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This article will discuss the different types of eating disorders (the main ones) with a detailed description of diagnostic criteria, symptoms, signs and treatment for each one. Since research into how CBD, and its potential to help modulate the endocannabinoid system (ECS) is prevalent, this article will also discuss how CBD might work with the ECS to help cure or prevent certain eating disorders. The connection between eating disorders and anxiety disorder has been well established- this article will also discuss, then, how CBD might aid with lowering anxiety levels, which could potentially help prevent or cure an eating disorder. The article goes into detail about the endocannabinoid anandamide, and its utilisation in patients with eating disorders. Anandamide is best known for its potential to promote ‘bliss’ or ‘reward’ in people. As we suggest in the article, anandamide might best be utilised at certain and specific times, so that a patient does not experience these spikes after they conform to their abnormal diet. In conclusion, since CBD has a great level of potential for a range of illnesses and disorders, many mental health conditions from depression to anxiety included, perhaps a steady dose of CBD (under the recommendations of a medical health professional) might be beneficial for individuals with an eating disorder: more research on this, and how best to manipulate concentrations of anandamide, is needed.

Eating disorders can be debilitating, scary and extremely difficult to deal with. Not only do eating disorders affect a huge amount of a population, at the elemental level, an eating disorder can destroy lives. Raising awareness for the different types of eating disorders, looking at the diagnostic criteria to detect the symptoms and signs of the different types of eating disorders and, hopefully, helping to prevent problems early on, can be an invaluable resource. Which is exactly what this article seeks out to do. Quite simply put, educating, raising awareness and destigmatising all mental health conditions can help save lives. So, according to the NHS website, an eating disorder can be defined as: a mental health condition where food is controlled ‘to cope with feelings and other situations’. An eating disorder, then, is an official mental health condition which can involve either overeating or undereating to attempt to regulate a person. Usually it accompanies weight fluctuation, with a person having a flawed or obsessive worry over their body image.

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It is important to note that, whether it’s you or a loved one, who is suffering from an eating disorder, there is light at the end of the tunnel. With medical professionals becoming more acquainted with what parts of the brain can trigger an eating disorder, to a greater variety of treatments becoming available, hopefully you can be reassured in knowing that there’s a wealth of research going into therapy, other forms of treatment and preventative measures.

Typically, society tends to equate to equate the words ‘eating disorder’ with teenage girls who are, statistically, more likely to suffer from two out of the three main eating disorders: anorexia and bulimia. Both conditions lead to significant weight loss, either from a person under eating or vomiting shortly after a meal. Anorexia and bulimia tend to affect girls from between the ages of 13 to 17 although this isn’t always the case. Psychological research summarises that the reason teenage girls tend to be affected by eating disorders is due to social pressure. Since many teenage girls are more likely to adhere to dangerous ideals of beauty, they’re more vulnerable to developing an eating disorder. Since teenagers tend to suffer from low self esteem to peer-pressure with a punishing dose of hormones to accelerate every emotional low, it’s hard not to see eating disorders as something which are developed within the teen years- and can be carried on by a person into their adult life.

A less well-known (but most common) eating disorder is what’s called binge-eating disorder (BED). It is when a person binge eats, for a number of factors dependent on the individual, only to feel a deep sense of shame afterwards. BED can lead to obesity, depression and anxiety, amongst other issues.

Since eating disorders are often built off a range of intermingling factors, from genetic predisposition (this factor is often underrated, but extremely prevalent- mental health conditions are, more often than thought, genetic issues) an individual who has been a victim of weight discrimination or bullying, a higher exposure to social media, an isolating (often demeaning) beauty industry which sets impossible beauty ideas, a lack of fulfillment and control in other parts of an individuals life, which can lead to overeating/binge eating or an individual having naturally low levels of serotonin. It can be hard to pinpoint what exactly leads to a person developing an eating disorder. But, like any other mental health condition, we can safely say that an eating disorder doesn’t happen overnight. While an eating disorder may begin for a wealth of reasons, depending on the individual, it can lead to crippling depression, anxiety and dangerous health conditions if unchecked.

Types Of Eating Disorders

Despite the three most common eating disorders being more heard of in popular culture, there are actually 5 subsections.

This type of eating disorder is characterised by drastic weight loss and body image issues. However, a person doesn’t need to be of a certain weight to be diagnosed with anorexia. Since anorexia is a condition specified by ‘body image’, an individual who is compulsively thinking about their body weight, body shape or how they look might also be suffering from anorexia. It is because of the misheld belief that individuals who have anorexia are overly thin that anorexia has been commonly underdiagnosed in those of a larger body type.

Common signs of those who have anorexia are: an individual limiting what they eat, exercising compulsively, vomiting after meals and taking laxatives. Binge eating sporadically is also a symptom of anorexia. Anorexia often begins in young adults or teenagers- it can carry later on in a person’s life.

The diagnostic criteria of those who might have anorexia:

1. An intense fear or gaming weight.
2. Restricting the required energy/caloric intake needed.
3. A belief that they need to alter their weight- oftentimes those suffering from anorexia deny any drastic weight loss.
4. Distorted self-evaluation of their body ie: seeing themselves as overweight or ‘fat’ when they aren’t.

Some symptoms include (but not limited to): fainting, weight loss, dizziness, quick to fall ill (low immunity), meal-skipping, over or under-sleeping/sleep problems, difficulty concentrating, brittle hair and nails, dental problems, skin discolouration irregular periods, swelling or bloating or sudden appearance of fine hairs on the body.

Common signs to notice in an individual with anorexia:

• Denying feeling hungry.
• Depression/ anxiety.
• Dramatic weight loss.
• Fixation with diet/weight/calorie intake.
• Making comments about feeling ‘fat’ or ‘overweight’: essentially displaying unhappiness or discontent with body image.
• Limited social interaction.
• Feeling cold or shivering quite a bit.
• Wearing more layers.
• Inflexible thinking/ stubborn behaviour patterns.
• Withdrawing from friends and family/ becoming more secretive.

Bulimia Nervosa

Characterised by bingeing and vomiting meals, bulimia is another common eating disorder. This type of eating disorder primarily circulates around overeating and, subsequently, vomiting up a meal- a person who has bulimia might also have a period of anorexia which follows (so, following an excessively harsh diet, low calorie intake, drastically losing weight). What distinguishes bulimia is the purging cycle which occurs after eating a meal. However, bulimia is built around compensating for meals- which means that taking laxatives or excessively exercising to ‘make up’ for eating is another way that those suffering from bulimia tend to ‘purge’. Bulimia can overlap with symptoms of anorexia- for the most part, though, someone who is bulimic tends to follow the rules of diet, binge, purge and repeat. You can have more than one eating disorder- but experts advise that it is incredibly important to find the ‘primary driving behaviour’ behind your eating disorder. If you display symptoms of anorexia, but spend the majority of time in a binge-purge-repeat cycle, then it is most likely you should be treated for bulimia, with the correct level of treatment accorded to a bulimic patient. This, according to a wealth of research and on the advice of health professionals, will allow for a quicker, more beneficial course of treatment.

A binge cycle in someone with bulimia (or binge eating disorder- which will be discussed a little later on) is very different to someone who overeats every now and then. Research tells us that the main difference between binge eating cycle and a regular bout of binge eating is the loss of control (LOC) which an individual experiences. In someone suffering from a binge eating cycle, there is an element of ‘spacing out’- which is what can be defined as LOC. An element of relinquishing, forgetting or becoming oblivious to how much they are eating at the time of binging.

The diagnostic criteria for those who might have bulimia:

1. Recurring binge eating. Cyclic behaviour which typically involves binging, purging and then repeating.
2. Self-induced vomiting, laxative abuse, over-exercising, fasting for prolonged periods of time- this typically tends to follow an episode of binge eating.
3. LOC binge eating.
4. Binge eating is commonly frequent- it might occur once every week.
5. Distorted self-evaluation of the body.
6. Periods of anorexia nervosa which might break up the binge-purge cycle.

Some symptoms include (but aren’t limited to): an obsessive concern over weight and body image, evidence of purging (this can be through the abuse of laxatives/ diuretics, an unhealthy spike in exercising or signs which show a person has disappeared after a meal to vomit), drastic weight loss, bloating, layering/baggy clothes, swelling in the face and jaw, food rituals (obsessive compulsive behaviour regarding food- such as only eating a certain type of food, not allowing food to touch, etc), drinking excessive amounts of water, tooth decay/erosion from vomiting, dizziness, swelling, dry or brittle hair and nails, discoloured skin, low immunity irregular periods and other such physical symptoms associated with low energy/low calorie intake.

Common signs to notice in an individual with bulimia:

• Evidence of binge eating, ie: long absences, missing food items, an excessive (and out-of-the-ordinary) amount of wrappers and food-remains in the bin.
• Dramatic weight loss.
• Purging: this is a compulsive need to ‘compensate’ for a binge session. It can be one of more of excessive exercising, vomiting, taking laxatives, taking diuretics.
• Substance abuse/ risk taking behaviour.
• Wearing more layers.
• Inflexible thinking or stubborn behaviour patterns.
• Withdrawing from friends and family/ becoming more secretive.

Binge Eating Disorder (BED)

Binge eating disorder is another eating disorder- an individual with BED will eat large portions of food, without any control over calorie intake. This separates BED from compulsive eating; where compulsive eating disorder happens when an individual will tend to eat an unspecified amount of food due to sudden feelings/ compulsions which can’t really be explained. Where compulsive eating is a behaviour, usually sporadic, concerning unquantifiable amounts of food, and very debilitating in its own right, it is not classed as a mental health condition. This separates it from BED- binge eating disorder is classed as a mental health condition. According to the Binge Eating Disorder Association, the level of food that is binged is quantifiable- despite being dependent on the individual.  BED is considered more common than any other eating disorder. Typically, those who suffer from BED tend to eat large quantities of food for their individual uptake. In most cases, a person with BED will overeat during a binge. What separated BED from bulimia is there is no vomiting or purging after a binge.

Those who have BED report that binges are far from fun: they tend to be extremely difficult and distressing, causing discomfort. Since a binge session will accompany sluggishness due to intake of excessive amounts of fat, sugar, carbohydrates and salts, a binge cycle can leave the individual feeling a lot worse than before. Emotionally, a binge cycle will accompany feelings of shame, failure or misery– which makes it similar to the eating disorders above. These are emotions which can lead an individual with BED to suffer feelings of anxiety and depression, or feel that they’ve lost out in some way. Since society has conditioned many of us to believe that BED isn’t a ‘real’ eating disorder because it doesn’t cause visible weight loss, it can be extremely hard for an individual with BED to get the help that they deserve. Since body ideals and fat shaming exists on a much larger basis (both in popular culture and media) and so BED might go undetected.

BED is often a condition that is mocked, undermined or considered a moral failing of some sort, with reports showing that less than half of individuals with BED have sought treatment for it. Thankfully, over the years, BED has become a lot more recognised, making treatment more accessible for those who need it. BED is the most common eating disorder in the west.

The diagnostic criteria for those who have BED:

1. Eating excessive amounts of food (this is typically within a 2 hour period). The amount of food is usually larger than what is normally expected of an individual of a certain size, weight and sex.
2. During the binge eating cycle, the individual experiences loss of control (LOC)- this might manifest as uncontrollably eating without being able to stop, ‘spacing out’ or dissociating during the binge and/or being unaware of the number of calories consumed during the binge.
3. A person with BED will typically binge eat at least once a week for a period of 3 months.
4. A person with BED won’t purge after binge eating- according to experts, this is what distinguishes it from bulimia. A binge session might follow with some nausea (since the stomach is stretched due to overeating). If a person with BED vomits after a binge, most likely, it was unplanned. Likewise, those with bulimia may not always purge after a binge. Since people don’t always fit into categories, the lines which separate different eating disorders can become blurred.
5. An individual with BED will tend to: binge eat alone (most people who have BED will feel ashamed for their binge eating), binge eat until excessively full, binge eat rapidly, binge eat, despite not being physically hungry and experience feelings of shame, depression, self-disgust, anger, anxiety or urges to self-harm after a binge session.

Some symptoms include (but aren’t limited to): evidence that an individual is binge eating, hoarding/ stealing food, withdrawing from friends and family, low self-esteem, low immunity, fluctuating weight (while weight gain, namely an individual being overweight or obese may typically be associated with BED, it definitely depends on the individual), over-concern about weight/ appearance/ body image, disrupted eating patterns (so, skipping meals to ‘prepare’ or ‘punish’ oneself, fasting for some period, excessive concern over diets), engagement with compulsive food rituals (chewing for a certain period of time, not letting foods touch, eating one main food group), adjusting a lifestyle or diet to accommodate for a binge eating session, and more.

Common signs to notice in an individual with BED:

• Evidence of binge eating, ie: long absences, missing food items, an excessive (and out-of-the-ordinary) amount of wrappers and food-remains in the bin.
• Withdrawing from friends and family/ becoming more secretive.
• Dieting often.
• Self-harming, especially after a binge session.
• Fluctuating weight: often weight gain and obesity are signs of BED.
• Food rituals.
• Feelings of disgust and depression after any meal.
• Feelings of disgust and depression after a binge.
• Food hoarding.
• Centering lifestyle around the next binge session, ie: working around a schedule to best accommodate a binge session or avoiding other commitments in order to binge.
• Sleep problems.

Avoidant/ Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)

ARFID is a condition in which an individual only eats certain foods/ food groups- their diet is heavily restricted. Much like BED, ARFID sometimes tends to be confused for what isn’t. Those who have suffered from ARFID tend to be coined as ‘picky eaters’- this is untrue as an individual with ARFID, unlike a regular ‘picky eater’, doesn’t just dislike certain foods, but finds eating those certain foods to be mentally distressing. While not typical in every individual with ARFID, someone who displays signs of this disorder, might tend to avoid eating in social settings, may develop obsessive compulsive qualities in other parts of their life, or may develop corresponding anxiety or depression. While ARFID can happen for a number of reasons, research tells us that there are some factors which can lead to an individual developing ARFID:

1. A person has severe trauma due to certain foods/ food groups/ textures and smells. Choking a vomiting up a certain type of food as a child is also a reason why an individual might develop ARFID. This leads to anxieties about eating certain foods, which can cause revulsion, panic and distress.
2. A person has worries about eating certain foods and might be unable to articulate why. ARFID can develop in individuals who might be scared to eat certain foods or food groups- there may be no reason for this development.
3. Taste, smell, texture and appearance of certain foods might put a person off. This is known as sensory-based avoidance.
4. Some people are born with a poor appetite- they tend not to get hungry and eat very little. With more accounts of people explaining their experiences of ARFID, a derivative of the disorder is that, for some individuals, eating is a ‘chore’. One blog details that any food out of ‘the norm’ for the writer would make them ‘cry, panic and violently gag’. There doesn’t have to be specific trauma to explain the disorder- accounts detail that some individuals with ARFID have a natural ‘fear and aversion’ and deep-rooted ‘sensory issues’ to certain foods or food groups.

Science and research journals have attempted to look into why ARFID might develop in an individual- oftentimes, when it comes to any eating disorder, there isn’t ever a solid reason. Research has shown that those on the autistic spectrum, those with ADHD and those with intellectual disabilities, children who don’t outgrow their picky eating and those who suffer from pre-existing anxiety disorder might be at a higher risk of developing ARFID. However, studies have attempted to find some way to identify ARFID in school-aged children: a questionnaire, known as the Eating Disturbances in Youth-Questionnaire (EDY-Q), manifested a four-factor structure which pretty much concludes what factors are written above. It succinctly determines that ARFID is, most often, due to: emotional food avoidance, weight problems, selective eating and restrictive eating due to fear of consequence. However, since ARFID is an ‘umbrella term’ for a much wider, this questionnaire, alone, cannot encompass the condition in the way it deserves.

As with most mental health conditions, each individual either develops, or is born with, the condition in question. And ARFID isn’t an exception to this. ARFID has now become a new name for, what was previously called, ‘Feeding Disorder of Infancy and Early Childhood’. ARFID often begins in infancy (although this is not always the case, especially in instances where the disorder develops due to a traumatic event in a person’s adult life ie: aversion to smells, textures, instances of vomiting, choking, gastrointestinal issues which cause appetite loss or negative associations with certain food groups and more) and almost always results in worsening symptom- often due to anxiety spiking. What might start out as avoiding a certain texture can end up turning into a highly restrictive diet with little to no nutrients and where the individual isn’t meeting the daily caloric requirement for their age and sex.

The diagnostic criteria for those who have ARFID:

• Eating disturbances: avoidance in eating certain foods, lack of interest in food, aversion to food, concerns about eating foods.
• Signs which show a person just isn’t matching their necessary daily food intake: often characterised by weight loss, lack of concentration or cognition, dependency on supplements, nutrient deficiency.
• You can’t explain the eating disturbance for an illness, medical condition or an otherwise mental disorder.
• You can’t explain the eating disturbance for a general lack of food available to the person (in other words, they have access to food).
• The eating disturbance isn’t caused by another eating disorder- most commonly, an eating disorder which centres on a person being fixated on using a restrictive diet to alter weight and body image ie: the lack of eating isn’t due to anorexia or bulimia. ARFID isn’t an excessive and unhealthy lifestyle routine of diet and/or exercise and/or purging- it is an aversion to certain foods, textures, smells and so forth which has nothing to do with weight or body image. This being said, a person can suffer from ARFID and other eating disorders (such as anorexia). If this occurs, each eating disorder must be diagnosed and treated, separately. Treatment for ARFID can overlap with anorexia.

Common signs to notice in an individual with ARFID:

• Complaints about gastrointestinal issues
• Complains about constipation due to lack of nutritional fibre in the diet
• Complaints about lack of energy or abdominal pain
• Low mood
• Weight loss
• Will avoid eating certain foods/ avoid eating in front of people/ avoid social situations
• Fearing vomiting
• Fearing choking
• Lack of interest in eating
• No concern over body image or weight
• Dry and brittle hair and nails
• Dizziness
• Low immunity
• Irregular periods

Orthorexia

Orthorexia is on the rise and, while it isn’t an ‘official’ eating disorder, it can be a serious threat to a person’s health. In short terms, orthorexia is the obsession with healthy eating, to the point of an individual damaging their wellbeing. For example, compulsively checking nutritional labels and/ or engaging with damaging diets, such as the raw food diet (which has, since its conception, been proven to be extremely low in calories and nutritional value), obsessing over nutrition and health and, in general, spending excessive portions of the day talking about ‘healthy foods’, what they will eat for their next meal, and feeling nervous or anxious if what is ‘healthy’ isn’t included on the menu. Orthorexia has been shown in close connection with obsessive-compulsive disorder and can accompany the development of anorexia or bulimia.

Common signs to notice in an individual with orthorexia:

• Unusual interest in health, sometimes extending to what others are eating
• Compulsive checking of nutrient labels and calorie counting
• Cutting out major food groups
• Following ‘fad’ diets
• Spending a lot of time thinking about nutritional intake/ foods/ what foods to eat
• Spending an excessive amount of time thinking about what ‘healthy’ option to order at a restaurant
• Distress when healthy options aren’t available
• Not concerned with weight or body image- more so concerned about what’s healthy and what isn’t.

Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorders (OSFED)

Despite its vague-sounding name, OSFED is as serious as any other eating disorder- but it does encompass a wide range of symptoms, some of which we might recognise. OSFED is considered an umbrella-term for individuals who experience atypical or a wealth of symptoms which cannot be defined by one specific diagnostic criteria, ie: a person displaying symptoms of anorexia, bulimia and ARFID all at once or a person who suffers from atypical anorexia with bulimic tendencies.

With that being said, OSFED also defines individuals who might be diagnosed with a specific eating disorder, but may exhibit atypical symptoms. OSFED can be when a person displays symptoms of anorexia, but their weight stays healthy or does not fluctuate so dramatically. OSFED is also the right term for if an individual experiences an eating disorder at ‘low frequency levels’- so, BED in a person who binges less than once a week or bulimia with the person showing infrequent instances of purging (and other such compensatory behaviours). Purging disorder (where an individual purges, but not to compensate for a binge) and night eating syndrome (when a person compulsively overeats/ binges on a nightly, recurrent basis, unaffected by external factors and without experiencing LOC) also count as OSFEDs.

Common signs to look for in a person with an OSFED:

Since OSFED is an umbrella term, these are just some symptoms to look out for. As with any eating disorder, no symptom can be set in stone.

• General feelings of depression, shame, anxiety or low mood
• Fluctuating weight (this might not always be the case in atypical eating disorders)
• Discomfort with eating around other people
• Food rituals
• Distorted or obsessive body image/ weight perceptions
• Signs of purging
• Low immunity/ bad health
• Mood swings
• Sleep problems
• Irregular periods
• Fine hair on body
• Dry/brittle nails and hair

Treatments For Individual Eating Disorders

Treatment tends to vary for the different types of eating disorders. Because eating disorders are classed as mental health conditions, treatment will accompany some specialised therapy.

Anorexia

• Cognitive behavioural therapy: specialised for anorexia. CBT breaks down large problems and traumas into small parts with a trained professional.
• Cognitive analytic therapy: often recommended to patients with anorexia alongside CBT. This type of therapy looks at past events and conflicts to unpack why a person may have developed this disorder.
• Focal psychodynamic therapy: uses therapy to access past unresolved conflicts and work through them. Similar to CAT.
• Interpersonal psychotherapy: looks at how a person’s relationships affect their mental health.
• In some (atypical) cases, antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications (upon the recommendation of mental health professionals).
• Diet Advice/ Plans

Bulimia

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy: specialised for bulimia.
• Interpersonal Therapy
• In some (atypical) cases, antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications (upon the recommendation of mental health professionals).
• Diet Advice/ Plans

BED

• Group CBT
• Guided self-help programmes
• Individual CBT (if group CBT doesn’t work)

OSFED

• Therapy (according to doctor diagnosis)
• Diet plan (according to doctor diagnosis)

Eating Disorders and Anxiety

Many research studies have shown that there’s a close connection between anxiety and eating disorders- in one study, 64% out of 647 participants with anorexia and bulimia were diagnosed with one or more anxiety disorder. It’s been hypothesised that, for people who suffer from eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia, the act of eating spikes anxiety levels. By restricting the diet, anxiety levels are kept low. Therefore, it is through the compulsive behaviour of controlling the external that allows a person’s internal anxiety to remain at low levels. This is the opposite for a person with BED- eating keeps anxiety at a low. In most instances, an individual with an eating disorder is suffering from an acute form of anxiety: food becomes the source with which a person can control anxiety spikes.

The Brain and Anxiety

Anxiety can also translate into a worry or fear that’s persistently present- unless you do something about it. Anxiety tends to spike and fall- but when it does peak, studies show that the brain releases stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. When too many of these stress hormones flood the system, something known as your baseline anxiety level peaks. This is what causes severe anxiety- the system becomes ‘used to’ a constant spike in stress hormones, a constant fight or flight response and a constant engagement of the sympathetic nervous system (elevating the heart rate, sweat glands and shallowing the breathing).

Another thing that anxiety does to the brain is engage the amygdala, which is responsible for alerting the brain to danger in the hopes to stimulate a response centre- the prefrontal cortex (PFC) of the brain is responsible for evoking this rational response to a stressful situation. However, when anxiety spikes to the point of irrational or unclear thinking, it prevents the amygdala from properly engaging with the PFC.

There is no specialised and physical treatment to cure an eating disorder- however, since research has shown that CBD might be useful in helping with mood, cognition and appetite, it might be helpful for those individuals who are already undergoing psychotherapy for an eating disorder. CBD has been shown to uplift mood, curb anxiety levels, improve clarity and cognition and even stimulate appetite. Since CBD is mostly used as a therapeutic agent to uplift and centre the body and mind, as a supplement (not medication) it might prove a useful aid in helping to promote balance.

For the most part, CBD is pretty safe and works well with the body. CBD works with our endocannabinoid system (ECS). Because our ECS controls most of our bodily processes- from our appetite to mood to cognition, studies have found that CBD, in its capacity to balance out our ECS, might be useful in helping to treat eating disorders. With research showing that eating disorders are psychological, regular dosage of CBD, alongside regular psychotherapy, might change the way that the brain perceives anxious thoughts. While we know that CBD indirectly stimulates CB1 receptors in the brain, which modulates emotion, memory and perception, we can see that when these receptors are activated (especially when activated in the right amounts) positive changes happen. This is especially important when factoring in that CBD does not actually attach to ECS receptors in the body- in fact, CBD has a very low affinity for the ECS receptors. CBD controls naturally occurring ECS receptors in the body, which makes it easier to balance the body’s natural processes without causing  psychoactivity, paranoia or spike anxiety. In a study done on rats, it was shown that engagement of the CB1 receptors in the central nervous system resulted in lower levels of anxiety.

This is most likely because the presence of CBD improves concentrations of the endocannabinoid receptor, anandamide. Research tells us that higher concentrations of the endocannabinoid, anandamide in the system can evoke feelings of bliss, lower anxiety, lift the mood by boosting serotonin and promote wellbeing. In fact, the name anandamide is the Sanskrit word for bliss- hailing from the root of the word: ‘ananda’.

Above, we discussed that anxiety tends to stem from fear, unregulated. Anandamide helps to combat this by lowering fear levels- especially fear which spikes from episodes of trauma, general anxiety, OCD or even PTSD. With an eating disorder, which relies on the fear of food, the higher presence of anandamide might be able to help ease the anxiety-spike which accompanies a patient’s eating habits.

Manipulating the ECS

However, because eating disorders are not so straight forward (and not always caused by something so simple as an anxiety response which needs to be compulsively controlled by a restrictive or over-excessive diet)- therefore, much of the research done on these eating disorders show that there happens to be a spike in the serotonin and dopamine levels of those patients who restrict their diet. When they do stop themselves from eating certain foods, or skip meals, the brain releases these ‘feel-good’ hormones…and higher concentrations of anandamide in the blood– though this isn’t the case for individuals with bulimia, where, it’s been hypothesised, that the purging behaviour (such as vomiting) causes lower levels of anandamide. Essentially, abnormal eating habits become a reward for individuals with eating disorders- the more they restrict their diet, the more dopamine is released.

However, in the next breath, the research paper claims that anandamide levels (and they way anandamide engages with the CB1 receptors in the brain to stimulate the release of ‘feel-good hormones’) can be manipulated; which is where CBD can come in. Since CBD can be administered at certain times or hours to spike anandamide levels, you might say there’s a light at the end of the tunnel. This, paired with CBD’s potential to limit anxiety levels and aid those with obsessive compulsive tendencies, suggests that there’s a lot of potential for CBD here.

It can be surmised that, since high levels of anandamide are found in a range of people, for example those who don’t have eating disorders with perfectly normal diets, it isn’t the high levels of anandamide which is the problem, but the fact that concentration levels spike when the diet is abnormal. This ensures that a person with the eating disorder equates abnormal eating habits with a strong sense of ‘reward’. So, to combat this, a ‘manipulation of the endocannabinoid tone’ is needed- where anandamide can spike in patients after they eat a normal, nourishing meal, instead of after restricting their diet or binge eating. Long story short, it is not the presence of the endocannabinoid which is the problem- which means that, as long as CBD can be administered at the right time, there is a chance to promote positive change in an individual’s reward-circuit.

One thing is certain: the manipulation of the endocannabinoid system plays a huge role in possibly preventing, and controlling, the risk of eating disorders.

Some Of Our Recommendations

Should you find yourself wanting to try CBD, there’s a range of different brands, applications and concentrations out there. Some of our favourites include:

Perfect to take sublingually (under the tongue) throughout the day (according to doctors’ dosage recommendations). This CBD oil is full spectrum- which means it has trace amounts of THC to heighten the potency of CBD in ‘the entourage effect’. We recommend this product for its efficacy, affordability and application, which takes place quickly and effectively with little to no hassle.

If you want a more concentrated CBD product, with high quality and effective ingredients, this product is for you. Once again, the sublingual application makes the product easy to take. This is a full spectrum product, to promote ‘the entourage effect’ and each ingredient is extracted via the most effective method- supercritical CO2 extraction. This makes the CBD, within the product pure and potent.

• Cannacares CBD Transdermal Patches

Not every CBD needs to be taken orally. And if you find yourself hesitating to try CBD oil, you might benefit from experimenting with topical CBD patches- especially if you’re prone to muscle tension, body ache or just want to relax and unwind.

Studies have shown that the mind-body connection is extremely effective- when the body is relaxed, it can be a lot easier to ease the mind of worry or stress. Topical CBD or transdermal patches (we suggest the patches since they’re effective, can be slapped on anywhere you require and tend to be more affordable- ideal for first-time users) offer the kind of targeted muscle tension release. Offering localised comfort, CBD patches might be just the therapeutic relief you need.

Conclusion

Because of a lack of universal medical treatment, eating disorders are hard to stick a pin into- since the dawn of time, anxiety-related issues have existed. Since the birth of the eating disorder, there’s been a lot of speculation and suggestion; with results coming in slowly but surely. Now, more than ever, with research and new preventative measures coming into play, there’s a chance that we might be able to control and combat a number of eating disorders. With the discovery of phytocannabinoids and their deep-rooted connection to the ECS, a stronger reliance on therapy and counselling, and more articles and medical research coming into play, eating disorder awareness is at an all time high. We, at Alphagreen, hope that with every small piece of research and conclusion stepping into the limelight, eating disorders can be cured a lot quicker or even prevented from occurring.

And as we delve deeper into the murky, long neglected, waters of mental health, one thing we can say for certain is that with compassion, empathy and research, we are sure to see advancements on how to fully prevent and treat a range of disorders.

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.

From humble hemp plants to high-tech chemistry labs, premium CBD extract is tested every step of the way before it ends up in your hand. In this article, we’re looking at CBD under the microscope and reviewing the methods that lab technicians use to analyse your favourite hemp-themed products. We’ve explained techniques such as High-Performance Liquid Chromatography in accessible terms so you can gain the knowledge you need to make confident choices. Be sure to take advantage of our no-fuss guide to reading a COA (Certificate of Analysis) at the end of this text!

Given the immense popularity of hemp-themed wellness products, it’s likely that you’ve already heard about cannabidiol (or CBD for short). As we open this text, we’ll cover some fundamental points to refresh your memory. Botanically speaking, CBD is a cannabinoid – a unique and non-psychoactive cannabis compound made of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen atoms. It was first extracted and isolated in a laboratory setting by an American Chemist named Roger Adams. Ever since this breakthrough moment in the 1940s, scientists have scrutinised CBD with ever-increasing curiosity. Some of this interest may be due to the evolving status of cannabis as a contraband and revolutionary substance. Still, the bulk of contemporary research is assessing CBD in terms of its clinical and therapeutic potential.

Preliminary evidence suggests that – with regular consumption – some possible CBD benefits may include:

• Impacting how your body processes signals via the ECS (endocannabinoid system)
• Improved sleep
• A reduction in some symptoms of anxiety and stress
• A decrease in some signs of inflammation and inflammatory pain symptoms
• An impact on self-perceived comfort and wellbeing

With these possibilities in mind, it’s not surprising that over 11% of UK adults used CBD products in 2019 alone (according to a recent Statista report). Added to this, industry analysts anticipate that the UK CBD market may be worth over £1 billion by 2024. However, the world of CBD manufacturing is far from standardised. Despite growing efforts to regulate hemp-derived supplements with controlled substance laws and novel food policies, the fact remains that not every brand in the cannabis industry is committed to high-quality output. Let’s explore some of the current expectations for legal hemp products in the UK.

How is CBD Classified?

First things first, is CBD legal? At present, CBD is a legal substance in the UK, but some strict conditions are in place to make this possible. The British government regulates cannabis with extreme caution due to its longstanding reputation as one of the most widely consumed illegal substances in the world. It’s essential to refer to the specific national laws that apply in your country of residence before experimenting with CBD. Its legal status varies from place to place.

UK officials tolerate hemp-derived cannabinoid products that can demonstrate:

• Non-intoxicating chemistry (evidenced by a lack of THC molecules)
• Connections with licenced hemp crops

In order to be legal in Britain (and throughout most of the EU), CBD products must contain no more than 0.2% THC. As we’ll touch upon shortly, THC is a substance that may potentially produce intoxicating effects when consumed in excess.

CBD as a Food Product

At this point, it’s also worth mentioning that CBD is often classified as a food supplement. As a result, edible products ranging from CBD oil to hemp-infused chocolates must comply with national food policies. This process involves the Novel Foods Act and general Food Safety Laws enforced by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) in the UK. Here, one of the primary goals is to ensure that all food products sold in Britain are appropriate for consumption. Food and beverage manufacturers must ensure that their products aren’t contaminated with toxins, mould, or other hazardous content.

As you can imagine, lab tests help prove the quality and authenticity of CBD products, while also screening for any possible contaminants. Whether you’re interested in CBD gummies or bath bombs, you have a right to know precisely what you are purchasing.

How is CBD Made?

Unless you opt for synthetic sources, CBD is made naturally by hemp plants in curated wild crops or controlled greenhouse settings. Like most plants, hemp relies on suitable growing conditions that offer sufficient moisture, humidity, warmth, nutrients, light, and soil composition. These factors influence the crop’s yield and the chemical properties of the plants that are harvested. While hemp has a reputation as a relatively “hardy” and resilient crop, plants grown for the CBD industry receive devoted care and attention as they mature. Producers must ensure that Good Manufacturing Processes (GMPs) are maintained every step of the way – especially during the extraction and purification stages.

In most cases, CBD is extracted via supercritical CO2 extraction. In basic terms, this involves using CO2, pressure, and temperature fluctuations to transport hemp molecules between liquid and gaseous states. The emerging botanical extract is then collected and developed. Since hemp is naturally high in CBD, it has desirable chemistry. Cannabidiol extract is typically available in one of three forms:

• Full-Spectrum CBD (containing a full range of natural hemp compounds)
• Broad-Spectrum CBD (a THC-free version of Full-Spectrum)
• CBD Isolate (the most ‘purified’ version of CBD with no other compounds present)

These extracts are the cornerstones of all CBD-themed products (apart from alcohol/glycerin based tinctures). For example, developers create best-selling supplements such as ‘CBD oil’ by mixing their chosen hemp extract with a carrier fluid (such as hemp seed oil or MCT oil). Manufacturers also use these infusions as a means to blend CBD into other products – ranging from foods and beverages to skincare.

The Chemistry of CBD

As we appreciate the chemistry of CBD, we should remember that it’s rooted in the cannabis family. CBD is a botanical compound that manufacturers extract from hemp plants using high-performance techniques, and these processes often involve mediating any other plant substances which may be present. To obtain CBD isolate (also known as ‘pure CBD’), developers go to great lengths by distilling and purifying the extract – ensuring that it is free from unwanted compounds. Rather than being an isolated substance in nature, CBD exists in the ‘company’ of many other phytochemicals. Cannabinoids (such as THC), terpenes (aromatic molecules), and flavonoids (potential antioxidants) tend to be present alongside CBD at a chemical level.

Before we learn more about CBD testing, let’s review some of the active substances that may be detectable in CBD samples.

Cannabinoids

Cannabinoids are unique compounds that most scientists attribute to cannabis plants. However, as is often the case in the botanical world, some cannabinoids can also be found in other plant species. For example, researchers suggest that coneflowers and cacao may contain compounds that mimic the properties of cannabinoids. While CBD is often singled out as a substance with ‘celebrity status’, it’s helpful to remember that full or broad-spectrum CBD contains additional hemp compounds.

Rather than attempting to list over a hundred of these fascinating substances, we’ll be focussing on the cannabinoids that CBD testers most commonly detect (at least in trace quantities).

THC

THC was first coined with the 1960s discovery of ‘delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol’. It’s a well-known psychoactive plant compound that is notably present in the “marijuana” subspecies of cannabis. Consuming large quantities of THC can trigger euphoria and create a potentially dangerous “high” in some circumstances. A study by Jeremy R Johnson and others suggests that THC molecules may synergise with CBD to impact some pain symptoms. Other studies indicate that controlled exposure to limited amounts of THC might potentially influence signs of anxiety, inflammation, and insomnia.

CBC

Cannabichromene (or CBC for short) is a cannabinoid that scientists are still ‘unpacking’, particularly regarding how it may interact with our bodies. According to research published in 2019, CBC molecules can be fairly abundant in hemp plants, and consuming them might influence some of our perceptions of pain and inflammation symptoms. Other preliminary evidence suggests that CBC may possibly affect signs of stress and depression. Like most of the cannabinoids found in hemp, it is not a psychoactive molecule.

CBG

CBG is an acronym for cannabigerol – another intriguing substance found in hemp plants. The acidic version of CBG (aka CBGa) is present in hemp flowers, and you can think of it as the “grandfather” of cannabinoids. It serves as an essential ‘building block’ to support THC, CBD, and CBC synthesis. In its non-acidic form, CBG is a fully fledged cannabinoid in its own right. Researcher Rahul Nachani and others suggest that CBG might impact neural cells and affect some symptoms of muscle tension and inflammation.

CBN

Cannabinol (CBN) is a minor cannabinoid that is most commonly found in mature hemp plants. It’s formed when THC molecules degrade in response to changing oxygen levels and temperatures. While the idea of consuming “old THC” may not sound appealing, scientists now suggest that CBN may offer some unique properties. Recent studies indicate that it might potentially impact some symptoms of pain and discomfort. Now that we’ve covered the cannabinoids that scientists often screen for in CBD tests, let’s review some common terpenes.

Terpenes

What are terpenes? Put simply, they are the fragrant, oil-based substances responsible for creating the signature smells we associate with plants such as lavender, basil, and (not surprisingly) hemp. If you’ve ever used products such as hemp seed oil or Full-Spectrum CBD, you may have noticed an ‘earthy’ or ‘woody’ aroma. Terpenes make this possible, but they’re not just here to tantalise our senses. Current research suggests that these fragrant compounds might just offer some unique wellbeing benefits of their own.

Let’s look at some of the most popular terpenes that are accounted for in CBD lab screenings:

Bisabolol (Levomenol)

Most commonly found in chamomile flowers, alpha-bisabolol has a gentle and sweet scent and exists as a colourless oil. According to researchers Russell and Jacob, it may offer some dermatological benefits – possibly impacting your skin texture and signs of inflammation. As you may know, chamomile is nothing new. People have utilised it for centuries – especially in tea.

Camphene

Camphene is described as a ‘monoterpene’ because it contains only carbon and hydrogen atoms. This substance is a bicyclic compound (arranged in two conjoined rings) present in rosemary, ginger, and hemp plants. A rodent study from 2011 suggested that exposure to small amounts of camphene may potentially influence cholesterol and normal heart functioning. There is also evidence to suggest that it might be harmful when consumed in excessive quantities.

Carene

Carene is another example of a bicyclic monoterpene found in hemp plants. It has a citrusy flavour and may impact some signs of inflammation. According to some studies, it might possibly interact with some of the natural bone-maintenance processes that occur within your body.

Beta-Caryophyllene (BCP)

Most notably found in cloves and black pepper, BCP is responsible for the ‘spiciness’ or flavoursome ‘kick’ that characterises many edible plant sources. Technically, it is a sesquiterpene, and has a more complex structure than most other aromatic hemp compounds. Numerous animal studies suggest that BCP might possibly affect natural cell processes and impact some symptoms of inflammation.

Cymene

Cymene (formally known as para-cymene) is most commonly associated with essential oils obtained from herbs and spices such as cumin and thyme. In terms of chemical structure, it is a hydrocarbon derivative that is bound to a monoterpene. According to a recent Canadian analysis, cymene might possibly demonstrate some antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.

Alpha-Humulene

In nature, alpha-humulene helps to protect hemp plants from predators, pests, and fungus. Like BCP, this compound is classified as a sesquiterpene with a fairly complex structure. A study published in June 2020 suggested that alpha-humulene might possibly offer some antibacterial properties.

Isopulegol

With its minty fragrance, isopulegol is the chemical cousin of menthol – a substance you probably encountered the last time you brushed your teeth or chewed gum. As summarised by a recent research paper, years of animal studies suggest that isopulegol may potentially impact some symptoms of muscle tension, digestive discomfort and maybe even anxiety.

Other Relevant Terpenes

Given the sheer quantity of terpenes present in hemp plants, we can’t do this category justice in a few short paragraphs. For a more in-depth report, you’ll love our informative Academy piece: Terpenes: Not Just a Pretty Fragrance. Otherwise, we’ve listed several other significant hemp terpenes below:

• Limonene (commonly found in citrus fruit peels)
• Linalool (may potentially influence sleep and self-perceived relaxation levels)
• Myrcene (another terpene with an iconic “earthy” fragrance)
• Ocimene (a terpene with a sweet, grassy aroma)
• Alpha-Pinene (found predominantly in coniferous trees)
• Terpinene (also found in cardamom and marjoram oils)
• Terpinolene (known for its possible antioxidant effects)

By this point, it’s apparent that hemp derivatives such as CBD can potentially contain an impressive abundance of natural substances. Astoundingly, we’ve only scraped the tip of the iceberg. With all these variables (along with other factors we’ll discuss later), CBD products must be reviewed by specialists from accredited laboratories. By choosing brands that provide you with every assurance in their power, you can focus on what’s really important: your comfort and wellbeing.

Why Should We Put CBD to the Test?

As you may have heard, the modern cannabis market is one of the most rapidly-growing industries in the world. As the field becomes more profitable, instances of products being carelessly manufactured and falsely advertised may also be on the rise. Did you know that recent test results from the Centre For Medicinal Cannabis (CMC) suggest that 45% of generic high-street CBD products may possibly contain chemical flaws? While it might be easy to get enticed by attractive packaging or slick marketing schemes, it’s crucial to establish your chosen CBD product’s chemical profile. Third-party lab tests are rigorous and unbiased procedures that identify and document the substances present in your product – substantiated by an official Certificate of Analysis (or COA). We’ll discuss more on this topic later, but first, let’s review some of the benefits of reviewing CBD lab reports.

While tests are always calculated events, they allow brands to evidence their cooperation with more comprehensive frameworks and dedication to excellence. Accordingly, CBD brands that organise third-party lab reports leave no room for guesswork where their product chemistries are concerned. Better yet, brands that proudly display their certificates demonstrate confidence and transparency. As you assess different CBD companies according to your needs and preferences, you should expect products to be verified by experts with uncompromising standards. Here at Alphagreen, our curated marketplace makes it easy to source CBD from the best brands.

In today’s marketplace, it’s easy to feel ‘cheated’. It’s no secret that the internet hosts a new generation of scammers and disreputable businesses. Unfortunately, not all so-called CBD products are as they would appear. Some may even contain 0% CBD extract! As a customer, the last thing you want is to lose money or find out that the products you ordered are of inferior quality. Worse still, poorly made food supplements may even put your health at risk.

Lab-verified test results provide an objective overview that rests on an accredited science facility’s expertise and solid reputation. While your personal experiences with using CBD may vary, it’s always good to know that your chosen product is on record as an accurately represented substance that conforms with relevant GMPs (Good Manufacturing Processes).

While CBD is illegal and restricted in many international territories, you can currently travel with regulation-compliant CBD in the UK, and throughout several regions in the USA and the European Union. Understandably, transit authorities often leave no stones unturned while checking for cannabis derivatives – even in countries where hemp is legal. If you are lawfully travelling with CBD oil and your product comes with supporting documentation, you can show these lab reports to any transport officials who may question its contents.

The Benefits of Third-Party Lab Testing

What is third-party lab testing? As the name suggests, third-party labs are private facilities run by ‘outsourced’ parties that are not associated with CBD brands. While most companies conduct in-house CBD tests throughout their manufacturing processes, these reports aren’t guaranteed to be accurate. Furthermore, a conflict of interest may arise when a CBD company uses its employees to generate results. Since unaffiliated analysts conduct third-party lab tests, they are more credible for numerous reasons:

Impartiality

CBD brands do not control third-party labs, so the scientists are not under pressure to deliver anything other than the truth: an accurate representation of the samples they’ve received. Consequently, this allows them to produce unbiased and objective reports. While marketing campaigns are often crafted to present companies in their most favourable light, third-party lab tests are solely interested in the evidence.

Scope

Third-party labs often represent expensive, elaborate and full-scale testing facilities that would otherwise be challenging to access. As analytical ‘power houses’, they are staffed by expert chemists and technicians who cross-examine samples using a wide array of research methods. Thus, they can go to great lengths to ascertain the exact contents of CBD products.

Reputation

Each time third-party labs publish CBD test results, they place their facility’s reputation on the line. In many cases, scientific reports include an official stamp of approval, registered test numbers, and a lab representative’s signature. Choosing a premium CBD brand with third-party lab results can give you an added sense of security – knowing that the manufacturers and the analysts are willing to hold themselves accountable. All in all, third-party lab tests are fundamental as a means of quality control – to ensure that each batch of CBD extract is standardised and consistent with regulations. Scientists utilise their industry expertise, meticulous techniques, and state-of-the-art equipment to assess the profile of CBD. Let’s consider some of the red flags that they are looking for:

What Do Third-Party Labs Assess?

Most premium CBD products are labelled with a percentage to indicate the concentration of molecules present. For example, you might have seen products such as ‘10% CBD oil’. By performing a detailed analysis of cannabinoids and the extent to which they are present, third-party labs can declare the chemical potency (or ‘strength’) of these compounds. This practice ensures that THC levels are within legal limits. Labs also use terpene profiling techniques to verify the aromatic molecules in a sample – especially as some people may be allergic to substances like limonene. Aside from recording the specific plant chemicals accounted for in any given CBD sample, scientists also check for contaminants ranging from microorganisms to solvents.

Organic Toxins

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), some fungi strains generate dangerous toxins (also known as mycotoxins), growing in moist and warm conditions. Exposure to these toxins may be harmful to humans and animals – mainly due to the carcinogenic and possibly deadly properties they may possess. Most products for human consumption must undergo mycotoxin tests, and hemp-derived CBD is no exception. For your information, some of the mycotoxins that CBD-testers screen for include:

• Aflatoxins
• Deoxynivalenol
• T-2 Toxin
• HT-2 Toxin
• Fumonisin
• Ochratoxin

Pesticides

While many of the natural chemicals found in hemp may help to repel insects, some farmers attempt to increase their yield by using pesticides. As you may already know, pesticides are substances intended to inhibit or kill pests that could otherwise damage plants. Researchers suggest that exposure to some of these mutagenic chemicals can potentially jeopardise our wellbeing. Therefore, labs must screen for traces of pesticides.

Why do CBD products have to be tested for heavy metals such as lead, chromium, and zinc? Soil contamination is a severe environmental issue perpetuated by chemical waste disposal, mining, and industrial manufacturing. According to Kanwal Rahman and others, exposure to toxic heavy metals may potentially result in poisoning symptoms and possibly even disease. Consequently, all products must be tested for heavy metals.

Often, developers use chemical solvents to assist with the extraction, distillation, and purification of CBD. While these substances can perform useful functions within the manufacturing process, all lingering traces of solvents need to be removed from the final product. In some cases, exposure to chemicals such as benzene and toluene may put human health at risk. Since people often seek CBD for its potential wellbeing properties, labs need to make sure that it doesn’t contain any harmful contaminants.

Standard Methods of Testing CBD

As we’ve established, CBD manufacturers must be able to confirm the safety and legality of their products with lab-verified test results. However, the specific methods used to analyse CBD are not set in stone. Often, third-party lab technicians adopt a combined approach – since there is rarely a one-size-fits-all test that provides all the information needed to reach a conclusion. To begin this process, labs require a sample of the substance they will be analysing.

Obtaining a CBD Sample

Product samples ought to provide an accurate representation of an entire batch so that the findings can apply to the bigger picture. In line with requirements, representatives from the third-party lab are responsible for collecting CBD samples. While hemp distributors should be present, they are not allowed to interfere with this process. These rules are maintained to prevent people from ‘rigging’ their test results. Once lab technicians have access to a suitable sample, they can analyse it using a wide variety of techniques.

Identifying Compounds Using Chromatography

In simple terms, chromatography is a standard technique that chemists use to separate compounds in a mixture. This approach allows individual substances to be identified – including cannabinoids such as CBD, THC, and CBC. One of the preliminary forms of chromatography that scientists use to assess CBD extract is called ‘High-Performance Liquid Chromatography’. Let’s take a look at this method in closer detail:

High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)

At its most basic level, HPLC enables scientists to separate compounds in a mixture based on how they respond to liquid (or, more specifically, their ‘polarity’). To perform this test, technicians add a sample of CBD extract to a ‘stationary phase’ – a compact column typically made of silica. Next, the ‘mobile phase’ takes place. This section involves pumping a liquid (water-based solvent) through the column and gradually ‘flushing out’ compounds from the CBD sample. It’s important to note that this is a timed process.

Each compound is assigned an official ‘retention time’, and the periods required for different sample components to pass through the column help scientists identify the substances present. Since CBD compounds have a specific structure and profile, they have a unique retention time.

Analysing Molecular Structure With Spectroscopy

Put simply; spectroscopy examines how light waves and other forms of radiation are absorbed and released by substances/matter. It also observes how particles interact and collide. As a result, scientists in all research fields often utilise spectroscopic techniques to identify atoms and molecules structurally. Since hemp contains a diverse selection of substances, lab technicians can confirm the molecules that are present based on their structure.

Mass Spectrometry (Mass Spec)

This process involves ionising compounds and placing them in a magnetic or electric field. In essence, the forces in the field divert or ‘push’ the particles according to their mass-to-charge ratio. The preferred method for testing CBD involves electron ionisation – using high-speed electrons to fragment molecules. This method takes into account the unique fragmentation pattern and characteristic ion peak attributed to molecules. Depending on the extent that the particles divert along a spectrum, lab technicians can identify atoms and compounds according to their mass. Mass Spec is often used in conjunction with HPLC to confirm the structures of individual substances extracted from a sample.

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (NMR)

Just as an MRI scan is used to ‘take pictures’ of the structures within a patient’s body, NMR applies similar principles to assess the content purity and molecular structure of a sample. This spectrum technique uses a strong magnetic field that aligns the spins of atomic nuclei. In these conditions, the nuclei resonate – producing peaks that can be recorded. Each peak is characteristic of a particular atom, and as the process continues, the apparatus can map out the composition of a molecule. In the end, a computer will produce a read-out of these peaks, which collectively represent the structures of the compounds present.

Additional Quality Control Tests

Assessing Fungal Risks Using Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA)

TGA uses temperature and time to record changes in sample mass – particularly those associated with moisture loss. If cannabis plants are stored in improper conditions before CBD extraction (for example, if the plant material is not dried correctly), there can be a risk of infestation. Since mould and fungal cultures are living organisms, they rely on adequate food sources, oxygen, and water levels to survive. TGA uses a mass-loss-on-drying method to confirm the amount of moisture present in a sample – which helps lab technicians to determine whether the CBD is at risk of being contaminated by microorganisms.

Detecting Microbes With Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

Casually referred to as “molecular photocopying”, PCR is a method that allows scientists to ‘copy’ DNA segments to achieve an exact sample that is sizable enough to analyse. Scientists can use this technique to study and detect microbes such as bacteria. It’s a cyclical process that involves denaturing DNA with heat to break it into single-strand molecules and then adding an enzyme that can generate ‘copies’ of these molecules. PCR produces an ‘amplified’ DNA sample that scientists can test using several other clinical techniques.

Detecting Heavy Metals Via ICP-MS

According to Wilschefski and Baxter, Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (or ICP-MS) is a technique that scientists use to detect low and ultra-low concentrations of elements (such as heavy metals) in bio-organic fluids. In basic terms, ICP-MS uses a nebuliser to convert a CBD sample into a very fine mist that enters an ICP torch. The torch generates plasma, which ionises any elements that may be present in the sample. Later on in this process, tab technicians identify the separated elements according to their mass-to-charge ratio using Mass Spec techniques.

Detecting Residual Solvents With Gas Chromatography (GC)

Not surprisingly, gas chromatography (GC) is similar to the HPLC technique we discussed a moment ago. The critical difference with GC is that its mobile phase requires a carrier gas such as hydrogen or nitrogen rather than liquid. Following similar procedures to those detailed above, technicians measure the vaporised sample’s retention time as the gas effectively ‘pushes’ it along. Most commonly, scientists testing CBD use this technique to detect any possible solvent residue.

To Sum It All Up

While CBD is a natural, hemp-derived substance, premium CBD brands take great care to develop expertly made products that reflect Good Manufacturing Practices. They often enlist the help of third-party labs – submitting CBD samples for advanced and unbiased tests. To obtain the evidence required to support any given CBD product’s chemistry, scientists utilise a diverse range of techniques. The conclusions they reach are summarised in a document called a Certificate of Analysis (COA). Throughout the rest of this text, we’ll explain more about what this document is and how it can empower your decision-making.

What is a Certificate of Analysis (COA)?

A COA is a certified report issued by an accredited laboratory. You can think of it as a certificate of authenticity. If you want to know the total composition of a CBD product, a COA is an excellent resource to seek out. This document’s absence may be a major red flag – mainly as it is an essential tool that can help you make informed decisions. Unlike the personal wellbeing anecdotes that CBD users often share, a COA is a fact-based summary that explains the exact chemistry of your chosen supplement or cosmetic – including cannabinoids, terpenes and potential contaminants.

Why is a COA So Important?

According to the CMC report we mentioned earlier, a considerable proportion of high-street CBD products may be labelled inaccurately. These observations might apply to products that contain less CBD extract than their labels indicate, or products with excess concentrations of THC. Unfortunately, some online scammers even sell fake CBD products and use ‘free’ cannabis extracts as an incentive for people to surrender sensitive information. It’s vital to be proactive and look at the facts to avoid disappointments.

A COA is a must-have document because:

• It reveals the accurate composition of CBD products and their chemical profiles
• It gives you a more thorough report than a standard list of ingredients
• It helps you to judge the value and integrity of any given CBD brand

In light of these benefits, we recommend that you prioritise brands that can provide you with a COA. Additionally, it is wise to review this certificate before you start using your new CBD product.

Where Can You Find a COA?

While COAs are indispensable, they sometimes require a little research to obtain. Most premium CBD brands anticipate the demand for these documents and provide digital copies of lab certificates on their websites or marketplace listings. If you cannot find these files, it is perfectly reasonable to ask a brand representative to provide you with a COA (and any other objective information that could influence your opinion of their products). By contacting the brands directly, you can also assess other important factors, such as customer service quality.

If you feel more comfortable making a purchase and reviewing the credentials later, you may be able to access a copy of a COA by scanning the QR Code printed on the back of your CBD product.

How to Read a Certificate of Analysis

While a COA certainly isn’t a thrilling page-turner, it’s a must-read document that provides the information you need to gain confidence in your CBD choices. Some of the technical terms can seem a bit overwhelming – particularly if you’re new to the world of cannabis-derived wellness products. To help you set the right expectations, we’ve broken the process of reading a COA down into a few straightforward categories:

The COA header is printed at the top of the document and features some crucial legal information. These details often include the product’s name, relevant identification numbers, and important dates associated with the COA. As we know, first impressions are everything. Therefore, you should expect the header to be filled with accurate details.

It’s wise to pay particular attention to the manufacturing and best before dates. Ideally, the COA should include some more recent material, such as monthly reports. These updates may indicate that your chosen CBD brand regularly conducts tests – which is ideal. If white-labelling has occurred, the COA may credit the wholesale CBD manufacturing company rather than the specific brand you’ve purchased from.

The Cannabinoid Profile

In the cannabinoid profile section of the COA, lab technicians summarise the extent to which cannabis compounds are present in your chosen CBD product. It should also state the testing methods that technicians used to arrive at these figures. At the top, the cannabinoid profile should declare the total amount of CBD in milligrams per gram, per millilitre or per product. As the report progresses, this section should also specify the other cannabinoids present – including THC compounds. You can use this information to confirm whether your chosen product is in line with the legal THC limits where you live. To prevent any confusion, it helps to be aware of the following abbreviations:

• ND (no detection)
• LoD/LoQ/LoB – the smallest concentrations that can be accurately measured

Like the cannabinoid profile, your COA’s terpene profile section identifies the aromatic plant molecules present in your CBD product. Beyond general knowledge, this section may be handy if you are allergic to limonene or other terpenes. Each compound’s concentration is typically recorded in milligrams per 100g, but lab technicians may choose different units to accommodate liquid products. This section should also reference the analytical methods that experts used throughout the testing process.

You can read test results for common contaminants such as yeast, mould, E. coli and Salmonella in the microbiological profile. It’s important to remember that microbes are diverse groups of bacteria, and many of them are harmless. For example, if trace amounts of bacteria from the extensive E. coli family are recorded in a COA, it doesn’t mean that the CBD product is ‘infected’ or unfit for consumption. Instead, it means that expert lab technicians have safely screened any possible microbes that may be present. Similarly, your COA should also take other mycotoxin profiles into account.

In this section, you may encounter some abbreviations such as:

• CFU (colony-forming unit)
• PPB (parts per billion)

The Chemical Profile

The chemical profile assesses the extent to which residual solvents, pesticides, heavy metals, and allergens such as gluten may be present in your CBD product. These substances are often quantified in ppm (or parts per million) but can also be expressed in milligrams per litre (mg/L).

The Organoleptic Profile

Interestingly, COAs also include an organoleptic or ‘sensory’ section, which assesses the CBD product’s physical properties – the factors that influence user experiences on a practical level. This section of the certificate often analyses how the product looks, but it can also examine its smell, taste, and texture (where appropriate). If the lab technicians judge that the CBD product meets relevant industry and consumer requirements, they often communicate this simply by saying it ‘conforms’.

Physical Dosage

Towards the end of the COA, you should see some metrics associated with dosage. These involve assessing some of the weights and timings that may contribute to CBD dosage. As you may already know, there is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to judging how much CBD you should take. However, it’s always best to follow the suggested instructions detailed on your chosen product’s packaging.

The Official Sign-Off

Typically, you should expect to see the signature of a Quality Control Technician on behalf of the third-party lab team. The signature indicates that the Certificate of Analysis has been proofread and reviewed by a designated authority figure. It underlines the document’s credibility and names a specific individual willing to vouch for everything the COA reports. You should also see a date to indicate precisely when this technician expressed their approval.

Some Reputable Third-Party Labs to Look Out For

While there are many CBD testing venues worldwide, not all of them can perform accredited tests. In most major countries, ISO / IEC 17025 is the standard by which most laboratories must be accredited to be considered technically competent. The most reputable COAs come from prestigious laboratories with certified THC tests, and the least reputable reports come from unaccredited science facilities. For your reference, here are some iconic analytical testing facilities based in the UK and beyond:

British Cannabis, London, UK

British Cannabis is a hemp heavyweight – the most prominent industrial producer, manufacturer, and distributor of cannabis Sativa L in the UK. Registered with the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Authority (MHPR), British Cannabis maintains high standards for CBD-themed products. At their official testing facilities, lab technicians can purify and control active ingredients, test THC levels, and alter their products’ chemistry at a molecular level.

BSCG, Los Angeles, California

BSCG (or Banned Substances Control Group) is a testing facility with a strong track record in food supplements and sports drug testing services. It offers comprehensive assessments of CBD and hemp-derived products covering all areas of chemistry and composition. BSCG also performs detailed supplier verification audits to ensure the highest possible quality and safety standards are maintained throughout the supply chain stages.

Desert Valley Testing, Phoenix, Arizona

Desert Valley Testing uses state-of-the-art facilities and is fully equipped to perform chromatography, spectrometry, and more. In terms of CBD, this lab analyses cannabinoids and terpenes, alongside testing for contaminants such as residual solvents, pesticides and mycotoxins.

Eurofins Scientific, London, UK

Eurofins offers multi-accredited lab testing services – specialising in analytical chemistry, microbiology and bio diagnostics. Alongside the standard compound identification and contaminant profiling, Eurofins tests CBD using infrared and ultraviolet spectroscopy. Thus, it is considered a cutting-edge testing facility.

Fundación CANNA, Muelle de Barcelona, Spain

As its name suggests, Fundación CANNA is devoted to researching cannabis and its consumption. The facility offers cannabinoid and terpene profiling, along with heavy metal tests and microbe examinations.

Infinite Chemical Analysis Labs, San Diego, California

Founded in 2016, Infinite Chemical is already building a legacy as a facility with impressive accreditations. Regarding hemp research, it performs all standard potency, identity, and contamination tests. Additionally, Infinite Chemical analyses factors such as water activity, vitamin E and hemp gender identification.

JHG Analytical Services, Waterford, Ireland

JHG Analytical Services have a favourable reputation in agricultural, environmental, and petrochemical research, making it a strong candidate for testing hemp products such as CBD. Beyond assessing terpene and cannabinoid content, JHG also analyses antioxidants, flavonoids and polyphenols.

Kaycha Labs, Denver, Colorado

Kaycha Labs (formerly Phytatech) exclusively offers the full range of CBD testing facilities to registered cannabis professionals in Colorado. However, it also provides standard cannabinoid profiling, potency tests, and contamination tests on a more general level.

Leaf Laboratoire, Boissy-Saint-Léger, France

Leaf Laboratoire focuses on fluid analysis – specifically e-liquids such as CBD vape oil. It is certified by a national standardisation authority called NFNOR and conducts thorough cannabinoid and contaminant tests.

Pharma Hemp Laboratories, Ljubljana, Slovakia

Pharma Hemp is an internationally recognised testing facility that is most known for analysing hemp-derived cannabinoid products. It conducts cannabinoid profiles using techniques such as HPLC, and also functions as an industrial CBD distributor.

Phytovista Lab, Beckington, UK

At Phytovista, CBD samples are tested using comprehensive techniques to determine cannabinoids, terpenes, potency, and contaminants. This laboratory also provides detailed reports to help CBD retailers label their supplements and cosmetics more transparently.

Nowadays, CBD has an incredible demand as a hemp-derived compound which may offer some possible wellness benefits. As studies continue to explore its prospects, preliminary evidence suggests that CBD may potentially impact some common symptoms of anxiety, pain, muscle tension, and sleep disorders. While most researchers imply that CBD is a relatively low-risk substance to consume, this is based on the assumption that the hemp-themed product you are using is of adequate quality. As we’ve learned throughout this article, some products are incorrectly labelled, and ‘watchdog’ researchers have discovered some potentially dangerous contaminants such as heavy metals and illegal THC concentrations.

During third-party lab tests, outsourced scientists retrieve CBD samples and use diverse methods to identify and quantify compounds. They also search for contaminants such as microbes, heavy metals, pesticides, and residual solvents. Typically, the findings are summarised in a Certificate of Analysis (COA) – an official lab report that confirms the exact chemistry of a CBD product. If you’re looking for premium CBD representing Good Manufacturing Practices, a COA is a non-negotiable document. You deserve to know what you’re paying for and whether it meets high standards.

Here at Alphagreen, we understand this – which is why we only feature lab-tested brands that have ‘passed’ with flying colours.

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.

While the novel coronavirus keeps marching across the globe, causing new cases and spreading the panic, a team of Canadian researchers is placing their hopes on Quercetin, a natural flavonoid from plants. The research is led by Dr Michael Chrétien, a scientist at the Clinical Research Institute of Montreal along with Majambu Mbikay, Congolese scientist, to conduct clinical trials on the drug in China and find out if it will test against the novel coronavirus. Dr Chrétien defines Quercetin a “broad-spectrum antiviral” that has shown to be effective against SARS, the Ebola virus, and the Zika virus. Moreover, Quercetin has many other useful properties that will bring benefits to those who are not infected. Let’s not drag this out into a lifetime special and figure out if there is any hope for the cure.

What is Covid-19?

In short, COVID-19 is an illness caused by a coronavirus. Human coronaviruses are common and are typically associated with respiratory infections, from the common cold to severe ones. SARS-CoV-2, a positive-sense single-stranded coronavirus caused the outbreak of COVID-19. Transmission happens mostly via airborne droplets from coughs and sneezes within a range of up to two metres. Indirect contact is also possible via contaminated surfaces, but can’t survive on cardboard for more than one day or on copper for more than several hours and may be inactivated by soap or disinfectants. The incubation period for COVID-19, a period from when a person is infected with the virus to when they develop symptoms, lasts 5-6 days but may range from two to 14 days. The latest findings have shown that SARS-CoV-2 might remain detectable up to 37 days. After entering the human body, the virus starts to replicate. The immune system is not prepared to recognise the new types of viruses and effectively resist them.

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Coronavirus biology

In order to understand what can help with coronavirus, it’s worth knowing how it affects our bodies. The success story of each virus looks similar: get into a human cell, reproduce, damage the cell, and keep on infecting adjacent cells. 

Entrance

COVID-19 can get into body cells by attaching to ACE-2, a protein on the cell surface that has many beneficial effects in the organs. Coronavirus can bind to ACE-2, sequestering them from the cell surface and making them lose their activity. This loss of function can lead to serious consequences, such as severe pneumonia, heart failure, and circulatory collapse. Studies on mice infected with SARS, which is close to COVID-19, have shown that a high level of ACE-2 may alleviate the severity of pneumonia. This fact may explain different reactions to novel coronavirus: ACE-2 activity is higher in younger animals than older ones. Such conditions as smoking, older age, diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease are related to low ACE-2 activity. The development of COVID-19 from common viral illness to severe pneumonia may indicate the loss of ACE2 function, which may lead to enhanced neutrophil infiltration in the lungs and leads to exaggerated inflammation and injury.

Replication

As long as coronavirus enters human cells, it begins to replicate by hijacking mTOR, mammalian target of rapamycin, which is present in all cells. The mTOR is a protein kinase that controls protein synthesis and cell growth in response to nutrients, growth factors, energy levels, and stress. The body uses specialised proteins called Sirtuins to regulate organismal lifespan as well as oxidative stress and DNA damages, and mTOR activation. The activation of Sirtuins can suppress mTOR. 

Damage

Once they have multiplied, coronaviruses damage human cells by producing an enzyme called 3CL protease, which allows them to spread to adjacent cells. 3CL protease has been called “the Achilles heel” of coronavirus and is the subject of new antiviral drug development. Some dietary flavonoids inhibit 3CL protease, which may limit the severity of the novel infection.

Doing its dirty work, the virus manages to avoid the immune system that helps to kill viruses. It is unclear if stimulation of immunity may increase the protective abilities of the body. However, weak immunity may contribute to complications. As long as pneumonia develops, the immune system response changes and becomes too active, causing more damage. Therefore, therapies for immune-boosting may be contra-indicated during severe COVID-19 infection.

How to prevent spreading the virus?

During the Covid-19 pandemic, hygiene is a must. As long as there is no vaccine and treatment is focused on symptoms alleviation, preventive measures are a good idea to reduce the chances of infection. These measures include:

• frequent handwashing with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds
• avoiding touching the eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands
• using a tissue when coughing or sneezing, 
• avoiding public and crowded places
• restricting travel
• staying at home 

No fun, no parties approach may sound boring, but it is a social distancing that helps to reduce contact of infected persons with healthy people and especially vulnerable ones. Social distancing also includes that people stay approx. 2 meters apart. 

So far, no antiviral drugs are approved for the prevention or treatment of human coronavirus infections. Earlier scientists have started to research Quercetin and its antiviral properties and potential effects for Covid-19.

What is Quercetin?

It is highly likely that you’ve tried Quercetin without knowing. Quercetin is a pigment found in many fruits, vegetables, and plants. Quercetin belongs to a family of bioflavonoids, responsible for the bright colours and medicinal properties of many plants. Quercetin is one of the more versatile flavonoids found in cannabis plants. You can get Quercetin through a balanced diet or as a food supplement. Foods and drinks that contain Quercetin include berries, apples, citrus fruits, kale, tomatoes, onions, buckwheat, red wine, and black tea. It is also found in herbal remedies, such as ginkgo biloba and St John’s wort. Quercetin can be taken as a supplement in addition to other products. It can act as an antioxidant, neutralising free radicals that cause cellular and DNA damage. Quercetin is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammation properties, ability to prevent neurological diseases, and lower high blood pressure.

How can Quercetin help with the novel coronavirus?

Besides anti-inflammatory, anti-mutagens and anti-cancer-causing properties, Quercetin is considered to produce an antiviral effect and the ability to control major cell enzyme functions. Quercetin is considered to have the potential to act against the novel coronavirus and here are the mechanisms that prove its potential:

Inhibition of 3C-like protease (3CLpro)

To enter the cell, CoV binds to a host cell surface receptor – Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) in the case of the novel coronavirus. As soon as it enters the host cell, the virus RNA attaches to the host ribosome for translation of coterminal polyproteins. This is accompanied by a breakdown of proteins into smaller polypeptides or amino acids. This process is called proteolysis and is important for packing new viral parts. The coronavirus’ main proteinase (3CLpro) and the papain-like protease (PLpro) are involved in the proteolysis process and therefore, are essential for the virus.

A 2019 study by Korean scientists has shown that Quercetin and other flavonoids might inhibit the proteolytic activity of SARS-CoV 3C-like protease and therefore cause the antiviral effect.

Prevention from ACE 2 binding

Coronavirus uses the ACE 2 receptor to get into body cells, empty its RNA content and hijack it, and produce more viruses. Therefore, preventing SARS-CoV-2 from binding to the ACE 2 receptor means the virus can’t get into body cells. A computer modelling study has shown that Quercetin, similarly to other compounds, may block the novel coronavirus from entering cells.

mTOR Modulation

Quercetin can act as a nutritional stimulator of Sirtuin function and inhibit mTOR activity. It means that it challenges the replication of the virus. As Quercetin is poorly absorbed, it is best to start taking it as a supplement long before exposure, so it has time to accumulate. Additionally, Quercetin has good safety profiles and causes an anti-inflammatory effect.

The virus weakening 

Naturally occurring flavonoids such as Quercetin has shown to be effective against herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), polio-virus type 1, parainfluenza virus type 3 (Pf-3), and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) when studied in vitro in cell culture monolayers with the use of the viral plaque reduction technique. During the study, Quercetin caused a concentration-dependent reduction in the infectivity of each virus. Moreover, it reduced the intracellular replication of each virus.

Other studies have suggested that Quercetin has antiviral activity against HIV-luc/SARS, with very low cytotoxicity. Quercetin has been shown to inhibit influenza infection with a broad spectrum of strains, including H1N1 and H3N2 with half-maximal inhibitory concentration. Additionally, Quercetin could suppress the entry of the H5N1 virus with the use of the pseudovirus-based drug screening system. A 2016 study indicates that Quercetin causing inhibitory activity in the early stage of influenza infection may be a future therapeutic option to create safe, effective and affordable natural products for the treatment and prophylaxis of Influenza A viruses (IAVs).

Are there any studies on Quercetin in 2020?

After the outbreak of SARS epidemic, Chrétien and Mbikay, researchers from the Clinical Research Institute of Montreal (IRCM), began studying antiviral properties of Quercetin. This is a significant fact as COVID-19 comes from the same family and is structurally similar to the SARS virus. The novel coronavirus is known as SARS-CoV-2. Earlier research, published in 2014 in Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy stated that a glucosylated form of Quercetin might target steps of viral entry and protect mice against the Ebola virus. The team also discovered that pre-treatment with Quercetin, rather than post-treatment, brought the most reliable protection.

In 2020, Michel Chrétien received a 1 million dollar donation to begin a clinical trial on Quercetin as a potential antiviral drug to fight the novel coronavirus. That plan was to send samples of Quercetin to the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Wuhan, but as the virus is controlled in Montreal, it may have to move back. Canadian and Chinese scientists would cooperate on the trials, which would include about 1,000 test patients. In this study, half the patients would receive Quercetin and half a sugar pill to determine if those consuming Quercetin result in contracting COVID-19 less often. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Quercetin as safe for human consumption, meaning that animal testing can be skipped. Undoubtedly, quercetin effectiveness against COVID-19 is yet to be proven, and Dr Chrétien would not like to give “false hope.” However, taking into account the positive results of earlier studies, the hopes for Quercetin are still high.

So far, there are more than 80 clinical trials on potential Covid-19 treatments in China, not including studies in other countries. So one of the biggest aims is searching for a treatment for the dangerous coronavirus strain.

What else is good about Quercetin?

Some patients infected with COVID-19 are being treated with antivirals, that may cost up to thousands of US dollars. In contrast, Quercetin is much cheaper. Moreover, it is a natural supplement and can be taken from ordinary products. Quercetin is an oral drug, which is more convenient than other antiviral intravenous medicines. Creating the vaccine or an affordable treatment for the novel coronavirus can take a long time.

Using the medications or supplements currently available on the market can already improve the coronavirus crisis.

What are other health benefits of Quercetin?

Inflammation

Inflammation is a healthy and necessary body reaction that helps it to fight infections. On the other hand, chronic inflammation brings no good. Studies show that flavonoids, including Quercetin, may alleviate some inflammation-related symptoms by inhibiting cytokines production. Quercetin has proven to be useful for people with rheumatoid arthritis as it may help with the symptoms, such as after-activity pain and swollen joints.

Allergy

Quercetin, known for its antioxidant activity and anti-allergic properties, may stimulate the immune system and antiviral activity, reduce cytokines and leukotrienes production, inhibit the release of histamine, and suppress the production of interleukin IL-4 and influence many other physiological processes. These properties contribute to the immunomodulating and anti-inflammatory properties of Quercetin and make it helpful in the treatment of bronchial asthma responses, allergic rhinitis and some anaphylactic reactions.

Blood pressure

High blood pressure can contribute to the risk of heart diseases. Scientific research suggests that Quercetin may reduce blood pressure. Studies on rats have shown that Quercetin may have a relaxing effect on blood vessels and lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure values. Even though the study results look promising, further human studies are needed to prove that the flavonoid may become an alternative for the treatment of high blood pressure.

Brain conditions

Antioxidant properties and neuroprotective effects of Quercetin may help protect against degenerative brain disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease and improve brain function. In addition to an antioxidant effect, Quercetin may also stimulate cellular protection against oxidative stress. Even though these results are promising, further research in humans is needed.

Ageing

Quercetin may help slow down ageing. Animal studies have shown that Quercetin may help rejuvenate, remove ageing cells and reduce ageing markers. According to the study results, Quercetin and its combination with Resveratrol may increase levels of antioxidants, lower ageing markers in hyperglycemia-mediated oxidative stress in hyperglycemia conditions. These results have shown that flavonoids such as Resveratrol prove to have anti-ageing potential. However, more human research is needed. 

Is Quercetin Safe?

Quercetin is relatively safe for most people if taken by mouth short-term. According to studies, Quercetin may be safely used in amounts up to 500 mg twice daily for 12 weeks. However, it is not known if high doses or long-term will not cause any complications. Very high doses of Quercetin may cause kidney damage. Some people have reported headaches, upset stomach and tingling of the arms and legs when taking Quercetin orally. 

Quercetin is potentially safe when taken intravenously in appropriate amounts (less than 722 mg). Possible side effects may include sweating, flushing, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, or pain at the injection site. High amounts given intravenously may be unsafe. There were reports about kidney damage at higher doses, more than 1 gram per day. Quercetin may worsen kidney problems and is not recommended in such conditions.

There is a lack of valid information if Quercetin is safe to use for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Very high doses might cause kidney damage. Quercetin was also shown to worsen estrogen-induced breast tumours in rats.

Does Quercetin interact with other medications?

Quercetin can also interact with medicines. Taking Quercetin may lessen the effectiveness of some antibiotics. Quercetin may reduce the ability of the liver to break down some drugs. Taking Quercetin might increase the effects and side effects of some medications, such as CYP3A4 or CYP2C19 substrate drugs. Due to its antioxidant effects, Quercetin may interfere with the actions of chemotherapy drugs.

Some fruit extracts, such as papaya and Bromelain, may increase the absorption of Quercetin in the intestine.

It is worth remembering that some supplements may not be tested for safety, and the content of some products may differ from what is written on the label. Keep in mind that the safety of supplements significantly differs in pregnant women, nursing mothers, children, and those with medical conditions or who are taking medications.

What is the right dosage for Quercetin?

Usually, dosages of Quercetin used range from 500–1,000 mg per day. However, some recommendations vary in the range of 12.5 to 25mg per kg body weight, which equals up to 2,000mg daily consumption of Quercetin when in isolation. However, there is not enough evidence to know if such an amount is safe for long-term use.

If taken on its own, Quercetin has quite a low bioavailability, which means the body absorbs it poorly. Therefore, some supplements may include other compounds, such as vitamin C or Bromelain, that increase quercetin absorption.

Sometimes, it is suggested to combine it with other flavonoids such as Resveratrol or green tea catechins, which may increase the potency and get the benefits at a lower level of intake.

The appropriate dosage for your condition depends on personal factors, including your age, gender, and medical history. Follow the recommendations on product labels and consult your pharmacist or healthcare provider if you plan to take this supplement.

Top-5 Quercetin products

Quercetin as a supplement comes in various forms, mostly as capsules with different content. Here are the top 5 of the most popular quercetin products:

Quercetin Dihydrate Powder

Quercetin Dihydrate acts as a powerful antioxidant and a flavonol that may promote healthy respiratory function, support heart, kidneys and prostate health, maintain healthy metabolic function, and help to fortify immune function. Quercetin Dihydrate doesn’t contain any other ingredients.

Optimised Quercetin

It is a mix of Quercetin with fruit and veggies extracts, such as apples and onions. Such a combination strengthens properties of each ingredient, and additional vitamins help to support a healthy immune response. The most common dosages are 250mg and 500mg per capsule. 

Quercetin with Bromelain

Bromelain is a protein-digesting enzyme found in pineapple stems. As it also supports healthy immune system function, the combination of Quercetin and Bromelain provides powerful immunomodulating benefits important to handle occasional seasonal discomforts, such as allergies, nasal congestion or eczema. Quercetin with Bromelain also acts as a digestive enzyme and antioxidant, reducing damage to the digestive system and improving digestion.

Taking them together is a smart move as they enhance each other’s anti-inflammatory actions. Besides, Bromelain may increase the absorption of Quercetin into the bloodstream. 

Quercetin with Resveratrol 

Resveratrol is a polyphenol, found in the skin of red grapes, berries and peanuts. It is promoted as an alternative to red wine. Some studies suggest that Resveratrol may support heart health, protect nerve cells from damage, and prevent ageing processes. Both compounds are thought to have antioxidant properties. 

Eye vitamins

That is a mix of Lutein, Zeaxanthin, Quercetin, Vitamin A and other beneficial ingredients. Such a combination not only provides your body with essential nutrition from a healthy diet but also helps to preserve eye health, maintain good eyesight, provide nutrients for eye care, and provide support to the macula, lens, and other eye tissues.

Whatever you choose, it’s better to look for quercetin products free of artificial ingredients, potentially dangerous preservatives or GMOs. The best option is to buy your flavonoid superpower from GMP compliant facilities, subjected to strict third-party testing.

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.

Sleep deprivation is a widespread problem in developed countries, largely because our minds are overstimulated and we don’t know how to ‘switch off’. Research has shown time and time again that sleep is vital for our health, and lack of sleep can cause a host of physical and mental imbalances and diseases. This article describes a range of tried-and-tested practices that can help the mind transition from thinking and doing to being and relaxing. It also discusses the recommended hours we need to be healthy and how sleep affects the body.

Introduction

As sleep deprivation continues to plague Western populations, researchers, tech enthusiasts, and biohackers alike are getting interested in how lack of sleep affects us and how we can sleep better. Yet, if you were to ask a bunch of well-rested people what their secret to a good night’s sleep is, it’s reasonable to assume their response wouldn’t include blue-light blockers and sleep-tracking software. No, it is a lot more simple… they don’t try. This is probably not what stressed-out insomniacs want to hear, but the reality is, you can’t strive to control sleep. Psychologists call this concept sleep effort. Sleep is an involuntary physiological process, so any direct, conscious attempts to control it may intensify and perpetuate insomnia. Putting effort into anything arouses the brain, which is counterproductive to sleep. In a culture with stress at epidemic levels, isn’t it high time we learnt how to properly switch off and relax?

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The Chinese have a word that perfectly describes a state of non-doing or non-action: Wu Wei. Wu Wei is part of Taoism, which teaches how to go with the flow of the unplanned rhythms of the universe. Meditation, mindfulness and Yoga Nidra are all practices that emphasise doing less to enhance a sense of being rather than doing. Yoga Nidra is a type of guided meditation practice intended to induce a state between sleeping and waking. In her book, “Yoga Nidra: The Art of Transformational Sleep” Kamini Desai, PHD likens sleep to floating:

Floating is not something you do, it is something that happens in the absence of doing. It is an experience of being held, being carried… but it can only happen when you stop struggling to keep yourself upright. Stop doing and floating happens. Stop efforting and sleep happens.

Both the ancient Indian technique of Yoga Nidra and the ancient Chinese tradition of Taoism promote that a lack of effort is required to sleep and to live a fulfilled life. Fortunately, there are many techniques that can help us fall back in love with bedtime. Here, we’ll discuss some simple tried and tested methods to help you stress less and re-learn the art of non-doing.

Yoga Nidra

Yoga Nidra is a powerful guided meditation technique that teaches you to relax as deeply as sleeping states, while conscious. It is a form of resting that helps to release conscious and subconscious stress and tension – some of the key symptoms of insomnia. Nidra is Sanskrit for sleep; however, sleep is not the aim of the practice. To reap the most benefits, you are guided to be unconscious on a sensory level, yet still be conscious of the practice. Yoga Nidra occurs at the “hypnagogic state”, known as the knife’s edge between waking and sleeping states. The brain moves through various brainwave frequencies as you move through different stages of sleep, similarly, Yoga Nidra is structured to move the brain waves from active beta waves (14-40 Hz), then pass through the relaxed, thoughtless state of alpha waves (9-13 Hz), and enter the slowest frequency of deep sleep, delta waves (1-3 Hz). Theta activity is associated with emotional release and ‘super learning’.
Although it is not recommended as a replacement for sleep, yogis state that one 45-minute practice of Yoga Nidra is equivalent to three hours of deep sleep.

How is it done?

Practitioners are asked to lie in a comfortable supine position to get grounded; a blanket is recommended as body temperature can drop during relaxation, just like it does during sleep. The instructor will then guide the practitioner through a relaxation script. The script will not always be the same but it generally includes, breathwork, a guided body scan, intention and affirmation to induce a systematic relaxation of muscles and to flow through different restorative brain wave states. Interested? There are plenty of great pre-recorded Yoga Nidra meditations available online.

Benefits for sleep:

During a Yoga Nidra practice, the body is guided into an environment of self-healing.

It activates the parasympathetic nervous system and brain wave states for deep relaxation, restoration, and stress management. This can be extremely beneficial for insomniacs as it trains the mind and body to move more easily into the deeper states of sleep. If seated meditation hasn’t worked in the past, Yoga Nidra is a more accessible way to cultivate a meditation practice.

Mindfulness

If thoughts arise, let them, without judgement or attachment. Easier said than done, but as we’ve mentioned, trying to control sleep can cause more stress and tension, resulting in a vicious cycle of not being able to sleep and feeling more stressed. Mindfulness can be an excellent technique for the type of insomnia where stress overload causes the mind to be too alert to fall asleep. A study by the University of Minnesota Academic Health Center revealed that when people with chronic insomnia underwent a mindfulness-based stress reduction program, the results were equivalent to the group who used pharmaceutical sleep aids. Unlike pharmaceuticals, the mindfulness-based method produced no side effects, but participants fell asleep more quickly, slept longer and better.

How is it done?

Mindfulness is a powerful tool that can extend beyond sleep. A regular mindfulness practice can enhance the overall ability to handle stress in daily life. Below is a simple mindfulness method that can help calm the mind around bedtime.

• Find a quiet spot where you can sit undisturbed for 10 to 20 minutes. Sit upright, either leaning against a wall, in a chair, or in a meditative seat without support.
• Take your time to arrive into the space by becoming still, closing your eyes or taking a soft gaze down at the floor.
• Take a moment to tune into your body, taking a scan to notice any parts that may feel tense. Common areas include the jaw, shoulders and face. Start to take slightly deeper breaths, allow tension to release on the exhale.
• Next, bring your awareness to your breath. Notice where it is most vivid in the body. This might be in the belly, chest, ribs or the area around your nose. Note the sensations of breath entering and leaving the body.
• After a few minutes, bring your awareness to sounds. Sounds outside the room, sounds inside the room. Notice the stillness between the sounds. You may begin to notice the sound of the breath moving in and out of the nose. Anchor yourself into the present using the sounds. Be with the sounds for a few minutes.

• Next, follow the flow of the breath as it moves through the nostrils. You may note the temperature of the air as it moves in and out of the nostrils. Ride the wave of the breath, allow the sensation to absorb your attention for the next 5 minutes or more.
• As thoughts arise, allow them to enter the mind. Do not resist them, just let them drift in and drift back out without attaching to, or judging the thought. When the mind wanders off, gently, bring your focus back to your breath.
• Continue with this mindful meditation for as long as you wish.
• Gently come out when you are ready by slightly deepening the breath. For insomnia, a mindful meditation practise (even if it’s only 10 minutes) is highly beneficial. A short daily practise is considered more valuable than one longer session a week

Benefits for sleep:

“Disconnecting from our technology to reconnect with ourselves is absolutely essential.”

— Arianna Huffington.

When tossing and turning, and ruminating on not being able to sleep, the ability to “be with what is” is a simple but profoundly powerful tool. Mindfulness apps have grown in popularity, however smartphones are a common nighttime distraction, and the blue light can disturb your sleeping patterns. A personal mindfulness practice can strengthen the ‘mind-muscle’ that allows you to be in the present moment without attachment to good or bad emotions. Studies have shown that a daily mindfulness practice can prepare your mind for drifting off to sleep, and it can also improve sleep quality.

Diaphragmatic breathing

Breathing methods are rapidly growing in popularity as a way to strengthen the parasympathetic nervous system and promote relaxation. There is a wide range of effective techniques available, but one simple way to breathe your way to good sleep is diaphragmatic breathing.

How is it done?

1. Find a comfy position, lying on your back with a pillow or bolster under your knees, or sitting in a chair.
2. Place a hand on your chest and the other hand on your belly.
3. Slowly inhale through the nose down into the belly so you feel the stomach press against the hand. Exhale slowly through the nose or pursed lips, allowing the breath to completely empty. You can slightly tighten the abdominal muscles to draw the breath out.
4. The chest should remain still during the breathing to ensure the diaphragm is being used. The head, neck and shoulders should remain completely relaxed.
5. Practice his breathing exercise for 5–10 minutes at a time.

Benefits for sleep:

Diaphragmatic breathing can help promote relaxation and calm anxious thoughts. Breathing deeply slows the breathing rate and lowers the heart rate in readiness for sleep.

Progressive Muscle Relaxation

Progressive muscle relaxation, or PMR, was created by American physician Edmund Jacobson in the 1920s. When we become stressed, our muscles naturally tighten in response to our ‘fight or flight response’. With prolonged anxiety or stress, these muscles can cause aches and pains, and we end up carrying around more tension without realising it. PMR is based on the theory by tensing and then relaxing each muscle group to promote physical and mental relaxation.

How is it done?

Like mindfulness, PMR is an easy technique that can be practised at home.

1. Find a quiet spot and sit or lie down in a comfortable position. Begin by taking deep breaths and allowing your entire body to relax.
2. Starting from your toes, tense the muscles, holding for 5 seconds before letting go as you exhale. On the exhale, let your muscles fully relax for a couple of breaths before moving to the next area.
3. You can work through the muscle groups in the following order: Toes, calf muscles, knees, thighs, hands, arms, buttocks, abdominal muscles, chest, ears, lips, mouth (opening wide), eyes (closing tightly), and eyebrows (lifting). After holding for 5 seconds, be sure to relax for 10 to 20 seconds before moving onto the next muscle group.

Benefits for sleep:

If anxiety is a root cause for not sleeping, PMR is a well-researched technique to help induce relaxation for sleep. The benefits of PMR are well-researched. A 2020 study on 80 burn patients found that the patients who did PMR showed a significant decrease in anxiety and an improvement in sleep quality compared to the control group who only received routine care. The physical and psychological conditions of burn patients mean that they often experience poor sleep and high anxiety.

Although research into the effects of CBD on sleep is relatively new, early indications show promise when it comes to sleep, stress and anxiety. Research shows that CBD interacts with the Endocannabinoid System (ECS), a complex cell-signalling system that helps the body achieve and maintain homeostasis. Because cannabinoids naturally occur within the body, CBD has no severe side effects and is well tolerated by the body. Many personal testimonials report that CBD is effective at calming the mind and reducing stress. Increased cannabinoids in the body are also linked to a reduction of pain and nervousness, two common causes of sleep deprivation. CBD can be a valuable tool to help prepare your mind and body for the practices discussed above.

How much sleep do we need?

While the amount of sleep needed differs from individual to individual, The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) has produced a guide for recommended hours based on nine age groups:

• Newborn (0-3 months old) recommended 14-17 hours;
• Infant (4-11 months old) recommended 12-15 hours;
• Toddler (1-2 years old) recommended 11-14 hours;
• Preschool (3-5 years old) recommended 10-13 hours;
• School-age (6-13 years old) recommended 9-11 hours;
• Teen (14-17) recommended recommended 8-10 hours;
• Young adult (18-25) recommended 7-9 hours;
• Adult (26-64 years old) recommended 7-9 hours;
• Older adults (65 or more) recommended 7-8 hours.

In some cases, sleeping an hour more or less than the average range may be acceptable based on a person’s circumstances.

Quality, not quantity?

“Timing your sleep is like timing an investment in the stock market — it doesn’t matter how much you invest, it matters when you invest.”

— Dr. Kulreet Chaudhary

Mostly, people become concerned with how many hours they get, but a good restorative night’s rest depends on both sleep quantity and sleep quality. Not only can too few hours put you at risk of sleep deprivation, but getting 7-9 hours of low-quality sleep can be just as damaging to health. Sleep quality refers to how effective sleep is, which depends on going through the several stages of sleep uninterrupted. There are believed to be four stages of sleep which we cycle through each night. Typically, when you are sleeping, you begin at stage one and go through each stage until reaching REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep, and then you begin the cycle again. Each complete sleep cycle takes from 90 to 110 minutes, and your brain waves act differently during each stage.

Stage 1

Stage 1 sleep, is the transition between wakefulness and sleep. It’s also known as light sleep, and it’s the period where you can easily be woken up. Very slow brain waves known as high amplitude theta waves are experienced during this time. In each cycle, light sleep lasts around 1-5 minutes.

Stage 2

Collectively, almost half our time sleeping is spent in stage 2 sleep, lasting between 10-60 minutes per cycle. During this stage, your breathing becomes more regular, and body temperature drops. Your brain waves become slower, and there will also be brief bursts of brain activity called sleep spindles that make you less responsive to external noises and activity.

Stage 3

During stage 3 the body becomes even more relaxed with a combination of slow brain waves, known as delta waves, combined with faster waves. This is the first stage of deep sleep; if you are woken up during this stage, you may feel groggy and disoriented. Experts believe that this stage is critical to physical recovery and growth and contributes to our memory and our ability to think creatively. This stage typically lasts 20-40 minutes each cycle.

REM Sleep (Rapid Eye Movement)

This is the stage where vivid dreaming occurs. REM sleep is so-called because your eyes move rapidly while your muscles are immobile. This stage is also known to be important for creative thinking as well as long-term memory consolidation. REM sleep often gets longer towards the morning.

To optimise sleep quality, cycling through all four sleep stages, uninterrupted is essential because it allows the brain and body to recuperate and develop. Missing out on deep sleep and REM sleep may explain some of the detrimental consequences on thinking, emotions, and physical health. Waking frequently during earlier stages, typical of conditions like sleep apnea, and not getting sufficient sleep in cases like insomnia, may prevent getting enough sleep in these deeper sleep stages. A couple of simple ways to reduce nighttime waking include keeping your bedroom as quiet and as dark as possible, keeping to a regular bedtime routine and making sure there are no pets in your room.

When does lack of sleep become a sleep deprivation?

Of course, we all have nights when we’re tossing and turning and having trouble falling asleep. A restless night often means getting out on the wrong side of the bed, and general grogginess and grumpiness the next day. But when does lack of sleep become more of a health issue? Sleep deprivation is caused by a lack of sleep (less than 7 hours) on a regular basis or continued reduced quality of sleep. Eventually, a lack of good quality sleep can lead to health consequences that affect your entire body. Trouble falling asleep and/or staying asleep can be caused by a wide range of underlying issues, from poor sleep hygiene to an underlying sleep disorder. However, as mindfulness-based psychotherapist Peter Strong, Ph.D., explains in an article from Psychology Today, for many insomniacs, the cause is simply stress. Overstimulated brains can make sleep feel impossible.

Sleep your way to good health

Most people believe that most of our change happens in the realm of consciousness, but sleep is an active process. It is profoundly regenerative. While we sleep, our cells are being repaired, our brain processes what we experienced throughout the day, our immune system gets strengthened and our metabolism gets regulated. Below are some bodily processes that are affected by sleep.

Digestive System

Sleep deprivation may affect digestion leading to weight gain. Lack of sleep has been shown to affect the levels of two hormones, called leptin and ghrelin. Leptin tells your brain that you’ve had enough to eat and ghrelin is an appetite stimulant. Studies have shown that a lack of sleep can increase the production of ghrelin and reduce levels of leptin. These changes may explain why exhaustion can lead to nighttime snacking or why someone may overeat later in the night. In addition, a lack of sleep leads to stress, which exacerbates digestive issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome.

Immune System

Research shows that getting a good night’s sleep can strengthen your immune system. As we sleep, our immune system produces substances that combat foreign invaders like antibodies and cytokines and also improves immune cell functioning that combat foreign invaders. These immune cells are known as T cells. In a recent German study, researchers discovered that quality sleep can bolster the T cells in your body that fight off foreign invaders such as bacteria and viruses. A good night’s sleep can thereby enhance the ability of T cells to adhere to and destroy cells infected by viruses and other pathogens.

Central Nervous System

When we’re tired, we often become forgetful, experience mood swings and can find it difficult to make decisions. That’s because sleep deprivation can impact the functioning of the central nervous system. The Central Nervous System is our body’s main information highway, and while we sleep, our cells are repaired and pathways form between nerve cells, or neurons, in the brain. These pathways help us remember new information we’ve learned throughout the day. In addition, the CNS receives sensory information from the nervous system and controls the body’s responses. When these signals are delayed which can happen as a result of lack of sleep, coordination is decreased which increases clumsiness and risk for accidents. Your brain and central nervous system are also responsible for coherent thinking, reasoning, and judgment. These functions will be less effective in sleep-deprived people.

Cardiovascular

A good night’s sleep plays an important role in repairing the heart and blood vessels. While we sleep, the body heals, the immune system and the cardiovascular system can rest and other organs can be restored.

Final thoughts

Just like eating and drinking, sleeping is vital to health. The modern world and technological revolution have put a premium on productivity, but if we’re not also prioritising rest, it comes at a cost to our physical and mental health. This striving to be productive is especially unhelpful when it comes to sleep. The techniques above show that preparing for high-quality sleep doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive. The ability to relax is inside of everyone if we just learn to have moments to let go of all doing. By incorporating practices that teach us to just ‘be’, we can not only improve our health but our ability to be creative and productive too. If stress and anxiety is keeping you up at night, why not give these techniques a go. Find what rituals fit your needs and enjoy a happier, more joyful life.

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.

CBD Oil has become quite popular in Ireland, due to its positive effects in relation to pain, inflammation, headaches and other conditions. In Ireland, CBD is not included in the list of illegal drugs under the Misuse of Drugs Act. CBD can be legally bought and sold if it doesn’t contain THC. However, due to the Novel Food status of hemp products, many of them have been taken off the shelves. There are a number of CBD stores, such as Ceelabb CBD Store or CBD Relieve Ireland, in the Dublin area where you can buy various CBD products. You can also enjoy delicious CBD in an edible or drinks in places, such as The Hemp Kitchen or Xico Dublin. There is even Dr. Hemp Me, an Irish brand that produces full and broad-spectrum CBD oils, gummies and capsules.

As the wellness industry is thriving, products like CBD are reaching all corners of the globe. With a population of around 1.4 million people, Dublin is no exception. Situated on the east coast of Ireland, Dublin has a rich history, thought to have originated in the form of a Viking settlement in around 841. It is famous for its friendly inhabitants who are always up for some ‘craic’ (Irish slang for fun) and attracts around 5 million tourists each year with sites like Trinity College, which was founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth the 1st, Christ Church Cathedral, and Dublin Castle. Beyond its historical sites, Dublin has a vibrant nightlife and caters to all types of shoppers with a variety of department stores, markets, and boutiques.  

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Amidst the hustle and bustle of history and tourism, leisure and shopping, CBD is now finding its place in Dublin. Whether you’re a born and bred Dubliner, or if it’s your first time in the city, this is our guide on what to look out for and where to find CBD in Dublin. 

Dublin CBD Map

Start from the beginning – what is CBD?

Before we dive into Dublin’s CBD spots, let’s quickly remind ourselves of the key CBD facts that everyone should know. First up, CBD stands for Cannabidiol and is a non-intoxicating constituent of the cannabis plant. This means that CBD is not associated with the mind-altering ‘high’ that is traditionally associated with cannabis consumption, which is instead caused by THC. 

Secondly, CBD is increasingly being investigated and associated with a range of beneficial, health-promoting effects. Although current findings are still growing and developing, a significant body of research to date has found that CBD can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety, stress, insomnia and sleep disturbances, chronic pain, skin conditions, and more. Given that CBD has few side-effects and is safe to consume (the WHO has stated that CBD ‘is generally well tolerated with a good safety profile’), many have turned to CBD as a natural remedy. As findings are growing and the industry expands, CBD products are becoming more and more prevalent and are finding a prominent spot in the modern movement towards wellness. 

If you haven’t come across CBD products before, they come in all shapes and sizes. CBD can be isolated completely from all the other components of the cannabis or hemp plant; alternatively, it is also available THC-free versions, where other beneficial compounds (mainly other cannabinoids as well as terpenes) are retained. Finally, there are also CBD products which have not undergone any additional refinement steps, in which THC is still potentially present at low levels. Most commonly, CBD is found in its oil form, which can be taken orally, added to food or drink, or even applied topically directly onto the skin. Beyond oil, CBD is now being added to premade CBD drinks and edibles, can be seen in lotions and creams, and there are even specialised CBD vape oils for any vapers keen to inhale their CBD. Whatever you’re looking to use it for, there’s a CBD product out there somewhere that will suit you and your lifestyle needs. 

Last, but by no means least, on our whistle-stop tour of CBD is a peek into its legal status and how it is regulated. Many of you might be wondering where CBD is on the legal spectrum, given cannabis’ status and reputation. The good news is that CBD is entirely legal in Ireland; as it is not intoxicating it does not fall under the Misuse of Drugs Legislation, and so provided the CBD product does not contain THC it does not require a Ministerial License. European Law states that CBD products are legal, providing their THC content is less than 0.2%. 

The flip-side of its legality is that the CBD industry is currently still a largely unregulated space. As a result, there are many companies out there selling unreliable or even unsafe products. Thankfully, consumer-facing CBD producers are out there, but it’s up to you to make sure you sort the good from the bad. Our top tip is to always look out for a Certificate of Analysis (or COA) carried out by an unbiased third party. This will confirm both presence and amount of the desired cannabinoid constituents of a product as well as the absence of harmful toxins or chemicals, and so is the gold standard for ensuring that a product is reliable and safe.

That covers the FAQs. Now hop aboard our virtual tour of Dublin! 

Discover Irish brands online

Dr. Hemp Me CBD Oil

Located in the heart of Dublin, Dr. Hemp Me aims to bring you the most potent CBD oil in Ireland. Although they don’t have a physical store and are online-only, their customer service is second to none. Their instant chat option is very responsive and usually answered by the owner Brian. All shipments are sent out the same day once the order comes in before 3pm and usually the product arrives the next day.

Dr. Hemp Me offer a wide range of products including Full & Broad Spectrum CBD Oil with strengths going up to 40% or 4000mg of CBD. For customers who do not like the taste of CBD oil they also have gummy and capsule options.

Best of all Dr. Hemp Me offer free samples of their Full Spectrum CBD oil, which is perfect for customers who are not sure about taking CBD. All you have to do is pay for the shipping and Dr Hemp Me will send you a free 1 mil sample of their 10% Full Spectrum CBD Oil.

All Dr. Hemp Me products come with lab reports. You can find them on each product page and they also have a dedicated lab tests page.

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Shops for your on-the-go CBD fix

The Hemp Company Dublin

167 Capel St, North City, Dublin, D01 V225, Ireland

167 Capel Street is where you will find the lime-green facade of The Hemp Company Dublin’s store, located just off the River Liffey. With a clever name that is shortened to ‘THC’, this store is the heart of CBD in Dublin. With informed and friendly staff, and with what is likely one of the largest collections of high-quality CBD brands in Ireland, this is the place to go if you’re looking for variety. Stocking everything from CBD products, foods, vaporisers and even clothes, they’re sure to have you covered. Definitely check out their stylish and comfortable Hemp clothes collection, something that isn’t easy to find! Their latest product additions include CBD chocolate for after-dinner cravings and Hemp fibre masks so that you can protect yourself and others from COVID-19 sustainably and comfortably. Founded in 1999 The Hemp Company Dublin was around long before CBD became trendy, so will definitely be able to provide you with reliable information when it comes to picking a CBD product for you. Keep reading to hear more about the drinks options that you can find below the store in The Hemp Kitchen, later in this article.

62 Dromard Rd, Drimnagh, Dublin, D12 WY82, Ireland

Slightly further from the city centre is the Ceelabb CBD store, should you find yourself in the Landsdowne Valley for some golf, this is right around the corner. With different flavours of CBD oils, CBD vapes, CBD wax melts and even a beanie for the really hardcore CBD fans, this store is also a great place to get some CBD goodies. 

CBD Relieve Ireland

Jervis Shopping Centre, Dublin, Ireland

Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre, Dublin, Ireland

With two stores in the Jervis and Stephen’s Shopping Centres in Dublin CBD Relieve is perfect if you’re already en route running errands or doing a spot of shopping. With a variety of CBD cosmetics, tinctures and vape products, this is a great option if you’re looking for CBD for skincare or other topical applications. Their specialised creams and lotions cover a variety of uses and needs, from after-sun moisturising to reducing the appearances of blemishes and ageing, and their collection even includes a CBD Infused eye serum. 

Cafes and Bars for a relaxing CBD break

Before we dive straight in, if you haven’t tried CBD in an edible or drinks format before, there are a few differences to CBD oils to be aware of. Firstly, the time it takes for CBD to absorb and have its effects when consumed and digested is longer when compared to when it is taken sublingually (when oil is placed under the tongue and left to absorb for 2-3minutes) or vaped. When consumed in edibles, CBD has a more slow-release, long-lasting effect, so depending on what kind of CBD release you’re looking for, this could be perfect or you might want to stick to other CBD delivery systems. In addition to taking longer to absorb, drinking or eating CBD also has a lower bioavailability than other methods, where bioavailability is simply the amount of CBD that is successfully absorbed into the bloodstream and can then have its desired effect. This is not to say that you shouldn’t try taking CBD in the forms of edibles or drinks, but rather to draw your attention to some of the qualities CBD has in these formats so that you can evaluate whether or not this is the right product or formulation for you.

If you’re looking for CBD integrated into a calming coffee break or want to adventure into the world of CBD-infused food, look no further as here’s our shortlist of the best places to find edible and drinkable CBD products in Dublin. 

The Hemp Kitchen

167 Capel St, North City, Dublin, D01 V225, Ireland

If you’ve explored The Hemp Company’s store and found yourself a product to take home, make sure to check out The Hemp Kitchen situated below the store. You’re sure to have worked up a thirst from all the shopping upstairs, and The Hemp Kitchen offers organic, healthy drinks, so you don’t have to feel guilty while you grab a short break. They are also a zero-waste business and are committed to using entirely biodegradable or easy-to-recycle packaging. 

There’s both CBD and non-CBD options in the form of smoothies, coffees and more. Try their Organic Cold Pressed juices for a quick refreshing pick-me-up, for something more substantial why not order an Organic Vegan Smoothie. If you’re in need of some caffeine, there’s a whole selection of coffees to explore, including CBD and Hemp options. If you’re looking for a something truly unique, why not try adding one of their ‘Hemp juice cubes’ to your drink for only one euro more! 

Xico Dublin

143 Baggot Street Lower, Saint Peter’s, Dublin 2, D02 PH39, Ireland

If you’re a night owl that loves a lively atmosphere, we’re here to let you know that, in Dublin, you can even get your CBD fix on a night out! Xico Dublin, self-described as an ‘underground Mexican-style party cavern’ now offers CBD cocktails. You can choose between the CBD Colada and the CBD Mojito, or simply add CBD to existing cocktails on the menu such as the El Gato Negro (made with raspberry, lime juice, fresh mint and ginger ale) and the Verde Mexicano (which is a mix of apple juice, kiwi, lime and sugar). Note that none of these cocktails contain alcohol, so you can grab a CBD cocktail (or two) and relax any day of the week! CBD cocktails are a great way to benefit from the stress-relieving benefits of CBD and indulge in a drink and some time to unwind, without any alcohol-induced side-effects. 

Looking to vape CBD?

Vaping and E-cigarettes have become increasingly popular over the last few years, marketed as a healthier alternative to smoking. Vape devices now exist in all shapes and sizes, and the lists of vape flavours in some stores are seemingly endless. As CBD has joined vaping as a hot new trend, it’s not surprising that the two have been combined and that CBD vape juices, also known as CBD vape oils, have emerged as the latest CBD format. Vaping CBD also has benefits over other CBD absorption or consumption methods, namely that the inhalation of CBD increases its bioavailability, which means that a greater amount of CBD can be successfully and efficiently absorbed by the body. 

The Hemp Company also sells CBD vape products, but if you’re an experienced vaper or if you’re looking for greater choice and perhaps to top up on some other flavours too, here’s our top tip for a dedicated vape store where you can also find CBD products. 

Ecirette Megastore

12 Talbot St, North City, Dublin 1, D01 FY91, Ireland

With a super central location only a 10-minute walk from Trinity College and 20 minutes from Dublin Castle the Ecirette Megastore is easily added to a sightseeing tour as a post-culture pitstop. Experts on all things vaping, this is a great spot to get some advice and help if your undecided or unsure about anything. Make sure to take advantage of their huge range of products, including their terpene and unflavoured CBD vape liquids. 

The last stop

Last stop – your endocannabinoid system! Abbreviated to ECS, the endocannabinoid system is a bodily system primarily involved in regulating a variety of processes in the central nervous system, immune system and metabolism. It is composed of endocannabinoids, which are neurotransmitters, and cannabinoid receptors which bind endocannabinoids and are involved in regulating downstream processes. Cannabinoids like CBD interact with the various constituents of our ECS, and through this interaction achieve anxiety relief, pain relief, and all the other effects that CBD is now being linked to. 

Hopefully, your Dublin explorations have culminated in some CBD reaching your ECS, and you can profit from its varied benefits! 

That concludes our tour of Dublin’s CBD spots. As CBD is increasingly cropping up in stores and menus everywhere, Dublin and Ireland’s CBD industry is sure to grow. Keep scouting out and exploring new products, cafes and restaurants to find your go-to CBD spot! 

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.

To answer this question as briefly as possible – a lot.

A great number of studies has been held to investigate the potential therapeutic benefits of cannabis and its most promising components – cannabinoids. However, there is still a lack of research, human trials, and scientific evidence regarding the effectiveness of cannabinoids and their ability to compete with traditional medications.

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Nevertheless, scientists from all over the world predict a great future for cannabis and state that information which is available for us today is just the tip of an iceberg. A wide range of other health benefits of cannabis and its compounds still remain hidden from us, though according to cannabis experts, it is just a question of time. Today, a lot of questions regarding medicinal cannabis remain unanswered, but the knowledge we have has already shaken global medicine and continues its growth and development.

As for perspectives for cannabis compounds, CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) remain the two leaders among more than a hundred different compounds found in the cannabis plant.

These cannabinoids have manifested their effectiveness and therapeutic properties in a range of successful studies, while the growing number of anecdotal evidence from patients continues to build on CBD and THC reputation. The global market of CBD- and THC-based products have gained popularity in wellness and health and is predicted to reach the mark of $24 billion in 2027. What makes this interesting is that, despite the current regulatory issues and a lack of clinical studies, the growth of the cannabis market remains steady. This means that people are ready to accept such changes and look at their treatment from a completely different point of view.

The research investigating cannabis properties and safety of its use is ongoing. Successful results of the studies confirm claimed health benefits of cannabinoids, which in turn, lead to more in-depth research and new opportunities of the cannabis use for medicinal purposes. As a result of successful randomised clinical trials, a cannabis-based pharmaceutical product called Epideolex has got approval from the FDA. The convincing evidence was obtained that pure cannabidiol extracted from the cannabis plant can be effective in reducing seizures in two specific types of epilepsy, Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS). Currently, Epidiolex is under review by the European Medicines Agency (EMA). Besides rare forms of epilepsy, CBD also has the potential to help other epilepsy patients. Moreover, CBD has not stopped at the treatment of epilepsy patients and also shown its benefits for the range of other diseases and conditions.

Multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is one of the debilitating diseases of the central nervous system. The main reason for the occurrence of this condition is that our immune system starts mistakenly attacking myelin – a special protective layer covering our nerve fibres. Such an attack leads to inflammation, scar tissue, and lesions. As a result, it significantly complicates the transmission of signals from our brain to the rest of the body. Multiple sclerosis remains one of the hot issues nowadays as the number of cases continues growing. Among the countries with the highest prevalence of multiple sclerosis are Canada, Denmark, San Marino, and Sweden. To date, this disease is treated with disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) that are aimed at slowing the multiple sclerosis progression and lowering the relapse rate. However, it was also assumed that CBD could be used to treat multiple sclerosis symptoms and be beneficial for MS patients, along with other medications. This assumption is backed up with the positive results of several controlled scientific studies which have shown the ability of CBD to be effective in treating the symptom of spasticity in patients with multiple sclerosis diagnosis. In some European countries, a medication called Sativex is approved for multiple sclerosis spasticity. Sativex (a.k.a. Nabiximol) contains THC and CBD in its composition and is commercialised in the following countries:

• Denmark
• Austria
• Poland
• Finland
• Switzerland
• Germany
• Norway
• Sweden
• Italy
• Iceland
• Spain

In particular, the UK and Canada were the first counties to make Sativex commercially available.

Today, this drug can be prescribed to MS patients, whose symptoms cannot be relieved by traditional pharmaceuticals. As there are still no multiple sclerosis treatments capable of curing the disease, and many patients wish to avoid intoxicating effects of THC, a growing number of people with MS diagnosis turn to alternative treatments in addition to their current medical programme. Many chose diets and exercise, massage, meditation, acupuncture and tai chi. Nevertheless, CBD alone can also be used to alleviate such common multiple sclerosis symptoms as pain, fatigue, muscle spasticity, and depression, thereby significantly increasing overall patient mobility without providing any psychoactive effects.

However, it is a proven fact that without THC, the effectiveness of CBD is reduced, and the reason for this is the mysterious entourage effect which we will discuss later in this review. It was also concluded that the addition of low doses of THC to a combination drug could help to get the optimal benefit from the treatment for many MS patients. Today, patients undergoing the MS treatment routinely choose EleCeed – a product containing an equal ratio of CBD to THC and several other non-psychoactive cannabinoids to alleviate the symptoms and improve outcomes.

Autism

Autism prevalence rates keep rising worldwide. For the period from the 1970s when autism prevalence was one case for 10 000 people, to 2018 when these numbers have grown to one case in 59 children, a lot of things have changed but not in the autism treatment. Currently, research is ongoing to confirm or refute the claim that medical cannabis, cannabidiol, in particular, can be effective in alleviating the symptoms of patients with autism. There is a large number of anecdotal cases regarding CBD use for autism symptoms claiming that even very disabled patients become more interactive after cannabidiol use. As for a more scientifically confirmed approach, results obtained in a range of clinical trials vary from encouraging to inconsistent and additional studies are needed to make a final conclusion. For example, in one of the studies, 53 children received 600mg cannabidiol daily in addition to their treatment for two months. Results of the study showed that:

• 71.4% of patients had less sleep problems
• 47.1% of patients felt reduced anxiety
• hyperactivity symptoms improved in 68.4% of patients
• 67.6% of patients had less self-injury and rage attacks

In another study, held in 2019, behavioural outbreaks of children with autism were improved or much improved in 61% of patients taking CBD. These results are very promising, although additional research and studies should be performed to evaluate CBD benefits for autism and determine the potential risks of long-term CBD treatment. Another thing that should be determined is the role of low dose THC in autism treatment with medicinal cannabis.

Although researchers state they didn’t find promising conclusions, anecdotal evidence continues showing us that patients behaviour improves after treatment with CBD. All the observations of patients with autism who include CBD in their daily treatment are registered and monitored on a long term basis. CBD-based medications such as EleCeed, TheraCeed, and ClaraCeed enable researchers to compare the impact of both format and formulation adjustments on the most common symptoms across autism patients. The primary goal of collecting and analysing these data is to maximise the potential benefit of cannabinoid-based medications as well as to provide caregivers with additional supporting insights.

Anxiety

Today you can find a lot of claims that a few sips of CBD-enhanced coffee or a couple of CBD gummies can significantly decrease your everyday anxiety, although, let’s consider more scientifically-proven facts.

Despite a constantly growing number of statements, most of which don’t give us anything that looks like promising effects, there is scientific data which demonstrates us that cannabidiol can treat anxiety disorders as well as general social anxiety.

The effects provided by CBD differ significantly from those of THC, which have been reported to increase anxiety levels in some patients. Results of CBD use for reducing anxiety also differ from most of the prescription anti-anxiety medications, which usually result in minor to moderate amounts of sedation and euphoria. In a range of studies, while taking at doses ranging from 300mg to 600mg, CBD has demonstrated its ability to reduce experimentally induced anxiety in healthy control groups as well as to reduce anxiety in patients with a social anxiety disorder. Although there is another fact which will make you look at most ad campaigns with different eyes – cannabidiol was not found to affect baseline anxiety levels.

What does it mean for us – ordinary consumers?

First of all, it means that while CBD may be effective for people suffering from anxiety disorders, it has not been proven to help individuals with everyday life stresses. Nevertheless, medical cannabis research and the relationship between CBD and anxiety is ongoing, so everything can change. Anyway, it is highly recommended to be guided not only by advertising when choosing CBD for your particular purposes.

Schizophrenia

CBD and THC are often perceived as a single whole, which is able to treat and alleviate a wide number of illnesses and conditions. However, their action on our organism, and, respectively, the effects these cannabinoids provide differs significantly.

One of the examples of such a difference between two popular cannabinoids is their impact on our mental health. Although high-THC products have been claimed to increase the risk of occurrence of bipolar disorders and psychotic breaks, CBD, vice versa, has been found to be an effective agent in treating schizophrenia.

In studies investigating this cannabidiol ability, the first group of schizophrenia patients were given 800mg CBD per day for four weeks, the second group continued treatment with common antipsychotic medications, and the third group was taking placebo. Results of the research have shown similar improvements in positive and negative schizophrenia symptoms in both groups of patients confirming the claimed CBD effectiveness in this disease treatment. Also, both cannabidiol and antipsychotic drugs demonstrated significantly higher effectiveness in alleviating the schizophrenia symptoms than placebo. In addition to this, CBD has shown significantly less side effects in comparison with amisulpride – an antipsychotic drug which is commonly used for schizophrenia patients treatment. The effectiveness of this cannabinoid together with its maximally reduced risk for patients’ health suggest it could be a preferred method in alleviating the symptoms of schizophrenia disease and its treatment to some pharmaceutical medications with more serious adverse effects.

Currently, research is ongoing to investigate whether the addition of the high-dose CBD to the usual schizophrenia treatment could be beneficial to patients. Nowadays, up to 0.7% of all people worldwide live with a schizophrenia diagnosis. The appearance of a new, more natural drug with effects similar to pharmaceutical medications may significantly improve the wellbeing of these patients, reduce the risk of the disease progression, and improve the most debilitating symptoms of this condition

Inflammation

The ability to reduce both acute and chronic types of inflammation is the trump card of CBD. CBD has potent anti-inflammatory effects when taken orally or topically.

This ability of the cannabinoid was confirmed in a number of studies and trials, showing evidence for CBD’s potential to alleviate inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis, colitis, pulmonary inflammation and neuroinflammation. Animal studies investigating the cannabidiol’s effects on arthritis have shown the ability of CBD to reduce inflammation in a rat model. Although the results obtained in a range of studies are promising, additional robust studies on humans are needed to demonstrate the CBD’s effectiveness in the inflammation treatment. Nevertheless, even with the lack of human trials, there are numerous anecdotal cases of cannabidiol’s successful use for different inflammation types. The ability of CBD to reduce inflammation sounds especially promising when it comes to cases when patients need to take opioids for their condition. Opioid crisis remains a problem of a global scale, and there aren’t still any medications which would be able to substitute opioid drugs. Currently, cannabidiol is actively studying as an active agent, which would be able if not substitute opioids completely but at least be prescribed as a part of opioid treatment, thereby significantly reducing the adverse effects of these medications and reduce opioid addiction. For example, for patients with peripheral neuropathy – a condition which involves severe pain in the nerves of limbs, inflammation plays a key role. Most of the patients with this diagnosis are prescribed opioids to control their pain, although medical cannabis has been claimed to be a better alternative. One of the studies investigating this question demonstrated that 62% of patients with peripheral neuropathy decreased their opioid use or even stopped it while taking low-CBD medications.

Today, more and more studies reveal new properties of medicinal cannabis and evaluate its potential use of different conditions starting from anxiety and depression to diseases of a global scale, such as cancer, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Some of you may say we already know everything about this plant and there is no reason to continue investigating any other of its properties, although scientists and cannabis experts would argue with such a statement.

There are still a lot of unanswered questions about cannabinoids, and the main “mystery” of beneficial effects of the cannabis plant on our health is how its components interact with each other.

How do CBD and THC work together, and can this affect cannabis efficiency?

The entourage effect remains one of the main secrets of the cannabis plant and continues haunting the minds of cannabis researchers all over the globe. The essence of this effect is that the potent therapeutic cannabis effects are a result of the complex interplay between its chemical constituents.

How do they interact with each other and can cannabis owe their unique benefits to the entourage effect? Let’s try to figure it out.

The title of “father of entourage effect” belongs to Raphael Mechoulam – cannabis chemist from Israel. This scientist is world known as the foremost innovator and pioneer of medicinal cannabis research. The term “entourage effect” coined by Raphael Mechoulam describes the way how different compounds of the cannabis plant synergise to influence a wide variety of diseases and conditions in our body. Moreover, the entourage effect implies that cannabis compounds work better together than in isolation. The Mechoulam’s findings were published in 1998, in a study, where Raphael Mechoulam with his team of researchers described the complicated ways in which different components of the cannabis plant seem to work as a single whole to give this plant its unique health benefits.

Today, the therapeutic effectiveness of a variety of cannabinoids was confirmed scientifically. For example, THC is renowned for its ability to reduce nausea, stimulate appetite, and more. Not so long ago, a pharmaceutical drug Marinol made from synthetic THC got approval from the FDA and became officially available for purchase. While this medication is widely used by many patients, a range of studies has shown that its effectiveness differs from the effects of cannabis flower. In contrast to regular cannabis, Marinol drug contains Dronabinol – a synthetic compound created to mimic the THC effects. This medication is approved in the US and is used to alleviate nausea and vomiting in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, as well as to treat wasting syndrome in patients with HIV/AIDS diagnosis.

The question is whether synthetically created Dronabinol really can be as effective as natural THC? As expected – no, it can’t. While the main active compound in Marinol is really very similar to THC, it isn’t as effective as whole-plant cannabis in treating many of the symptoms. In addition to this, being produced in a pill form, Marinol is very hard to stomach for patients suffering from nausea or vomiting. It also produces stronger psychoactive effects in comparison with regular cannabis.

Why is it so and which of the “secret elements” of the cannabis plant remains hidden from science? The answer is in the entourage effect.

Since the THC was first isolated by Raphael Mechoulam in 1964, almost five hundred different natural compounds, including cannabinoids, and a variety of terpenes have been discovered in the cannabis plant. Terpenes represent a diverse group of organic compounds that give plants their specific fragrances. In cannabis, apart from giving the plant aromatic properties, terpenes also have medicinal properties. For example, such representatives of terpenes as caryophyllene and pinene are known for their potent anti-inflammatory properties, as well as can be beneficial in managing insomnia, muscle spasms, and more. Some cannabis researchers state the health benefits of terpenes can be more powerful when ingested with cannabinoids.

The current research of the cannabis plant is focused on using a single cannabinoid, either natural or synthetically created, in isolation. Undoubtedly, it may help to understand the full spectrum of the properties of each individual cannabis compound, although cannabis experts state the investigation of the plant as a whole will give us a more holistic picture. This is the main reason why whole-plant cannabis medications are considered as a future of medicinal cannabis.

When we smoke a joint, ingest a tincture or consume cannabis any other way, we get a unique mix of all the cannabis compounds, not just CBD or THC on their own. These chemicals interact with each other, modifying the properties and boosting the effectiveness of other components, acting in synergy. It gives the answer to the question of why synthetic drugs like Marinol can’t provide the same effects as regular cannabis. Understanding the mechanism of entourage effect and its importance is crucial to clearly evaluate all the possibilities of whole-plant therapy. It seems logical to extract particular beneficial compounds from the cannabis plant and make a concentrated medicine. However, the science of the entourage effect makes it clear that whole-plant approaches are more versatile. The simplest example to explain this difference is a comparison of fresh fruits and vegetables to vitamin tablets – even with similar active components in their composition, vitamins can’t be as effective.

The research of the entourage effect is ongoing, although studies seem to confirm Mechoulam’s theory. Research on Marinol has demonstrated that evaluating the positive effects of medical cannabis isn’t as simple as extracting a single compound from the plant. Scientists have observed the entourage effect of the cannabis plant in many different ways. One of the simplest methods to reveal these effects is to study the effects of certain different cannabinoids together. For example, CBD is claimed to counteract the intoxicating effects provided by THC. It is a proven fact that when taken in high doses, THC can generate paranoia, and a study held in 1982, demonstrated that cannabidiol could help to combat these side effects. An interesting experiment to confirm the entourage effect was also performed by cannabis researcher Ethan Russo. It was revealed that a 10mg dose of pure THC usually produces toxic psychosis in roughly 40% of patients. However, a dose of Sativex (medication which contains an equal ratio of THC to CBD) equivalent to 48mg of pure THC produced toxic psychosis in only 4 of 250 participants of the study, thereby confirming the CBD properties to reduce the psychoactive effects provided by THC.

Of course, it can’t get without criticism. As with almost everything when it comes to cannabis research, there is still no consensus, that creates a great number of debates and critics among people among opponents of medicinal cannabis. Mechoulam’s theory wasn’t an exception and has received its fair share of criticism from scientists. However, even some of the cannabis researchers state there isn’t a lot of data to support the existence of the entourage effect in the cannabis plant. In fact, the verdict on the entourage effect depends greatly on whom you ask about this topic. Until the more research goes into this field and the more studies have been performed to confirm this theory, none of us can make solid conclusions and say for sure about the way cannabinoids and other chemicals in the cannabis plant interact with each other.

The next question which occurs after getting to know the entourage effect – is whether the cannabis plant compounds work well separately? The research says taking terpenes together with phytocannabinoids may provide additional health benefits.

According to the review of studies published in the British Journal of Pharmacology in 2011, due to the entourage effect, taking terpenes and phytocannabinoids may be beneficial for such conditions as:

• Inflammation
• Pain
• Fungal infection
• Epilepsy
• Anxiety
• Cancer

Cannabinoids like CBD and THC can also be taken separately for these and a range of other conditions, although the effect they provide will differ as they can’t “balance” each other and reduce potential side effects which may occur when taking one or another cannabinoid. For example, people taking THC for alleviating their conditions often feel hunger, anxiety, and sedation after the cannabinoid taking. A range of rat and human studies has shown that taking CBD together with THC may significantly reduce these side effects or even eliminate them. Also, according to the research held in 2018, certain terpenes and flavonoids found in the cannabis plant may provide anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties and be beneficial to brain health. Cannabis experts assume that taking these compounds together with cannabidiol could significantly increase its therapeutic potential.

However, the question of the entourage effect and its role in the cannabis plant still remains open. Not all the cannabis components can interact with each other in a beneficial way, and more research is needed to understand which “combinations” of the chemicals will be able to provide the most effective results. A study held in 2019, investigated the influence of the entourage effect on six common terpenes. The chemicals were tested both alone and together, and the researchers found that the effect of THC on CB1 and CB2 receptors of our endocannabinoid system was unchanged by the addition of the terpenes. These results don’t indicate that the entourage effect doesn’t exist and it is possible that terpenes can interact with THC elsewhere in the body or brain, or in a different way. Whether it is better to take THC or CBD alone? To answer this and many other questions for sure, more research is needed.

When considering taking THC and CBD together, it is important to note that cannabis affects every one of us differently and the goals for its use, as well as the results it provides, are different. For example, a person with rheumatoid arthritis or with Crohn’s disease who uses medical cannabis for alleviating the symptoms will have a different ratio of CBD to THC than an athlete after intensive workout who uses it to relieve muscle pain.

The first rule for all people who are just getting to know cannabinoids is that there is no one dose or ratio of cannabinoids that works for everyone. It is highly recommended to talk with your healthcare provider if you want to add cannabinoids or other cannabis compounds in your treatment program. It will help you to limit side effects, avoid possible drug interactions, and choose the necessary dose for your particular case. You should also keep in mind that compounds like CBD and THC may have such adverse effects as slow reaction times, dry mouth, fatigue, short-term memory loss, anxiety, diarrhoea, nausea, and weight changes.

As for the dose, it is recommended to start with a low dose and gradually increase it if needed. For CBD, you can start with 5mg and increase it to 15mg, while for THC it is recommended to start with 5mg or less and increase it according to your needs. Regarding the best CBD to THC ratio, there isn’t also a single rule. Some of you may find that taking CBD and THC at the same time works best, while others may prefer using CBD after THC. The number of methods of taking also gives you freedom of choice. You can take CBD and THC in a number of different delivering methods, such as:

• Oils
• Topicals
• Tinctures
• Vapes
• Capsules
• Gummies
• Edibles

All of these methods have their own pros and cons, as well as different bioavailability levels. You should consult your doctor to choose the most suitable method to meet your needs.

Some of us don’t want to try THC but are interested in taking CBD, while for others CBD’s effects may not be enough and they will stop their choice on THC. For some of us taking whole-plant cannabis medications will bring significantly better results, while for others adding different cannabis chemicals to cannabinoids treatment will not make any difference. We all are different and have different needs and preferences.

The question of the entourage effect among cannabis compounds is still unanswered, and it will take time and lots of research to put a final point in this theory. Anyway, while this question remains open, we want to draw an analogy that no matter how strong the soldier is, the platoon will always be stronger. Same is with cannabis – isolated cannabinoids and terpenes may give effective results, although their combination in most cases will provide better and stronger outcomes by strengthening the benefits of each other and reducing side effects.

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 world where many of us are increasingly afflicted with chronic, acute, and inflammation-related pain, it is easy to find our entire lifestyle and even our relationships badly affected by symptoms of pain, and all types of pain. However, many studies have been conducted which indicate CBD for pain and inflammation may show some clinical promise. While most experiments and research has been conducted on rodents, others have involved humans, and have led to the encouraging conclusion that CBD may have the potential to affect pain and sleep quality. While further research is needed, it is important to examine the possible impact of CBD for inflammation and other types of pain.

We might describe pain broadly as an unpleasant experience of hurt or discomfort. The sources of pain are many and varied, from emotional suffering to mental distress, from acute physical damage to chronic medical conditions. Pain stabs, throbs, aches, and pinches are all common pains we may feel at any given point in life. It sometimes correlates with a host of other undesirable sensations, such as nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. Persistent pain can affect a person’s entire lifestyle and relationships–and that is rarely, if ever, for the better.

But there are some questions we have about pain: what is it, how does it occur, and perhaps most importantly, how can we prevent it? We have all heard the expression ‘no pain, no gain,’ but we would hardly consider all types of pain as equally necessary. Not all painkillers are alike, either. In this article, we are going to focus on a product that has been gaining increasing attention as an effective, safer alternative to opioid painkillers: CBD, or Cannabidiol. First, however, a little detour into the science of pain is in order.

Pain: Some Key Definitions

As it turns out, trying to understand pain is one of medicine’s oldest challenges, and research in this field still confronts many unanswered questions. For a very long time, Western medicine has tended to regard pain mostly as a symptom of some underlying health condition. Sure enough, pain’s signalling role serves an all-important function, telling us something is wrong, and that, yes, we should be getting that check. Since the mid-twentieth century, however, scientists began considering pain as a condition in its own right, with its own definitions and taxonomies.

The most well-known among these are acute and chronic pain. The expression ‘acute pain’ usually refers to the previously mentioned signal for an injury or disease. Inflammation, burns, and trauma are all examples of pathologic processes that can result in acute pain, which may be particularly relevant here for its rather obvious causes, short-term duration, and generally severe and intense manifestations.

Chronic pain, on the other hand, is commonly understood as the pain that persists in spite of recovery and healing, and as such comes with a range of psycho-behavioural factors. Chronic pain is becoming increasingly accepted as an autonomous pathology to be understood in its own right–rather than simply in opposition to acute pain.

Other key categories include:

• Neuropathic pain, which is produced by damage to neurons in the peripheral and central nervous systems. Neuronal damage sensitises these systems, causing the brain to register pain more frequently. Neuropathic pain is often described in terms of burning sensations, as well as excruciating pins and needles. Examples of neuropathic pain include post-herpetic (post-shingles) neuralgia and components of cancer pain.
• Inflammatory pain, which typically occurs as a result of tissue damage and inflammation. This is also characterised by an induced hypersensitivity to pain and sometimes flu-like symptoms. Examples of inflammatory pain include those associated with arthritis and postoperative pain.
• Central pain, which is often defined as pain initiated or caused by a primary lesion or dysfunction in the central nervous system (such as may happen with tumours, or multiple sclerosis). Central pain may be considered a subtype of neuropathic pain, though research suggests that there are many types of ‘central pain syndromes’ (CPS) with distinct features.

It is important to bear in mind that these categories are not mutually exclusive. For example, chronic pain can involve a mix of inflammatory and neuropathic components. Things get even more complicated when you consider that chronic pain has social and demographic factors on top of biological and psychological ones- but those are tales for another time.

Why do we feel pain?

When it comes to pinning pain down to its core components, we must let go of the simplistic idea that all pain results from identifiable causes working through universal pathways. Pain is a complex phenomenon, and perceived pain cannot always be explained on the basis of neurological or somatic processes. As the neurologist V S Ramachandran put in an insightful article on the lingering mysteries of pain: “There is no direct hotline from pain receptors to ‘pain centres’ in the brain. Even the mere visual appearance of an opening fist can actually feed all the way into the patient’s motor and touch pathways.” That’s right: we can feel pain that is ‘not there,’ just as research has shown the same injury can feel less painful depending on whether we are in a safe and protected environment, or in a state of ongoing anxiety and distress.

Of course, some of the stuff about how pain works we do understand, or at least we think we do. Touch a hot surface, and skin receptors will quickly send electrical nerve impulses to the spinal cord (i.e., the central nervous system) via sensory neurons, where the impulses are processed and registered as pain. Right? In fact, the processing of information by the brain can take a little too long (we are talking 130-160 milliseconds), which can be enough to burn you badly on the stove. With such extreme stimuli as heat, then, sensory nerves are usually short-circuited, allowing you to more quickly pull your hand to safety.

With most kinds of pain, however, such bypassing of the brain is unlikely to occur. The whole process becomes then far more interpretive, with nerve messages signalling dangers–rather than ‘pain’ as such–and reactions that depend on a number of contextual and subjective factors.

This ‘subjective’ component does not mean that we can simply ‘think ourselves out of pain’. We might think of pain rather like blushing: we can never totally control it. Chronic pain offers a case on point: the injury is healed, but the pain persists. You can be as calm and optimistic an individual as any, and even meditate twice a day, but if you suffer from chronic pain, chances are that painkillers will be one of your only options.

Fortunately, relieving and killing pain does not require that we fully grasp the intricacies of pain perception. What we must remember though, is that not all ways of getting rid of pain are equally advisable, or safe. In this article, we are going to focus on the most notorious class of painkillers – opioids – and consider the pros and cons of using cannabinoids and CBD products as an alternative supplement.

Bad Opioids vs. Good Cannabinoids: Is It Really That Simple?

Back in the 1990s, general medical opinion had it that opioids could treat any kind of pain– provided that the dose was high enough. Opioids became the most prescribed class of medications in the US, with some devastating effects on public health. You may be familiar with the ‘opioid addiction crisis’ in the US, which has seen thousands of lawsuits filed that allege pharmaceutical companies fueled a healthcare disaster responsible for hundreds of thousands of uprooted lives from 1999 to 2017. In brief, more and more people came to rely on opioids for treating all sorts of pains, often ignoring their multifaceted nature, or the fact that effective solutions may lay in lifestyle changes. Addiction to opioids grew dramatically, as did opioid-related deaths.

Though it pays to probe beneath the bad reputation of opioids and understand how they work on the body, it has become clear that their strong analgesic effects involve too high a cost in the long run. CBD, on the other hand, can have analgesic effects without any of the toxic, addictive, and potentially deadly complications of opioids– hence one of the reasons why CBD and cannabinoid products have been on the rise. When it comes to relieving pain, it would then seem that cannabinoids are the future, and opioids the past. But what evidence is there to support these claims so often boasted by CBD wellness companies? Are opioids and cannabinoids really all that different, with one toxic and bad, the other natural and healthy?

Interestingly, the discovery and use of both opioids (like morphine and codeine) and cannabinoids (like THC and CBD) have deep roots in human history. The first class of substances derive their active ingredients from opium, which is itself extracted from poppy seeds (Papaverum somniferum), with morphine being the most active ingredient. Cannabinoids are instead found in the cannabis plant (Cannabis sativa), with THC being the most prevalent compound, followed by CBD. Those cannabinoids found naturally in cannabis are known as ‘phytocannabinoids’ (from the Greek phuton, ‘a plant’), as opposed to cannabinoids synthesised in a lab (‘synthetic cannabinoids’). A similar distinction holds between ‘opiates’ and ‘opioids,’ respectively. Morphine– which remains today the most widely-used painkiller in medical practice – is technically an opiate, or an ‘opium alkaloid,’ from which a number of semisynthetic drugs, like hydromorphone, or synthetic ones, like heroin, may be derived.

There is a third class of cannabinoids and opioids: namely, those biosynthesised naturally by our bodies. ‘Endogenous opioids,’ as they are called, play a key role in analgesia and nociception (the perception or sensation of pain), as well as in regulating numerous physiological functions, such as responses to stress, respiration, and immune functions. Endocannabinoids are also known to play a host of physiological roles, including the regulation of mood, metabolism, pain sensation, and the immune system. At a basic level, endocannabinoids are neurotransmitters that bind to receptor proteins. So are endogenous opioids. Put in this fashion, it becomes apparent that opioids and cannabinoids have more than a few things in common.

Far from meaning that cannabinoids have the same properties as opioids, what their pharmacological similarities entail is these substances’ ability to interact on a number of levels. Though research on these interactions gets predictably quite complicated, recent studies have concluded that cannabis may play a key role in alleviating opioid withdrawal symptoms and decreasing the likelihood of relapse.

Yet other studies show that patients using opioids for chronic pain decreased their use by 40-60% after being given access to cannabis. The same patients also reported fewer side-effects and displayed an interesting improvement in cognitive function. These growing bodies of research suggest that the synergy produced by cannabis and opioids could help achieve clinically relevant pain relief with small doses of opioids, thus helping to prevent physical dependence and dose escalation. In other words, cannabinoids are not simply the ‘good guys’ and opioids the ‘bad guys:’ they may actually work quite well together to help patients.

That being said, voices in the scientific community have pointed out that easing opioid consumption or curbing its effects with cannabis is not enough to resolve the current opioid crisis. New therapies are needed, from standard practices of acupuncture and massage, to cognitive-behavioural treatments, to other naturopathic remedies. Moreover, though key cannabinoids such as THC may work well as pain relief, we must remember that THC comes with a range of toxic side effects, especially when smoked.

This is where CBD might really make a difference. Though scientific research on the benefits of CBD, and on cannabinoids in general, is still lagging far behind opioid research, early results have been promising.

We have seen before that CBD (Cannabidiol) is one of the key phytocannabinoids. You may have heard all about this compound, or simply caught rumours about its miraculous benefits. Indeed, CBD is experiencing a surge in popularity, and wellness companies have been quick to jump on the CBD bandwagon, marketing this ingredient through everything from CBD food and chocolates to CBD bath bombs, lotions, and of course, CBD oils.

Looking at all of the different uses and effects that CBD has been attributed falls beyond the scope of this article. Something worth mentioning is that research around CBD strongly supports its use in treating some of the cruellest childhood epilepsy syndromes. CBD has been shown to potentially work where some antiseizure medications may fail, a success that was recently crowned by the release of the first-ever FDA-approved cannabis-derived medication, Epidiolex, which contains CBD.

Other notable uses for CBD include help in supplementing anxiety and sleep-related problems. A recently conducted study showed that, out of 72 adults suffering from either anxiety or poor sleep, 79.2% experienced a decrease in anxiety scores within the first month of CBD treatment, while sleep scores improved in 66.7% of patients– albeit with fluctuating results. 3 out of the 72 subjects, it should be noted, did not tolerate CBD well– which makes for a good reminder that you should consult your doctor or physician before supplementing your health with CBD!

A study from the European Journal of Pain examined the efficacy of applying CBD topically for the reduction of inflammation pain associated with arthritis in rodents. The results: after 4 consecutive days of applying CBD gels, investigators noticed a significant reduction in joint swelling, with changes in limb posture scores indicating a reduction in inflammation-related pain. Application of the gels further led to a contingent thickening of the synovial membrane (a layer of connective tissue between joints and tendon sheaths).

Yet another study has reported that systemic administration of CBD into rodents’ spinal cords significantly suppressed chronic inflammatory and neuropathic pain. Together, these studies clearly suggest that CBD may aid in the treatment of chronic pain. We should note that these experiments were all conducted on rats, which always makes a straightforward extrapolation to human subjects rather tricky.

The one placebo-controlled, parallel-group study conducted so far to test the effectiveness of CBD for neuropathic pain relief makes use of a nasal spray with equal amounts of CBD and THC. The findings from this study, however, demonstrated clinically important improvements in pain and sleep quality. In the end, we can only conclude with one of the maxims of all scientific inquiries: ‘more research on this subject is needed.’

The little available evidence we have holds great promises. But as with all promising talents, CBD’s must be nurtured with care. The sad truth is, that the boom of CBD wellness products has yet to be followed by a parallel concern with regulation and quality control. We thus recommend that you only go for CBD products that have been tested by third-parties, and more: that you make sure to double-check products’ certificates of analysis (COA) for anything suspicious.

The day when scientists will have uncovered all of the beneficial effects of CBD is still somewhere in the future. Waiting can be a pain, but if we manage to ensure quality research and production, it is only a matter of time before CBD becomes widely accepted as a pain remedy. In the meantime, make sure to keep yourself informed. This article has barely scratched the surface of the complex world of CBD and cannabinoids–if you crave more, read on and dig deeper into our Alphagreen Academy features.

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 the consumer demand for more CBD product diversity grows, manufacturers are coming up with more unconventional ways to include CBD as part of our everyday lifestyles.

– CBD (short for cannabidiol) is a natural compound found in hemp plants and is currently legal in the UK as it is safe to consume and does not cause any psychoactive effects.

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– CBD can be delivered to the body through many different methods, so you can choose the product and method that suits you best.

– From CBD sausages to CBD mattresses, there are many quirky products out there which you may never know exist.

The world of CBD is evolving all the time, and with the potentials of CBD being understood by more and more people, the demand for product variety increases. There is still a place for conventional CBD products such as CBD oils, CBD vapes, and CBD lotions, but there is a buzz of excitement for the next new CBD creation.

Since CBD has found its place in the health and wellness sector, many of the mainstream brands want to jump on board and offer their customers a CBD range. Due to the overwhelming interest in CBD, the market is getting oversaturated, and competition is fierce. This has meant companies are having to think outside the box in order to find new ways to take their CBD products to the next level.

Some CBD companies have taken their product creativity to the next level and have launched some pretty unconventional product lines to satisfy the most demanding consumers and stand out from the crowd. So without further delay, let’s explore the world of quicky CBD products.

Even the wildest of CBD products have a wellness element to them, so understanding the basics of CBD is fundamental as a consumer. CBD is short for cannabidiol, which is a natural compound found in hemp plants. It accounts for almost 40% of the hemp plant extract but is only one of over a hundred known cannabinoids. Unlike its fellow cannabinoid THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD has no psychoactive effects.

The fact that CBD is extracted from hemp plants can cause some people alarm, but not to worry, hemp is not the same thing as marijuana. Cannabis, hemp, and marijuana often get confused and jumbled together as if they are the same thing. They are all terms for plants in the Cannabaceae family, but there are some significant differences between them.

CBD is produced by extracting the cannabinoid from the hemp plant. It is then diluting with a carrier oil, such as organic coconut oil or hemp seed oil. The finished extract can then be used as an active ingredient in the product of choice. The fact that hemp-extracted products can be enjoyed and benefited from in many different ways is one of the main reasons brands are attracted to CBD.

The Scientific Theory of CBD

Now we have a basic understanding of what the CBD cannabinoid is and how it is made, let’s grasp the theory behind how CBD potentially interacts with our bodies. In the 1990s, scientists had a significant breakthrough when they discovered the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Researchers have acknowledged the endocannabinoid system as a homeostatic regulator, meaning it helps ensure the body’s processes are functioning efficiently. The endocannabinoid system is a biological system that comprises three main elements:

1. Endocannabinoids – These are molecules made by your body. They’re similar to cannabinoids, but the body naturally produces them.
2. Receptors – These receptors are located all over your body. Endocannabinoids bind to them to let the endocannabinoid system know it needs to take action.
3. Enzymes – Enzymes are accountable for breaking down endocannabinoids once they have carried out their job and are no longer needed.

The endocannabinoid system is very complicated, and even the experts have not totally figured out how it works or all of its potential functions. Some of the research completed into the field have linked the endocannabinoid system to the following processes:

• Mood
• Stress
• Pain
• Skin and nerve function
• Reproductive system function

These functions all support homeostasis, which refers to the stability of your internal environment. For example, if you suffer from a bad back, it throws off your body’s homeostasis and your endocannabinoid system kicks in to help your body restore to its ideal operation. But what has this got to do with CBD?

Well, it is the way CBD may interact with the endocannabinoid receptors.  There are two known types of endocannabinoid receptors, cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) and cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2). There is a theory that CBD may interact with these receptors, which could help them do their job more effectively.

Part of the beauty of CBD is that it can be delivered to the body through many different methods so you can choose the one which suits you best. The main methods for using CBD include:

• Sublingual – This is done by placing CBD oil directly under the tongue and leaving it for 1-2 minutes before swallowing. Using the sublingual method allows the CBD to quickly enter the bloodstream due to the capillaries in the tongue’s mucous membranes. Any remaining components of the CBD oil can then be swallowed and digested via the stomach.

• Topical – Applying CBD topically allows cannabinoids to enter the system via the skin. This method does take longer to enter the system than a sublingual form, but it does have the advantage of the CBD being applied directly to the area needing attention.
• Edible – Oral intake of CBD activates the digestive system and gets metabolised in the liver before finally entering the bloodstream. Using this method does result in a lower bioavailability and prolonged digestion process. However, the CBD, which does enter the system, will stay there for longer, so any resulting effects are more retentive.
• Inhalable – The fastest way to get CBD into the system is by inhaling it through vape pens and vaporisers. Vaping enables CBD to be absorbed through the lungs, and any potential effects can be felt almost immediately. However, research into vaping is still ongoing, and the prolonged adverse effects are unknown.

Knowing all available ways of using CBD gives you the freedom to try out all the different methods and discover the most suitable and effective ones for you. So without further ado, we introduce some of the most quirky CBD products on the market.

Top Quirky CBD Products

For such a novel industry, CBD products have undergone a radical transformation. At first, CBD oils and tinctures were the industry standard, and then capsules and topicals have become strong forerunners.

These days, the methods of using CBD products appear to be endless. As the CBD sector continues to expand, more unique and interesting hemp-based items are being released into the market, satisfying the most discerning customer.

Will you be surprised by CBD? Let’s dive into the creative side of product development and shed some light on the top unusual CBD you may not have known even existed.

CBD Food and Drink

Price: $39.99 (500mg), $89.99 (1500mg)

Perhaps not the first thing that springs to mind when you think of CBD edibles, but you can now buy dried Papaya with CBD. This could be a healthier alternative to CBD sweets if you have a craving for the sweet stuff.

Little is said on the product description for this product by the manufacturer. However, it does come with a third party lab report which at least signifies it is safe for consumption. The ingredients listed on this product include dried papaya, calcium, citric acid, sugar cane, cannabidiol, to name a few. It also states that the CBD is processed in a facility that also processes foods containing wheat, so the product is best avoided if you have any issues with gluten.

Price: £26.95 (190g x 6)

This surprising CBD edible is handmade in Cornwall. It contains not just the goodness of 13mg of CBD but also raw hemp seeds, cold-pressed hemp seed oil, garlic, cumin, plus many more delicious ingredients. Themptation’s CBD hummus is vegan, nut-free, gluten-free and full of plant-based protein.

For those of you who will struggle to eat six pots of hummus during the 10-day shelf life, there is the added bonus of being suitable for freezing. This delicious hummus can be bought online, so why not give this modern take on a middle eastern classic a try.

Approximate Price:  €50.00 per kilo, €4.50 per sausage

If you are a fan of a sausage sandwich, this may be the CBD product for you. There is a slight hitch, though, as it looks like you would need to take a trip to Marseille in France if you want to tuck into these CBD sausages. They were dreamed up by a young butcher called Luca Morand during a summer BBQ with some friends.

These sausages fly off the shelves at his butcher shop as they have become very popular with the local inter-generational customer base. Please let us know if you ever find yourself walking by Burcherie LM (140 Rue d’Endoume, 13007 Marseille, France). We’re as intrigued by these CBD sausages as you are.

Approx Price: £25.00 50ml bottle

If you enjoy a glass of wine and the natural aromas of hemp, CBD wine may be the drink for you! CannaWine is the first Spanish wine that is obtained from cannabinoids-enriched hemp. It is extracted from young red grapes from the Costa Brava, 50% Garnache and 50% Cariñana. This wine is characterised by intense red colour, sweet and sugary flavour, with a hint of red and black fruits.

Unlike many red wines you have come across, this bottle is intended to be drunk chilled. When sipped, you will find a subtle cannabis sativa L. aroma. Although you will get the potential benefits of  CBD, this wine has a 14.5% alcohol content, so best to enjoy in moderation.

Price: £18.49 (500ml x 12)

CBD water is made by infusing natural spring water with CBD droplets. Love Hemp CBD Water has 2mg of CBD in each of their 500ml bottles. They describe this drink as instantly refreshing and contains exact CBD concentration with zero THC.

The online reviews of CBD water are pretty mixed, but most are positive. Fans of CBD water have compared the taste to coconut or birch water. There is a theory that CBD water has a high bioavailability rate as our bodies are made of 60% water, so it is potentially easier for the CBD in the water to absorb. There is a lot more research needed to back up this theory, though.

CBD Beauty and Personal Care Products

Price: Approx £1.24 per CBD tampon

It could be seen as quirky but also kind of makes a bit of sense. Daye points out that using a CBD infused tampon delivers it directly to where you may need it most. There is a theory that CBD may be able to assist with relieving menstrual cramps and these tampons are infused with 100mg of potent full-spectrum CBD, so it could be what’s needed to keep cramps at bay.

These feminine hygiene products are marketed as pesticide and GMO-free, made of ethically sourced and organic cotton fibres, which is a bonus for the environment. Each tampon is packed with a protective sleeve to ensure it does not shed unwanted fibres and made in pharmaceutical-grade cleanrooms. They even go as far as sanitising them with proprietary gamma-ray technology to reduce the risk of infections such as TSS.

Price: £9.00 50ml dispenser

Advertised as natural sensitive toothpaste, Hemplix uses CBD isolate to potentially help support oral health. It may also be a fantastic way to get your daily dose of CBD oil, as many people choose to take it first thing in the morning and just before bed.

This toothpaste also has been tested by a third party, so you have that added assurance that it is safe to put in your mouth.  If you are looking for a natural solution for toothpaste that may also have the potential to help calm sensitive teeth, it could be worth adding this to your dental hygiene routine.

Price: £24.00 for 20 picks

If using CBD as part of your dental care appeals to you, why not give CBD toothpicks a try. Pinnacle Hemp has created a range of CBD toothpicks that have been infused with 200mg of high-quality full-spectrum hemp extract. They are a quick, discreet, and practical way to consume your daily dose of CBD.

To use these CBD toothpicks, place one in your mouth and suck for 5 to 15 minutes twice a day. If you want to get the full effects, use both sides of the CBD toothpick. After you no longer taste the flavour or hemp extract, throw the toothpick away. Each toothpick contains 10mg of full-spectrum CBD.

Price: £34.93 (30ml)

Foria has created ‘Awaken Arousal Oil with CBD’ to help women and people with vulvas get in the mood. It is also supposed to benefit overall health and wellness while providing natural, euphoric pleasure with or without a partner.

Awaken has been formulated with essential oils, botanical extracts, and broad-spectrum CBD. This product does not contain any additives, preservatives or THC compounds.  You can get around 30 plus uses from each 30ml bottle, so a little goes a long way. It is also oral friendly and safe to ingest so you can get as creative as you like. Enjoy!

Price: £109.00

Most of us have come across CBD creams and CBD balms for our faces, but now you can treat yourself to a CBD Night Face Mask. OTO aims for this CBD skincare product to smooth wrinkles, provide extreme skin hydration, and replace dull-looking skin with a healthy glow. This CBD face mask is designed with 800mg of premium, organic CBD isolate and is suitable for all skin types.

Along with the potential benefits of CBD, this face mask also contains rich botanical oils, which have anti-inflammatory and calming properties and may reduce swelling and puffiness. This is a powerful natural skincare product many of us could benefit from.

Price: $15.00 30ml tin

This CBD beard balm is not just about grooming and shaping facial hair. It focuses on the health of the skin under the beard. Many men struggle with itchy, red, irritated skin beneath their beard, so this could be just the product for them.

The signature blend of premium and all-natural oils in this CBD product includes 25 mg of CBD, argan oil, jojoba oil, shea butter, avocado oil, coconut oil, and beeswax. This carefully chosen blend of ingredients provides deep nourishment and accurate beard sculpting.

Price: £39.00 per candle

Creams, lotions, balms … These are all ways most of us have heard of as ways to get a daily dose of CBD into your skincare. Well, now you may be able to enjoy it through a relaxing candle. Nay has combined its CBD candle with three soothing scents: lavender, jasmine, and sandalwood. Once lit, you can apply the melted wax directly to the skin and use it for massage therapy.

CBD candles can be great for relaxing and unwinding. Nay CBD Moonlight candles are organic, vegan, forest friendly, lab tested and contain no THC. It is also suitable for all skin types. Whether you have acne-prone or super sensitive skin, CBD candles can be incorporated into your wellness practice.

CBD Homeware

Price: $1,099 twin bed, $1,129 twin XL, $1,199 full, $1,299 queen, $1,499 king/california king

Yes, you read it right. You can now get a CBD mattress. It is coated with microcapsules which contain 48 mgs of CBD isolate. The fabric used to craft the bed contains around 12g of CBD isolate per square meter. When you get into bed, the theory is that the friction causes the microcapsules to burst, spreading the isolate throughout the fabric of the mattress.

The reviews of this mattress are glowing, so perhaps CBD mattresses are the future. A good night sleep can do wonders for overall health. You will need to be 18 or over to purchase this CBD mattress.

Price: £119.99 per pillow

This is a very fancy pillow indeed! It is a gel memory foam pillow that contains millions of microcapsules that are filled with high-quality CBD. The pillow supposedly releases CBD microdoses whilst you are resting to provide a restful nights sleep. These microdoses mean that until conventional methods such as ingestible or vaped CBD products which can wear off after three hours, it releases steady micro-doses all night.

There is still ongoing research into the potentials of CBD supporting sleep. If the natural hemp extract doesn’t help you get a good night’s sleep, the high-quality gel memory foam will bring a bit of luxury to your bed. You can also customise the pillow to suit your individual preference, whether that be a firm, soft or flat pillow.

Price: $295 (50×60 in)

Whether it’s a cold winter evening or a cool breeze on a summer evening, snuggling up with a comfy blanket is a great way to end the day. This perfect evening can be made even more relaxing with a cosy CBD blanked from Curfew. The Dream Blanket is enriched with patented, micro-encapsulated beads that supply CDB.

This blanket is luxurious and comes in grey. It is also practical as it can be machine-washed, which is a bonus if you enjoy a snack as you relax under your blankets.  The CBD used is third-party lab tested, which gives you peace of mind that it is safe for you to snuggle up against.

CBD Active Lifestyle

Price: $275.00

Many active people incorporate CBD into their exercise routine following some positive reports by professional athletes. Acabada has taken this one step further by creating CBD activewear. They have designed many different items but the one which caught our interest is the CBD jumpsuit.

This outfit is a full-length compression jumpsuit containing 18 grams of CBD. By wearing CBD activewear there is the potential to enjoy the potential CBD benefits throughout the entirety of your workout. The reviews on the product are very positive so if you are struggling with exercise, it may give you that extra boost.

Price: £11.99 (6-pack), £21.99 (12-pack), £37.99 (24-pack)

If you are into your fitness wellness products, it will come as no surprise that CBD is making waves in the professional training scene. Many pro athletes are turning to CBD products to help support them with pre, during, and post working out sessions. While many people opt for water during their intense physical activity, sometimes you just need a little something extra.

The CBD-infused sports drink by Endo Sport is formulated with 10mg of CBD for optimal hydration. The theory is the CBD sports drink replaces lost electrolytes through intense physical activity. The product is GMO, gluten and caffeine-free and suitable for vegans and vegetarians for high quality and safety.

Price: £39.99 500g bag

You can now get your daily dose of protein powder with some CBD in there. This delicious protein powder can come in handy when you need refuelling after a run, ride, tough workout, or even everyday life, especially if you don’t consume enough protein in your diet. It comes in tasty chocolate and vanilla flavours.

In this 500g zip-lock bag, each 25g serving contains 25mg of THC-free broad spectrum CBD. This product is made from all-natural organic ingredients, including whey protein concentrate, natural flavourings and premium quality broad spectrum CBD. It is a delicious sports recovery supplement designed for everyday use.

CBD Pet Products

Price: $29.95 for 425g

As if CBD peanut butter is not quirky enough, it is now possible to get a jar of the nutty stuff for our fluffy friends. Peanut butter is a well-known trick for hiding dog medication, so it makes sense to have this product on hand for those deworming emergencies. Some dog owners also find peanut butter is a great way to distract their pet when trying to clip their nails.

It has been found that dogs also have an endocannabinoid system, which means they may also benefit from CBD to support their overall health. Honest Paws Calm Butter contains 160mg of organic full-spectrum hemp oil, dry roasted peanuts, salt, and dextrose.

Price: $29.99 250mg CBD, $49.99 500mg CBD, $69.99 1000mg CBD, $99.00 2000mg CBD (all 30ml bottles)

This bacon flavoured CBD treat comes in a range of CBD strengths but all of them are in 30ml bottles. The CBD pet tincture also comes in four CBD strengths: 250mg for small breeds, 500mg for medium breeds, 1000mg for larger breeds, and a 2000mg extra strength for the larger breeds that need a bit of a boost.

The 250mg CBD strength is suitable for both cats and dogs, but the others are best suited to our canine friends. This product is made of broad spectrum CBD, contains only organic and non-GMO ingredients, and is even human-grade so you can give it a try if a vegan bacon flavoured CBD tincture tickles your fancy.

Price: $39.99 150mg pot

Dog skin can be just as sensitive as our own. You can now take care of your pet’s nose, paws, and elbows with a unique skin salve that nourishes with the help of full-spectrum CBD. This topical product is made from premium quality CBD, blended with smooth coconut oil, hemp seed oil, arnica essential oil, vanilla extract, and beeswax. These ingredients are safe if a dog licks them and smells great.

It is particularly important to look after your dog’s skin during the winter months as the cold can dry out their skin and cause cracking. If you spend a lot of time outdoors in the summer months, this product can also be used on sunburn if your dog accidentally has too much sun exposure.

The CBD market is becoming more popular than ever as we learn about how malleable this active ingredient is. There is a growing demand for product diversity. CBD manufacturers are getting creative and doing their best to stand out from the crowd. It has become even more challenging for the smaller CBD brands to keep their place as the hemp extract experts, with the larger mainstream companies now taking an interest in CBD.

It is worth keeping an eye on what some of the less known CBD brands are creating. Many of these companies take great pride in the high-quality ingredients used and may be better value for money than a substandard product produced by a popular highstreet name.

The world of unique CBD products is still developing, and consumers are slowly getting used to the idea of CBD appearing in more than capsules and droppers. There are still so many things to explore about CBD, and companies continue to develop new ideas and produce new, exciting products they believe customers want or need.

So, will you stick to your favourite traditional CBD product and method, or will you give one of the above a try? Whatever you decide, you won’t ever be stuck for options if you do want to switch it up a bit.

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.

Alphagreen Group has been instrumental in funding further research on consumer insights in CBD and wellness. As a globally operating acquisition and incubation platform with a focus on health & wellness, the group scales brands via diverse owned and external distribution channels.

Founded in 2019, Alphagreen Group was born from a passion for health and wellbeing, combined with technology and innovation. The brainchild of entrepreneurs Alexej Pikovsky and Viktor Khliupko, Alphagreen is working to simplify the entire shopper experience across self-care wellness sectors including sleep, pain, and anxiety.

Alphagreen CBD Report 2021

The 2021 survey was conducted with 5000 participants all based throughout the UK. It covers the same ground as research done the year before in order to analysse trends and correlations, and also goes into more detail regarding pain, sleep, and anxiety in relation to CBD usage.

CBD in the UK

Alphagreen CBD Report 2020

The 2020 survey was conducted with 5000 participants across the UK. Alphagreen wanted to get insights on the general population’s approach to health and wellness in relation to CBD and cannabis, starting with the basics like consumer awareness and knowledge of the products. Alphagreen’s research showed that the main reasons for using CBD are pain management, sleep issues, and anxiety problems.

Alphagreen UK CBD survey

For a long time, many people believed that cannabis was a harmful plant with detrimental effects on health. Such an opinion appeared not only because of widespread recreational use but also due to plenty of misleading stereotypes. Early research suggests that cannabis may help with many conditions, from depression, anxiety, nervousness, migraine and insomnia to epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease, and cancer. There are two key strains in the cannabis world that you need to know – Sativa and Indica. These strains of cannabis plants can also be blended to create hybrid marijuana varieties. Each type of cannabis has its spectrum of effects on the body and brain and a wide range of medicinal benefits. So which one is for you? Read on to find out more.

Understanding the basics

The words “Indica” and “Sativa” are used to describe different types of cannabis, introduced in the 18th century, a long time before “pot” misconceptions appeared. The term Sativa, named by Carl Linnaeus, described plants found in Europe and western Eurasia, where they were cultivated to create tissue and seeds. Indica was called by Jean-Baptiste Lamarck, who discovered this type in India, where it was bred to produce seeds, hashish and fibre.

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It’s possible to differentiate between sativa and indica by their appearance and habitats. The leaves of the sativa plant are light green, thin and spiky with jagged edges. Sativa is much closer to the wild type, with perhaps a more powerful look – tall bushes with long stems and sparse branching. The bush reaches 4-5 meters in height in good conditions, and for some unique species, even seven meters or more. The plant is thermophilic and thrives outdoors in subtropical conditions and with sufficient moisture – between 55-65%.

When planting, the plant will benefit from initial replenishment of the soil with nitrogenous, phosphorus and potassium-magnesium fertilisers. Then the bushes are fed at 5-8 weeks of cultivation, and fertilisation is stopped 7-10 days before harvest so that smells and flavours are not mixed with the bouquet of the plant. In regions with a temperate climate, germinated seeds can be planted when the temperature rises to 20 degrees. The plant’s vegetation lasts one and a half months, flowering is delayed for 9-12 weeks, and the flowering plant grows.

Outdoor buds ripen from September to October and need to be collected before frost. The productivity of the bushes depends on the varietal characteristics and varies in the range of 300-700 grams. Mature buds are oblong, loose, with a robust herbaceous aroma. The flavour characteristics of the varieties are amazingly varied and depend on the type – from sweet fruit and berry to acrid musky.

Indica is smaller than sativa, the height of an adult plant rarely exceeds 1–2 meters. Indoor dwarf varieties grow up to 70cm and thrive in grow boxes, a compact indica root system that easily tolerates tight planting. In general, indica grows in width: the bushes branch well, forming a lush spreading crown. Indica leaves are dark, broad and rounded with smooth edges.

Germinated seeds can be planted outdoors in warm weather. Indica hemp easily adapts to the climate of the middle zone and daily temperature extremes; the optimum moisture content for a plant is between 40–60%.

Another plus of this particular sort of cannabis is early maturity. The growing season is from 2 to 4 weeks; during this time, the plant needs to be fed. The flowering period is usually 6–8 weeks; specialised varieties mature in 44 days. The yield of indica hemp is higher than the sowing plant – from 400 to 800 grams.

Large resinous indica buds look tightly knotted and are closely connected to the branches. Often, small leaves are found near the inflorescences. Dried staff draw attention to themselves with a thick, sweetish-sour smell. The taste is usually quite intense, although there are varieties with pleasant fruity notes. If desired, the aroma can be enhanced by reducing the watering a few days before harvest.

But all of these differences and growth patterns are often irrelevant to growers. After all, plants are chosen primarily according to the degree of psychoactivity and the quality of the effect produced. And in this regard, indica and sativa are significantly different from each other.

What else is there behind the appearance of strains?

Research into the effects of marijuana led to the discovery and the synthesis of the primary substances cannabidiol (CBD) in 1963 and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in 1964. Hemp contains over a hundred different cannabinoids, but first, you need to know these two.

THC dominant strains are primarily suitable for those looking for euphoric, antidepressant and analgesic effects as THC is the primary psychoactive compound. Strains with a high THC concentration are usually used for treating pain, anxiety, insomnia, depression. If you are prone to anxiety or dislike other side effects associated with THC, it is best to try strains with higher levels of CBD.

CBD dominant strains contain small amounts of THC and are used primarily for symptomatic relief, with little or no psychedelic effects. Usually, CBD strains favour treating neuropathic pain, light insomnia and anxiety without causing side effects. Also, now CBD is a popular antioxidant, naturally boosting the immune system. The balanced strains are composed of roughly equal amounts of these two cannabinoids, offering mild euphoria along with pain relief.

Terpene profile

Besides differences in the physical appearance and cannabinoid concentrations between indica and sativa, scientists also suggest that they may vary in different concentrations of terpenes, which could be another factor in producing unique effects. Terpenes (or terpenoids) are synthesised in the secretory cells of the cannabis plant, and their production is dependent on exposure to light. Terpenes can be found in unfertilised female plants and protect the plant from pests. Besides protective function, terpenes give particular scents and flavours. However, terpenoids are more than that, being the next significant “cutting edge” in how medical marijuana in particular, impacts certain kinds of health disorders. According to a 2011 study, myrcene, a terpene also found in lemongrass, mango, thyme, cardamon, produces the sedative characteristics of “heavy Indica”. Also, myrcene lowers the resistance across the blood-brain barrier, allowing itself and other chemicals to cross the barrier more efficiently.

The sativa effect: light, peace and love

Cannabis Sativa is often used when you want to cheer up, shake things up and refresh the senses, while indica is the go-to for the long-lasting sedative effect. However, there is a downside to sativa fun – it’s easy to lose control and have too much. THC in high doses may cause severe anxiety and paranoia. It is argued that a bad ‘high’ provokes acute psychosis in people with a hereditary tendency for schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and endogenous depression.

In addition, with excessive consumption of recreational cannabis, some weakening of cognitive abilities is noted – the volume of working memory and attention decreases, apathy develops, and academic performance decreases, a chaotic stream of thoughts interferes with building logical connections. In some cases, sleep problems, fatigue, emotional lability and depression have been recorded. Unlike CBD, THC is psychoactive and can change the usual perception of the world. Disinhibition of the limbic centres responsible for emotions enhances the sensory experience. Fortunately, the unpleasant consequences of a prolonged high generally do not require treatment and disappear on their own after one to two months of abstinence. There is also evidence that consumption of CBD balances the effects of THC.

Although, sativa is used primarily for recreational purposes, it has medicinal properties, including:

• Elimination of nausea and vomiting during chemotherapy;
• Antiretroviral therapy;
• Improving appetite and correcting eating disorders;
• Neuroprotective effect and prevention of dementia;
• Decreased convulsions in patients with epilepsy;
• Integration of traumatic experiences in patients with PTSD.

The indica effect: clear mind and bodily bliss

Indica’s action is reminiscent of hatha yoga: it mainly affects the body and purifies the mind through deep relaxation. Euphoria and hallucinations from indica should not be expected, but you can experience a peaceful and sedated state. The sedative effect of small doses of the herb may reduce stress and decrease anxiety and irritability. Still, overuse may cause laziness and apathy, commonly associated with the ‘stoner’ stereotype.

Most varieties of medical cannabis are derived from indica hemp. Due to its high CBD content, it has a wide range of potential properties, including:

• Pain reduction;
• Relieves spasms and normalises muscle tone;
• Prevents seizures;
• Suppresses inflammatory processes;
• Reduces oxidative stress;
• Accelerates wound healing;
• Improves sleep and appetite;
• Awakens sensuality and enhances libido.

As one of the top cannabis researchers, Ethan B. Russo states that the mild sedative effects of CBD and the absence of severe side effects make it possible to view indiсa as a gentle alternative. Many traditions believe that the indica herb develops awareness by tracing the origins of thoughts and emotions from the outside. In body-oriented psychotherapy, cannabis is used as an adjunct in treating psychosomatic illnesses and the processing of repressed experiences. Indica use in conjunction with other practices may help establish contact with your body, learn to understand your body and find socially acceptable ways to express your feelings.

The entourage effect

The term “entourage effect” was introduced by Dr Ethan Russo in the British Journal of Pharmacology, which described the synergy of all compounds from cannabis, where some of them might not be typically present in “CBD-only” products. Russo has also suggested that cannabinoid-terpenoid interactions could bring even bigger benefits than cannabinoids alone. However, more research is required. For now, let’s get clear on how well-known cannabis compounds affect our bodies?

Both phytocannabinoids, CBD and THC, affect internal processes through interaction with the Endocannabinoid system (ECS). It was discovered in the 1990s as a complex network of special receptors (CB1 and CB2) and cannabis-like chemicals called endocannabinoids(endo stands for inner body chemicals) like anandamide and 2-arachidonylglycerol. These two vital natural players are responsible for maintaining balance in our body and mind- from a sleep cycle, mood, appetite and general well-being (S Ben-Shabat, European Journal of Pharmacology). In normal conditions, enough endocannabinoids are produced, but any deficits can be regulated with the help of cannabis-derived compounds found in cannabis.

Research behind cannabinoids

Pain

CBD has over 65 different targets in the brain and body, working on many receptors and other areas to alter the messages that neuron cells send to each other. Suppose a signal of pain is passed from one cell to another. In that case, CBD can block or weaken that message,” says Bonni Goldstein, MD, medical director of Canna-Centers, a California-based medical practice dedicated to patients who use cannabis for severe or chronic diseases. A 2017 review shows data from 11 randomised controlled trials with 1,219 patients, where CBD helped with chronic neuropathic pain. Another 2020 review reports that CBD and THC have benefits for relieving chronic pain, simultaneously improving sleep and reducing inflammation.

A 2017 study of patients aged 2 to 46 years with treatment-resistant epilepsy found that 86% of patients experienced a decrease in seizures after consuming various formulations of traditional CBD and CBD containing small amounts of THC. Of the participants, 10% reported that they were free of attacks. Another small 2018 study found that children taking a daily dose of 20 mg/kg CBD oil saw a significant reduction in seizure frequency compared to placebo.

Anxiety

A small 2011 study of patients with a social anxiety disorder (SAD) found that 600 mg of CBD significantly reduced anxiety, psychological discomfort, and cognitive impairment when patients were exposed to stressful situations such as public speaking. Scientists found that CBD affects the brain in several ways, including boosting brain chemicals that reduce anxiety and targeting mood-related serotonin receptors.

Nausea

The researchers suggested that cannabis users start using a particular application through which they had to communicate what canna products they use and what symptoms they hope to alleviate, and then describe their feelings in real-time. The study involved 886 people who sent 2220 reports from June 2016 to July 2019. The results of a study analysing these reports were published in April in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology.

Opioid addiction

However, probably one of the most significant advantages of cannabis is that it is much safer than opiate pain relievers, which are highly addictive and can potentially result in a dangerous overdose. As the report by Camille Stewart, 2020 states, cannabis can aid in reducing opioid and benzodiazepine dependence.

How to choose a strain

Making the right choice on cannabis product or strain can seem intimidating and challenging, but if you keep in mind these simple suggestions, you should be able to find something that works for you:

• Decide what specific mood or effect you want? Start there. If you’re hoping for a particular experience (like you want to relax and watch Netflix) or you aim to treat insomnia or nausea.
• Don’t be limited by choosing “only indica or sativa”. Remember that not all indicas make you feel sleepy or heavy, and not all sativas are energetic and stimulating. For example, sativa with low levels of THC and high levels of CBD might actually be a better fit. Return to the first point and start with the mood or effect you’re either trying to achieve or want to avoid at the particular moment. You may end up with a surprisingly great match, regardless of whether it’s an indica or sativa!
• When it comes to strain potency, be aware of your tolerance. Cannabis growing advancements and crossbreeding today are still developing, so there are plenty of options to find a very potent THC powerhouse. If your tolerance and weight/metabolism factors are not accustomed to high levels of THC, there is a big chance you will experience uncomfortable adverse effects. A strain containing a more considerable percentage of THC might not be as enjoyable to you as one with, let say, 16% THC or the balanced THC/CBD variety that provides 10% of each cannabinoid. There’s no shame in favouring a lower THC percentage because you’re trying to find the right level and achieving your ideal experience.
• Keep track of what you like/don’t like while exploring strains. While trying new strains, you can understand better what works for you the best and what effects you don’t want to have again.
• Speak with your healthcare provider. If you have any existing medical conditions or are currently taking medication, you should talk to your doctor first before trying cannabis. They can assist you with options that complement your current medical/health regimen or advise you not to take cannabis at all.

So before exploring the cannabis world and giving yourself a new sensual experience, it is essential to be aware of the potential side effects of both CBD and THC in strains. It’s important to remember that you can be affected in different ways and that what one person feels might not be the same for you. While CBD only has minor side effects, THC can have major effects and is legal in the UK at quantities over 1mg. Such a low concentration isn’t sufficient to cause high effects in users. With CBD, it’s advised to start with a low dose and increase gradually. If you notice any side effects, reduce the amount or stop taking products for a few days.

However, any product can cause side effects, varying not only from the amount and concentration of your product and also your metabolism, weight and genetics. More severe side effects, which were already discussed in the article are caused by THC, but still there are some occasional CBD adverse effects that you should be aware of:

Dry mouth

While the chances are low, CBD may cause dry mouth, so don’t forget to stay hydrated.

Dizziness

It is often caused by a drop in blood pressure when high doses of CBD are taken. However, this effect is temporary and can usually be reversed with rest.

Drowsiness

It has been suggested that CBD is a wakefulness-inducing agent. However, at higher doses, CBD can affect people in different ways and cause drowsiness. Such side effects are more commonly observed in cases of indica consumption.

Besides minor side effects, it is essential to understand a few limitations regarding cannabis consumption. For instance, in 2020, Daniel J. Corsi and his team researched the impact of marijuana on pregnant women who use it. The results showed that children who were prenatally exposed to cannabis had a 50% increased risk of being diagnosed with autism and significantly increased risk of developing attention deficit disorder (ADHD), mental retardation and learning disabilities than children not exposed to such conditions. Despite this, in their report, the scientists emphasise that care must be taken to interpret the results since the statistics are not high enough to identify a direct pattern.

Also, another cannabis precaution is the age of a consumer; more specifically, is it safe for children? The most comprehensive information about the safety of medical cannabis in children comes from the research into Epidiolex as an anti-seizure treatment for children in rare cases of epilepsy. According to the WHO, CBD, the main component of Epidiolex, is well-tolerated even at high doses and can not cause severe or fatal effects. However, the situation is not the same with THC consumption. In some cases, uncontrolled use of THC-dominant strains can impact memory, mood, behavioural changes, appetite, and sporadic cases, leading to psychosis in young, immature minds.

As cannabis consumption becomes more mainstream and support for legalising marijuana becomes more acceptable, the idea of “Indica or Sativa” has become more apparent. Hopefully, a wide variety of products containing cannabinoids and terpenes that give cannabis their beneficial effects will become more of a mainstay in the medical field, bringing a solution rather than risk.

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.

Healing properties of CBD-based products finally start to gain worldwide attention. Many benefits of this natural phenomenon have already been identified, including anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective and antioxidant, to name a few.

Hemp markets are booming: due to the high demand for CBD oil – it is going to reach up to $44.4 billion by 2024. Each day, there are hundreds of Google searches in the UK alone on the health benefits of CBD, proper CBD dosage, and so on.

Meanwhile, natural medicine defies big pharma economics, as more people start to realise that the drugs they get prescribed sometimes may cause a bunch of side effects and damage their body even more than the illness itself. For that reason, more and more people turn their sight towards plant-based medicine with low toxicity, but high molecular complexity. And that is where CBD comes into play: a highly safe supplement of the people, for the people.

This article is dedicated to all-sided research of full-spectrum CBD oil and its health benefits. We will touch the matter of chemical compounds of full-spectrum CBD oil, briefly go through different types, as well as, define their advantages, and find out what dosage is the most optimal. Last but not least, we will find out what stands behind the legal status of full-spectrum CBD products in the United Kingdom. By the end of reading this article, you will have a deep understanding of the healing properties of CBD and other natural cannabinoids, and with clear vision decide which type of product suits you the most.

Taking into consideration that there is a number of controlled substances in full-spectrum CBD oil, we will make sure to provide you with the latest updates from governmental sources, so that you can be on the safe side.

Important note: We do not promote the use of alternative medicine instead of prescribed medical treatment by your doctor. We only highlight the benefits of CBD-based products as food supplements. Please, consider contacting your doctor for consultation.

So, before learning all the benefits of full-spectrum CBD oil, let’s start from the basics.

In addition to CBD and THC, it is estimated that the cannabis plant (Cannabis sativa, to be more precise) consists of over 400 chemical entities, of which more than 60 are phytocannabinoid compounds.

CBD and THC stand aside and form the most well-known pair. CBD was first discovered in 1940, while THC was found only 20 years later.

CBD is a short form for cannabidiol, a major constituent that naturally occurs in the cannabis plant. Medical marijuana is a great source of CBD, but this way of extraction imposes additional restrictions, and producers are obliged to follow medical and recreational laws. Because of this, all CBD products available for public sale are sourced from hemp.

Unlike THC or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, the primary psychoactive element, CBD alone does not contain psychoactive properties. Therefore, it does not have a significant effect on cognitive activity, or simply saying it will not make you “high.” Instead, it has a bunch of therapeutic benefits.

Interestingly, CBD and THC molecules are no alien to our body structure. Mimicking our endocannabinoids has an impressively long history in our evolutionary development: around 500 million years to be “precise.” Only in the beginning of the 1990’s, scientists found the so-called endocannabinoid system, which regulates the work of cannabis-like neurotransmitters. These receptors are present throughout our body: starting from skin tissues and finishing with bones. We also have it in common with the rest of the wildlife.

Endocannabinoid system is partially responsible for the immune system, pain-sensation, mood, appetite, cognitive functions and metabolism.

On a chemical level, the THC-like cannabinoids act on CB1 or CB2 receptors, whereas CBD-like cannabinoids have a little binding affinity, leaving their role in inhibition incompletely understood. Data suggest in vitro application of CBD inhibits signalling through GPR55 and TRP channel superfamily members and in vivo oral administration is dose-dependently reducing pro-inflammatory cytokine release. Along with other endocannabinoids and enzymes, they are responsible for their own biosynthesis, degradation, and re-updating constitute the endocannabinoid system.

THC can mediate the effects of the neurotransmitter serotonin by decreasing 5-HT3 receptor neurotransmission. This action contributes to the reduction of nausea. Synthetic analogues of THC are prescribed for the suppression of nausea and vomiting produced by chemotherapy. THC protects the brain from various neuronal insults and improves the symptoms of neurodegeneration. Like CBD, THC can offer non-ECS protection by a direct effect on neuronal cells, and non-neuronal elements within the brain. Mechanisms include modulation of synaptic plasticity, modulation of immune responses and the release of anti-inflammatory mediators.

Among other chemical entities of full-spectrum CBD oil, there are omega acids, terpenes and flavonoids. Terpenes, for instance, are known for their potential in treating cardiovascular diseases and even cancer.

A group of researchers conducted a study in 2015 and discovered that CBD has the capacity to make fractured bones stronger while they heal and thus not only strengthening fracture sites and making them harder to break in the future, but also speeding and healing the process itself.

CBD oil types – differences and peculiar properties

To have a broader view of all potential of CBD on your health, we want to describe the three most popular types of CBD extracts available on the market. Each type has a specific extraction method that causes it to contain or omit certain hemp components. Some are extracted with a liquid solvent such as alcohol, natural plant oils or supercritical carbon dioxide.

Please, keep in mind that various options of extracts are not more or less superior but rather intended for different needs.

CBD isolate

If you strike for purity and the highest concentration of CBD – an isolated form of CBD is the right choice for you. During the extraction process, all components of the cannabis plant are removed, while CBD is the only “isolated” cannabinoid that is left.

CBD is considered to be an isolate when the concentration level is over 99.5 per cent. High-quality products can contain up to 99.9 per cent of CBD. Still, when looking at isolates, do not forget to verify the purity of the extract by asking the producer to show the lab tests, as it may still contain some traces of psychoactive THC.

Broad-spectrum CBD oil

Broad-spectrum CBD oil is perfect for people that want to use all the benefits of cannabinoids and terpenes as from full-spectrum but prefer THC-free options. As simple as that. During the extracting process traces of THC are isolated and then removed, while other compounds are still preserved.

Full-spectrum CBD oil

Full-spectrum CBD oil is a purified decarbonised extract, which contains a full range of cannabinoids, terpenes and essential oils. That all together gives a synergetic therapeutic effect. THC and CBD – the most well-known compounds in full-spectrum CBD oil that are praised for their numerous therapeutic effects.

When looking at other chemical components of full-spectrum, it depends on the raw material. Still, mostly it has a different cannabinoid profile and includes cannabinoids such as CBN (Cannabinol), CBG (Cannabigerol), THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin) and some others in various percentages.

• CBN (Cannabinol) is a byproduct of the breakdown of THC. However, it is not considered to have the same psychoactive properties as THC. According to some researchers, large amounts of CBN could be considered mildly psychoactive, but it is confirmed that CBN does not produce the psychoactive effects THC is famous for.
• CBG (Cannabigerol) was first discovered in the 1960s. CBG is the precursor from which all other cannabinoids are synthesised. For that reason, it’s considered to be the “mother” of cannabinoids. This unique natural compound has enormous therapeutic potential and recently became a subject of great interest in the scientific world. CBG is considered to be the “Rolls Royce of all cannabinoids” as its production is pretty expensive and takes thousands of pounds of biomass to create a small amount of pure material.
• Up until now, THCV or Tetrahydrocannabivarin was the most mysterious component in comparison to others mentioned above. It is non-psychoactive, and some researchers claim that THCV is associated with possible feelings of increased energy, euphoria and decreased feeling of hunger.

At the University of Buckingham UK, researchers conducted a double-blind placebo study, which showed that fasting blood sugar levels in mice, that had been given THCV, were much lower than a corresponding cohort group with no adverse effects on glucose levels.

We know what question you have on your mind: is there a possibility to get “high” on full-spectrum CBD oil? Full-spectrum products typically have higher THC levels than products with other types of extraction. Such products contain legally allowed amounts of THC (40 mg may increase eye pressure).

In case you were wondering: it is impossible to get addicted to full-spectrum CBD products.

The consumption is considered to be non-toxic, even when consumed in large doses. There were no cases of overdose registered that could lead to serious health problems. According to the World Health Organization: even regular consumption of large doses is well-tolerated.

Conclusion

To draw a line in our research on full-spectrum CBD oil and its healing properties, we would like to highlight the main points that we already mentioned above.

Full-spectrum CBD oil is a rich source of CBD, THC and other natural compounds with great healing potential. It is scientifically proved to have anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective and antioxidant properties. 

There are a few reasons why full-spectrum outstands CBD isolate and broad-spectrum. First of all, the greater variety of chemical compounds provides more healing power. Secondly, CBD loses its potential when being separated from other cannabinoids and terpenes. And the most pleasant advantage: in comparison to other types, full-spectrum CBD oil has a subtle flavour thanks to aromatic terpenes molecules.

Most importantly, many people with different health problems can find a safe solution by using CBD oil. Arthritis, alcohol addiction, neurological diseases, chronic pain, cancer, depression – this is a short list of health issues that can be cured, or at least improved with the integration of full-spectrum CBD oil into daily consumption. 

Nature is the most trustworthy healer. A few drops of oil per day might change your life drastically. The only thing you need to do: consult a doctor and calculate an approximate dosage with further adjustments. Give it a try, and the changes will not be long in coming.   

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.

The hemp plant has seeds, from which hemp seed oil is derived. Sometimes, hemp seed oil can be confused with CBD oil and marketed as the same thing. Both oils are highly nutritious and loaded with omega-3 and-6 fatty acids, antioxidants, 21 amino acids, vitamin E and beta-carotene. These oils are safe, well-tolerated and may cause anti-inflammatory properties. Unlike CBD oil, hemp seed oil is extracted through a cold-pressing extraction from hemp seed; it is cheaper, contains trace amounts of CBD and doesn’t come with a Certificate of Analysis (COA). Hemp seed oil can benefit the health of skin, heart, hair, and cause potential pain relief and antibacterial effect. Hemp seed oil is unlikely to cause adverse effects, though some minor side effects are possible.

When it comes to hemp seeds, confusion abounds. Many have a difficult time discerning hemp seed oil from CBD oil; but we hope to dispel any confusion by outlining everything there is to know about the hemp plant, its seeds, how it differs from CBD oil and its innumerable benefits to our wellness.

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What is hemp?

Hemp is one of the two varieties of the cannabis Sativa plant species. The other is Marijuana, which you may recognise as the intoxicating plant often used for recreational purposes. Hemp, on the other hand, has always had medicinal, therapeutic and industrial uses. Indeed, historically, hemp has featured in industrial and commercial products like rope, textiles, clothing, paper, insulation, biofuel, building materials and plastic. It was even used in the ropes of the ships that carried English colonists as they took to America in the 16th century.

Like every plant, the hemp plant has different elements to it. It has seeds, from which hemp seed oil is derived. CBD oil, on the other hand, does not come from the seeds or roots of the hemp plant; rather, it comes from the aerial parts of the plant. This means that CBD is only present in the parts of the plant above the soil line, such as the flowers, stems and leaves.

Hemp seed oil is extracted via a cold-pressing extraction from hemp seed varieties that contain around 30% oil, but do not contain any cannabinoids. The extraction process involves de-shelling the seeds and removing the outer husk before cold pressing them. After they have been chilled and squeezed, manufacturers unveil the hemp seed oil. This process is much easier and cheaper than the various extraction methods used to obtain CBD oil, meaning the subsequent hemp seed products are largely cheaper than CBD-infused products.

Extracting CBD oil is slightly more complex, given that it is mainly carried out using the cannabis plant’s flowers, leaves and stalks. Some extraction processes that may be used to obtain CBD oil include supercritical CO2 extraction; ethanol extraction and hydrocarbon extraction.

Another note on extracts: hemp seed oil usually just comes as is. It may also be presented as a full-spectrum oil, meaning it has remnants of plant matter still in it as it hasn’t gone through refinement to remove this matter. With CBD oil, there are more options: the different refinements include full and broad-spectrum CBD, as well as CBD isolate.

Usually, CBD oil will contain a range of active compounds like cannabinoids, flavonoids, terpenes, vitamins and fatty acids directly from cannabis. In fact, CBD oil that comes from a reputable company will be accompanied by something called a Certificate of Analysis (COA). This highlights the cannabinoid and terpene profile of a given CBD product and verifies that the CBD batch that is found in your product underwent testing by a third-party laboratory.

Hemp seed oil will never come with one of these certificates, as this kind of oil generally isn’t tested by a lab. The reason for this is that there shouldn’t be anything present in the hemp oil that needs to be highlighted to a consumer or tested in a lab. Hemp oil will never contain any THC and may only contain only trace amounts of CBD; whereas CBD oil may contain THC, as well as all the other cannabinoids and compounds we listed above.

Some of the names for hemp seed oil are as follows: cannabis Sativa seed oil; virgin hemp oil, hemp seed oil and hemp oil.

By contrast, CBD oil often goes under one of the following titles: CBD, hemp CBD, cannabidiol, full-spectrum hemp, PCR (phytocannabinoid-rich) or PCR hemp extracts.

Priced differently

Due to their different modes of extraction and hemp oil being easier to obtain, it is often the case that hemp oil is cheaper than CBD oil.

Different impacts on the body

Like we said, CBD oil in a broad-spectrum or full-spectrum extract usually comes with a range of its other cannabinoids in trace amounts, like CBN, CBG, CBC and sometimes THC. Whilst it does not make you high, it is able to simulate changes in your body that are advantageous to your wellness.

Hemp oil, though great for your health in many ways, may not bring on any noticeable effects – except perhaps to your skin. CBD’s effects can be felt, due to the way it works with a system called the endocannabinoid system (ECS), meaning the CBD molecule works with our body’s receptors to bring about changes, such as to our mental health. As we said, hemp oil contains none of these active cannabinoids, so will probably not stimulate any changes in our mental health.

Dosed differently

You wouldn’t talk about dosing hemp seed oil, as there is only one concentration available. However, with CBD oil, doses are important and are measured in micrograms (mg).

CBD-infused products may come in different strengths, ranging from 250mg to around 4000mg. CBD concentration may also be presented in the form of millilitres (ml) or as a percentage.

Hemp seed oil has been around for decades

While CBD is a new ingredient to many consumers due to the ban lifts on this cannabinoid, hemp seed oil has been around much longer. It can be found in health food stores and is used in both cooking and skincare.

CBD oil and hemp seed oil are both commonly sold in oil form. With CBD oils, you can purchase tinctures, which are small bottles with built-in pipettes to easily administer the oil under the tongue. Hemp seed oil can be found in supermarkets, wellness stores and in cosmetic skin products. Hemp oil often serves as an alternative cooking oil to olive, sunflower or coconut oil.

CBD oils often use a carrier oil like MCT coconut oil, olive oil, grapeseed oil, avocado oil, or something similar. Some companies may even use hemp oil as their carrier oil. Ideally, the carrier oil should have its own set of wellness benefits.

… but also come in different formats

Hemp seed oil is also sold in the form of capsules as a wellness supplement and, as we said, is found in many topical skin care products. You can also just purchase raw hemp seeds that haven’t been converted into oil. These are great additions to salads, smoothies, soups, granola and other dishes alike.

CBD oil comes in numerous different formats – many more than hemp seed oil. Today, the CBD market is flooded with different ways to take this cannabis-constituent. Examples include e-liquids, vape oils, topicals, capsules, softgels, transdermal patches, edibles like chocolate and gummies and much more.

Both have anti-inflammatory properties

Hemp oil has been associated with anti-inflammatory effects. One study suggests that a diet rich in omega-3s, such as those found in hemp oil, can reduce inflammation in the body. Hemp seeds have especially been linked to improved skin and reduced acne, due to their capacity to increase collagen production; their anti-inflammatory activity and their anti-lipogenesis. More on the effects of hemp oil on skin health later.

Like hemp seed oil, CBD oil is a powerful anti-inflammatory. It has been seen to successfully manage a slew of inflammatory disorders affecting different parts of the body. For instance, it has been found to ameliorate certain inflammatory skin conditions such as psoriasis, by decelerating the growth and division of skin cells that cause psoriasis inflammations and lesions. The CBD molecule may also help reduce the formation of sebum in the sebaceous glands, which causes acne. CBD could thus help with breakouts of red acne (not blackheads), which are the result of inflammatory skin changes. Moreover, it has been known to assist with eczema, alleviating itchiness and redness, as well as with Epidermolysis Bullosa, encouraging quicker wound healing, reduced blistering and alleviated pain. Other instances where CBD has aided skin regeneration have been with rashes, rosacea – even sunburn and insect bites and stings. CBD is even sometimes included in hand sanitisers, as it is said to strengthen the skin’s barrier and shield us from bacteria and viruses.

You can’t overdose on either

The good news is that there is virtually no such thing as an overdose when it comes to both hemp and CBD oil.

Even CBD oil, which contains active cannabinoids and (sometimes) traces of THC, you can’t take too much. Adverse effects have been reported when some people have taken a lot all at once; hence the Food Standards Agency has recommended sticking to 70mg per day. Still, some people with extreme chronic pain, for example, are on much higher doses.

The secret to CBD oil dosing is to begin with low doses and earn your way up to higher ones. Doses may depend on biological factors unique to the individual, such as age, weight, metabolism, condition and other factors. Adverse effects that have previously been reported include diarrhoea, nausea, lightheadedness, headaches, fatigue, changes in weight and changes in appetite, though these, as we said, are rare.

As we touched on earlier, both hemp and CBD oil contain scores of nutrients.

Hemp oil contains antioxidants, omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, as well as all of the 21 amino acids, vitamin E and beta-carotene. In addition, it features small amounts of three other polyunsaturated fatty acids: oleic acid, stearidonic acid, and gamma-linolenic acid. And it still doesn’t end there: phytosterols, phospholipids, chlorophyll, small amounts of iron and zinc and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, sulfur, potassium and phosphorus are all present in hemp oil as well. Some of these may be difficult to consistently include in your diet, which is why hemp seed oil makes an excellent supplement to a healthy diet. In fact, hemp seeds provide similar amounts of protein as beef or lamb; 30 grams of hemp seeds, or 2–3 tablespoons, equate to around 11 grams of protein. Given that they contain all the essential amino acids, they are considered a complete protein source.

CBD oil usually contains the same fatty acids as hemp oil. It also contains vitamins, plant-derived terpenes and flavonoids unique to the cannabis plant. Six of the most common terpenes present in full and broad-spectrum CBD oil include pinene, linalool, myrcene, limonene, caryophyllene, and humulene. As for flavonoids, there are thought to be about 20 in cannabis. Some examples include quercetin, apigenin and cannaflavin A.

Some other benefits of hemp seed oil

Skin health

Hemp oil has widely-reported benefits for your biggest organ: your skin. lt plays host to some highly unique qualities that earn it a spot amongst the best skincare agents.  Firstly, it has a comedogenic rating of 0, rendering it a perfect option for keeping skin pores unclogged and oil-free. Hemp oil has been praised for improving skin conditions like atopic dermatitis and for delaying the skin’s ageing process.

Hemp seed oil can also be used as a UV shield to protect you and deflect some of the sun’s UV, while still enabling you to absorb vitamin D. However, hemp seed oil should not act as a replacement for proper SPF protection on days when the sun is especially strong.

An additional benefit of hemp oil is that it is rich in antioxidants, omega-3 and -6 fatty acids. Hemp seeds also contain marvellous skin-replenishing ingredients: all of the 21 amino acids (the building blocks of protein) as well as vitamin E and beta-carotene, which complement each other well when it comes to skincare.

Due to being rich in omega-3, omega-6 and antioxidants, hemp oil is thought to be beneficial for maintaining strong and healthy hair. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are considered to be beneficial for hair when taken as an oral supplement, as illustrated by one study, which saw improvements in the hair diameter and hair density of participants who took omega-3 and omega-6 oral supplements for a period of six months. The same study also established that omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids taken in combination with antioxidants prevent hair loss in participants.

Based on hemp oil’s affinity to other, similar oils, hemp oil is thought to moisturise, strengthen and revitalise hair, as well as stimulate its growth.

Heart health

The various nutrients in hemp seed oil, paired with the limited information from older and animal studies means we can make an inductive leap and say that it may boost heart health.

One study highlighted that the nutrients in hemp seeds might have the ability to decrease high blood pressure, atherosclerosis and high cholesterol levels. In addition, a review from 2014 declared that an increase in alpha-linolenic acid (more commonly known as linoleic acid), one of the fatty acids present in hemp oil, may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. This fatty acid can also be found in fish oils and flaxseed oil.

Potential pain relief

As we’ve seen, hemp oil is an anti-inflammatory, meaning it may be used to alleviate pain associated with inflammatory conditions such as those affecting the skin, muscles, joints or gut. Many people  turn to hemp oil as a natural form of pain relief, especially for pain resulting from inflammation. Hemp seed oil has a better side effect profile than that of some mainstream medications used to relieve pain. Even so, more studies on hemp oil and pain relief are necessary to draw definitive conclusions.

Antibacterial

A 2017 study noted that hemp oil’s antimicrobial properties inhibited the activity of various types of bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus. Staphylococcus aureus is a dangerous bacteria that can cause skin infections, pneumonia and infections of the bone and heart valve. Regular doses of hemp oil, then, could help defend you against such bacteria.

Menstrual health

Physical or emotional symptoms linked to premenstrual syndrome are potentially caused by sensitivity to the hormone prolactin, which may be related to low prostaglandin E1 (PGE1), according to one study from 2011. Hemp oil contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which assists in the production of PGE1.

The study investigated what happened when women with PMS who took 1 gram of fatty acids that included 210 mg of GLA. The research found that the participants experienced a notable decrease in symptoms after taking these fatty acids.

It is, therefore, reasonable to conclude that this specific fatty acid in hemp seed oil can help manage PMS.

A 2010 study on rats indicated that hemp seed helped reduce the likelihood of complications associated with the menopause, which was likely to do with its high concentration of GLA. However, it is crucial that research verify these results in a human sample.

Adverse effects caused by hemp oil are extremely rare; hence we said earlier that there’s practically no such thing as an overdose. To date, there have been no reported cases of toxicity from the ingestion of hemp seed oil. There is, however, always the possibility of some minor side effects, like anything in life.

Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids present in hemp oil are classified as polyunsaturated fat, meaning that they are healthy dietary forms of fat. These compounds are highly beneficial to the body and are ideal for human nutrition, except when taken in excess, which has historically been linked to cardiac dysfunction, tumour growth, and increased susceptibility to bacterial infections.

It is possible that those susceptible to gastrointestinal problems may endure minor digestive issues such as diarrhoea or stomach ache when consuming hemp oil. If you suffer from a disorder related to bowel movement, it may be a good idea to consult your doctor before taking the oil.

Large amounts of hemp seed oil may cause hypertension or high blood pressure. It may also lead to bradycardia (slow heart rate). If you’re on medication such as cardiac glycosides or diuretics, we advise that you speak to your doctor before regularly taking hemp oil, as it may interact with your medication.

The marketing of hemp oil

Sometimes, CBD and hemp oil may be mixed up by companies and marketed as the same thing, or one of them may be marketed as the other. Usually, when this happens, it is hemp oil that is marketed as CBD oil. Companies may get away with this due to a number of factors:

• Both CBD and hemp oil come from the same plant, the hemp plant. This makes it easy to blur the lines between them, despite coming from entirely different parts of the hemp plant.
• Regulation over the CBD industry is poor, which means some brands may take advantage and market hemp oil as CBD oil. Even those that are innocently mistaken may not be informed due to the insufficient policing of the industry.
• CBD oil tends to be more of a premium product than hemp oil, with more premium prices to match. Some companies may exploit this by making their hemp seed products as pricey a CBD product might be, so that consumers are led to believe that what they are buying is CBD.
• Some brands may also market their products as hemp seed-based to avoid Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations on hemp-derived products.

As long as you take the responsible measures, like learning the respective names given to hemp and CBD oil that we discussed earlier, as well as checking ingredients list on every product, you shouldn’t fall victim to the (sometimes purposefully) confusing marketing around hemp and CBD oil.

Closing thoughts

Hopefully, as you come to the end of this read, you are a little clearer on the basics of hemp seeds, hemp seed oil and what distinguishes these from their close relative, CBD oil.

Knowledge is power, so knowing exactly what you want will prevent you from being duped by the sometimes-obscure nature of the CBD and hemp oil industries. Knowing what you want out of your oil will assist you when it comes to making a purchase.

We hope this has been hempful – uh, helpful!

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.