Cannabidiol (CBD) has become the new buzzword in the holistic health industry. The substance has become increasingly popular in the health community since it became legal to buy and sell in all 50 states. According to a study, the American market for CBD is projected to reach $22 billion by 2020. The non-psychoactive compound has been attributed to possessing anti-anxiety, anti-seizure, and anti-inflammation effects. While different forms of CBD range from topicals, pills, salves and isolates, inhalation may be the quickest way to reap the benefits.
Here is what you need to know about vaping CBD oil and its therapeutic effects.
What is CBD Oil?
Also known as cannabidiol, CBD is extracted from the buds, stalks and flowers of the cannabis sativa plant. Unlike its psychoactive counterpart THC, CBD does not contain any mind-altering effects. In other words, it will not produce the “high” that marijuana is commonly known for. CBD oil sold on the market must contain no (or only trace amounts of) THC to be considered legal.
It is believed that the cannabinoids that are found in CBD interact with the endocannabinoid system in the body. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a network of receptors throughout the body and brain, responsible for maintaining homeostasis. CBD’s cannabinoids are thought to bind to the receptors in the ECS to increase the production of the body’s natural cannabinoids, also known as endocannabinoids. These endocannabinoids regulate functions like mood, memory, sleep and appetite.
Studies have shown that CBD has produced therapeutic benefits for users. While there are a few different ways of administering CBD oil, vaping is the most instantaneous.
Potential Benefits of Vaping CBD Oil
Immediate Effects
Vaporization enters the lungs and travels directly to the bloodstream, which is why users are quicker to feel the effects. Typically, those who use oral or sublingual forms of CBD have to wait around 20 to 30 minutes to feel any effect. Known as the “first-pass effect,” users who ingest CBD need to wait until the compound passes through the liver and gut. The first-pass effect will also dictate the amount of CBD that gets absorbed into the bloodstream. Most of the CBD is chemically broken down by liver enzymes. For example, when users ingest CBD, the first-pass effect actively reduces the amount of CBD during the transition through the liver.
Custom Dosing
CBD-infused gummies and capsules come in a pre-measured dosage. Unlike pre-measured forms of CBD, vaping allows the user to customize the amount of oil they vape at certain times of the day. Users can also purchase the oils in different potencies depending on the milligram (mg) amount they prefer. The the mg of cannabinoid for these oils usually range from 50mg to 3,000mg. If you someone looking for a subtle relaxing effect, a smaller dosage may be a good option for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a product to alleviate chronic pain and inflammation, opt for a higher mg amount.
By doing a few calculations, vaping allows you to decide how much CBD your body needs, while not constricting you to a pre-measured daily dose.
While research is still in the early stages of definitely understanding how this compound interacts with the body, here are a few of the known benefits you can expect from vaping CBD oil.
Anti-Anxiety Properties
According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, anxiety is the most common mental illness in the U.S., and only around 36 percent of people receive treatment. Common treatments for anxiety include prescription drugs, which can lead to negative side effects including drowsiness, insomnia and headache.
CBD oil may be a natural alternative to these prescription treatments, as it has shown in studies to relieve symptoms of anxiety. In one study, 24 people who suffered from a social anxiety disorder received 600 mg of CBD or a placebo before a giving a public speaking test. Those who received the CBD experienced less overall anxiety and cognitive impairment during their speech.
The cannabinoids that bind to the receptors in the body are believed to act on serotonin, the neurotransmitter that regulates social behavior and mood.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
One of the biggest reasons CBD oil is being used to help treat those with certain medical conditions is its ability to reduce inflammation and chronic pain in the body. CBD reduces inflammation by impacting the receptor activity in the endocannabinoid system. There have been studies linking the use of CBD to Parkinson’s Disease (PD), Multiple Sclerosis (MS), and forms of arthritis.
In a study done on rats, CBD injections showed to reduce the pain related to surgical incisions. While more research may be necessary to understand the full effects of CBD as it relates to treating medical conditions, evidence looks promising for using CBD reduce chronic pain and inflammation.
Safety and Side Effects
CBD oil is well-tolerated considered safe for use but may interact with existing medications. In some studies, CBD oil caused side effects including fatigue and changes in appetite. Results may vary depending on the individual user.
When it comes to vaping CBD, the vapor is gentle on the lungs because it does not include the same harmful toxins and irritants that smoking causes. Vaporizers heat the CBD to its vaporization point, producing clean clouds of CBD.
The Bottom Line
Since CBD oil has become more popular since its legalization in all 50 states, many companies and merchants are trying to cash in on the craze. There is little regulation from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for CBD products, which makes in vital to ensure you are purchasing from a reputable vendor. There have been instances of deceptions in the packaging and ingredients from less reputable companies.
If you are considering buying CBD vape oil, ensure you do your research to find a company with good reviews that also have the mg amount labeled on the product. Speak with your healthcare practitioner before introducing a new supplement into your regimen.
Due to FDA Regulations, we recommend that you do your own research on CBD products. We also suggest that you read the reviews on our website, where our customers record their real-world results of using our products.
