious food can make the body accustomed to feeling good, making us ‘hooked’ onto a healthy diet. This is because, when we eat better, we’re happier and more uplifted and so we tend to have a better understanding of what our body needs, eating healthier by instinct. This leads to us taking time to prepare creative recipes with a range of nourishing ingredients, trying new and nourishing food and drink and, of course, regularly providing our body with the right type of food to keep us going. Instinctive eating becomes a habit when we make a practice out of eating healthier, reducing our chances of skipping meals or over-eating. Another plus: paying attention to our bodily needs and nourishing ourselves properly tends to release more serotonin and dopamine in the system, allowing us to be happier- it’s a cyclical process which only serves to help, and not hinder, us.

So, what does this have to do with CBD?

Regularly taking CBD has been shown to be incredibly important in the two ways that matter when we’re embarking on a new, nutritiously-dense diet. CBD uplifts us, calms and curbs anxiety, and modulates our system, creating more balance in the body. Which is essential when we’re trying to stick to a diet, since balance and moderation is what it’s all about. With its therapeutic potential, CBD can do more for dieting than we might initially suspect.

The Endocannabinoid System

CBD can promote the body and mind into a relaxed state making it a fantastic restorative agent. From relieving anxiety to assisting in pain management, CBD’s influence on the body is varied- and while scientists are still figuring out what exactly CBD can do for us, one thing is known: CBD has some promising effects in helping the body regulate, moderate and balance everything, from nutrients to mood to perception and cognition. CBD’s positive effects on the body are due to its capacity to modulate the Endocannabinoid System (ECS). As a cannabinoid, CBD has the capacity to indirectly interact with ECS receptors which trigger the activity of the ECS. These receptors are dotted all around the body, cleverly placed in areas that, when binded to, promote chemical and metabolic processes which need to be processed to bring about regulation. It is because of CBD’s receptivity with the ECS that accounts for its potential as a health supplement. From being able to regulate our sex drive, improving sleep hygeine controlling appetite and regulating mood, CBD can be a great assistant to a healthy lifestyle.

The ECS is responsible for our body’s homeostasis- essentially, it balances out pretty much every process in the body. It controls the workings of the peripheral and central nervous systems to modulate processes- from regulating mood, immunity, temperature, libido, fertility, sleep, memory, appetite and so much more. To explain CBD’s relationship with the ECS in the best way possible, we must first look at three things which are required for the ECS to activate and regulate all the functions we tend to take for granted: cannabinoids, endocannabinoids and ECS receptors. As we’ve established, ECS receptors are all over the body (like little locks waiting for the key that fits). These keys come in the form of two molecules- cannabinoids (which are the molecules, THC, CBD and phytocannabinoids, produced by the cannabis Sativa plant) or endocannabinoids (the molecules provided by the body). It is only endocannabinoids or cannabinoids which can activate endocannabinoid receptors and trigger processes in the body. Day to day, the body releases the right frequency of endocannabinoids, which either attach to CB1 (in the CNS) or CB2 (in the PNS) receptors- when done correctly, the body should know when to release endocannabinoids to modulate processes in the body.

However, as with many complicated processes, sometimes things fall short and there’s not enough, or too many, endocannabinoids being released. Instead of balancing the body, we experience imbalance. This can trigger a range of issues, from low mood, cravings, skewing of cognition and mental clarity, sluggishness and so forth. Which is why CBD can be so handy- it provides a balancing boost to the ECS which can help us to restore ourselves.

Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t cause an intoxicating effect on the system- because THC tends to flood the endocannabinoid receptors, locking with them and causing all sorts of processes in the body to happen at an overdrive, it causes an imbalance in the system, throwing everything off. In terms of diet and appetite, when THC floods the system this can cause a major imbalance when it comes to what we crave- THC has been known to cause hunger (also known as ‘the munchies). Often this offsets any diet you might be on, since THC actively binds to CB1 receptors in the brain. Stimulating CB1 receptors does a lot for your appetite- from activating the basal ganglia (the part of the brain responsible for mood, emotion and movement) to making food more pleasurable to releasing the appetite-stimulating hormone, ghrelin. Since THC also has a tendency to stimulate the release of dopamine at higher concentrations, we get that pleasurable-reward feeling when we eat anything remotely sweet, fatty or salty with THC in our systems.

With CBD, things occur a little differently; first, it should be noted that CBD is incapable of changing behaviour patterns so suddenly, because CBD cannot actually bind with any ECS receptors in the way that THC can. Instead, CBD inhibits the breakdown of a major endocannabinoid- anandamide. In preventing the premature breakdown of anandamide, CBD in the system allows this endocannabinoid to bind to ECS receptor sites at a higher frequency because it inhibits the production of the protein (FAAH) which is responsible for disposing of anandamide. It is CBD’s indirect potential to increase concentrations of anandamide in the system that makes it non-intoxicating- CBD doesn’t flood the ECS and bind to receptors at a high frequency, bringing about a quick influx of imbalance and change. Instead, it promotes the activity of an endocannabinoid already present within the body. So without this imbalance, when we take CBD, we don’t experience any sudden change. And we certainly don’t get the munchies. But that’s not to say that CBD doesn’t change our appetite.

CBD, Mood and Appetite

CBD stimulates our ECS by increasing and uplifting the mood- which has a strong influence over the way we diet. Studies show that when people are happier, they tend to lead healthier lives- with the opposite also being true. Since sadness, anxiety and depression has been linked to instances of poor appetite, sweet cravings and skipping on meals, nutrition and mood are more closely linked than we might think. And, indeed, those who suffer from mental illness, such as depression in varying degrees of severity, tend to have essential nutrients such as fatty acids, certain vitamins and minerals missing- vitamins B-12, D folate, zinc, magnesium and iron and selenium are high on the list of missing nutrients. Since research also tells us that 95% of serotonin is produced by the gut (which accounts for why a digestive disorder might link to poor mood) a happy gut, nutrients and all, often means a happy life.

CBD improves the mood by increasing concentrations of the endocannabinoid anandamide in our systems. And lucky for us, having higher concentrations of anandamide can be extremely beneficial for the body. Research has shown that individuals who have more anandamide tend to feel less anxious and more ‘well’. Anandamide gets its name from the Sanskrit word ‘ananda’ which means ‘bliss’ (anandamide also goes by the term N-arachidonoylethanolamine, but we prefer sticking to bliss). We can discern for ourselves how beneficial having an endocannabinoid named after its positive potential can be- although we don’t have to. The effects of anandamide in the body have been largely reported as beneficial. Higher concentrations of this endocannabinoid have been shown to enhance the mood, lower anxiety and stress (which tend to stem from high levels of fear, which anandamide controls), an overall improved tolerance to pain, enhanced feelings of focus, mental clarity and, most importantly for this article, make it easier to follow diet and restrict cravings. Studies have also discovered that post-exercise euphoria can stimulate higher concentration of anandamide in the body, accounting for the post-workout high. This suggests that anandamide plays a large role in mimicking the feeling of endorphins rushing through the bloodstream.

Since CBD tends to improve the system, making a person more calm and centred, the principles of it go hand in hand with a diet that has all the important nutrients and keeps you looking forward to your next meal. Some of the diets we’ve listed are healthier than others- but, above all, if none resonate with you then that’s okay. Living your life with balance, enjoyment and energy is what we stand for, here at Alphagreen. And while some aspects of each diet might be well worth heeding, it’s important to follow a diet which makes you feel your best.

Above all, we stress that, while it’s important to eat healthy, making sure you’re listening to your body, indulging yourself (because you deserve to) and eating intuitively- with a measure of passion and enjoyment is perfectly fine…and perfectly encouraged! Pairing your daily supplement of CBD oil with a well-informed, non-restrictive and well-ratioed diet may be perfect for you.

Anastasiia Myronenko

Anastasiia Myronenko is a Medical Physicist actively practicing in one of the leading cancer centers in Kyiv, Ukraine. She received her master’s degree in Medical Physics at Karazin Kharkiv National University and completed Biological Physics internship at GSI Helmholtz Centre for Heavy Ion Research, Germany. Anastasiia Myronenko specializes in radiation therapy and is a fellow of Ukrainian Association of Medical Physicists.

You don’t need to look far to see how popular CBD has become. CBD is a fascinating compound that has made its way to the forefront of the health and beauty industry. It only takes a quick Google search to find thousands of CBD products ranging from CBD bath salts to CBD chocolate.

You would have most likely heard about the oral consumption of CBD through oil drops and edibles. But what about the new popular way of using CBD topically with creams, balms, and salves? Probably less so.

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In this guide, we break down all you need to know about CBD topicals, including CBD topical benefits, how CBD topicals work, and how to find the right CBD topical product for you.

What is Topical CBD?

There are a variety of different CBD products in the marketplace, varying from oil drops to edibles. With all the choices and wide variety, one of the most popular new options in the CBD marketplace are CBD topical products. When used topically, they provide external relief that is often hard to find in the natural supplement industry.

“Topical” products can refer to any cream, balm, salve, or lotion that is applied directly to a particular area of the body with the intention of treating that specific area.

Topical CBD products not only benefit the skin’s health and appearance, but may also provide localized relief for physical discomfort. In essence, topical CBD combines aesthetic and therapeutic benefits into one product.

Topical CBD, unless it is transdermal topical CBD, never actually enters the bloodstream. Instead, CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid receptors present under the skin. These receptors work to calm inflammation in the skin, or joints and muscles in surrounding areas.

When it comes to the topical application of CBD in oils, creams, lotions, balms, and serums, CBD is a recognized active ingredient and has been found to possess some beneficial properties.

CBD has benefits as an antioxidant and is known to fight “free radicals”. These cause damage to cells, proteins, and DNA and are responsible for the process of cellular ageing. Free radicals are caused by exposure to toxins that appear in our daily lives, such as pollution, fatty foods, alcohol, and smoking. However, while they are very harmful, they are unavoidable and part of the life cycle. Antioxidants fight against these free radicals and help prevent cellular damage. CBD is an excellent source of antioxidants, and when used as a skincare product, may help prevent skin damage and the signs of ageing.

CBD has anti-inflammatory benefits. When the body is injured, there is usually an inflammatory response. This response may cause swelling, pain, or irritation. If the cause of the inflammation is not resolved, it may begin to damage the body’s tissues and cells. CBD acts to reduce the symptoms and damage caused by inflammation.

Meanwhile, CBD is a skin conditioning agent. One function of CBD is the prevention of sebum secretion. Excess sebum, an oily substance, can cause common skin problems such as acne and dermatitis. In general, acne is a common issue that more than 9% of people face. Although acne is relatively common, it can cause us to feel self-conscious or anxious on a daily basis. It has been suggested that a CBD cream could be applied to prevent human sebocytes from creating the chemical in excess. Topical product ingredients will enhance the appearance of skin, keeping the skin soft, smooth, and healthy-looking.

How do these CBD products work?

Topically-applied CBD will never make it through the skin and into the bloodstream. The effects are localised to the area of application, and you will not experience all of the cognitive benefits of CBD. This is an excellent option for people who experience issues in localised regions of the body and are looking for pain relief.

When applied to the skin, CBD balms/creams work in a couple of different ways. The first is the physical action that is associated with rubbing it in our skin. The action of rubbing stimulates the nerve endings in your skin, which helps to mask underlying pain signals, so the sense of discomfort is reduced. When this rubbing action is combined with an active ingredient like CBD, which is absorbed through the skin, its benefits are amplified for reducing aches and pains.

CBD also acts with your endocannabinoid system. Endocannabinoids are made by your body that interact with cannabinoid receptors and help maintain a stable equilibrium in your body. If your body is not producing enough natural endocannabinoids, then these cognitive processes may become unbalanced, causing changes in pain, appetite, and mood. CBD is a source of natural endocannabinoids and ingesting them or applying them topically can restore a balanced equilibrium in your body.

CBD acts differently to the other abundant element in cannabis plants, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). THC acts by imitating the natural cannabinoids in your body and binds with the cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2, which are found in large amounts in the immune system. While THC binds to these receptors, CBD interacts with an enzyme called FAAH (fatty acid amide hydrolase). FAAH has a function in removing the natural endocannabinoid anandamide from the body. CBD stops this breakdown and helps restore balance on the body’s physiological systems by reducing pain, inflammation, or the number of toxins in a specific area. CBD’s ability to increase the number of endocannabinoids in the body is thought to be the reason for its therapeutic benefits.

The endocannabinoid receptors are abundant throughout our skin, including in skin cells, skin nerve fibres, and hair follicles. The abundance of cannabinoid receptors in the skin allows topical CBD products to have a localised anti-inflammatory, soothing effect. It also helps to stabilise skin mast cells, which release histamine and are involved in allergic skin reactions.

Why choose to use CBD topically instead of orally?

Rather than ingesting CBD orally, which will enter the bloodstream and take a couple of hours before you can experience its effects fully, topical application allows CBD to be absorbed directly into the area it is applied on for a faster and more focused relief.

CBD topicals are perfect for addressing troubled skin areas, such as irritated or dry skin. They’re also ideal for providing natural relief to sore and tired muscles and joints. With CBD oil topical application, you can massage the topical CBD oil right to the areas that need attention, directing the extract’s benefits to that spot.

What topical products are there?

When you are contemplating whether to purchase a CBD lotion, cream, or salve for yourself, you need to keep a few things in mind. First of all, you need to understand why you are using it – are you using it for irritated skin or muscle pain? 

There are different forms of topical products that are made explicitly for helping irritation or relaxation. It would be best if you then determined the strength and dosage that you will need to achieve what you are aiming for. You may only be looking for products that help you relax or for pain relief. Knowing what products are will help you pick the best CBD topical cream, lotion, or balm out there.

One of the leading causes of confusion with CBD topical products is the inability to differentiate between CBD balm, CBD salve, and CBD ointment. There isn’t a whole lot of difference that distinguishes between the three, but can be broadly broken down. An ointment is defined as a semisolid that is applied to the skin or mucous membranes. A salve is a balm or ointment that is infused with medication that acts through the skin. The medication, in this context, would be CBD.

The main difference between a balm and a salve is what composes the products. Studies show that a typical balm will consist of beeswax, butter, an antioxidant, and either vegetable or herbal oil. In comparison, a salve is usually composed of beeswax, herbal oil, and sometimes another vegetable oil. The amounts of each substance vary, leading to a different consistency. Typically, balms are thicker and harder, while a salve is much softer. Regarding CBD salves and balms in particular, for CBD salves, cannabidiol replaces the herbal and fatty acid components of the product. In addition, CBD salves usually last longer than balms and creams, which contain a lotion base.

Now, which one should you choose? Salves and balms have slightly differing targeted results. A CBD salve is typically used for pain relief in a specific area, providing a focused result. The targeted function means that those who use these products may experience the desired effects in a short period of time. In contrast, a CBD balm is ideal for use upon a more general area of the skin. It is easier to use when you’re not looking to target a specific area for relief. Balms can be conveniently used for a larger area of dry skin.

Overall, the difference between CBD balms and salves is relatively minor. However, it can make a big difference in the product that you ultimately require. With the right strength and formula, you may experience relief more efficiently. CBD creams and lotions are similar to balms, except they contain a combination of oil and water.

Another new option may be transdermal patches. A transdermal patch is a CBD infused stick-on patch that can be placed on the skin. These are designed so that the CBD held within the patch moves away through the skin underneath. This creates a continuous supply of localized CBD to the skin. Like other topicals, they provide a localized relief in the areas you need it the most. However, the major difference between patches and other topicals is that patches deliver cannabinoids to the bloodstream.

Most CBD patches are designed for pain relief. They have been shown to be more effective than other CBD delivery methods, mostly as they are able to deliver a more sustained accurate dose and to get straight into the bloodstream. This puts patches in a slightly higher category than even the best CBD topicals, in terms of their overall effectiveness. Transdermal application releases CBD slowly over several hours, as opposed to other methods such as oils and vapes. They tend to act within about 30 minutes and can deliver CBD for up to 12 hours. CBD patches are a perfect option for those who want a discreet way of taking their CBD in public, but are not conscious of CBD in their bloodstream.

How to use topical CBD

If you’re confused about how to apply CBD oil topically, here are a few helpful steps that you could follow. As topicals aren’t absorbed into the bloodstream, they only work in the area where you apply it on the skin. Therefore, it’s important to understand each area you are looking to treat. Here’s some tips when it comes to applying a topical CBD product.

1. Thoroughly wash the area you want to apply the product with water and soap. It’s essential to remove any oil build-up, excess dirt, or already applied creams from that area
2. Make sure you dry the area before application. This will guarantee there are no barriers between the product and the skin and will make the best condition for quick absorption
3. Start with a small amount of oil and rub gradually into the desired area. Allow the oil to penetrate the skin and apply more if the skin seems very dry
4. Let the oil absorb for a few minutes, and don’t cover it with any bandages or clothes, so it doesn’t rub off
5. Make sure to check the area for any adverse reactions, such as any itching, irritation, or redness

You should notice an effect on the area almost immediately, but it may be subtle, so you’re welcome to repeat the process if you feel comfortable. Your effects may last between six and twelve hours, depending on the strength of the product.

The process really is that easy. Topical CBD products are no more difficult to use than any other balm, lotion, or cream. Perhaps there’s no surprise that topical CBD products are gaining popularity, with such a simple process; people are already familiar with how to use them.

A buyer’s guide for topical CBD products

Now that you know how to use topical CBD products, which ones do you choose?

Shopping can be a stressful experience in itself. With the CBD industry growing like many others over the last few years, there are now hundreds of companies offering a wide range of CBD products. It has become so popular that, in fact, CBD is popping up in everything from bath bombs to lip balms and everything in between. With enough products to cover you in CBD from head to toe, it’s enough to confuse even the most experienced CBD consumers.

It is important for first time users to make sure that you get the real deal and not some low-quality product that may cause more problems than it claims to cure.

Whether or not you have been using CBD products for years or are simply looking to dabble for the first time, these few tips will help you become a CBD expert when it comes to shopping for your next CBD fix.

Always find the certificate of analysis

Ask the company for its certificate of analysis. This report tells you that the product has been verified in the lab by an independent third-party and will give a breakdown of how much CBD the product contains as well as its other ingredients. If they can’t provide them, don’t buy the product as it is unlikely to have been tested safely.

Make sure to read all the reviews before buying a CBD product online. Reviews can tell you a lot about a company and its products, as well as the type of customers that purchase them. You can use this to assess whether a product is of high-quality and cost-effective. Look for companies that partner with a review verification service to make sure the reviews are from genuine customers. Many of us, including myself, have often been fooled by fake reviews, and this is an easy mistake to make.

Be aware of “miracle drug” claims

CBD products are healthcare products, but not actual medication. CBD product manufacturers aren’t allowed to say that their product will cure a specific problem. If a company is making eccentric claims such that their CBD product can “cure cancer”, stay well away from it. False advertising is a huge problem area for the CBD industry. There have been numerous cases where manufacturers have misled their customers on the ingredients of their products. One study shows a massive 70% of CBD products have some form of inaccurate labelling on their ingredients list, so you really never can be too careful.

Have a chat with your doctor

It is never a bad idea to have a chat with your doctor if you’re thinking about trying a CBD product. It’s especially important if you have any underlying conditions that mean you take other medicines daily.

Getting some professional advice can also help you determine whether any CBD products will or will not interact with some medications that you are already taking. However, this is a bigger issue for orally ingested CBD rather than topical CBD creams, as they are not indigestible, so there is less risk since it is applied through the skin, but it is still never a bad idea to seek information from a professional.

Topical CBD products aren’t associated with any particular side effects. However, you may experience irritation or an allergic reaction from another ingredient in the product. The rare side effects of CBD reported, such as drowsiness or diarrhoea typically come from products that orally ingest CBD, not topicals.

To be safe, check all of the other ingredients in the product you are purchasing.

While the surge in popularity of CBD is impressive, it is still difficult to distinguish the real, proven information from fake news.

There are specific sources that often discourage new users from trying out a product and even spread misconceptions and lies. This misinformation is usually the root cause for people who shy away from trying CBD.

Because of its ties to THC and cannabis, there is still a lot of uncertainty surrounding some of the benefits of CBD. Trying to educate yourself on the topic can often be a challenging experience, leaving you more confused than ever and reading a lot more conflicting information.

To help simplify some of this information, we can bust some of the most common myths that people believe about CBD.

CBD is the same as THC

For those who struggle to tell the difference, this may clarify. Although CBD and THC have the same molecular structure, their atoms are arranged differently. As we know, an atom is one of the smallest things imaginable. Now you’re probably wondering, with such a microscopic difference, how different can CBD really be to THC?

The simple answer – extremely different. Let’s explain. As THC and CBD have different structures, they attach to different receptors in our body. We tend to have two different types of cannabinoid receptors in our bodies. THC binds with the receptors that control pain and mood. That’s why THC can give you feelings of ‘euphoria’ and a ‘high’. CBD doesn’t cause that same high. CBD binds very weakly, if at all, to these same receptors. In fact, it can actually interfere with the binding of THC and dampen the psychoactive effects.

CBD is addictive

The simple answer is no!

As previously mentioned, CBD interacts very differently with the body to THC. At the molecular level, CBD is neither addictive nor gives a ‘high’ feeling.

All types of CBD are the same

This is yet another common myth surrounding CBD products, which can often be compared and confused with one another.

When searching for products, you may come across different CBD terminology such as full spectrum or isolate. In simple terms, they define which type of CBD is used in that product. Each CBD type has its own benefits and may be suitable for specific conditions. Understanding the difference between these is essential for a first time CBD user.

Full-spectrum products contain all-natural compounds of the cannabis plant, such as essential oils, cannabidiol, and cannabicyclol. These compounds all mixed together complement each other to form the ‘entourage effect’.

In CBD isolate products, every element is removed to leave CBD in its purest form. There are little to no traces of THC. Finally, there are also broad-spectrum products, which forms a mixture of both. These products contain all cannabinoids in the plant just as full-spectrum products, but they contain no traces of THC.

Full-spectrum CBD is recommended for individuals who have more severe conditions, whereas broad-spectrum and CBD isolate products are the best choice for individuals who are trying CBD for the first time or those who have high sensitivity to THC.

There is no science that proves CBD benefits

The popularity of CBD over recent years has led to a significant boom in research on its benefits. Several preclinical research studies support the therapeutic effects of CBD. There are certain studies that have shown CBD to be effective in treating severe epilepsy and as a potent treatment for anxiety disorders. With dozens of clinical trials in the pipeline, CBD will likely be approved to treat more health issues soon.

But that said, a significant number of people use CBD products for health reasons that might never have supporting evidence. Only time will tell well which CBD health uses will be embraced by the medical system.

Taking more CBD is better

In short, this statement is completely wrong.

Taking higher doses of CBD might not necessarily be more beneficial. It has been shown that pure CBD isolate typically has a peak effective dose, where both extremely low and high doses are ineffective. The method that you choose to take CBD also affects how much of it actually enters your body. There may be cases where products with higher levels of CBD may be less beneficial than broad-spectrum products that contain less CBD but more of other cannabinoids and organic compounds.

There is still no industry-recommended dose for CBD, and with so many types of products out there, there is unlikely to be any standardized guidelines soon. When it comes to CBD, a user should find his/her own precise dose that will work personally for them.

Overall, CBD topical products offer a viable alternative to more mainstream CBD oils for pain relief and skin maintenance. Those who seek the greatest therapeutic benefit should opt for a more potent full-spectrum product with organic ingredients to get the most out of their purchase.

Although there is still limited information available about CBD’s effectiveness as a topical, most consumers report that these products are successful in relieving a wide variety of ailments.

CBD topicals will have a significant future in the management of pain and skin conditions like eczema. They offer external management of pain that most other supplement products fail to offer.

Anastasiia Myronenko

Anastasiia Myronenko is a Medical Physicist actively practicing in one of the leading cancer centers in Kyiv, Ukraine. She received her master’s degree in Medical Physics at Karazin Kharkiv National University and completed Biological Physics internship at GSI Helmholtz Centre for Heavy Ion Research, Germany. Anastasiia Myronenko specializes in radiation therapy and is a fellow of Ukrainian Association of Medical Physicists.

In a modern world of junk food, fast food and comfort food, some unexpected heroes have risen to new heights of fame and notoriety. They are the ‘superfoods’. Even if you’re not actively involved in nutrition, you’ve likely heard of them in the media. But when did these humble seeds, fruits, vegetables, and protein-sources gain recognition as so-called superfoods? What exactly is a superfood? You have every right to be sceptical of some food promotion tactics. After all, no one wants to be super-scammed. In this article, we’ve discovered that some superfoods have earned their super-healthy titles, while others are overrated.

Let’s Start With An Appetiser

Before we put superfoods to the test, let’s try to place them within a broader context of modern speech patterns, language and trends involving the word ‘super’. Advertisers have used this term to promote HD cameras and video games, along with the most highly paid models and pop stars in the entertainment industry. But where does the word come from?

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What Does ‘Super’ Mean?

The word ‘super’ has Latin roots and carries a meaning associated with transcending: going far above and beyond. If an apple were described as ‘super nutritional’ in the 19th century, the writer would have meant that it went ‘beyond the limits of nutrition’. In a humorously titled opinion-piece called “A Certain Word is Getting on My Nerves”, writer Teddy Wayne discusses how the usage of the word ‘super’ has changed over the past 20 years.

While it first began as an adjective to describe a wonderful person, place or thing, the word ‘super’ is now increasingly used as a substitute for the adverb ‘very’. In modern conversational English, speakers often replace statements such as “this apple tastes very good” with “this apple is super tasty”.

Super Branding

Did you know that ‘super’ can move seamlessly between English, German, Spanish, French, and many other languages without the need for translation? This observation potentially means that when marketers describe products as ‘super’, international audiences can easily understand what this means. As part of a broader marketing strategy, it might help advertise content on a more global scale.

Buzzwords such as ‘super’ may also enable people to communicate their ideas more quickly – in line with the popular group values and goals. Some scientifically-grounded nutrition buzzwords can be complicated for newcomers to understand (‘probiotics’ and ‘prebiotics’). While the title ‘superfood’ is undoubtedly accessible, it sounds more like a compliment than an official category. What do the facts say?

What Are Superfoods?

According to many leading food regulatory groups in Europe and North America, ‘superfood’ is a marketing term that lacks a credible, nutrition-based definition. As a result, it is a speculative category that some people use to suggest that one food source may be superior to others. This perceived superiority may relate to the food’s alleged nutritional value and potential wellbeing benefits. Modern dictionaries define superfoods as edible resources rumoured to promote health and boost the immune system. Typically, foods regarded as ‘super’ are plant-based (for example, berries and whole grains) or protein-based (such as natural yoghurt, eggs and salmon).

For thousands of years, people have intentionally used natural food sources to enrich their diets and create folk remedies for common ailments. The ancient belief that the foods we eat play a critical role in our overall health is still widely accepted in modern nutrition and medicine. When did we feel the need to identify some foods as ‘superfoods’?

Archival researchers have suggested that the superfood trend first emerged in the late 1940s, as part of a Canadian newspaper feature on baked goods. In the decades that followed, people used the term quite sparingly. However, by the 1990s, ‘superfoods’ skyrocketed to fame after becoming the subject of a popular diet book. Co-writer Michael Van Stratten recently voiced his disapproval of how some marketers are advertising expensive food products as healing and almost “magical”. Over the years, numerous companies have reaped significant financial rewards from promoting products such as noni juice, red berries and smoothies as superfoods.

Today, we still reference superfoods in diet culture, but food advertisers must tread carefully to avoid penalties.

Are Superfoods Legal?

This may seem like a silly question, but the answer may surprise you. Is it against the law to consume foods that people casually describe as superfoods (i.e. salmon, blueberries and spinach)? Definitely not! However, some of the questionable practices used to promote foods falsely are, in fact, illegal.

In 2007, the European Union passed a motion which banned manufacturers from using the word ‘superfood’ unless they could supply nutritional evidence. In Britain, the Food Safety Act is very particular when it comes to the correct labelling of food. It is against the law to misleadingly promote food products of any kind – from standard grocery items to food supplements like CBD oil. Similar laws are maintained in the USA and have led to false-advertising lawsuits involving some major Fortune-500 companies.

The Modern Food Industry

So far, we’ve learned that superfoods connect with more comprehensive discussions about the branding strategies that companies employ to promote so-called healthy foods in the contemporary marketplace. At this point, it’s helpful for us to explore some of the core principles at work within the modern food industry.

What is the Food Industry?

The modern food industry is a dynamic and vast international system of companies that generate profits by supplying a large proportion of the foods that we consume globally. Since human beings cannot survive without food, it stands to reason that the food industry is one of the world’s most influential trade entities. Historians suggest that the 18th-century Industrial Revolution triggered an initial shift away from home-farming; favouring mass-scale agriculture. With consumer culture on the rise, public appetites for a broader range of food ‘products’ also grew. Today, some aspects of the modern food industry are heavily criticised.

Is the Food System ‘Corrupt’?

Environmental commentators often discuss the food industry and its potential to operate detrimentally. Popular documentaries, such as “Rotten”, have boldly suggested that the current food system normalises environmental damage, wasted resources and dishonest practices. Is it reasonable to call an entire commercial industry ‘corrupt’? Perhaps not. However, there may be some possible causes for concern.

World Hunger

According to the United Nations, the food industry produces enough supplies to provide adequate nutrition for everyone on Earth (approximately six billion people). And yet, the world hunger crisis continues to persist. While many complicated factors contribute to this situation, many first-world ideologies value food as a commodity rather than a human necessity. As a result, some manufacturers go to great lengths to produce as much food as possible, to maximise their profits. Due to excessive production scales, it is not uncommon for food products to be sent to landfill while still in edible condition.

Potential Problems With The Mainstream Food System

Some recent observations released by the Food Foundation suggest that the following issues may be particularly problematic in developed countries like the United Kingdom:

• Junk food may be up to three times cheaper than so-called superfoods
• Some of the foods we presume to be healthy are high in sugar
• Potentially hazardous processed foods are widely available
• Over half of adults may be overweight in a way that could jeopardise their health

Changing Attitudes Towards “Good Food”

In the past, emerging companies manufacturing ‘healthy’ foods found it nearly impossible to compete with larger corporations. From a business perspective, this is relatively straightforward. Groups with access to more generous funds are often at liberty to designate a bigger marketing budget – potentially hiring celebrities to give their products visibility and a competitive edge. By comparison, groups with smaller marketing budgets are likely to be disadvantaged.

As a matter of public safety, many governments worldwide are actively promoting health foods as part of a balanced diet. Recently, the British Government launched the “Better Health” campaign to support healthy food choices and optimal wellbeing. Furthermore, supermarkets are under scrutiny for their potential role in helping shoppers to navigate healthy food options and avoid the temptations of buying unhealthy foods on impulse.

Superstars Promoting Superfoods

Recent studies indicate that one of the most successful methods to encourage modern audiences to invest in healthy foods is self-association. This strategy means that instead of sharing relevant facts and figures with people, marketers promote their products as part of a broader lifestyle that their audiences may personally aspire to, connect with or otherwise value. Superfoods such as pomegranate seeds and noni juice have appeared in recent social media posts from celebrities such as Kylie Jenner and Miranda Kerr – sending sales soaring.

While these examples illustrate marketing super-powers at work, they still leave many unanswered questions about whether superfoods are nutritionally credible.

Potential ‘Superfood’ Benefits

So far, we’ve established that the widespread practice of identifying certain foods as ‘superfoods’ is a relatively recent phenomenon. By definition, ‘superfood’ is a controversial marketing term connected with consumer trends and, in some cases, commercial opportunities and lawsuits. Often, people use it to denote potential health and wellness benefits.

As we know, there is no such thing as a single “cure-all” food. However, within a balanced diet, some foods may be beneficial. For the remainder of this article, we will review some of the most accessible foods that commonly appear in thousands of online ‘superfood’ lists. We’ll be focussing on factors such as:

• Antioxidant properties
• Essential vitamins and minerals
• Essential fats
• High-quality proteins

What is Nutrition?

For this article’s purposes, we’re defining nutrition as the process of selecting and consuming foods to satisfy our dietary needs and promote wellbeing. However, there is a whole branch of science devoted to this complex and vital subject – so it’s well worth connecting with a registered nutrition platform to learn more.

Since many so-called superfoods are renowned for their antioxidant properties, it makes sense for us to investigate this concept further. What are antioxidants? While the term sounds highly technical, we can break its meaning down into something more accessible. Anti, as we know, means ‘against’. ‘Oxidant’ means ‘an oxidising agent’, or a molecule that allows oxidation to occur. Let’s expand on this further.

What is Oxidation?

Oxidation is a process that continually takes place inside our bodies, as the oxygen we breathe triggers numerous chain reactions – particularly those involving ‘free radicals’. Put simply; free radicals are volatile and unstable molecules with incomplete sets of electrons. To achieve balance, they often ‘steal’ electrons from other molecules around them – creating a microscopic ‘path of destruction’. If this pattern gets out of control, it can lead to oxidative stress; a form of mass cell damage that may lead to chronic inflammation issues and other ailments.

How Do Antioxidants Work?

Antioxidants are unique molecules that our bodies can generate naturally in limited quantities. Antioxidants ‘donate’ electrons to free radicals at a chemical level while maintaining their own stability. Research indicates that antioxidants can help offset free radicals and possibly prevent them from causing excessive damage to surrounding cells and atoms. We may potentially be at less risk of developing oxidative stress if we have sufficient antioxidant levels in our system. Factors such as pollution and poor nutrition can increase free radicals in our bodies and trigger an imbalance.

Many people consciously choose to eat superfoods in light of this – mainly since essential antioxidants such as Vitamins C and E must be represented in our diets. Recent studies on this theme make the following suggestions:

Vitamins, Minerals and Superfoods

According to the National Health Service (NHS), vitamins and minerals are micronutrients: dietary sources that our bodies need only in small quantities. In general, they assist with cell maintenance and help to keep our bodies functioning correctly. Some vitamins and minerals play such a critical role in our health that we cannot thrive without them. However, all of them are helpful to some degree and failing to consume adequate amounts may result in some uncomfortable side-effects related to deficiency. While you can take food supplements to increase your intake of micronutrients, a balanced diet featuring lots of fruits and vegetables should provide you with sufficient vitamins and minerals.

Why Do We Need Fruits and Vegetables?

According to Harvard Medical School, some of the most widely-cited ‘superfoods’ are plant-based resources. Perhaps this is not surprising, given the growing popularity of vegetarian and vegan lifestyles in the modern world. Nutritionally speaking, fruits and vegetables are rich dietary resources which represent an enormous variety of vitamins and minerals. They are typically low in fat and calories, while their fibre content can support your digestive system.

In the past, people used to say: “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.” Nowadays, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has inspired campaigns such as the Five-a-Day movement – encouraging us to incorporate five different portions of fruits and vegetables per day. Interestingly, this scheme does not show any favouritism between plant products. However, recent statistics suggest that many of us may struggle to implement this in our daily lives. When we eat products described as ‘superfoods’, it can feel like an impressive accomplishment.  But is there any nutritional evidence to suggest that ‘super’ fruits and vegetables are better than others?

Assessing ‘Super’ Fruits and Vegetables

Let’s take a closer look at some of the popular fruits and vegetables that frequently appear on high-ranking ‘superfood’ lists. Are there any stand-out features that suggest they may be particularly praise-worthy?

Leafy Green Vegetables

When you were a child, your parents might have pressured you to eat your greens at the dinner table. Chances are, they weren’t just doing it for sport. In light of nutritional evidence, leafy vegetables such as kale and spinach are rich in iron, folate and numerous other valuable nutrients. Research also indicates that these foods may potentially:

Some commentators struggle to understand the hype around kale food products since most leafy green vegetables have similar nutritional profiles.

Legumes

The legume family mostly consists of high-protein pulses such as lentils and chickpeas – though you may be surprised to hear that peanuts are also legumes. Generally, these foods are rich in fibre and have a ‘filling’ effect when consumed. Is there any substance to the ‘superfood’ claims? Legumes are a staple source of nutrition in many countries around the world. In terms of their potential well being benefits, some studies suggest that this food group may possibly:

Avocadoes

In 2020, US avocado sales rose to an annual sum of $169 million (that’s roughly £124 million)! These fruits have become so trendy within popular culture that fashion companies have designed clothes and cosmetics in their honour. In a nutshell, avocadoes are high in demand. They may also be high in nutritional content and a promising source of Vitamin E, potassium and other minerals. Researchers suggest that consuming avocadoes may potentially be associated with:

Superfoods’ As Sources of Essential Fats

Contrary to popular diet culture myths, ‘healthy’ (unsaturated) fat is an irreplaceable component of a balanced diet. Fat needs to be adequately represented in our nutrition for our bodies to absorb specific fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamins A, D and E. Popular foods such as cheese and cakes are high in fat. However, people do not consider them as ‘superfoods’. Interestingly, other high-fat foods such as nuts and plant oils are often praised for their potential health benefits. As we will go on to learn, not all fats are equal.

According to the British Heart Foundation, it is best to prioritise unsaturated fats and keep your intake of saturated fats to a minimum. At a chemical level, saturated fats consist of tightly packed molecules that are solid at room temperature and may potentially be challenging to digest. Saturated fats are most commonly associated with animal products, while unsaturated (‘healthy’) fats generally come from plant-based sources. As a rule of thumb, unsaturated fats are liquid at room temperature.

Here are some significant, research-driven suggestions regarding dietary fats:

‘Super’ Fats

Let’s examine some high-fat ‘superfoods’ sourced from plants. Please keep in mind that the avocados we reviewed earlier may also be relevant in this capacity.

Nuts

If you ever see chocolate-coated peanuts promoted as ‘superfoods’, there may be a reason to be sceptical. However, nuts ranging from almonds and pecans to cashews and pistachios are widely cited as sources of healthy fats and nutrients – provided that you do not suffer from a nut allergy. So far, research suggests that nuts may potentially nourish your body by:

As part of the traditional Mediterranian diet, olive oil has received considerable attention in recent years due to its potential health benefits. Often, manufacturers promote extra virgin oil as the most potent variety, since it is cold-pressed from fresh olives. Aside from its broad culinary uses, it also appears in cosmetics as a “skin-loving” ingredient. So, why is olive oil good for you?

Research suggests that olive oil may be an exceptional choice due to its:

Small but mighty, hemp seeds come from the hemp plant – a non-intoxicating subspecies of cannabis Sativa. People have used hemp seeds as an accessible food source for centuries, but only in more recent years have we become aware of their impressive potential benefits. Those who classify hemp seeds as superfoods may be motivated by studies which suggest that they may possibly offer:

For the full profile, consider reading our ultimate guide to hemp seeds.

High Protein Foods

Besides carbohydrates and fats, proteins are also essential macronutrients – which means they should be one of our main diet priorities. Proteins are made of chemical building blocks called amino acids and enable a wide variety of critical processes to take place within our bodies: impacting our immune health, cell structures, internal signals and metabolism. I’m sure we can agree that these are essential functions. However, some high-protein foods (such as red meat) are also high in saturated fat, making them less eligible for the elite ‘superfood’ status.

Is Red Meat Unhealthy?

Most animal products are high in protein. However, some studies indicate that the excessive consumption of meat, dairy and eggs may potentially carry some significant health risks. Some researchers have chosen to focus on red meat in particular – suggesting that people may benefit from limiting their consumption of beef, lamb and other such products. Red meat remains a topic of debate, as contrasting reports indicate that it may possibly:

What are Lean Proteins?

As the name suggests, lean proteins are high-protein, low-fat foods, especially in their saturated fat content. Many people choose to incorporate these foods (such as turkey or tofu) into their diets to consume protein while avoiding potentially harmful fats. Research indicates that protein deficiency is quite rare in the Western world, but, as we have discovered, many of us may benefit from restricting our intake of saturated fats. In this context, lean proteins may be an attractive and low-calorie option.

Popular ‘Super’ Proteins

Several so-called superfoods fall into the lean protein category. Some are animal products, while others are plant-based alternatives. Let’s look at some of the leading contenders from a nutritional perspective.

Oily Fish (Salmon)

How can an oily fish like salmon be classified as “lean”? While salmon is high in essential fatty acids, it is low in saturated fat. This distinction may make it an ideal source of protein. Salmon is also rich in minerals and vitamins such as A, B and D. Researchers attribute its natural pink colour to various antioxidants. Studies suggest that salmon may be a nutrient-rich food source due to its:

Eggs

Eggs are high in cholesterol, yet many still consider them ‘superfoods’. Whites are high protein, while egg yolks contain a small amount of fat – along with plenty of fat-soluble nutrients such as vitamin D and B2. People on extremely low-diets may choose to eat only egg whites, but researchers suggest that eggs may offer some unique benefits as whole foods. Studies indicate that eggs could possibly provide us with:

Nowadays, some of the products described as yoghurts are sugary enough to be desserts. This is not the case with natural, or ‘Greek’, yoghurt. As a widely-cited ‘superfood’, natural yoghurt is a fermented product that is high in protein and contains “friendly” bacteria which may potentially benefit our digestive systems. Plant-based yoghurts are also available, but they may not have the same ‘probiotic’ (“friendly” bacteria) potential. Studies suggest that natural yoghurt and other fermented dairy products may possibly:

Grains are typically a great source of complex carbohydrates, but some are also high in protein. Whole grains such as oats, barley, quinoa, and chia seeds are often referred to as ‘ancient’ grains because our ancestors consumed them thousands of years ago. There is a wealth of research material on individual grain species, but we will focus on the category as a whole for the sake of convenience. Some research suggests that ancient grains may offer the following potential benefits:

The Importance of Healthy Meals

It’s incredible how much research explores the foods we often take for granted, isn’t it? So far, we have reviewed a broad range of popular ‘superfoods’ in light of academic studies. At this point, it is safe to say that the emerging evidence is very impressive. However, before we present some concluding thoughts on superfoods, it is vital to place this discussion within the context of a balanced diet.

As we know, most things in life that are worth pursuing require a level of personal consistency and dedication. Your eating is no different. The original meaning of the word ‘diet’ is “manner of living” – the regular habits we maintain each day. Many nutritionists have proposed that a balanced diet consistently provides your body with the nutrition it needs to thrive. This meal planning includes carbohydrates, fat, protein, vitamins, minerals, fibre and plenty of water! Consuming ‘superfoods’ from time to time cannot compensate for poor overall nutrition, but they may complement a broader ‘clean eating’ strategy that focuses on natural foods and wellness.

Are Superfoods Really Super Healthy?

Let’s revisit the question that we put forward at the beginning of this article. As we’ve learned, it is best to do some research before buying into trending ‘superfoods’. The concept is generally not approved by nutritionists, and there have been some instances of manufacturers using the word ‘superfood’ to mislead consumers and inflate prices.

However, many of the whole foods we casually identify as superfoods seem to conform to national healthy eating guidelines. Some may potentially help to meet our bodies’ dietary needs in a powerful way – provided that we eat them regularly and as part of a balanced lifestyle. Evidence suggests that numerous foods may possess superior antioxidant properties and a fuller profile of nutrients when compared with others. Thus, consuming evidence-backed ‘superfoods’ may potentially offer some wide-ranging health benefits connected with symptoms of inflammation, diseases, deficiencies and many more possibilities. If you’re hungry for more, why not browse our curated superfoods section?

Disclaimer

Like all of our Alphagreen Academy content, this article intends to educate and empower your consumer choices. We cannot provide you with any medical advice regarding ‘superfoods’ and their potential benefits. Consequently, we highly recommend that you discuss any dietary concerns you have with a qualified health practitioner, such as your doctor.

Verified by a Healthcare Professional

Anastasiia Myronenko

Anastasiia Myronenko is a Medical Physicist actively practicing in one of the leading cancer centers in Kyiv, Ukraine. She received her master’s degree in Medical Physics at Karazin Kharkiv National University and completed Biological Physics internship at GSI Helmholtz Centre for Heavy Ion Research, Germany. Anastasiia Myronenko specializes in radiation therapy and is a fellow of Ukrainian Association of Medical Physicists.

Cocktails help to enjoy a rich mix of alcoholic and plant-based ingredients and relax. With the rise in popularity of CBD products, many brands have begun offering CBD-infused spirits, and bartenders offer CBD-infused cocktails in the bars. Depending on CBD type, it may complement the taste of the cocktail or just add some CBD-related benefits. CBD-infused cocktails provide a soothing and relaxing effect. CBD oils and tinctures blend well in the cocktail and may intensify the effect of alcohol. Although CBD is well-tolerated, it may cause some side effects. CBD cocktails may also cause some alcohol-related effects; therefore, we recommend mindful consumption. If you want to avoid alcohol, you may try CBD soft drinks or mocktails.

Introduction

Cocktails are a great way to relax and unwind after a busy day. With the latest trend on wellness and all-natural supplements, no wonder that cannabidiol, a compound found in hemp and hemp-derived products, has been creeping its way onto cocktail menus and behind the bar. Since many countries began legalising cannabis, mixing alcohol and cannabis is a growing trend. There are many ways to enjoy cannabis-infused liquor, ranging from CBD-infused cocktails to alcohol-free cannabis-infused beer. According to a report by Grand View Research, Inc., the global cannabis beverages market size aims to reach USD 2.8 billion by 2025 with a prevalence of non-alcoholic drinks. This means that the CBD beverage industry is skyrocketing.

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CBD virgin and alcoholic cocktails are a fun and easy way to experiment with a popular cannabis chemical and offer your guests a unique beverage. Besides its potential to alleviate discomfort, CBD may promote relaxation and calm the mind. Let’s dive deeper into the relaxing world of cocktails and mocktails, but first, we need to know why to add CBD.

What is CBD?

CBD is a phytocannabinoid found in some strains of cannabis. This compound accounts for up to 40 per cent of the cannabis plant, which makes it one of the most prevalent chemical compounds. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), another cannabis compound, CBD cannot get you high. Studies show that CBD can impact physiological processes in our body through interaction with cannabinoid receptors of the endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system is responsible for the inner balance. By interacting with the endocannabinoid system, CBD may benefit our well-being. Due to its potentially nutritious properties and non-intoxicating effect, CBD is a popular wellness ingredient that may help keep our bodies balanced and running efficiently. This is one of the reasons for the popularity of CBD beverages and CBD cocktails. 

What are CBD Cocktails?

CBD cocktails contain CBD oil or tincture mixed with alcohol, such as gin, bourbon, or rum. Alternatively, it may also combine well with non-alcoholic juices and extracts. Pure CBD has a grassy or earthy taste that allows CBD oil to blend in cocktails with a bold aroma. Bartenders can mix CBD products with other cocktail’s ingredients with a cocktail shaker or stir in the CBD product. They may also add a couple of CBD tincture or oil drops to the top of a completed beverage as an aromatic garnish. 

Cannabinoids are hydrophobic, which means they do not dissolve in water. That may be confusing. How, in this case, does CBD infuse in liquid? What’s more, is there any real effect?

Considering that it doesn’t mix well in water, CBD may need another agent to help it dissolve. Additionally, the effectiveness of CBD oils and tinctures depends on how one consumes them. To absorb the most CBD, experts recommend keeping these products under the tongue for 30-60 seconds. If you consume it like water or food, most of it will be metabolised in your gut and then processed by liver enzymes, breaking down most CBD.

Infused beverages may improve this consumption method by adding water-soluble CBD. Alternatively, you may see an improvement using emulsion techniques present in the culinary and pharmaceutical industries, such as nanoemulsion. 

Does CBD Have Any Side Effects?

Cannabis experts consider CBD a safe and well-tolerated compound. However, some people may report side effects, especially if they take CBD in high doses. Some common symptoms include appetite changes, dry mouth, diarrhoea, changes in mood, dizziness, drowsiness and nausea.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should avoid CBD as the potential risks to a baby’s development are unclear. CBD may also get through the placental barrier. CBD may interact with some medications, including drugs used to treat epilepsy, antidepressants, and migraine. If you are considering taking CBD products and have any concerns, consult with your healthcare provider to ensure that it is the right option for you. 

CBD Beverage Benefits

If not over drinking, a mix of CBD and alcohol may be beneficial. Besides pleasing your taste buds, here are some other benefits of CBD cocktails.

May Promote Relaxation 

Indeed, cocktails help to unwind after a tedious day. An addition of CBD to cocktails may promote relaxation and calm your mind.

May Improve Rest

A couple of cocktails may impact your ability to rest, including disturbing your dreams. A bit of CBD drink might regulate your rest patterns and promote nighttime relaxation.

May Improve CBD Absorption

If you take CBD capsules or edibles, it may take time to feel the effect as it goes through the gut. However, CBD mixed with liquid starts absorbing in your mouth, giving you quick relief.

Are CBD Cocktails Legal? 

The legality of CBD products varies per country. In the US, the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill reclassified hemp as an industrial crop. This means that hemp and its derivatives are legal to make, transport, sell and consume, providing the THC content does not exceed 0.3%. 

In the EU and the UK, the legal amount of THC is 0.2%. However, when it comes to CBD foods and drinks, things become trickier. For example, in some areas of the US, CBD is illegal in beverages, foods, and any other form of consumable product. As each country and state has its own rules, you should check local regulations before buying CBD oil or CBD-infused drinks.

Will CBD Cocktails Get Me High? 

CBD products do not cause a “high” effect. They are free from the intoxicating and psychotropic compound known as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Some CBD types, such as full-spectrum, contain THC traces in amounts that are not enough to cause “high”.

Is CBD a Remedy for Hangovers?

Being an all-natural and non-toxic compound, some people assume CBD may alleviate the symptoms of a hangover caused by drinking too much alcohol. However, there is no evidence that CBD may ease hangover-related symptoms. Still, the best way to prevent hangovers is to drink alcoholic beverages mindfully or avoid them. The best remedies include rehydration and proper rest.

CBD products may provide relaxing effects when taken daily. Although CBD infused cocktails may not cause all the alleged well-being properties of CBD, it is a fun way to enjoy a new taste of your favourite cocktails.

Tailor Your Perfect CBD Cocktail

Now you know the CBD may be a valuable and tasty ingredient in a cocktail. However, there are some rules on unleashing its potential to enjoy all its benefits. Keep reading and tailor your perfect CBD drink.

Should I Use CBD Oil or CBD Tincture for My Cocktails?

The good news is that you can use both products for different tasting experiences. CBD oil is oil-based, while CBD tinctures are alcohol-based. This means that they mix into the cocktail differently and provide different flavours. 

CBD oil is the dense and thick botanical extract that mixes CBD with a carrier, such as a coconut or hemp oil. As oil is less dense than water, it tends to stay on top of the cocktail, which can be great if you don’t mind seeing and smelling the oil while taking a sip. However, in this case, some oil can stay at the bottom of your glass when you finish the drink. It may also integrate into the upper layer of a cocktail with foam or head on it, such as a whiskey sour. 

CBD tinctures come in a liquefied form by diluting CBD oil into alcohol. Tincture mixes in a drink seamlessly, just like alcohol, which means you get every drop of it. For that reason, bartenders and mixologists prefer using CBD tinctures for CBD cocktails. CBD oils and tinctures may also contain different types of CBD and other ingredients, such as peppermint or orange oil, that will affect the flavour and taste of the drink.

What’s the Right Dose of CBD for a Cocktail?

The CBD dosage differs from one person to another, and there is no universal dosage of CBD as it depends on personal needs and preferences. Usually, CBD brands recommend adding 15-25 mg of CBD and increasing or decreasing this dose as you try it. You should remember that combining cannabis and alcohol can intensify their effects. Therefore, when mixing your first cocktail, you should “start low and go slow” with a dosage rule to be on the safe side. A CBD drink does not cause an immediate effect. However, if you go too easy with CBD content, you may end up feeling too sleepy.

You may also want to consider the dosage of other CBD products that you may take regularly. The general recommendation is not to exceed 70 mg of CBD a day.

How Does CBD Affect the Taste of the Cocktail?

CBD tincture or oil may change the taste of the cocktail depending on:

• the type of CBD (isolate, broad-spectrum or full-spectrum);
• additional ingredients in the product, such as flavourings.

Oils may have varying intensities of cannabis flavour, ranging from no taste to a nutty and earthy flavour associated with the plant. The flavour also depends on the CBD type. Some brands make CBD-rich cocktails with CBD isolate, which is flavourless and does not affect the taste or flavour. Also, CBD isolate is free from THC and other plant compounds. That’s an easy way to infuse the cocktail with the power of CBD without changing its taste. Broad-spectrum or full-spectrum CBD are aromatic due to the presence of terpenes. However, terpenes can be added to any CBD oil or tincture regardless of CBD type or directly to the spirit through infusion.

CBD may also enhance flavours of ingredients with similar qualities like basil, hops, mint, and matcha, or just provide a unique flavour to a cocktail with vegetal notes. It pairs well with flavour-rich seasonal ingredients, such as apples, pumpkin, and herbs, including mint and rosemary.

You can experiment with different CBD products to find the perfect match. For example, when mixing the iconic Cosmopolitan, you can add orange CBD tincture to cranberry and lime juice for an ideal citrus kick.

What Spirits Work Better with CBD than Others? 

There are different approaches to using alcohol for CBD cocktails. Some prefer mixing CBD with spirits of bold flavours, such as tequila and bourbon. A pure CBD oil, such as full-spectrum CBD, will be a great addition to gin and amaro-based cocktails due to its earthy and plant-like flavour. Also, it may add a viscous mouthfeel to a cocktail. You can think of mixing CBD into coffee liqueur, Campari, Chartreuse, as their intense flavours may complement cocktails with herbal notes and pair well with the earthiness of cannabis products. 

It is also worth considering the ABV, or “alcohol by volume”, which indicates the amount of alcohol per given volume of an alcoholic beverage. The more alcohol in the drink, the more you’ll be affected by it, and the less you’ll feel the effects of the CBD. Therefore, some prefer mixing CBD with low-ABV spirits, such as vermouths and sherries, which complement calming effects of CBD. On the other hand, too much CBD may potentially make you a little sleepy.

In case you feel that the taste of CBD overpowers the other flavours, you may integrate it with a spirit with a dominant flavour, such as tequila, mezcal, or bourbon. Whiskey enthusiasts may also add CBD to the combination. The bold flavour of whiskey mixes well with a full-spectrum CBD.

Since CBD is free from THC, it will not cause any “high” or mind-altering effects. However, it may still provide some non-trippy effects, such as sedation and relaxation. Although the typical amount of CBD in cocktails is not enough to offer potent therapeutic benefits, it may elicit soothing and relaxing effects. It’s no surprise that CBD cocktails are becoming so popular. The result may vary depending on the strain of cannabis. Experts believe Cannabis sativa strains might have uplifting effects, while they often link cannabis indica to total relaxation.

Are There Any Vegan Cocktails?

Finding vegan cocktails and alcohol may be challenging. Many unflavored spirits are vegan. Among them are brandy, whiskey, gin, rum, tequila, and vodka. However, there may be exceptions. Unfortunately for people avoiding animal products, flavoured liquors may contain non-vegan ingredients, such as milk, cream, eggs and honey. Potential non-vegan cocktails are coffee cocktails, honey-flavoured spirits and dessert cocktails. 

As for wines, if the beverage uses animal-based fining agents, then the wine is considered non-vegan. Some wineries use animal products for fining, such as casein, gelatin, or albumin. Additionally, carmine, a red dye produced from insects, may also be added to wine as a colourant.  That said, there are vegan wines available which use clay-based fining agents, such as bentonite or proteins received from wheat, corn, or other plants.

As for beer, it contains just four ingredients, including water, barley or wheat, hops and yeast. All these ingredients are vegan. However, some breweries may use non-vegan ingredients to purify and add flavour or colour. These ingredients include gelatin as a fining agent or lactose, and honey added with the other ingredients.

Here is how to ensure that the spirits are vegan:

• Search for vegan symbols on the label. Some brands indicate that their alcohol is vegan-friendly.
• Look for allergen statements. Animal-based ingredients, such as milk or eggs, can be found on the label among potential allergens.
• Ask the producer. You can check the company websites to ensure their alcoholic products are vegan or contact the manufacturer via contact information.

How to Choose Good-Quality CBD Oils and Tinctures?

Choosing the best CBD products depends on several factors. Here is what is essential to keep in mind:

• Check for the certificate of analysis (COA). This document ensures that CBD products are free from harmful residues and THC. COA proves that the product is safe and pure.
• Search for the highest quality. It is worth buying from reputable brands and checking for customer reviews.
• Check the label to ensure there are no harmful additives or artificial flavourings.

Is Mixing CBD with Alcoholic Drinks Safe?

In multiple studies, CBD products seem to be safe and well-tolerated in humans, even if taken in high doses. Unlike THC, a psychoactive and intoxicating cannabis compound, CBD is non-toxic and doesn’t cause a “high” effect. CBD oil’s potential side effects are usually minor and may include dry mouth, low blood pressure, drowsiness, and lightheadedness.

However, alcoholic beverages can be harmful, especially if consumed in high amounts. It may affect heart and brain functions soon after intake. Also, alcohol use may slow reaction time and affect judgment and coordination.

There are some tips on how to be mindful with drinking CBD cocktails:

• Start with non-alcoholic beverages and low doses of CBD. You can also try CBD products with a low concentration, such as syrups and tinctures. Try adding a couple of drops of cannabis tincture to your favourite fizzy drink or coffee.
• Keep the balance with ingredients. You may use a proven recipe not to overuse the liquor or CBD until you know its effect.
• Be patient. CBD takes some time to absorb. So there is no need to hurry with the second cocktail. Give it some time and enjoy the results.
• Be mindful of the amount of cocktails. To be on the safe side, limit CBD drinks you enjoy daily.
• Stay in a safe environment. When starting experiments with CBDcocktails, you may not know the exact effect it takes on you. Therefore, partying at home may be a better option.

What Else Can I Add to CBD Cocktails?

There are so many CBD-infused products on the market that may perfectly complement your cocktail.

• Cannabis tinctures and oils usually contain high levels of CBD though concentrations may vary. It may be enough to add just a little CBD tincture to enjoy a cocktail.
• Cannabis bitters are usually highly concentrated and easy to dose. It may be a great starting point for those looking to experiment with CBD. CBD bitters may contain other ingredients, such as cacao, making them a perfect addition to aromatic CBD cocktails. 
• Syrups are added to most cocktails and are usually flavoured. Besides, they can be added to your favourite dishes or taken before going to bed. 
• Cannabis-infused liquors. These drinks replicate homemade liquor, though experts make infusions with heat.
• Cannabutter or cream. These are easy and tasty ways to improve the taste of any beverage. The ingredients allow your body to absorb the CBD more quickly.
• CBD-infused honey can replace regular honey in the classic cocktail.
• Non-alcoholic spirits. These beverages contain natural flavours and extracts that create a warming sensation. You can enjoy the same effect as alcohol does, but without intoxication. Some non-alcoholic spirits can even mimic the real taste of popular alcoholic drinks. 

A CBD mocktail is a non-alcoholic drink that contains CBD. The liquid in this beverage may infuse well with a CBD tincture or CBD oil. Bartenders can be more creative, rimming the glass in sugar with CBD oil or adding a thin layer of CBD oil on top of the beverage. Besides, CBD tinctures, liquids, and CBD isolate can be added to various drinks, such as coffee, tea, or lemonade, making a tasty beverage that feels grown-up.

Anything Else Besides Cocktails?

Cannabis-infused wines and beers keep gaining attraction. In CBD Wine, manufacturers mix cannabidiol with spirits through nanoemulsion. This beverage offers you the intact flavour and aroma of wine and the benefits of CBD. On the other hand, wine infused with CBD contains lower amounts of alcohol. Individuals should monitor the dosage as experts do not recommend excessive consumption. 

CBD beer may be a better hangover-free alternative to alcohol-based beers. These beers do not contain alcohol and are THC-free. CBD beer manufacturing follows the same steps as traditional alcoholic beers. But in this case, the manufacturer removes the alcoholic content and replaces it through CBD nanoemulsion. You cannot tell the difference when tasting it, as the manufacturing process remains the same.

Not Ready for Alcoholic Drinks? Try CBD Soft Drinks!

The market is full of different CBD-infused beverages, making your CBD journey more enjoyable. Let’s take a look.

• Sparkling water. This is one of the most popular CBD beverages that fuses strong flavour with the soothing properties of hemp extract. The drink may contain pure botanicals and fruity flavours, such as peach ginger, pomegranate or hibiscus, to restore harmony in your daily life and water-soluble CBD for better absorption. Among trendy drinks are CBD Kombucha, a naturally carbonated drink made from tea. CBD sparkling water is a perfect way to unwind after a long day and relieve stress. There are also zero-sugar and vegan beverage options, so users of different dietary preferences may enjoy these drinks.
• CBD tea and coffee. There are many options, such as CBD-rich teas, cold brews, hemp-infused ground coffees, and ready-made coffee powders. You can also add CBD oil to coffee at home. Coffee and tea may stimulate the nervous system, making us more focused. Some experts believe CBD may reduce the adverse effects of coffee, providing an energy boost without the jitters. 
• CBD shots. It is an alternative to consuming a full-sized CBD-infused drink or taking CBD oil under the tongue. Many consumers prefer easy to use, concentrated, and portable shots that support overall well-being. There are shots designed for various effects. Some shots provide unwinding and soothing effects, while others have energising properties, helping to kick-start a day.

CBD drinks taste good, are low in calories and provide a sense of calm. Besides, these drinks may not have addictive qualities. Furthermore, water-soluble CBD powder is effective for making smoothies, tea, coffee, and many other drinks. You may pair flavoured drinks with CBD edibles, such as CBD cookies or crumble them on top of the drink.

Bottoms Up: Your New Cocktail Ingredient

If you are ready to extend your experience with CBD, then there is no better time than now to try CBD cocktails. Nothing beats relaxing after a stressful day with a tasty drink, and some CBD oil or tincture will help you this way. With a few drops of CBD tincture, you may be surprised with a new taste of CBD Gin & Tonic or CBD Mezcal Margarita. You can also try ready-made CBD alcoholic beverages or wines and beers where CBD replaces spirits. If you are more into soft drinks, the world of CBD sparkling water, smoothies, coffee and shots is available to you. Try out different options and enjoy new flavours and tastes.

By Anastasia Myronenko

This article will discuss the role that cannabigerol (CBG) has to play on the body- from its therapeutic aspects to how this particular cannabinoid works with the endocannabinoid system. Since CBG is found in low amounts within the cannabis Sativa plant, it’s hard to fully know what medical research is saying about its potential as a therapeutic agent. The article discusses how farmers are attempting to yield a higher rate of CBG by cross-breeding cannabis strains. However, the way human bodies respond to cannabinoids factors into this newfound interest into the way that CBG could help heal and improve a constitution. Since CBG can bind to the ECS receptors all over the body, this makes it a cannabinoid of great interest.

The cannabis plant has at least 113 different cannabinoids– with THC and CBD being two of the more popular ones. But with new research coming into play- could cannabigerol, or CBG, be a cannabinoid to watch out for? It seems highly likely that medical science hasn’t tapped into all the benefits that the cannabis Sativa plant can provide us with- and a plant with such a variety of different cannabinoids, two of which seem to have taken the world by storm with their vast range of properties, might just be able to provide more.

We can’t completely place the blame on researchers. CBG is pretty low on the scale of abundance- in the average cannabis Sativa plant, research tells us that CBG concentrations are often found at a 1% for every 20-25% of CBD and 25-30% of THC. Low in concentrations, rare on the market but brimming with possibilities, CBG is still fresh on potential. And with a higher concentration of CBG found in younger cannabis plants (of certain strains), there’s the scope for hope that cannabis farmers and scientists are working towards finding a way towards extracting the most CBG out of cultivars. CBG is non-psychoactive as it is therapeutic. In terms of comparison, this makes CBG a little more like its sister cannabinoid CBD and a little bit unlike THC, which has the power to intoxicate the system and alter things like perception, mood, appetite and cognition. Yet, unlike CBD, CBG seems to affect the ECS receptors directly, managing to bind with them without causing psychoactivity.

Known as the ‘mother’ of all cannabinoids, CBG begins as CBGA- the acidic form of CBG. CBGA is often found in the younger cannabis plants. By the time the plant matures, CBGA breaks off into CBG, CBD and THC. You can say that CBD and THC are derivatives or the acidic form of CBG. Low levels of CBG in the adult cannabis plant are accounted for because plant enzymes are efficient in breaking up CBGA into THC and CBD at higher levels than reducing CBGA into just CBG. Essentially the break up of CBGA into CBG is just decarboxylation which is a much rarer phenomenon. News articles do report that, in order to yield higher concentrations of CBG, farmers and cultivators have attempted genetic manipulation and the cross-breeding of cannabis plant strains. This, paired with new knowledge that CBG is often found at higher concentrations 6-8 weeks after the plant has grown, shows us that many are eager to witness CBG’s potential.

As for what role CBG takes in the body- since it is the originator for CBD and THC, as well as a sister cannabinoid, it stands to reason that CBG affects the endocannabinoid system in similar ways to THC and CBD. If we’re placing CBD, THC and CBG on a spectrum of engagement with the ECS, it can be claimed that CBG lands itself smack bang in the middle of CBD and THC.

The Endocannabinoid System (ECS)

The ECS is responsible for maintaining homeostasis in the body- in other words, it controls many of the processes which happen within us, regulating and moderating factors which we tend to take for granted. From regulating mood, temperature, libido and even cognition, the ECS has a wide role to play in managing the body’s vital processes– it does so by controlling most processes which operate within the central and peripheral nervous systems. The ECS has receptors all over the body, which connect with the right molecules- cannabinoids or endocannabinoids. Endocannabinoids are produced by the body, and released according to what process needs to be monitored- when these endocannabinoids connect with the right ECS receptors, modulation occurs. These ECS receptors are pretty much split into two different types: CB1 (found mainly in the central nervous system) and CB2 receptors (found mainly in the peripheral nervous system).

When engaged, CB1 receptors tend to control cognition, perception, appetite, and emotion. CB2 tends to control the function of immune cells and inflammation, especially in the gut region.

Phytocannabinoids are not produced by the body- they’re found in the cannabis Sativa plant. But they work similarly to endocannabinoids because they trigger change in the ECS- promoting chemical and metabolic processes into action. The difference between endocannabinoids and cannabinoids is that cannabinoids aren’t produced by the body- so, where endocannabinoids are produced endogenously (which allows the body to release a specific concentration of the endocannabinoids specifically for balancing the body) cannabinoids can be taken at whim, setting off an imbalance in the system. Another difference is that some cannabinoids can attach to ECS receptors directly, and others trigger change in the ECS indirectly.

For example, THC is a cannabinoid which can directly attach to ECS receptors- which is what causes the intoxication, or ‘high’, one might feel after taking THC. Because THC works much like an exogenous endocannabinoid, it has a high affinity for ECS receptors, binding to CB1 and CB2 at high rates. This is what makes THC psychoactive when CBD is not- when our CB1 and CB2 receptors are suddenly strongly engaged, everything alters from cognition to memory to appetite. For years, scientists have claimed that CBD, being an indirect stimulant for the ECS, increases concentrations of anandamide in the body. Anandamide is an ECS receptor which promotes therapeutic benefits within the body. CBG works in a similar way to THC. It actively binds to ECS receptors.

Since only endocannabinoids or cannabinoids can trigger change in the ECS, it’s safe to say that the cannabis Sativa (or hemp) plant, with its cocktail of cannabinoids, might have a significant role to play in urging the body to balance itself- this is especially vital if the body fails to produce, or overproduces, certain endocannabinoids resulting in bodily imbalance. If cannabinoids are the only external molecules which can fit into ECS receptors and help promote change, conducting research on each and every cannabinoid seems like the right thing to do. Since the discovery of THC and CBD, the popularity of cannabinoids has shot up. And with CBG beginning to make a name for itself in the wonderful world of health and wellness, the opportunity to unlock the potential of the 113 different cannabinoids shouldn’t be understated.

CBG and The ECS

When it comes to ECS receptors and cannabinoids, for so long our only two options have been limited: THC, with its intoxicatingly high proclivity in binding with anything remotely resembling CB1 or CB2. And on the other end of the spectrum, CBD, and its low affinity for binding to either receptor. CBG makes a name for itself by being able to bind with ECS receptors- without causing intoxication. And it is the receptors in the brain which CBG tends to bind the most with, eliciting a therapeutic response without completely altering our perception. Much like CBD, CBG also promotes higher quantities of anandamide in the system, while doing its own binding.

CBG’s Therapeutic Aspects

Now, we aren’t too sure on why CBG is non-psychotropic. Since it can bind to receptors, much in the way that THC can, there’s some confusion lingering on why exactly CBG doesn’t alter cognition, memory and perception- especially since CBG molecules do specialise in binding to CB1 and CB2 receptors directly. Some have suggested that CBG doesn’t quite flood the system in the same way that THC does- and it engages with CB1 receptors at a lower rate than THC, meaning that it doesn’t alter brain perception and cognition in the way that THC does. In other words, CBG doesn’t have such a high affinity for such a wide variety of ECS receptors around the body in the way that THC does. This also coincides with research, factoids and articles which tell us that taking CBG in higher doses can bring about euphoria and relaxation. So CBG has the potential to uplift the mood, even if that altered sense of perception is simply brought about by CBG binding to ECS receptors at a higher level. This is similar to the way that CBD works, where we see that higher concentrations of CBD mean higher concentrations of anandamide lingering in the system, binding to ECS receptors and effecting bliss. But this doesn’t necessarily make CBD or CBG psychotropic- we would probably call this by its commonly used definition- ‘therapeutic’, or, at best, ‘relaxant’.

Another reason why CBG might not be intoxicating is because it, just like CBD, actively counteracts the intoxicating effects of THC. Many THC symptoms are rooted with anxiety, paranoia, panic and the potential for chronic psychosis which both CBD and CBG have shown to actively work against. Since both CBD and CBG have been shown to increase levels of anandamide, the bliss molecule, in the system, it can be ascertained that higher levels of anandamide soothe symptoms which are associated with THC, calming and relaxing the body and brain.

And, aside from its potential to lift mood and evoke relaxation in the body and brain, CBG might also be a key player in the world of medicine.

Since newfound interest in CBG has grown, research tells us that there’s scope for potential to use CBG for a number of ailments.

CBG and Cancer

Pre-clinical studies have shown that CBG could help cancer patients. CBG has the potential to deactivate the TRPM8 ion channel– which can help to keep tumours at bay.
Inhibiting this channel could mean that many different types of cancers could be prevented– since cancers often come about by unchecked (and undetected) tumour growth, which has the potential to spread. With CBG present in higher concentrations studies also show that higher levels of apoptosis can occur (programmed and regulated cell death, preventing tumours), prevention of oxidative stress can also occur (this happens when too many free radicals are present in the body, leading to potential genetic mutation and inciting disease) and immunity levels, in general, spike. In concentrated doses, all types of cancers might be prevented with calculated levels of cannabinoids in the system. Since having a large variety of cannabinoids in the system can promote the ‘entourage effect’, leading to more beneficial results. By combining CBG, THC and CBD, researchers have helped to combat the growth of tumours.

CBG and Mental Illness

From helping to inhibit the reuptake of GABA, a neurotransmitter responsible for a number of therapeutic benefits from muscle relaxation to tension relief, having CBG in the system can be great for relieving anxiety, depression and other chronic mental illnesses. Since inhibiting GABA uptake can also result in higher levels of dopamine and serotonin, both neurotransmitters which are responsible for wellbeing and happiness, CBG serves a wider beneficial complement.

CBG and Inflammation

Research has also shown that CBG could help prevent inflammation on a number of levels- from helping with symptoms of IBS to easing colitis. Since more research shows that inflammatory disease, such as IBS, stems from stress and the body’s inability to produce anandamide and 2-AG on its own, having CBG (and CBD) in the system can seriously help to combat this. Both CBD and CBG can prevent the degradation of 2-AG and anandamide, leading to higher levels of these receptors in the system. CBG can also bind with CB2 receptors in the gut to help ease inflammation.

Not just limited to the gut, inflammation of the skin might also be eased with CBG in the system (or applied topically). Psoriasis, in particular, is an inflammatory response which shows on the skin and sometimes the joints. It happens when white blood cells (T-Cells) attack healthy skin cells without cause. As a result, the skin’s blood vessels dilate and the surface of the skin begins to inflame. Arthritis or swollen joints can also occur in acute levels of psoriasis- when the body’s immune cells start to attack other cells around the body.

CBG’s engagement with the ECS can help raise immunity overall. Since activating the ECS at a higher rate can lead to increased homeostasis, having higher levels of CBG can prevent the overactivity of T-Cells.

CBG and Glaucoma

Glaucoma, an eye condition which renders the optic nerve damaged, can be debilitating. Since the optic nerve is responsible for sending messages from the eye to the brain, its damage (often due to high blood pressure in the optic nerve) can render a lifestyle full of chronic pain- and potentially blindness. CBG can help combat glaucoma, especially near the early stages- studies have shown that CBG is a vasodilator, which means it can help to widen the optic nerve when applied topically to help prevent constricted blood flow. Likewise, CBG has been shown to relieve tension in muscles and nerves, allowing the optic nerve to loosen and relax a little more, relieving pain and allowing for accessible blood flow.

CBG and Bacterial Infections

Studies have also shown that CBG could help combat bacterial infections. In particular, CBG has been shown to kill the bacterium, MRSA- commonly found in hospitals. MRSA tends to be harmless, unless entered from an open wound which is what makes it deadly. In a hospital environment, where many insertions and wounds tend to occur and immunity tends to be at a low in patients, MRSA finds itself a threat. In fact, CBG has been so promising in eliminating MRSA, especially the strain which has become resistant to antibiotics, that research can successfully elaborate on why CBG is so helpful in killing the bacterium. Studies tell us that CBG eradicates the biofilm which most bacteria have around them, rendering them useless. Another point in CBG’s favour- MRSA, as most bacteria, tends to get used to certain antibiotics, quickly developing resistance. With CBG, there’s no scope for this: no matter how many times CBG was administered to the same strain of MRSA, it succeeded in destroying the outer layer of biofilm.

Since CBG is a relatively new cannabinoid, more precautions are being taken with it. While side-effects are rare (and not really well researched), within the world of rat testing, CBG seems relatively harmless.

Scientists do prescribe caution when taking CBG with some medication- this is purely due to lack of research. So far, the medications with which to avoid taking with CBG are: anticancers, antibacterials, antihistamines, heart rhythm drugs, cholesterol medications, corticosteroids and more. Experts urge seeing a healthcare provider before taking CBG with any long-term, prescribed medication. This is because, it’s been theorised that CBG might affect how some medicines are metabolised- although there’s not been too much research done on how or why these theories have come about.

Conclusion

While many scientists have yet to find a high enough concentration of CBG to study how it specifically works on our systems, there’s speculation enough. This speculation, compiled with a few bits of research and medical trials, has helped to draw a rough conclusion on the beneficial effects that CBG might have on the body. While we might not be able to delve into clear depths, there’s enough evidence to suggest that this new cannabinoid might be useful to us in the future.

In the meantime, we at Alphagreen, hold out hope for the potential for new discovery, more healing and improved lifestyles for the world.

CBG, (cannabigerol) is pretty much another cannabinoid found within the cannabis Sativa plant. Unlike CBD (cannabidiol), CBG is found at a lower concentration (at 1% for every 20-25% of CBD). This is because CBG, in its acidic form, turns into CBG and THC as the cannabis plant matures. Essentially, CBG is the ‘mother’ of CBG and THC- and, so, very little of this cannabinoid is left when the cannabis plant matures. When there is enough CBG to ingest, unlike CBG, this particular cannabinoid attaches to ECS receptors.

CBG, much like CBD, doesn’t have psychoactive properties. Also similar to CBD, CBG can potentially counteract any anxiety, paranoia or cognitive imbalance that THC can induce. Much like CBD, CBG has a host of holistic and therapeutic benefits- from reducing pain and inflammation to potentially helping cancer patients. Unfortunately, because CBG’s discovery has manifested recently (and there’s very little produced by the cannabis plant) there’s less research on it- making it hard to determine what exactly CBG can do for the system.

CBG is found at a naturally low yield within the cannabis Sativa plant- even hemp. For every 25% of CBD, there is 1% of CBG. Research has shown that, in younger cannabis plants, there’s a higher quantity of CBG, meaning it is at its highest concentration when the cannabis plant is not yet fully formed (usually around the 8 week mark). However, with the help of cross-breeding, early-extraction (and, perhaps, decarboxylating CBGA outside of the cannabis plant, in a laboratory, before it has a chance to convert into CBD and THC) there is hope that CBG will become more abundant.

As of now, there’s very little which suggests that CBG has side-effects or causes serious harm. However, because research is limited, it’s always recommended that you consult with a medical professional before taking CBG.

Just like CBD, CBG can be consumed- sublingually or mixed with a drink in its oil form. I can also be applied topically and smoked via vape. If you are considering smoking CBG, bear in mind that you might need a specialised vapouriser, as CBG has a much lower boiling point than its sister cannabinoids.

Because it is low in frequency (making it high in demand- especially with new research hinting towards CBG’s therapeutic appeal) CBG can come at a much higher price than CBD. But, there’s no cause to worry- with more demand tends to come more ways to extract CBG from the cannabis plant. Comparing CBG to CBD’s earlier days, the cost of CBD has dramatically lowered, as the popularity and yield of CBD has dramatically risen. We hope to see the same for CBG in the near future!

Verified by a Healthcare Professional

Anastasiia Myronenko

Anastasiia Myronenko is a Medical Physicist actively practicing in one of the leading cancer centers in Kyiv, Ukraine. She received her master’s degree in Medical Physics at Karazin Kharkiv National University and completed Biological Physics internship at GSI Helmholtz Centre for Heavy Ion Research, Germany. Anastasiia Myronenko specializes in radiation therapy and is a fellow of Ukrainian Association of Medical Physicists.