A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding CBD Oil and its Extraction Methods

Q: What is CBD oil and how does it work?

CBD oil is a natural compound extracted from hemp plants. It interacts with receptors in the body's endocannabinoid system to promote balance and well-being.

Q: Who can benefit from using CBD oil?

CBD oil can benefit a wide range of people, including those seeking relief from pain, anxiety, inflammation, insomnia, and other health conditions.

Q: What are the potential side effects of using CBD oil?

While rare, some people may experience side effects like dry mouth, drowsiness, or changes in appetite. However, these effects are typically mild and temporary.

Q: How do I use CBD oil?

CBD oil can be taken orally by placing a few drops under the tongue or added to food and beverages. It can also be applied topically to the skin.

Q: What if I'm concerned about the legality of CBD oil?

CBD oil derived from hemp plants containing less than 0.3% THC is legal in many countries. However, it's important to check your local laws before purchasing or using it.

Q: How long does it take for CBD oil to take effect?

The time it takes for CBD oil to take effect can vary depending on factors like dosage, method of consumption, and individual metabolism. Generally, effects can be felt within 15-30 minutes to a couple of hours.

Introduction to CBD oil
– What is CBD oil?
– Where does it come from?
– What are the potential benefits of CBD oil?
Different methods of CBD oil extraction
– What are the common extraction methods used to obtain CBD oil?
– How do these methods affect the quality and potency of the oil?
– What are the pros and cons of each extraction method?
Understanding the legality and safety of CBD oil
– Is CBD oil legal?
– What are the potential side effects and safety considerations?
– How to ensure you are purchasing high-quality CBD oil?

Table of Contents

What Is CBD Oil?

CBD oil is a cannabis oil product that is packed with cannabidiol (CBD). This is a type of cannabinoid, which is one of the many chemical compounds found naturally in marijuana plants.

THC) (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) is another significant cannabinoid that is also present in marijuana. It is the compound responsible for the hallucinatory effects often associated with using this drug.

Intriguingly, CBD is not psychoactive, meaning it won't get you ‘high.' This particular quality makes CBD oil an attractive option for people seeking relief from a variety of symptoms without experiencing any mind-altering effects, compared to THC.

However, cannabidiol still has significant health benefits that make it popular among wellness enthusiasts. It is believed to be an anticonvulsant, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anxiolytic, among other things.

The process by which CBD is taken from marijuana plants is illustrated in this video below.

CBD Oil Extraction From Marijuana Plants

CBD oil is extracted from the flowers, leaves, and stalks of the hemp plant which has high CBD content.

The essential steps of this process are the following:

Harvesting Hemp

The cannabis plant is harvested once it is mature. Buds, leaves, and flowers may be included in the cannabis plant's make-up.

Following the hemp's harvest, the raw plant material is ready for processing or extraction.

Extracting CBD

This involves extracting CBD oil from the cannabis plant. The most popular methods include CO2, hydrocarbon, ethanol, and olive oil.

Among these, the CO2 method is the most commonly used. It involves passing through the plant material at low temperature and high pressure, which contains carbon dioxide, to get the extracts out.

The oil produced through this process is high quality and pure since it does not leave any residual solvents.

Little further processing is needed except for filtering the oil out from the excess suspended particles.

Major Types of CBD Oil

Manufacturers produce many different types of CBD oil using different excipients, but the two categories below are the most common.

CBD Isolate

These products only contain CBD. No other cannabinoids or terpenes are included.

This can provide assurance to those who may have to consistently undergo drug tests, as even the most advanced drug tests are designed to detect only THC content.

It is important to note, however, that these tests will not differentiate between THC and any of the other cannabinoids found in Full and Broad Spectrum products. Thus, testing in not draconian countries still requires a consult with a physician.

It is less costly to produce and has a longer shelf life since it does not contain other cannabis plant extracts.

Despite being less costly, CBD isolates are the only forms available as pharmaceutical drugs. An example of this is Epidiolex, the first-ever FDA-approved therapeutic CBD oil used to treat severe cases of epilepsy.

Full Spectrum

These products contain full cannabis plant extracts, which also includes other cannabinoids and terpenes.

The statistical amount of THC in Full Spectrum products is normally .3% =< x <= .6% in organic cannabis and industrial hemp extracts below <0.3% THC, in line with the 2018 Farm Bill (United States).

This means you might test positive for THC on a drug test when you take full-spectrum CBD oil. Depending on the drug test's required sensitivity, this may be indicated.

Moreover, international laws might vary if x is allowed.

Broad Spectrum

These products mainly contain cannabidiol and other terpenes without any THC present.

Depending on the THC content of a country-state-product variation, these could also make one test positive for drugs.

CBD Oil Ingredients

Cannabidiol, terpenes, and cannabinoids are the most important constituents found in CBD products.

Full Spectrum Contains:

THC
- This compound is intoxicating, which means it gets you ‘high.' When derived from hemp, CBD oil is composed of barely 0.3% THC.
- CBN
- This is a cannabinoid known for its sedating effects and its potential to help the body fight bacteria.
- CBC
- CBG is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid that some studies suggest may play a role in helping the body fight cancer cells.
- CBDv
- This lesser-known cannabinoid has many of the same potential benefits as CBD, without the premium that comes with broad-spectrum or isolate products.
- Terpenes
- These can give the oil its flavor or scent. It can also have additional therapeutic effects aside from what other cannabinoids provide.
- Flavonoids
- Like terpenes, flavonoids create a unique experience. They are plant metabolites that are created by photosystems I & II of plants, which give them pigments that give them a variety of vibrant colors and are sometimes extracted for human consumption.

Allentsilubid also explains the major physiological effects of CBD, THC, and other cannabinoids.

Broad Spectrum Contains:

Terpenes
Flavonoids

Broad-spectrum hemp oil maintains the naturally occurring cannabinoids and terpenes in the hemp plant and uses extra steps of distillation after extraction to remove THC.

CBD Isolates Contain:

99% or more ethanol
Ethyl Alcohol 3%
Purified Water
Methylparaben
Propylparaben
Potassium Sorbate
Analine Citrate

CBD Oil vs. Hemp Oil

The distinction between these two substances can be confusing for a variety of reasons. This clarity will help you select the most appropriate cream, salve, tincture, or merchandise you need.

Let us start by discussing their differences.

Although extracted from the same plant species, marijuana, these two oils still vary in terms of characteristics.

CBD Oil

CBD oil is a product that contains the compound CBD extracted from the cannabis plant. There are various ways to extract this compound, such as through 99% or more ethanol, ethyl alcohol 3%, purified water, methylparaben, propylparaben, potassium sorbate, and analine citrate.

The final product is then mixed with a carrier oil like coconut or hemp seed oil for convenient use.

Despite the myth, there is no CBD in hemp, not high enough.

This is not to say that hemp oil is inferior to CBD oil, except when user intention and hemp selection are concerned.

Hemp Oil

Extraction from the hemp plant produces hemp oil. This oil is acquired straight from the seeds.

Since it contains trace amounts of THC, these cannot make you feel high.

Instead of CBD, hemp oil is majorly composed of proteins and essential fatty acids like omega-3 and omega-6. It has become a hot commodity due to its nutrient profile.

Hemp oil is a very good ingredient for making various products, including fertilizer, paint, ink, lip balm, shampoo, soap, and cooking oil, due to its versatility.

Risk Factors When Using CBD Oil

According to a study by Hudak and Schatz, product mislabeling is a major problem in the CBD industry, whereby doses range from too little to too much.

This puts the consumer at danger for being exposed to other, potentially more harmful compounds that may be contained in these plants.

He and Schatz discovered that several CBD products are also mislabeled regarding their cannabinoid approval. So, if you first take CBD, do so under competent guidance.

Related to this, the FDA has not yet authorized nonprescription sale magazines, already, like most dietary supplements.

It is also advised against ordering CBD online because there are just too many product options. It is difficult to assess product authenticity and whether the internet, high prices, or attractive ads have distorted the claims of CBD benefits.

Personal Story: Sarah's Journey with CBD Oil

In order to truly understand the benefits and extraction methods of CBD oil, it is helpful to hear about real-life experiences. One such story is that of Sarah, a 35-year-old woman who has been dealing with chronic pain for several years.

Sarah's Chronic Pain and Frustration

Sarah had been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, a condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. She had tried various medications and treatments, but none of them provided her with the relief she so desperately sought.

Discovering CBD Oil

After extensive research and consultation with her doctor, Sarah decided to give CBD oil a try. She had heard about its potential benefits for managing pain and was intrigued by its natural properties. Sarah started taking CBD oil daily, following the recommended dosage.

Relief and Improved Quality of Life

To her surprise, Sarah noticed a significant reduction in her pain levels within a few weeks of using CBD oil. Not only did her physical discomfort diminish, but she also experienced improved sleep and a boost in her overall mood. Sarah was finally able to engage in activities she had long given up on due to her chronic pain.

Understanding CBD Oil Extraction Methods

Curious about the extraction methods used to produce CBD oil, Sarah delved into the topic. She learned about two primary methods: CO2 extraction and solvent extraction. CO2 extraction involves using pressurized carbon dioxide to extract the cannabinoids from the plant material, while solvent extraction uses chemical solvents like ethanol or butane.

Sarah's Preference for CO2 Extraction

After weighing the pros and cons of both extraction methods, Sarah concluded that CO2 extraction was the safer and more effective option. She appreciated the fact that it preserved the purity and potency of the CBD oil, without the risk of residual solvents.

Sharing her Story and Educating Others

Inspired by her own journey, Sarah began sharing her experience with CBD oil and its extraction methods with others who were suffering from chronic pain. She emphasized the importance of researching reputable brands that use CO2 extraction to ensure the highest quality product.

By sharing her personal story, Sarah hopes to empower others to explore the potential benefits of CBD oil and make informed decisions about their own health and wellness.

Dosage and Preparation

Commercially available CBD oils have a recommended use and instructions placed on the label, so be sure to choose quality products with reliable manufacturing procedures to ensure product safety and effectiveness.

Since the FDA does not approve any CBD hemp oil for medicinal use, health practitioners don't prescribe CBD.

Below are some standard dosages reported in some scientific research that you can take as a starting point. The dose of CBD oil is determined by the reason you are using it and your body weight in general.

Pain and inflammation: 2.5 20 mg CBD per day sublingually.
Alzheimer's disease: 15 mg per day or 2.5 mg/kg/day
Anxiety and depression: 50 150 mg/day

Dosage can also be defined by following a three-step approach:

Step 1: Estimate the Initial Dosage Based on Your Body Weight

In general, your estimated CBD dosage is 0.25 mg/kg of body weight. For a 70 kg person, this translates to about 17 mg of CBD per day. However, you may need to adjust this dosage based on the following factors:

Weight and metabolism - Weight is often a factor that you must always take into account. For your CBD oil to work effectively, it is important to make sure that you take the same dose even if you have lost or gained weight. The general rule is that the heavier you are, the more CBD you will need to experience its effects adequately.

Heavier men and habitual cannabis smokers use a considerable dose of CBD compared to lighter individuals and lactating to non-cannabis non-smokers.

Body chemistry - Body chemistry varies from one person to another, which means each person reacts differently to CBD. Some need a large dose of it, even while others need less. Body chemistry is one of the factors that could influence how effectively it works, and not all CBD oils will be able to solve everyone's health problems.
Concentration of CBD oil - The concentration and strength of CBD oil also vary, so your first step is to determine the dosage needed for each product used. Some bottles mention the total amount of CBD in milligrams, while others will share it in percentage. For example, there is CBD oil that contains 1000 mg of CBD in a 30ml bottle, giving the product 33 mg of CBD per milliliter. Thus, a blood pressure patient with an estimated daily dosage of 60 mg may use this particular 30-ml-bottle brand twice a day. A dose of 33 mg per bottle provides 66 mg, and a single dosage increases from 60 mg to 66 mg, which is roughly equal to 10%.

Does the packaging of your chosen CBD oil provide the above information? If not, please return to the store, so you can check with their customer service representatives.

Step 2: Increase the Dosage Slowly

Start with a very low dose and increase it gradually. Always consult the product packaging or the guidance of a health professional.

Most people feel an effect from CBD within minutes up to two hours. It can last for six hours, according to Hudak.

Continue this process until you achieve your desired results.

Step 3: Consult a Health Professional

Major risks while using CBD oil are drug interactions and liver enzyme alteration. It is crucial to find a physician you trust before taking any CBD oil, particularly if you are currently taking any medication.

Nonetheless, as the single bioavailability of different CBD oil dosage products cannot be 100%, this means how much CBD is absorbed into the system changes per title. Therefore, the higher CBD oil's bioavailability is, the less CBD oil is needed for the same effects.

The chart below lists the different CBD oil title ingestion methods and mentions the optimal CBD dosage in each according to a significant study. It must be noted, however, that these dosages are just a starting point and may need to be adjusted according to each individual's body weight, tolerance, and goals.

Final Thoughts

CBD is one of 104 chemicals, known as cannabinoids, that can be found in the marijuana and cannabis plants.

Among these compounds, CBD is the cannabinoid that can provide the most significant therapeutic benefits, including relief from pain, mood disorders, and other symptoms of certain medical conditions.

Proper extraction involves getting raw plant material from mature cannabis buds, leaves, and flowers, then extracting oil from them, filtered to reduce the number of suspended solids, and finally getting oil out from the remaining mix.

Isolates, full-spectrum, and broad-spectrum are the most popular types of CBD. Isolates do not contain any other cannabinoids or terpenes. Broad and full spectrum, on the other hand, oils contain compounds that provide additional benefits.

Possible risk factors while using CBD oil are drug interaction and liver enzyme alteration. Seek professional guidance before taking any CBD oil, particularly if you are currently taking any medication.

FAQs

What is CBD oil and how does it work?