Shop by solution

There is increasing evidence showing CBD may help manage the symptoms of anxiety. Scientists found CBD activates serotonin receptors and therefore calms the mind and anxiety Serotonin is a neurotransmitter being found in the brain and the gut which is responsible for managing our hormones and this is reflective of our mood changes and imbalance. The Journal of Neurotherapeutics suggests CBD reducing many anxiety disorders such as; generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder (PD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), and obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD)2 and references it as potential treatment. Over 240 women (between 25- 45) in a 2021 study have used CBD for self-perceived anxiety, sleep problems, stress, general health and wellbeing and reported CBD use was effective for stress, sleep problems and anxiety. FYI: Everyone on medication should consult their doctor first before taking CBD.

Another 2019 research study found ‘sleep scores’ improved, with CBD usage, within the first month, for 2 out of 3 participants. Anxiety scores also decreased, within the first month in over 79% of people. We know very well that anxiety and stress contribute to sleep problems such as insomnia - CBD can effectively reduce anxiety and stress, therefore aiding a better quality of sleep. However, it’s important to note that a low dosage of CBD might cause alertness, whereas a higher dosage will help you to feel drowsy and sleepy.

Research has shown CBD works effectively to target the Endocannabinoid system (ECS), our bodies network system. Endo (meaning within) and cannabinoid (molecules like CBD and THC), it is like a computer software which sends signals to the brain, nervous system, immune cells, organs and it acts like a main control of restoring balance in all biological functions, from sleep to appetite, memory, mood, immune system, pain control, energy, reproduction and cell replication. The Endocannabinoid system is found in all humans and animals and its function is vital for a long and healthy life. The ECS has a direct effect on our brain including the hypothalamus and pituitary, but also the adrenal glands or (HPA – complex feedback system) which regulates stress reactions, immunity, and fertility. Some evidence suggests that CBD could stimulate sexual desire. According to this theory, cannabis can directly influence the brain by activating sexual excitement and it reduces stress and anxiety, so helping you become more relaxed.

You can take CBD in the form of drops/tinctures, capsules/tablets, sublingual (under the tongue) sprays, edibles like gummies but you can also apply them topically like creams, lotions, serums, and transdermal patches. The list doesn’t stop here though, there are foods and clothes fortified with CBD lately, so it’s quite common you will find beer, hummus, masks, bath bombs or active wear, absolutely anything infused with CBD etc. The best way to consume CBD is in the form of liquid drops. This is the most efficient way of taking it as you need to hold it under your tongue for a minute or so, and by that you absorb it through your mucosal membrane under your tongue. Some studies have shown liquid drops are three to 10 times quicker absorption than swallowing a tablet.

It’s important to differentiate between CBD and THC - There are over 140 cannabinoids which have been discovered since the 1960’s due to the work of Prof. Mechoulam, the ‘Grandfather of Cannabis science’. CBD or cannabidiol is the most abundant ingredient in Hemp and is known for its health supporting benefits. The other compound is THC or tetrahydrocannabinol, which is a controlled substance and is illegal in most countries worldwide. There are 3 different kinds of CBDs which are commonly available on the market including: full-spectrum, broad-spectrum and CBD isolate. Full-spectrum contains other cannabinoids not just CBD but also THC, which has to be less than 0.2 per cent in UK/Europe and less than 0.3 per cent in the US. Although it’s a trace amount, every individual has a different reaction to it. Broad-spectrum or Zero THC CBD oil as it has all the cannabinoids like CBD and others, however any THC has been removed. The first two may offer the ‘Entourage effect’ which is the synergy between the CBD and other compounds together. And finally, there are many who prefer CBD isolate as it only contains CBD and no other cannabinoids and absolutely zero per cent THC. With isolate, you can guarantee the amount of CBD per crop; it is pure and odourless plus there is no potential allergic reaction to other ingredients found in the hemp plant. This is being backed up by a very recent study in the Lancet Psychiatry. People who use higher concentrations of tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, are more likely to have addiction and mental health problems, the study authors found8. So no, if you use a CBD with THC within the legal limit, then it doesn’t get you high. Better still if you use broad-spectrum or CBD isolate, then it will never make you high as they contain zero per cent THC.

Both come from the Cannabis Sativa plant. To be specific to your question, both hemp and marijuana contain CBD. Hemp is a seed which has been traditionally used for its strong fibre, making textiles, clothes but also seed milk (hemp milk) and hemp seed shells which can be enjoyed for breakfast. It’s rich in Omega 3 fatty acids which is excellent for the brain, heart, and vision health. Hemp however contains less than 0.2 per cent THC in Europe/UK and less than 0.3 per cent THC in the US. It’s also used for making medicine. Anything above this legally allowed percentage, so above 0.2 or 0.3 per cent is considered marijuana. It’s being consumed for recreational use, it’s illegal in most countries and gives that high or psychoactive side effects. It’s important to mention that it can only be prescribed by doctors as ‘medical cannabis’ for helping certain conditions.

The UK has become the first country in the world to regulate CBD for oral consumption with the Food Standards Agency (FSA)’s public list of cannabinoid (CBD) products permitted for consumer sale. Only those CBD products featured on the list have been given the green light by the FSA to stay on the market, in line with the UK’s Novel Food requirements. Products not included must now be removed from shelves. Novel Food means that CBD doesn’t have historical consumption (going back to many decades) therefore it must be regulated by the FSA. Products you inhale or apply to the skin are not covered by FSA so do not appear on their list.

We are all different individuals, so it may take longer for some people than others. Anecdotal evidence suggests it can take up to 15 minutes when using an oil, drop, tincture or mouth spray. Though, tablets and creams can take longer.

With everything in life, it’s good to take a break. Our body can produce an endocannabinoid just like CBD but inside the body called anandamide (which means bliss in Sanskrit). However, CBD can increase the body’s own anandamide production and therefore balancing effect. Just to remind you here, CBD is a Phyto or plant cannabinoid which is found in the hemp plant which can give a boost to the body’s own cannabinoid production. We also need to eat certain foods like truffles to produce these anandamides. So, to the question, if it’s okay to take it long-term, it’s best to take a break for a while in every season and perhaps leave it to the body to deal with it at other times. UK’s Food Standards Agency & WHO suggests taking 70mg of CBD a day. Some study suggests that extremely high doses of CBD negatively impacted the liver9, however this has been widely discredited.

If you are on any medication, you must consult with your doctor first before using any kind of CBD. It is not advisable to take CBD in pregnancy. Otherwise CBD is readily available online and in UK retail stores. Make sure to ensure the CBD is from a credible, safe and trusted source.

We all have a different genetic make-up, unique metabolism and endocannabinoid system and it’s difficult to predict how each person responds to it. It can also depend on how much CBD we are taking by body weight so we can have different outcomes as a result.