Ultimate CBD FAQ

CBD primarily interacts with the body's Endocannabinoid System (ECS), a complex cell-signalling network that helps regulate functions like sleep, mood, appetite, memory, and pain. Unlike THC, which binds directly to cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2), CBD is thought to work indirectly by preventing the breakdown of our body's own cannabinoids (endocannabinoids) and influencing other non-cannabinoid receptors.

The entourage effect is a theory that suggests the various compounds in the cannabis plant (cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids) work together synergistically to produce a greater therapeutic effect than any single compound alone. This is why many users prefer full-spectrum CBD products over CBD isolate.

CBD stands for cannabidiol. It is one of over 100 chemical compounds known as cannabinoids found in the cannabis or marijuana plant, Cannabis sativa. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD is not psychoactive, meaning it doesn't cause the 'high' associated with cannabis.

The main difference is that THC is psychoactive and causes a 'high', while CBD is not. Both interact with the body's endocannabinoid system, but they have very different effects. Legally, hemp-derived CBD products must contain less than 0.3% THC in the United States and less than 0.2% THC in the source hemp in the UK.

Full-spectrum: Contains all cannabinoids from the hemp plant, including CBD and trace amounts of THC. This is thought to produce an "entourage effect."
Broad-spectrum: Contains a range of cannabinoids but the THC is completely removed, still offering a partial entourage effect.
CBD Isolate: The purest form of CBD (99%+ pure), containing no other plant compounds.

This is a critical distinction. CBD oil is extracted from the flowers, leaves, and stalks of the hemp plant, which are rich in cannabinoids. Hemp seed oil is made by pressing hemp seeds and contains no CBD or THC. It is valued for its nutritional content, like omega fatty acids, but does not have the therapeutic properties of CBD.

Yes, CBD is legal in the UK provided it meets specific criteria. The CBD must be derived from an industrial hemp strain that is EU-approved, and the final product must contain less than 1mg of THC per container. CBD products are sold as food supplements.

You can buy CBD from specialist online retailers, high-street health stores (like Holland & Barrett), and some pharmacies. Buying from reputable online brands often provides a wider selection of products and access to third-party lab reports for quality assurance.

High-strength CBD oil typically contains a high concentration of CBD, often 2000mg, 3000mg, 4000mg or more per 10ml bottle. This allows users to take a smaller volume of oil to achieve their desired dose, which can be more convenient and cost-effective for those needing larger daily amounts.

Look for brands that provide up-to-date, third-party Certificate of Analysis (COA) for their products. This lab report verifies the cannabinoid content (confirming the CBD amount and THC levels) and checks for contaminants like pesticides, heavy metals, and solvents. Also, prefer products made from organically grown hemp using CO2 extraction.

In the UK, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) requires all consumable CBD products to have a valid Novel Food Application to be sold legally. This is a safety assessment to ensure the products are suitable for consumption. You should only buy from brands that are on the FSA's public list of approved products.

There is no universal dosage. The optimal dose depends on body weight, metabolism, the condition you're addressing, and the product's concentration. The best practice is to "start low and go slow." Begin with a small dose (e.g., 5-10 mg) once or twice a day. Maintain this for a week, then gradually increase until you find the desired effect. The UK FSA advises not to exceed 70mg per day.

Onset time varies significantly by administration method:
• Sublingual (under the tongue): 15-45 minutes.
• Inhalation (vaping): Within minutes.
• Edibles (gummies, capsules): 45-90 minutes.
• Topicals (creams, balms): 15-30 minutes for localized effects.

CBD is generally well-tolerated, even in high doses. However, taking an excessively high dose can increase the likelihood of side effects like lethargy, upset stomach, or diarrhea. It is advisable to stay within the FSA's recommended daily limit of 70mg unless under medical guidance.

According to the World Health Organization, CBD is generally safe. However, some people may experience side effects, which are usually mild: fatigue, drowsiness, dry mouth, diarrhea, and changes in appetite. These are more common at higher doses.

Yes, this is a very important consideration. CBD can inhibit the cytochrome P450 enzyme system in the liver, which metabolizes many drugs. It is crucial to consult with your doctor or pharmacist before taking CBD if you are on any other medication, especially those with a "grapefruit warning."

Standard drug tests screen for THC, not CBD. However, using full-spectrum CBD products could theoretically lead to a positive result. If this is a concern, using a broad-spectrum or CBD isolate product (with 0% THC) is the safest option.

There is moderate evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) showing that CBD may reduce the intensity of chronic and neuropathic pain via endocannabinoid system modulation.

There is moderate evidence from trials and animal studies suggesting CBD may help reduce joint inflammation in rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and psoriatic arthritis.

Preliminary evidence from user surveys and anecdotal reports suggests CBD may help with localized back and neck pain, often overlapping with its effects on chronic pain.

Moderate evidence from RCTs suggests CBD may improve pain and sleep for individuals with fibromyalgia.

There is moderate evidence, often from trials using THC/CBD combination products, that cannabinoids can help with MS-related pain and spasticity.

There is preliminary evidence from surveys suggesting CBD may help reduce the frequency of migraines and headaches.

There is moderate evidence from RCTs suggesting CBD can improve sleep quality for those with insomnia.

Moderate evidence from small studies indicates CBD may help with PTSD-related nightmares and sleep disturbances.

Evidence is currently limited. There is some data from animal studies for sleep apnea and preliminary evidence from user surveys for restless legs syndrome.

There is moderate evidence from RCTs for an acute reduction in symptoms of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and Social Anxiety Disorder.

Moderate evidence from RCTs suggests CBD may help reduce intrusive thoughts associated with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.

The evidence is preliminary. Small studies suggest symptom reduction for depression, while animal studies and reviews show potential for panic disorder and OCD, largely tied to general anxiety benefits.

Evidence is limited or preliminary. Small studies and reviews suggest potential for reducing hyperactivity in ADHD and some symptoms of psychosis in schizophrenia, but more research is needed.

There is strong evidence from FDA-approved RCTs for seizure reduction in Dravet syndrome, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, and tuberous sclerosis complex. The FDA has approved a CBD-based drug (Epidiolex) for these conditions.

Research is in early stages. There is preliminary evidence for motor symptom improvement in Parkinson's, and limited evidence from animal/preclinical data for neuroprotective effects in Alzheimer's and Huntington's disease.

Moderate evidence from RCTs suggests CBD may help reduce cravings related to opioid, alcohol, and tobacco addiction.

There is preliminary evidence that CBD may help with symptom relief for cancer-related nausea, pain, and fatigue. It is important to note that CBD is not a treatment for cancer itself.

There is preliminary evidence suggesting CBD may help reduce gut inflammation associated with IBD.

Generally, yes, but with crucial caveats. You must use a THC-free (broad-spectrum or isolate) CBD product specifically formulated for pets. Dogs and especially cats are very sensitive to THC, and it can be toxic to them. Always consult your vet before giving your pet any new supplement, including CBD.

Pet owners commonly use CBD for similar reasons as humans: to help manage anxiety (e.g., separation anxiety, fear of fireworks), to alleviate pain from conditions like arthritis in senior pets, to help with seizures, and to reduce inflammation.

There is no official dosage chart. The rule is the same as for humans: "start low and go slow." A common starting point is 1-2mg of CBD for every 10 pounds (approx. 4.5kg) of body weight, once or twice a day. Observe your pet's reaction and adjust gradually. Always use a pet-specific product with clear dosing instructions.

Side effects are usually mild and similar to those in humans: drowsiness, dry mouth (increased thirst), or an upset stomach. These typically occur if the dose is too high. If you notice any significant changes in your pet's behaviour, stop giving them CBD and consult your vet.

Currently, UK vets cannot prescribe CBD as it is not an authorised veterinary medicine. However, they can discuss the use of CBD with you if you bring it up, and they can offer advice on its potential use and interactions with other medications your pet may be taking. The regulations are evolving, so this may change.