How popular is it? Cannabidiol (the complete name for CBD) was only legalized for sale in America in 2018. But by 2020, the industry had grown into a nearly $10 billion a year business, and forecasters predict it will double in size by 2025.

What’s most amazing about those numbers: so far, the only approval CBD has received from the federal government is to treat anxiety to relieving chronic pain. All of its other possible benefits have yet to be definitively proven; the sale and use of cannabidiol for those purposes are largely based on preliminary research, some of it done with animal subjects.

There’s one other basis: anecdotal reports and testimony from thousands of patients who’ve found that CBD is indeed able to treat their conditions or improve the symptoms successfully they’re suffering from.

One of the promising uses for CBD oil has turned out to be treating patients with diabetes. Initial studies show that cannabidiol is apparently able to reverse increases in markers like high glucose levels and insulin sensitivity. And those results are supported by the improvements in health that people with diabetes using cannabidiol have experienced.

When you’re ready to try CBD oil for diabetes, it’s important to buy a high-quality product because there’s a lot of cheap CBD out there which won’t deliver the results you want or need.

We’ve reviewed many CBD oils on the market, and these are the best.

Best CBD Oil for Diabetes – Top Brands Reviews for 2022

1. Royal CBD Oil

A high-quality product doesn’t require a well-known brand name, lots of marketing, or widespread distribution. It simply requires company ownership that cares deeply about its product, a commitment to using the best manufacturing processes, and careful quality control.

That’s why even though you may never have heard of Royal CBD, it produces the best CBD oil available. The founders’ resumes show experience in high-end cannabis manufacturing. The company shows devotion to the same principles in the production of their cannabidiol products. It produces in limited quantities to ensure the highest-possible CBD oil.

Royal sources its cannabidiol from organic, non-GMO hemp farmed on the West Coast, extracts the CBD with the most effective (and most expensive) supercritical CO2 process and uses high-end MCT carrier oil to create an outstanding full-spectrum oil. No corners are cut, so this is a relatively expensive product – but the extra price is worth it.

Royal CBD oil is available in four different potencies. The “beginner” level contains 250mg of cannabidiol per bottle, which equals 8.5 milligrams per milliliter of oil. On the high end, the 2500mg bottle provides 83.3mg/ml, which should be sufficient for even the serious pain that comes with some complications of diabetes. Four flavors are available, natural, mint, vanilla, and berry, with the latter three options flavored with natural essential oils.

Things We Liked:

• Organic US hemp, non-GMO
• Supercritical CO2 extraction and MCT carrier oil
• Full-spectrum oil with <0.3% THC for entourage effect
• Four well-chosen potency levels and flavors

Things We Didn’t Like:

• A little bit more expensive than other brands

2. Gold Bee CBD Oil

Since we’ve already described Royal CBD as producing its oil in “limited quantities,” we’re searching for a way to describe Gold Bee’s production. “Minimal quantities” might be the best choice since their products are often sold out on their own website. That’s not because Gold Bee makes super-expensive “boutique” products; they take so much time to perfect their product that they can’t always keep up with demand.

Their focus on quality shows in the end product. Like Royal, they don’t cut corners, using organic and non-GMO hemp (sourced from Colorado and California farmers), supercritical CO2 extraction, and MCT carrier oil for manufacturing their full-spectrum CBD oil. The quality is unmistakable.

The choices, however, are few. When you can find it, Gold Bee CBD oil comes in three flavors, natural, Kiwi-Honey, and Lychee-Honey (from natural essential oil flavoring). And there are just two potencies, with the highest (80mg/ml) perhaps not strong enough for many patients. We’re hopeful that they add a higher-strength option and boost production capacity (and maybe add some more flavors) since this oil is worth more attention than it receives.

Things We Liked:

• US organic hemp
• Full-spectrum oil
• Supercritical CO2 extraction
• All-natural

Things We Didn’t Like:

• Only sell online
• Not many flavors, only low-potency choices

3. CBDPure Hemp Oil

CBDPure’s top strength of 33mg/ml certainly won’t do you much good. It’s only manufactured in “natural” flavor, another drawback for those who don’t like the raw taste of hemp. However, that doesn’t mean this oil is a bad choice for those who are looking for lower-potency CBD oil.

CBDPure sources its cannabidiol from Washington State organic hemp extracts it with the standard CO2 method (not quite as desirable in terms of potency, but not terrible), and uses hemp seed oil as a carrier (not a bad choice). In essence, this is only slightly behind our first two choices when it comes to quality.

This hemp oil is easier to find and slightly less expensive than some of its competitors, making it a decent option for diabetes and other medical issues.

Things We Liked:

• Organic American hemp
• Full-spectrum oil, the full entourage effect

Things We Didn’t Like:

• Slightly less-effective extraction methods
• Slightly less-effective carrier oil
• No high-strength oils
• Only one flavor

Best CBD Oil for Diabetes: Buying Guide

There are fundamental differences between the two types of diabetes.

Type 1 diabetics usually develop the disease when they’re quite young (the “old name” for the disease was juvenile diabetes), and it’s a lifelong autoimmune problem. In short, inflammation leaves the pancreas unable to manufacture insulin, which the body needs to control blood sugar.

By contrast, type 2 diabetes isn’t caused by a lack of insulin. It’s due to either a shortage of insulin because of problems with the pancreas or the body’s inability to process the pancreas’ insulin properly. The term used to describe the second issue is “insulin resistance.” Type 2 diabetes can develop at any age, but it’s most likely to appear in adults later in life, particularly if the disease runs in their families.

It’s quite common for type 2 diabetics to have additional health challenges like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and triglyceride levels – and, as you’d probably guess, obesity. None of those conditions are caused by diabetes; they’re risk factors for developing it. So if there were a way for people to reduce those risks, it would theoretically prevent cases of type 2 diabetes.

That’s more than theoretical, of course. Proper diet, exercise, smoking cessation, and generally healthy lifestyles can control those health risks and lower patients’ risk of contracting diabetes.

Add one more possibility to the list: CBD oil.

Does CBD Really Prevent Diabetes?

No one really knows yet. And no one knows if it can reverse the progress of the disease, either. Research is still in its infancy, so it’s impossible to conclude.

However, there are extremely encouraging preliminary study results, along with anecdotal evidence suggesting that CBD oil may effectively treat or even prevent diabetes.

The only study that specifically examined the use of cannabidiol for that purpose was done with rats. It showed that administering CBD drastically reduced the incidence of diabetes in non-obese rats from 86% to 30% by lowering blood sugar and cholesterol levels while increasing insulin production. That obviously doesn’t mean the same result would be seen in humans, but the significant decrease has naturally piqued the interest of medical researchers.

One reason that experts suspect that CBD could help with weight loss involves a short-lived anti-obesity drug, rimonabant. It was only available in Europe for several years before it was withdrawn from the market due to serious psychiatric side effects. However, it caused weight loss by interacting with the CB1 receptors of the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) – some of the same receptors that CBD interacts with.

There’s a long way to go before we have solid answers regarding cannabidiol’s ability to prevent or reverse diabetes since its interactions with CB1 (and CB2) receptors are still being studied (1). But when it comes to reducing the risk factors that cause many people to develop diabetes and treating the often serious complications of the disease, there’s much more evidence.

CBD and Diabetes Risk Factors

We’ve mentioned several illnesses and conditions that make people more likely to develop type 1 and type 2 diabetes. And research into cannabidiol’s ability to treat those problems is promising.

Inflammation

Inflammation is the main culprit to blame for type 1 diabetics’ inability to produce insulin. It’s also believed to play a major role in type 2 diabetes; insulin resistance can lead to inflammation, and inflammation can cause additional insulin resistance in a vicious circle (2).

As it turns out, studies have shown that CBD appears to be effective at reducing pancreatic inflammation in diabetic animals (through interaction with the CB2 receptors in the ECS) and that it can be an effective treatment for patients with inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis (3). The same basic conclusion was reached in a study involving rats who showed signs of inflammation caused by high glucose levels.

Obesity and Insulin Resistance

Insulin resistance is one of the two reasons patients may develop type 2 diabetes, and obesity is a major risk factor for the emergence of the disease. A comprehensive research survey has concluded that CBD’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may effectively reduce insulin resistance and even combat obesity (4).

A related property of CBD may be the ability to turn stored “white fat,” which is difficult to burn, into more easily burned “brown fat.”  That possibility has major implications for the use of cannabidiol for weight loss, which would, in turn, have major implications for the prevention of type 2 diabetes.

Blood Pressure

Another major risk factor for the development of diabetes is high blood pressure. And if you’ve been following along, you’ve probably guessed what substance has been shown to reduce elevated blood pressure: CBD.

Just one dose of cannabidiol given to human test subjects was able to significantly lower their resting blood pressure, as well as moderate increases in blood pressure due to stress.  That’s supported by another research summary showing that CBD is a promising treatment for a wide range of cardiovascular issues.

The same applies to CBD’s apparent ability to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which would again reduce important risk factors for the development of diabetes.

Complications of Diabetes

Diabetes is such an insidious disease because its sufferers are at greater likelihood of developing severe, sometimes life-threatening complications. Among the most common issues are neuropathy (an often debilitating nerve pain), retinopathy (which can cause blindness), cardiovascular complications, and renal failure. Research has shown that all are controlled, at least to some degree, by the ECS receptors – and that CBD has shown promise to ease all of those symptoms (5).

CBD Oil vs. Other Forms of CBD

You can consume CBD in nearly any way imaginable. You can eat it (in edibles like cookies or as cannabidiol infused gummies or drinks), you can take it in capsules, you can vape it, and you can rub CBD cream into your muscles. Or you can do what’s easiest: place a few drops of CBD oil under your tongue in what’s known as sublingual administration.

Edibles and capsules will work, but many cannabidiol will be lost during the time-consuming digestion process. Topical administration doesn’t help most patients since CBD applied to the skin cannot make it past the epidermis to reach the rest of the body.

Read our in-depth review of the best CBD capsules here.

The most effective ways to use CBD are sublingually or by vaping because very little cannabidiol is lost, and the process works very quickly. However, to vape CBD, you’ll need equipment, expertise, and, most importantly, a willingness to inhale vapor deep into your lungs. That’s why using CBD oil is most people’s preferred method.

The oil doesn’t taste great, but most vendors offer flavored options to make CBD oil more palatable. The only other issue to deal with: how much oil do you use?

Some manufacturers make it easier by including dosage instructions. If they don’t, here’s how it works.

The recommended starting dose is 1-2 milligrams of cannabidiol for every ten pounds of your weight. That math is relatively easy to do. But oil is a liquid, and liquid isn’t measured in milligrams. It’s measured in milliliters. If you want to take 20mg of CBD, for example, you need to figure out how many milliliters of oil that dose requires.

Here’s how to do it. Ignore the big number like “1000mg” on the front of the bottle because it tells you how much CBD is in the entire container. Instead, look for the potency number that tells you how much CBD is in each milliliter of oil; it will be something like “20mg/ml,” which means a milliliter will contain 20mg of cannabidiol.

It’s easy from there. Want to take 20mg? In our example, that would be one milliliter of oil. If your oil’s potency is 40mg/ml, then you’d need half a milliliter of oil to take 20mg of CBD.

Not oil is created equal, though.

Choosing the Best CBD Oil for Diabetes

There’s often a good reason to choose name-brand products instead of generics. In many cases, generic products don’t contain the same effective ingredients as the branded ones. In other cases, generic manufacturers cut corners so they can sell their products at lower prices.

CBD’s in a different category than prescription drugs since it has only been legal for a few years, CBD products don’t require federal approval, and there’s no established “brand name.” But when you’re putting something into your body for medicinal purposes, it only makes sense to look for the highest-quality product you can find.

CBD oil means making sure the manufacturer has taken every possible step to create a high-quality product. These are the specifics to look for.

1. Full-spectrum oil: Any CBD labeled “full-spectrum” will provide the greatest medical benefit because of what’s called the “entourage effect.” In brief, cannabidiol works best when all of the other important parts of a hemp plant (cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids) are also present. Full-spectrum oil contains all of those components, so it works best.

When an oil contains only CBD and nothing else from the plant, it’s called “CBD isolate” and doesn’t work quite as well. The only reason to buy it is that it theoretically ensures you won’t test positive for the tiny amount of THC (<0.3%) that’s present in hemp. In truth, it’s doubtful that you’ll test positive when using full-spectrum oil, either.

2. Sourced from organic, non-GMO hemp: The benefits of organically-grown products without GMOs are obvious, particularly if you’re concerned with your health – but the use of organic hemp also shows that a manufacturer is concerned with creating the highest-quality product possible. Look for oil made from American hemp since U.S. growers have to adhere to strict farming regulations.
3. Supercritical CO2 extraction: Another sign that a producer cares about their product and their consumers is that they use the most effective method to extract CBD from hemp, even if it’s the most expensive method. Supercritical CO2 fits that description; it costs more, but it does the best job preserving cannabidiol’s potency.

Your CBD oil will still be safe and relatively effective if the manufacturer used (in descending order of preference) standard CO2 extraction, cold-press extraction, steam distillation, or extraction with natural solvents. It just won’t be as good. (By contrast, super-cheap extraction with hydrocarbons may not create a safe CBD product.)

4. No unnecessary or artificial additives: CBD oil must contain a carrier oil to transport and distribute the cannabidiol. In theory, those are the only two ingredients you’ll find in high-quality CBD oil. In practice, a flavoring agent may be needed to cover the raw taste of the product, but it should always be a natural essential oil and not an artificial flavoring.
5. Certificate of Analysis (COA): A reputable producer will provide a COA with every CBD product sold. It shows the results of independent third-party testing and allows you to see exactly what’s in your CBD oil. There should be less than 0.3% THC, along with the promised amount of cannabidiol. It will also show you whether the oil contains the other hemp components that make it full-spectrum and whether it contains any hazardous chemicals or substances. If there’s no COA provided, that should be a red flag in itself.

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Taking CBD with other drugs can alter the effects of either CBD or other medication — or both. 

For this reason, you consult with your doctor about taking CBD or any other drug, particularly if you are already taking medications.

How Drugs Interact with CBD

Over the past years, many people have started using CBD. This trend is not surprising, given CBD’s incredible therapeutic benefits. Also, CBD can relieve various symptoms, such as chronic pain, inflammation, and sleeping disorders such as insomnia, among many others.

Recent studies have found that it is generally safe to use CBD as it has only minor side effects. But there’s one big caveat – it can interact with other medications. The concern has to do with the body’s metabolization of various substances, including CBD.

As you know, the body metabolizes or breaks down the medication or substances you take. The metabolization of drugs happens throughout the body, mainly in the gut and the liver. This is where the interaction between CBD and medications will take place.

CBD Can Inhibit CYP450

Cytochrome P450 is essential in metabolization. This family of enzymes does the work of converting foreign substances for easy elimination from the body. However, some substances or medications can affect these enzymes.

As a result, a person’s drug metabolism may slow down or speed up, altering the body’s drug interaction. Some research has found that CYP450 metabolizes CBD and other cannabinoids.

However, CBD also inhibits CYP3A4 during the process. The CYP3A4 enzyme metabolizes most clinically prescribed drugs. If CBD interferes with this enzyme, then it also affects the breakdown of some of the medications you take. This is why you must be careful when taking CBD at the same time as other medications.

Some Medications Can Also Interfere with CYP3A4

Similarly, other medications can also interfere with CYP3A4. This can result in your body being unable to metabolize CBD effectively. If you take CBD with other medicines, the effects of either CBD or the drug you take may become exaggerated.

The result is that you may experience some unwanted side effects. However, that’s not to say that you can never use CBD while you’re taking medications. You can still use it as an add-on to help ease your symptoms.

But first, discuss your situation with your doctor. They can guide you about the right product, dosage, and schedule for taking CBD that’s safe with the drugs you’re currently taking. This way, you can take advantage of CBD’s therapeutic benefits while continuing medical treatment for your condition.

What Drugs Should Not Be Taken With CBD Oil?

Back to the most critical question, “what drugs should not be taken with CBD?” Studies about the possible interactions between CBD and certain medications are still ongoing. There isn’t much information available yet as research continues to explore drug interactions, but there’s a rule of thumb that should be applied to mixing CBD with other medications.

“Don’t take CBD with drugs that have a grapefruit warning.”

The grapefruit warning indicates that when taking that medicine, you must not consume grapefruit or grapefruit juice. The Food and Drug Administration cautions everyone that consuming grapefruit while taking a specific drug can cause adverse side effects.

Some drugs and grapefruit don’t mix, causing a greater concentration of the medication in a person’s bloodstream. Besides possibly causing severe side effects, it can lead to overdose. It applies not only to grapefruit but other citrus fruits or juices such as Seville oranges.

The reason behind this is a chemical in grapefruit called furanocoumarins. It interferes with CYP3A4 the same way as CBD, slowing the breakdown of certain drugs. Not all medications have this chemical, but there’s a long list of drugs that do.

Here are some types of drugs that usually have the grapefruit warning:

• Antibiotics
• Anticancer
• Antimicrobials
• Antiepileptic drugs
• Antihistamines
• Blood pressure medications
• Blood thinners
• Corticosteroids
• Erectile dysfunction medications
• GI drugs
• Heart rhythm medications
• Immunosuppressants
• Benzodiazepines or sedatives
• Prostate medications
• Pain medications such as NSAIDs

Now let’s take an in-depth look at some of the common medications taken in tandem with CBD.

CBD & Ibuprofen 

CBD interacts with CB2 receptors to ease any pain you may be experiencing. Ibuprofen stops the production of prostaglandins by blocking the COX-2. CBD and ibuprofen are both broken down by the same process in the liver.

Because of this, if you use CBD with ibuprofen, it can lead to increased or decreased concentrations in the body. 

This means the overall effects of ibuprofen may intensify or reduce, including the accompanying side effects — dizziness, stomach bleeding (ulcers), and high blood pressure.

CBD & Warfarin

Warfarin is an anticoagulation medicine, also known as a “blood thinner.” It’s used to prevent blood clots, encourage the blood’s healthy flow, and decrease certain protein levels in the body. It can cause some alarming side effects, such as headaches and increased bleeding.

It’s a high-maintenance drug that needs constant monitoring. Warfarin poses risks when taken with foods that are high in vitamin K or taken with CBD. Taking Warfarin and CBD concurrently may increase your chances of nosebleeds, bleeding from your gums, dark stools, or unusual bruising.

CBD Oil & Prozac 

Prozac or fluoxetine treats several mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, OCD, bulimia, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. It helps ease the symptoms of these conditions but poses a risk of potential side effects.

Currently, there are not many reports of a negative interaction between CBD in conjunction with Prozac. Many patients have even reported an improvement in their depression when combining these two drugs.

CBD and Adderall 

Adderall is a medicine used to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and narcolepsy. Some of its side effects include anxiety, depression, and fatigue, which normally occur when the drug wears off.

CBD has calming effects, which may reduce Adderall’s effects on the body. The two should create a more balanced feeling, especially if the drug’s effects are often too strong. However, CBD used with Adderall may decrease appetite or cause excessive fatigue or relaxation when taken with Adderall.

CBD Oil & Lamictal

Lamictal or lamotrigine is an antiepileptic and anti-convulsive medication. It helps to control and treat epileptic seizures and bipolar disorder. This drug works by restoring the balance of natural substances in the brain.

Some studies report there aren’t any apparent signs that CBD interacts with Lamictal. However, it is difficult to say with complete confidence due to the lack of research. The fact is lamotrigine affects CYP3A4, and as mentioned prior, this can cause problems. As such, it’s essential to consult with your doctor when supplementing Lamictal with CBD.

CBD Oil & Antibiotics

CBD oil is considered safe to use with a low risk of side effects. CBD and antibiotics can both fight infections but in different ways. One study on various cannabinoids found that CBD and THC can affect pathogenic bacteria. However, researchers also don’t know how CBD performs this function.

There is no solid evidence that it’s unsafe to take CBD while on antibiotics. However, the combination of the two has not been studied enough as of yet. It is still safer to avoid taking them together without consulting your doctor first.

CBD Oil & Omeprazole

Omeprazole, also known by the brand name Prilosec, is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). It’s used to relieve heartburn symptoms, treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and other acid-related disorders. To date, there hasn’t been a study conducted that has focused on CBD oil and omeprazole interaction.

However, omeprazole can inhibit the metabolizing enzymes CYP2C19 and CYP2C8. CBD also interferes with various metabolizing enzymes, including CYP2C19. This means there’s a considerable possibility of interaction when you take CBD with omeprazole.

CBD & Thyroid Medications

CBD is also reportedly helpful in managing thyroid conditions. CBD’s anti-inflammatory potential may help ease the pain and inflammation associated with thyroid problems.

One thing that’s known is that both thyroid medications and CBD affect cytochrome P450. They can inhibit these enzymes, possibly causing the accumulation of thyroxine. This can result in hyperthyroidism, as well as side effects that include mild nausea and anxiety.

CBD & Lisinopril

Lisinopril is an example of a blood pressure medication. It’s an antihypertensive medicine under the brand names Lopril and Lisodur, among others. This drug helps lower blood pressure and improves the heart’s pumping power. However, the use of lisinopril can cause dizziness and other side effects.

Blood pressure medications also use the CYP450 pathway when metabolizing. As such, it’s crucial to take CBD cautiously with lisinopril. 

Combining the two may cause either one to remain in your system for a longer time, increasing the risk of experiencing side effects. Also, using CBD and lisinopril together may lower your blood pressure too much and make you feel lethargic and weak.

CBD & Prednisone

Prednisone is a glucocorticoid drug used to treat inflammatory conditions. But it is used irregularly due to its potentially severe side effects. Its adverse side effects include dizziness, insomnia, restlessness, sweating, headaches, mood changes, and indigestion.

Prednisone uses the CYP450 enzymes to metabolize. It’s the same family of enzymes that CBD also uses. While there is not enough research to tell whether they interact with each other, the safe course of action is to be cautious in taking both simultaneously.

Summary: CBD is Relatively Safe, But Speak With Your Doctor If Using Other Medications

Most research has found that CBD is safe to use. But since there’s not enough information on combining CBD with other drugs, it’s always better to be careful. 

So, what drugs should not be taken with CBD? 

For now, it’s best to avoid taking CBD with medications with a grapefruit warning or if using prescription blood thinners, heart medications, diabetes medications, or antibiotics together with CBD unless advised otherwise by your doctor. 

References Cited

1. Argueta, D. A., Ventura, C. M., Kiven, S., Sagi, V., & Gupta, K. (2020). A Balanced Approach for Cannabidiol Use in Chronic Pain. Frontiers in pharmacology, 11, 561. [1]
2. Harvard Health Blog. January 11, 2021. CBD and other medications: Proceed with caution. health.harvard.edu [2]
3. Alsherbiny MA, Li CG. (2019).  Medicinal Cannabis—Potential Drug Interactions. Medicines. 6(1):3.  [3]
4. Giovanni Appendino, Simon Gibbons, Anna Giana, Alberto Pagani, Gianpaolo Grassi, Michael Stavri, Eileen Smith, and M. Mukhlesur Rahman (2008, Aug. 6). Antibacterial Cannabinoids from Cannabis sativa: A Structure−Activity Study. Journal of Natural Products 2008 71 (8), 1427-1430. [4]
5. Lakiotaki, E., Giaginis, C., Tolia, M., Alexandrou, P., Delladetsima, I., Giannopoulou, I., Kyrgias, G., Patsouris, E., & Theocharis, S. (2015). Clinical Significance of Cannabinoid Receptors CB1 and CB2 Expression in Human Malignant and Benign Thyroid Lesions. BioMed research international, 2015, 839403. [5]

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It’s certainly true that indica strains are more likely than sativas to deliver relaxation and medicinal benefits. So if you need an easy-to-remember guideline, that’s as good as any.

It’s a bit of an over-simplification, though. Here’s a comparable example.

Someone who has trouble waking up in the morning will probably reach for a cup of coffee right after they wake up. That makes sense. But a double espresso is not the same as a cup of instant coffee, and both are very different from a cup of decaf.

In that situation, the type of coffee will make all the difference. And when choosing an indica for relaxation, for sleep, or pain relief, the strain of indica will make all the difference.

Some indica-dominants contain virtually no psychoactive THC, but a few have THC levels on a par with some of the strongest sativas. Some will induce an immediate couch lock, while others will keep you on your feet and functioning well.

So you shouldn’t just ask, “what’s the best indica strain?” You should also ask yourself, “what effects or benefits do I want the strain to provide?”

But we can start with an even simpler question.

What Is an Indica?

There are two major subspecies of cannabis, sativa and indica, and they’re not defined by what happens when you smoke, vape, or consume them. Their physical characteristics identify them. Indica plants are distinguishable because they’ve developed and adapted over the years to survive in cold and windy climates.

They’re short and bushy, with thick broad foliage that’s normally dark green in color due to high chlorophyll levels – necessary to maximize the amount of sunlight they absorb. Indica has dense buds that flower quickly and produce lots of resin, ideal for short growing seasons and protection against infestation.

You’ll notice that there was not one word about relaxation, cannabinoids, or pain relief in that description. That reinforces the fact that effects and benefits don’t define indicas. Effects and benefits vary depending on the specific strain you choose.

Types of Indica Strains

One quick note: in this article, we’re lumping pure indica and indica-dominant strains together. Pure indicas do still exist, of course, but you’re more likely to find indica/sativa hybrids in today’s market.

Almost all indica strains will provide more relaxation – or in the more extreme examples, couch-lock and sedation – than sativas. That’s believed to be due to specific terpenes like myrcene commonly found in indica plants rather than the higher CBD levels typically found in them.

But some indicas will deliver the type of head high more often associated with sativas before relaxation sets in. Here’s why.

Creative breeding has led to newer indica strains like Kosher Kush and The White, which are bred to have very high THC levels, often well over 20%. They’ll begin with a euphoric high, ideal for boosting focus or inspiring creativity before body lock takes over and the mind goes along for the ride.

However, more traditional indicas have much lower THC levels (between 5-15%) and will quickly relax both the head and brain without a mind-blowing high. Additionally, their usually higher CBD content is ideal for pain relief and fighting insomnia.

Finally, some indica-dominant strains have been bred to have virtually no THC content at all. These CBD-heavy indicas are intended primarily for medical marijuana patients dealing with chronic pain or serious illnesses like multiple sclerosis.

To sum up, determining the best indica strain is more a matter of determining the best indica strain for your own preferences and needs. Here are some suggestions.

Best Indica Strains

Granddaddy Purple

You don’t have to go any further than this prevalent strain to prove that not all indicas spare the head when delivering a strong body blow. With an average THC content of around 20%, GDP delivers an immediate euphoric high that can lean to the slightly trippy side before the mind’s relaxation catches up with the body. Eventually, the full buzz is likely to land you on the couch or into your favorite chair.

There’s a decent amount of CBD in this strain, too, so it’s sought-after for its medical effects. It works wonders to relieve aching muscles and chronic pain, as well as depression. And the legendary body melt is perfect for fighting insomnia and getting a good night’s sleep. Don’t overlook the yummy taste and scent, either.

Northern Lights

Calm, calm, calm. There’s nothing like a few hits of Northern Lights to put your entire body into a blissful, happy numbness. This strain is almost pure indica and is usually the #1 example that people use to illustrate what a “classic” indica will do, even one with 15-20% THC content; the psychoactive cannabinoid contributes more dreamy laziness than an energetic high. You’ll probably be couch-locked after indulging, only getting up to grab some more munchies.

There isn’t a lot of CBD in Northern Lights, but the incredible numbing buzz is outstanding for treating pain nonetheless. It can relieve all types of body pain from arthritis, back pain, and chronic conditions, stress, depression, and nausea, and has won numerous awards for its medicinal power.

G-13

The legends surrounding the origins of G-13 belong more on a conspiracy website than in a botanical textbook. In a nutshell, some U.S. government agencies collected the best pot strains from all over the world and bred “superstrains” in a secret lab – and G-13 was the one liberated by a lab tech to be shared with the world.

If that does happen to be true, we owe the tech a huge debt. This strain ranges from pure indica (rare) to a 70/30 hybrid (more likely) with generous amounts of THC and is a world-class mood enhancer. It opens with a creative euphoria and then quickly settles into serious body relaxation that will calm your way down but only produces body lock in some users. If you’re one of the ones who can handle G-13 without feeling heavy, it’s amazing for all-day relief of chronic pain, inflammation, fibromyalgia, and lupus, stomach issues, stress, and depression.

Harlequin

We close out with two of the best indicas that provide relaxation and pain relief without a strong high. Indica-dominant Harlequin is typically 5:2 CBD to THC, so its psychoactive effects are relatively pleasant and uplifting. That leaves the CBD to do its work relatively unimpeded by a heavy head high, with its fabulous relief of nerve, muscle, and joint pains, making it a favorite of those who need help with chronic conditions like fibromyalgia.

The uplifting mood contributed by this strain also helps with chronic depression. And its lower THC content makes Harlequin a far better choice for those who suffer from anxiety because it won’t cause the paranoia that THC can sometimes induce in those patients. This is an indica that won’t couch-lock you in any way; it will let you get things done while you’re feeling better.

Remedy

As you’ve probably guessed, this is an indica-dominant strain bred specifically for pain relief. The THC content is generally below 1%, so there’s virtually no psychoactive effect whatsoever. The remedy is slow to act, so the experience starts with full-body relaxation, followed by a tingly feeling and the easing of pain throughout the body.

For most users, this is a strain that can be used throughout the day to allow full function and perhaps even replace opioids for pain relief. Of course, there’s no law saying it can’t be used recreationally (that is, in states where it’s legal), and it’s a great choice for reducing stress, being able to relax after work, or slowly drift off to sleep.

The post Best Indica Strains: 5 Most Popular & Effective Picks of 2022 appeared first on We Be High.

Because of its ability to absorb topically through the skin, companies have begun producing transdermal CBD patches as well.

CBD patches are a great way to absorb a steady supply of CBD over a period of time. However, not all CBD patches are made equal. This article will explore some of the best CBD patches on the market in 2022. 

Why Use CBD Patches?

1. CBD patches allow for more direct relief of inflammation and pain in the muscles or skin
2. Patches avoid several side effects common to oral or inhaled forms of CBD
3. Patches are convenient and deliver doses of CBD all day long
4. CBD patches are discreet & easy to use

These benefits make CBD patches the preferred method of administration for many people. 

CBD patches are just about as effective as oral CBD. The main difference is how long you’ll be able to take advantage of the benefits. Some patches are designed to remain on your body for a few days, gradually delivering CBD.

Types of CBD Patches

CBD patches can be broken up into two different categories: reservoir patches and matrix patches. Both adhere easily to the skin, but each comes with its own benefits and drawbacks.

1. Reservoir Patches

Reservoir patches contain a 5-level system. These levels are:

• The release liner
• Contact adhesive
• The rate-controlling membrane
• The drug reservoir
• A backing layer

These patches are best for people who are not in a rush and do not need relief immediately. They take a little bit longer to take effect, but they also last much longer.

2. Matrix Patches

Matrix patches also contain five tiers; however, they are different from those found in a reservoir patch.

• A peel-off layer (protects the CBD until it’s ready to be used)
• The matrix layer (containing the CBD)
• A separation layer
• An adhesive layer
• A protective backing

Matrix patches tend to produce quicker results. However, this causes the CBD to be absorbed more quickly. This means that they don’t usually last as long as reservoir patches.

How to Use CBD Patches

CBD patches are fairly simple to use. Instructions may vary somewhat from product to product, but generally, all you’ll need to do is open the package, remove the patch, and apply it to your skin.

Most patches are made with an adhesive of some sort that makes it easy to apply them to your skin.

You’ll want to apply the patch as close as possible to the area that you’re hoping to heal. For example, you’ll want to apply it directly to the injured area if you have an injury.

Remember that patches can vary quite a lot in their potency. You’ll want to keep this in mind while you’re shopping and choose a patch with an appropriate potency.

As a general rule, you shouldn’t keep the patch on for more than 24 hours. However, some patches are specifically developed for longer usage. Read the directions on the package. It will tell you if this is the case.

What Are CBD Patches Used For? 

CBD patches have many different uses. Here are some of the most common.

1. Muscle Tension & Pain

CBD patches are most effective for helping to relieve pain and tension in the muscles. By applying a CBD patch directly to an injured, sore, or tense area, you can deliver the cannabinoid to the source of discomfort. 

CBD helps to reduce inflammation as well. This can help to decrease any pain or discomfort further.

2. Nausea or Car-Sickness

CBD patches provide a slow and consistent amount of CBD to your body that can be useful for managing nausea and car-sickness. Apply a patch directly before a car ride to enjoy this benefit.

CBD may also be useful if you’re experiencing an issue that causes nausea, such as an illness. 

3. Quitting Smoking

CBD can be helpful in some cases for helping people to quit smoking. The patch would be used similarly to a nicotine patch. CBD helps to reduce withdrawal symptoms, such as sweating and anxiety and can help to reduce craving.

CBD doesn’t work for everyone in this regard. You also can’t expect it to work in the same way as a nicotine patch. Nicotine patches are a form of smoking replacement, and while they can curb cravings, this is because they’re supplying your body with nicotine.

CBD contains no nicotine but may still be useful for some.

4. Improving Skin Health

CBD may be useful for helping to improve the health of your skin. CBD can reduce the discomfort of inflammatory skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis. It may also reduce acne of certain types.

How Much Do CBD Patches Cost? 

CBD patches are a bit more expensive than the other types of CBD that you can buy. This is because of the amount of technology and effort involved in developing the actual patch. 

As we become more familiar with this technology and become easier to access, CBD patches may decrease. For now, however, you can expect to pay a bit more than you would for the same dose of CBD oil or vape juice.

Best CBD Patches 2022

Different companies make CBD patches for different markets. These are some of the best all-around CBD patches that are available in 2022.

Note that many of these products contain lidocaine.  Lidocaine is a pharmaceutical anesthetic that can provide immense topical relief. It’s often prescribed during dental procedures because of its ability to numb the nerves. 

Lidocaine is significantly stronger than CBD in regards to pain relief, though. Thus, some CBD patches may be unfairly judged as being ‘better than others containing no lidocaine. 

If you’re interested in using CBD because you want to use all-natural and sustainable products, you may want to use a brand that doesn’t use lidocaine.

Best CBD Patch Overall: Social CBD

Social CBD has taken the cake as the best overall CBD patch. Not only are their patches highly potent, clocking in at up to 100 mg each, but they’re also affordable and reliable.

Social CBD tests its products at a lab before manufacturing its CBD patches. Their testing regimen is strict: each batch of CBD goes through five tests before being approved for sale. They’re one of the most transparent and consistent CBD companies that you’ll find nowadays.

If you don’t want the ultra-strong 100 mg CBD patch, you can also purchase them in 20 mg or 60 mg sizes. These patches tend to only last about a day, but they’re waterproof and sweatproof. Relief can be expected within an hour of using the patch.

Best-Value CBD Patch: CBD Living

CBD Living offers a CBD patch containing 60 mg of CBD as part of their proprietary broad-spectrum nano hemp extract). This product also contains natural cannabis terpenes and aloe vera. The infusion is set into several different oils, including coconut oil, sweet almond oil, red palm oil, and sunflower oil.

Despite being one of the best-valued CBD patches, CBD Living goes above and beyond to create a powerful patch. On top of the above ingredients, they include a selection of skin-healthy, pain-relieving essential oils: persea gratissima, eucalyptus, and citrus.

On top of that, these patches are designed to last for a whopping 4 days. CBD Living established its brand in 2013 and has since been committed to innovating and improving the CBD space. These holistic CBD patches are no exception.

Best Long-Lasting CBD Patch: Pure Ratios

Pure Ratios is known for its long-lasting CBD patches. Their patches last for up to 96 hours, thanks to their excellent usage of the reservoir system.

In addition to the 60 mg of CBD contained in each patch, the company includes a dosage of aloe vera. Aloe vera is a popular natural supplement used for soothing skin and reducing pain. 

Each patch contains 60 mg of CBD that is delivered over a 4-day period. Each package contains 5 patches, and the whole lot will cost you $59.99.

Best THC-Free CBD Patch: Hemp Bombs

Hemp Bombs is committed to sustainable growth and production of cannabis products. They use sustainably sourced American hemp for their CBD patches, as well as lidocaine. 

Hemp Bombs has made a name for itself as one of the most innovative and expansive CBD vendors. They have a huge selection of products and were quick to catch on to the CBD patch trend.

Each pack of CBD patches contains two 50 mg patches. They also offer a patch designed to aid people with sleep, specifically. This particular patch includes 25 mg of hemp extract containing a dose of melatonin.

Best Organic CBD Patch:  Green Garden Gold

Green Garden Gold offers a package of four CBD patches containing 60 mg each. For a total of 240 mg of transdermally delivered CBD, you’ll pay $59.95. Their prices are competitive, especially because they use organically-grown hemp.

Their products are made with a blend of hemp and coconut oil. They also conclude lidocaine — a curious ingredient to include in a product marketed for being organic. Nonetheless, you can expect immense pain relief from the combination of CBD and lidocaine.

How Does CBD Work?

Before you buy your CBD patches, it can be useful to have at least a basic understanding of how they work. 

CBD interacts with a system in the body called the endocannabinoid system (ECS). This is one of the most important systems in the body. It’s involved with many of our daily functions, including appetite, mood regulation, and pain sensation.

CBD indirectly operates with this system. This allows it to produce a more subtle, albeit just as beneficial, experience than more direct-acting cannabinoids like THC. Whereas THC binds directly with receptors in the system, CBD works by adjusting hormones and enzymes to produce similar benefits.

When taken topically, CBD absorbs through the skin into the blood. It also can produce some anti-inflammatory effects directly at the site where it is applied.

Final Thoughts: Are CBD Patches Worth The Money? 

CBD patches are beneficial for those who require the support of CBD throughout the day. Certain applications, such as pain relief and the management of skin conditions,  may be effectively managed with CBD patches.

CBD patches can also be useful for people who often forget to take their doses or cannot take their doses throughout the day due to their responsibilities.

CBD patches are slightly more expensive than other forms of CBD.  Companies like Hemp Bombs and Social CBD provide some of the best products in this niche, but you can expect to pay a bit more per dose than you would with tinctures or oils.

The post Best CBD Patches for Pain: Top Brands Reviews in 2022 appeared first on We Be High.

According to a 2015 survey, about 70% of adult smokers in the US wanted to quit smoking, but conventional methods only have a success rate of around 7%. 

Exciting new research suggests CBD may offer a unique solution to helping users quit this destructive habit. 

Learn how users are kicking their habit with the help of CBD and what CBD products work best. 

Can CBD Help Me Quit Smoking? The Rundown

It is pervasive that smokers, who want to quit, cannot do so as they become addicted to the nicotine present in cigarettes, sometimes from a very young age.

Researchers and scientists have introduced many conventional smoking cessation treatments such as nicotine gums, patches, and medication such as Varenicline to help combat smoking. 

Unfortunately, most of these products yielded poor results in regards to long-term abstinence from smoking.

Here’s a breakdown of how consuming CBD oil can be a viable way of quitting smoking:

A) CBD Vapes Can Help Users Transition Away From Tobacco

Part of the addictive qualities of smoking involves the very act of smoking. Many people find smoking to be a habit. By switching to hemp products like vapes or hemp cigarettes, users can still get the experience of smoking tobacco without actually smoking tobacco.

Many smokers prefer CBD vapes because they can be used to substitute for nicotine while giving the same experience as smoking a cigarette.

Additionally, since CBD is a compound that is not addictive, it will be substantially much easier to quit smoking or vaping hemp in the future than it is to quit tobacco because of the nicotine present in cigarettes. This is the same concept used to combat opiate addiction when people switch to Kratom from pharmaceutical opiates. Kratom can then be quit much more easily.

B) CBD May Curb Cravings For Nicotine

The latest research and scientific evidence has proved that CBD oil modifies the circuits in the brain related not only to relieve chronic pain and diseases but also to drug addictions. CBD’s ability to influence drug-seeking behaviors stems directly from the ability to interact with the neural systems that cause these behaviors.

Past research has shown that nicotine is known to cause an elevation in extracellular levels of dopamine – the chemical in the body that fuels the body’s drug-seeking behaviors and provides a feeling of wellbeing and happiness.

An increasing amount of research has shown that CBD affects dopamine levels which tends to reduce smokers’ addictive behaviors. A study by Scherma et al. showed that CBD tends to boost levels of an endocannabinoid called anandamide, which can increase levels of dopamine in our body. This eliminates the need for nicotine.

This shows that CBD may be an effective, practical, and natural smoking cessation treatment with little to no side effects of consumption.

C) CBD May Help Alleviate Withdrawal Symptoms from Nicotine

CBD is non-addictive and is known to alleviate stress, reduce anxiety and depression, and provide pain relief by stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system and inhibiting the sympathetic nervous system. All of these are symptoms associated with withdrawal after someone gives up smoking. Preventing withdrawal symptoms is the biggest challenge in the treatment of tobacco addiction. 

Evidence has increasingly mounted, proving that CBD oil is the key to managing these symptoms and successfully ending your smoking habits. 

Although research is ongoing, CBD oil has already shown a lot of potential in easing tobacco withdrawal symptoms. This is possible through its safe and profound therapeutic effects and its ability to produce specific neurocognitive effects that target different processes in nicotine addiction.

What Does Research Have To Say About CBD For Quitting Smoking?

Over time, CBD oil has gained traction in the health and wellness sector for its numerous health benefits, especially helping smokers quit smoking. 

Controversy still exists around the use of CBD oil due to recreational marijuana use and substance abuse, but awareness about the possible health benefits of CBD oil and its use as an effective smoking cessation solution is increasing. 

Study #1: CBD for Nicotine Withdrawal

A 2018 study investigated the effects of CBD on nicotine withdrawal where thirty nicotine-dependent smokers were given 800 mg of CBD or a placebo after overnight tobacco abstinence. Following this, each participant was shown several different pictorial tobacco cues such as drinking or smoking, and their tobacco cravings and withdrawal symptoms were examined. 

The study’s findings revealed that the smokers who were administered 800 mg of CBD showed a reduced salience in cigarette cues compared to the group that was administered the placebo. 

The study highlighted the potential role of CBD in reducing the salience of drug cues and a possible treatment option for people trying to quit smoking.

Study #2: CBD & Cigarette Consumption

Another randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled study by Celia J.A. Morgan et al. investigated the effects of Cannabidiol consumption in reducing cigarette consumption in tobacco smokers. 

The study consisted of twenty-four smokers, half of whom received a CBD inhaler and the other half received a placebo inhaler. The participants of the week-long study were instructed to use the inhaler every time they felt the urge to smoke. 

The study’s findings showed that the smokers treated with CBD reduced the number of cigarettes they consumed by about 40 percent, while the placebo group showed almost no difference in the number of cigarettes smoked. 

The results of this study, combined with previous knowledge about the effects of CBD and its possible clinical benefits, found CBD to be a potentially viable treatment option for nicotine addiction.

How Does CBD Oil Help Combat Nicotine Addiction?

The use of CBD oil to fight nicotine addiction is still a relatively novel concept and requires more research. However, several types of studies have made significant strides in exploring the effects of CBD on the body and how long it stays in the system that leads to the possible benefits it has to offer. 

One outlined a theory that highlighted a plausible reason as to why CBD aids smokers to reduce their cigarette intake and helps them quit smoking. The theory suggested that CBD acts as a negative allosteric modulator of CB1 receptors in the nerve cells in the spinal cord and the brain. This causes a reduction in the boosting properties of nicotine and helps with pain, nausea, and other symptoms associated with nicotine withdrawal. 

Another mechanism brought forward by recent research has shown that the neurochemical effects of nicotine in rats significantly reduced the inhibition of the enzyme fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), which is responsible for the breakdown of anandamide (AEA). Elevated AEA levels contributed to the effects brought about by CBD consumption on the body.

While significant strides in research on the effects of CBD have been made, the investigation of the science behind the therapeutic effects of CBD is still relatively inconclusive. 

We have yet to fully comprehend how CBD acts on the neurochemical level to combat addiction. However, several anecdotal reports from different consumers of CBD oil have shown significant promise for the use of CBD oil in helping people withdraw from smoking cigarettes.

How to Use CBD for Quitting Smoking

Now that you know about the therapeutic effects of CBD, it’s time to learn how you can consume CBD. Fortunately, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing how you can consume CBD. 

Here is a breakdown of the most common ways you can consume CBD, with the pros and cons of each method.

A) CBD Oil Tinctures

CBD oil tinctures are one of the safest ways of consuming CBD.

You can take CBD oil tinctures and apply them sublingually directly under your tongue. Since the sublingual area of your mouth is rich in capillaries, administration of CBD in this area allows the compound to reach your bloodstream much quicker, thus, creating a more rapid response. 

We recommend that you start by taking one drop of the oil 3 times a day and incrementally increase the dose later on.

Pros:

• Cheap and readily available
• Long-lasting
• More discrete
• Enters the bloodstream much faster and has a quicker effect on the body

Cons:

• It doesn’t satisfy the act of smoking like a vape or hemp cigarette
• Difficult to gauge dose

B) CBD Vapes

The most common way of taking CBD is by vaporizing CBD oil in vape. Vapes are easy to use and produce very little smoke. 

Additionally, when inhaled, it allows the CBD to enter the lungs, where it goes into the bloodstream. 

Many smokers move from smoking to vaping CBD oil because of the reduced health risks, convenience, and ease of use. 

However, it is important to note that vaping is still not considered entirely safe as it can harm your lungs and possible chronic lung problems such as emphysema. 

Moreover, vaping is a relatively new invention, the long-term safety of which is still unknown.

Pros:

• Reaches bloodstream faster
• Easy to use
• Produce little smoke

Cons:

• May cause allergic reactions
• Possible long-term health effects

C) CBD Cigarettes & Pre-Rolls

Out of all the ways you can imagine using CBD, smoking CBD cigarettes and pre-rolls is probably the fastest delivery route, which means that CBD can be felt almost instantaneously. 

Unfortunately, smoking CBD cigarettes and pre-rolls is not recommended if you have a pre-existing lung condition. In this case, we would recommend consuming CBD using oil tinctures or capsules.

Pros:

• Provides the highest concentration of CBD
• The fastest method to deliver CBD to the bloodstream

Cons:

• Negatively affects the health of your lungs and throat
• Not suitable for people with pre-existing lung conditions
• High concentrations might not be suitable for people who don’t need it

D) CBD Patches

CBD patches serve as an excellent way to consume CBD that can provide pain relief and solve skin problems for numerous people. 

CBD patches use transdermal delivery to provide your body with the necessary dose of CBD in such a way that you can consume it for hours without having to do anything. You don’t have to remember to take a pill or smoke a vape. You can apply the patch and leave it on for hours.

Some CBD patches can be applied for only a few hours, while some can last for a whole 24 hours.

Pros:

• Easy to use
• Can help reduce swelling, pain, and skin problems
• Cheap and easily available 
• A steady means of consuming CBD for hours

Cons:

• Patch might irritate your skin
• Does not enter the bloodstream quickly
• The effects are not as long-lasting as other means of consumption 

E) CBD Capsules 

CBD Capsules or softgels offer a convenient way of consuming CBD that goes through your digestive system. The capsule may also contain other ingredients to complement the effects of CBD.

Unfortunately, the absorption rate of CBD via capsules is the slowest amongst all the methods. While going through the digestive system, the CBD in the capsule loses some of its potency and takes around 30-90 minutes to produce its effects.

In addition to a capsule, CBD oil can be baked into cookies and brownies and infused in different candies and chocolate bars, depending on what you like. CBD oil can be also be added to your teas, smoothies, coffee, salad dressings, and other food items.

However, ingesting CBD oil orally means that it has to travel through the GI tract before going to the liver, where it is metabolized. This can take time, which is not ideal for curing your nicotine habits since the nicotine cravings demand immediate gratification. 

Pros:

• Cheap and readily available 
• Gives an idea of the exact dose that you are consuming

Cons:

• CBD goes through the digestive system and loses some of its potency
• Effects take at least a few hours to kick in

There’s an overwhelming number of options for you to choose from, such as tinctures and cannabis-infused chocolates. However, before deciding to consume CBD oil, it is important that you first consult with your physician in case you are on any medication since there is a chance that it can interfere with them. 

What’s The Dose of CBD for Quitting Smoking? 

There is no ‘perfect’ CBD dosage to take. 

The amount of CBD oil that you take depends on multiple factors, including your metabolism, weight, age, gender, and the intensity of the cigarette withdrawal symptoms you experience. The dosage differs from person to person. 

We recommend that you start by taking 12-15 mg of CBD each day in three different doses and observe the effect of this dose on your body. If this dose works for you, you can incrementally increase your dosage with time. Remember to always stay below 70 mg of daily CBD oil consumption.

Consult with a practitioner before taking an initial dose, and then slowly increase your dosage from there. Your physician will be able to better guide you on how much CBD oil you should take.

How to Assess CBD Products for Quality Before You Buy

It is important that you strictly consume high-quality CBD products purchased from reliable and reputable brands, or it may not work at all. 

Remember to check the THC content of each product, including tinctures and vape oils. The THC content should not be above 0.3%.

It is also of paramount importance that you choose certified products that meet the US hemp cultivation standards. Brands that entrust third-party sources to conduct their lab tests should also be prioritized since they can be better trusted. 

What are the Health Risks of Smoking?

Different researchers have repeatedly proven that smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, coronary heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, stroke, and more. 

1. Smoking Damages the Lungs

Smoke significantly amplifies your risk of developing these ailments and causes irreversible damage to your lungs and overall health. Around 70% of all lung cancers are caused due to smoking.

2. Smoking Causes Cancer

Smoking is mainly responsible for lung cancers but can also cause cancer in the mouth, throat, esophagus, bladder, bowel, cervix, liver, kidney, pancreas, and stomach. 

3. Smoking is Harmful to Others Too

Breathing in second-hand smoke, also known as passive smoking, enhances the risk of acquiring acute respiratory infections and middle ear disease. This has a probability of leading to the same illnesses as first-hand smokers. 

Second-hand smoke exposure contributes to approximately 41,000 deaths among non-smoking adults every year. 

Inhaling cigarette smoke puts our vital organs under a lot of stress because of the heat pulled in with the smoke. Ultimately, these organs face irreparable cumulative damage and may not function properly, leading to more serious chronic health issues.

CBD Oil To Quit Smoking: Key Takeaways

Smoking is a direct threat to our lives, which is why so many smokers wish to quit. However, due to their addiction, they stop trying or struggle with it. Many smokers don’t quit smoking on the first try and need several attempts before they can succeed. 

While nicotine replacement therapies can help smokers reduce their cigarette intake, they fail to help smokers quit smoking entirely. CBD oil can serve as a viable solution for smokers trying to fight their nicotine addiction. 

With minimal side effects, CBD oil helps smokers deal with their withdrawal symptoms and ignore cigarette cues. For smokers looking to end their addiction, CBD oil may be the key to breaking the suffocating chains of their addiction and living a better life. Make sure to consult a physician first before trying out any CBD oil product to get the best results possible. 

References:

1. Health Effects of Tobacco Use. 08.10.2021. What It’s Like to Quit Smoking. U.S. Food & Drug Administration. fda.gov. [1]
2. Hindocha, C., Freeman, T. P., Grabski, M., Stroud, J. B., Crudgington, H., Davies, A. C., … & Curran, H. V. (2018). Cannabidiol reverses attentional bias to cigarette cues in a human experimental model of tobacco withdrawal. Addiction, 113(9), 1696-1705. [2]
3. Morgan, C. J., Das, R. K., Joye, A., Curran, H. V., & Kamboj, S. K. (2013). Cannabidiol reduces cigarette consumption in tobacco smokers: preliminary findings. Addictive behaviors, 38(9), 2433-2436. [3]
4. Scherma, M., Masia, P., Satta, V., Fratta, W., Fadda, P., & Tanda, G. (2019). The brain activity of anandamide: a rewarding bliss?. Acta pharmacological Sinica, 40(3), 309–323. [4]
5.  National Health Service. Common health questions. 2018. What are the health risks of smoking? nhs.uk [5]

The post Can CBD Oil Help You Quit Smoking Cigarettes? appeared first on We Be High.

“Sativa is energizing; indica is relaxing.”

Or, as a stoner might put it, “Sativa gets you wasted, Indica puts you to sleep.”

That’s common wisdom, and it certainly approaches the truth. But the distinctions can be a lot more subtle than that.

White Fire OG is Indica-dominant (a hybrid with more indica than sativa characteristics), but it can blow you away without putting you to sleep. On the other hand, Gorilla Glue #4 is a sativa-dominant strain, but it might have you couch-locked in no time at all.

So it’s important to put aside some of the preconceptions. (One neurologist famous for studying marijuana calls the commercial definitions of sativa and indica “nonsense.”)

The first things you need to do when looking for the “best sativa strains” are to understand what sativa means and to specify exactly what you’re hoping to experience when you spark up.

What Makes Sativa “Sativa?”

Sativa is one of two major subspecies of cannabis plants; the other, of course, is indica. (There’s a third type called ruderalis, but it doesn’t produce a lot of usable buds.) You may be surprised to learn that sativa isn’t defined by the effects of its flower but by the characteristics of the plant; sativa is tall and thin with long, pointy leaves, while indica is bushier and shorter with leaves to match.

Unless you’re a grower, though, what the plant looks like doesn’t really matter much. What you’re concerned with is what happens when you smoke or consume it.

The Different Effects of Sativa Strains

Why do sativas have the reputation of getting you high while indicas are said to sedate you? It’s because of the amount and type of cannabinoids (primarily THC and CBD) and terpenes (the oils which determine aroma and taste) they contain.

The majority of sativa strains or sativa-dominant hybrids are high in THC and low in CBD. And since THC is the psychoactive cannabinoid in a pot, that’s why most sativas have earned the reputation for delivering powerful head highs. By contrast, sativas generally have lower THC content and higher CBD, so the high isn’t as strong, and the relaxing body effects are noticeable.

However, notice that we used words like “majority” and “most” in that summary. That’s because there are some sativas with lower THC content and more CBD than you’d expect, and vice versa.

And simply looking at THC content percentages isn’t a good guide to how buzzed you’re going to get from a particular strain. The interaction between all cannabinoids (including lesser ones like CBN) and the terpenes gives every strain a different head and body effect, whether it’s sativa, indica, or a hybrid of the two.

So the “best sativa” can’t simply be judged by how much THC it has or how blasted you get after smoking it. Every strain has its unique characteristics – and its best uses.

Some sativas fit the “mind-blowing high” stereotype. Some will deliver a milder buzz or a trippy experience, some will provide a focused high that makes it easier to concentrate, and some are even mellow and relaxing.

Similarly, most sativas will let you function normally (or at least semi-normally) all day. But others will hit your body with the infamous couch lock, even though it’s “supposed to be” indicas that deliver body-numbing body relaxation. And different sativa or sativa-dominant strains will have different medical applications as well.

That’s why our list of the best sativa strains isn’t just aimed at telling you which type of weed will get you the highest. It also tells you which ones to choose for different experiences.

Best Sativa Strains

The overwhelming trend in recent years has been toward hybrids; pure sativa strains still exist, and we’ll look at one, but the majority of the “best sativa” strains are actually sativa-dominant hybrids.

Jack Herer

Named after a prominent pot activist, Jack Herer is a much-loved sativa-dominant. It’s the best of its type for energy, as it hits fast and hits hard with its initial buzz and then morphs into a more relaxing and long-lasting “happy” high. THC levels can range from 15-25% depending on the source, and there’s low CBD content. That makes it a much better choice for enjoyment during the day than falling asleep at night.

Creativity and sociability are boosted for most users since the high leaves you energized and alert. The mellow feeling is good for helping ease depression, stress, and migraines, and it can have a minor beneficial effect on chronic pain. There are better sativas for medical use, though, and we’ll look at one shortly.

Durban Poison

Wake and bake? This is your choice. A pure sativa strain that is highly energetic, Durban Poison normally has THC content averaging around 20% with very little CBD so that you can use it in the morning or afternoon without fear of couch lock. It’s also the choice of many parties since the active high is often best when shared with friends.

This powerful strain hits people in different ways; most find it uplifting and ideal for creativity or sociability. For some, it goes several steps further to set their mind racing and worsen anxiety. Start slowly if you’re an inexperienced user.

Green Crack

Our next three choices are categorized as the “best” for specific purposes, and we start with Green Crack, the best sativa for focus. This is actually a hybrid that leans sativa heavily, and it provides the initial energy boost you’d expect, combined with a striking increase in attention span. You don’t feel the complete body relaxation you’d anticipate from the indica content, though, so you can remain focused for long periods of time. In fact, you’ll probably feel wired.

The THC content in this strain can range from 15-25% and is usually in the 20% area, with very little CBD. So when you combine that with the lack of a body stone, the medicinal benefits of Green Crack are rather limited. If you’ve got a complicated project that requires time and focus, however, here’s your go-to weed.

Amnesia Haze

No, despite its name, it won’t leave your brain hazy and unable to function. Haze is simply one of this sativa-dominant’s parent strains, and Amnesia Haze’s uplifting and cerebral high actually makes it the best sativa for creativity and deep thought. The high THC content (almost always over 20%, sometimes as high as 25%) makes the high long-lasting, stimulating, motivating – and if you’re smoking with friends – prone to bringing on prolonged cases of the giggles and munchies.

A secondary relaxation sets in after a while due to the strain’s indica content, so you won’t be up all night after using. The medicinal benefits are primarily for those who are depressed or suffering from attention-deficit disorders; there’s also a greater-than-normal tendency for users to freak out if they suffer from anxiety, so be cautious if that describes you.

Sour Diesel

This is the best sativa-dominant strain that combines therapeutic benefits with a terrific head high. Sour Diesel has a sativa/indica ratio that can hit 80/20, so it isn’t going to knock you out; instead, its 20%+ THC levels induce an energetic and somewhat spacy high, which can deliver a knock-out punch to depression and stress. Surprisingly, many users also feel impressive chronic pain relief despite the strain’s low CBD content. That’s likely due to its terpenes.

Again, this is a strain to avoid if you suffer from anxiety – and also if you dislike (or can’t afford to have others notice) an extremely pungent aroma. However, it’s the best sativa if you want to get blasted and feel better from top to bottom.

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This could be because the molecules appear at different times in the plant’s growth cycle. CBG, or cannabigerol, is one of the first molecules to develop in the marijuana plant. 

This article will discuss two of these non-psychoactive elements of the hemp plant: CBD and CBG. 

Learn about the differences between CBD and CBG, their legal status in the U.S., and discover the medical benefits of the two compounds. The article will also cover some side effects of CBG and CBD and how they interact when taken together.

What are the Differences Between CBG & CBD

Cannabis contains over 400 chemicals and over 60 different cannabinoid compounds. CBD is the most predominant in hemp, while THC is the most abundant in marijuana. 

Both CBD and THC are made from CBG in the cannabis plant. 

CBG develops early during the growing cycle, within the first 3-4 weeks. As the plant matures, CBG converts into CBD, THC, and other minor cannabinoids, which is why it’s given the nickname “the parent cannabinoid.” After just a few weeks, though, the CBG compound disappears almost entirely.

CBD arrives in the scene later in the growth cycle and throughout harvest time. The exact time that the CBG converts into CBD depends on the plant strain. 

Comparing the Differences Between CBD & CBG

Which is Stronger: CBG or CBD?

CBD tends to be the stronger compound. 

CBD has a more powerful effect on inflammation and is a pain inhibitor. It may also be more effective for sleep support. 

Cannabidiol (CBD) is more abundant in mature hemp plants and is the most commonly harvested compound for extracts. So, users are more likely to feel the effects of the CBD cannabinoid. CBG, on the other hand, is harder and more expensive to source, which means that it makes up a smaller portion (if any) of the most commonly found hemp products. 

What Is The Legal Status Of CBG and CBD?

Like CBD, CBG that comes from a hemp plant (as opposed to a marijuana plant) is completely legal. 

CBG and CBD are extracted from Farm Bill compliant hemp. This type of hemp contains less than 0.3% THC and is non-psychoactive. Therefore, it’s legal to buy and use these compounds in the USA.

You can check the legal status of CBD (and CBG by proxy) in your state or region with this search tool.

Since CBG and CBD products are legal in the U.S., they are available in most states, though some states have their own regulations. Users can order CBD and CBG online or buy them in-store. Users can travel with  CBD from state to state and ship it from one state to another legally. Plus, you do not need a prescription to buy or use CBG or CBD products. 

Is CBD or CBG Psychedelic?

CBG and CBD are non-psychoactive. Only the marijuana products that contain the THC compound will induce psychoactive or psychedelic effects.

Consuming cannabigerol or cannabidiol does not give users the sensation of getting high. On the contrary, CBG may even interfere with the psychoactive effects of THC. 

CBG does not induce psychedelic effects because it does not activate CB1 receptors the same way the chemical compound THC does. Since CBG is the precursor compound that transforms into THC, it is a less mature molecule. Not only is CBG not psychotropic, but it reduces the psychoactive effects of the more mature molecule, THC. 

CBG is also the precursor compound to CBD. It transforms during the growth process into CBD (and later THC or CBC if UV lights are used.)

Some forms of CBD (like full-spectrum) tend to be more potent due to ‘the entourage effect.’ By keeping the full spectrum of natural hemp plant compounds together, users experience the power of plant synergy. This makes its medicinal effects comparable to that of using the plant in its most natural form. 

These extracts are made from hemp products with less than 0.3% THC. So, full-spectrum CBD is not psychoactive, but it does encompass more hemp plant compounds than CBD isolate or a purely CBG product. 

While THC activates endocannabinoid receptors, CBD prevents the breakdown of those endocannabinoids. So, the two do not stimulate the same reactions in the body. In as much, CBD will not get users high. 

CBD vs. CBG Health & Medical Benefits

Many researchers are investigating the possible use of cannabidiol and cannabigerol as medicinal treatments for various health concerns. 

Since CBG and CBD are interrelated molecules (CBG converts into CBD), they have similar molecular makeups. Therefore some of their health benefits are also interrelated. CBD and CBG share anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety properties. CBG and CBD may also support childhood health concerns such as ADHD, autism, childhood epilepsy, and more —  though more research is still needed.

CBG is present in the early stages of the growth of the cannabis plant, so it is akin to a stem cell. This creates some unique health benefits like anti-cancer and anti-glaucoma properties. Cannabigerol is also protective on the cellular level. It plays a defensive role against nerve damage and nerve degeneration. 

CBG has the following attributes:

• Antibacterial properties
• Reducing intraocular pressure associated with glaucoma 
• Potent anti-inflammatory effects specific to the colon
• Increases appetite
• Mild pain inhibition
• Anxiety relief

CBG is also particularly effective as an appetite stimulant. While in contrast, CBD decreases appetite. Either could potentially be used to achieve specific dietary concerns.

Cannabidiol has a powerful effect on pain inhibition and is sleep-supportive. CBD also interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system. It contributes to an organism’s ability to maintain homeostasis. Homeostasis is the physiological process an organism undergoes to find balance.

CBD is studied for its benefits towards a variety of medical conditions and symptoms. 

The current research is looking at the possible therapeutic benefits of CBD for some of the following health concerns:

• ADD/ADHD
• Arthritis
• Epilepsy
• Heart disease
• Insomnia
• Mood disorders
• Nausea
• OCD
• Schizophrenia

Why Is CBG So Expensive?

CBG comes with a higher price tag than CBD and THC. This may be because collecting CBG requires experience and know-how. 

Cannabigerol is the first molecule to develop in the hemp plant. It begins to appear around week three in the growth phase. If the CBG is not harvested by week six, it will convert into CBD, THC, or another element. By the end of the growing cycle of the hemp plant, there is less than 0.1% CBG.

Growers must harvest and extract the CBG before the plant enters the flowering phase (around week 6.) This method preserves the most CBG from each plant.

To harvest THC, growers wait until the flowers are ready. In contrast, the process to harvest CBG depends on specific knowledge of harvesting times. If growers wait too long to harvest CBG, it may have already transformed into a different compound. 

Harvesting CBG also disrupts the plants’ natural growth process. Once the CBG is collected, the remaining plant parts cannot be used, and growers must replant. This costs more money and takes more time, which adds to the higher price tag associated with CBG.

CBG is also more expensive because it is newer to the market. CBG only arrived on shelves within the last five years, so it’s not as widely available yet.

Should I Use CBD & CBG Together?

Cannabidiol and cannabigerol are safe to use together. They balance each other well. In moderate doses, they oppose each other at the 5-HT1A receptors to regulate nausea and vomiting.

They also share anti-inflammatory properties and work together to reduce bodily inflammation.

In combination, CBD and CBG have effective anti-cancer or cancer-fighting properties. 

The entourage effect also offers an important synergy for users. The plants ‘ most natural healing effects can occur by combining CBD, CBG, and other hemp plant elements or compounds. 

Common Side Effects of CBD and CBG 

There are a few short-term undesirable side effects from CBD and CBG. The most common side effects of both are dizziness and fatigue. 

Let’s cover some of the more specific side effects of each of these cannabinoids. 

The potential side effects of CBD (cannabidiol) include: 

• Decreased appetite 
• Diarrhea 
• Dry mouth
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Skin rash

The good news is that these side effects will wear off as the effect of the CBD wears off. 

There are long-term side effects of CBD use, though they take a little more time to present themselves.

In contrast, CBG has few known short-term side effects. CBG tends to inhibit some of the effects of THC. This includes psychoactive effects, anxiety, and paranoia.

The potential side effects of CBG (cannabigerol) include:

• Lightheadedness
• Muscle weakness
• Nausea
• Sedation

The Bottom Line: CBD vs. CBG

CBD tends to be a more well-known and more commonly used compound from the hemp plant. It offers sleep support, anti-anxiety effects, and provides anti-inflammatory healing for the body. 

CBG has promising and, in some cases, parallel health benefits to CBD. It is anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety. It stimulates appetite and provides protective support at the cellular and nerve levels of the body. 

Neither CBG nor CBD are psychoactive, but CBG can inhibit the psychoactive effects of compounds like THC.

The bottom line is that both CBG and CBD are good for the body. They are legal in the U.S., offer therapeutic benefits (especially when used together), and can help different users address the body’s unique needs.

Sources Cited in This Article:

1. About Products Containing Cannabis or Cannabis-derived Compounds, Including CBD. March 05, 2020. https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/what-you-need-know-and-what-were-working-find-out-about-products-containing-cannabis-or-cannabis [1]
2. Amy Abernethy, Md, PhD., Principal Deputy Commissioner, Office of the Commissioner, Food and Drug Administration, Department of Health And Human Services before the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry. July 25, 2019 [2]
3. Peter Grinspoon, MD, Contributor. April 15, 2020, https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/cannabidiol-cbd-what-we-know-and-what-we-dont-2018082414476 [3]
4. Lah, T. T., Novak, M., Pena Almidon, M. A., Marinelli, O., Žvar Baškovič, B., Majc, B., … Nabissi, M. (2021). Cannabigerol Is a Potential Therapeutic Agent in a Novel Combined Therapy for Glioblastoma. Cells, 10(2), 340.  [4]

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In the past, most marijuana breeders focused on creating as high THC concentration as possible. More recently, however, as we began to learn more about the medicinal potency of CBD, more and more breeders are beginning to focus instead on the CBD content of their crops. We now have access to a variety of high-CBD marijuana strains, useful for a wide range of medical conditions.

We’ve put together a list of the best high-CBD strains available today. We’ve included a few different strains, some having mild psychoactivity others with no psychoactivity at all.

A Brief History Of High-CBD Marijuana

High CBD strains made headlines after the story of a little girl named Charlotte, who suffered from severe and crippling epilepsy on a daily basis. The only treatment that proved useful after years of trying different medications was CBD.

This story became well known throughout the world, and became the driving force behind the legalization movement of marijuana, especially in the United States.

Since then, many marijuana breeders have begun developing strains high in CBD, and low in the psychoactive THC component.

What Is CBD?

There are over 60 different cannabinoids in the marijuana plant, each with their own set of benefits. The majority of the cannabinoid content in a given strain of marijuana tends to be either CBD (cannabidiol) or THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).

CBD is non-psychoactive and provides most of the pain-relieving, relaxing, and neuro-regulating benefits of the marijuana plant.

For more detailed information on CBD, visit our CBD guide.

What Is THC?

The other main cannabinoid, THC, is the psychoactive component of the marijuana plant.

THC provides the euphoric, appetite-stimulating, and neurological benefits of the cannabis plant. It’s also the main reason why many marijuana users might find themselves feeling paranoid and anxious after using high-THC marijuana.

What Are High CBD/Low THC Strains Used For?

THC has many benefits of its own but lacks the ability to reduce pain, treat anxiety and depression, and reduce the severity or frequency of epileptic seizures. For this reason, many breeders are choosing to develop strains low in THC so that they can focus on the medicinal benefits of the CBD content instead.

These strains generally range from mild psychoactivity to non-psychoactive. This makes them useful for children or those looking to receive the benefits of CBD without any changes in sobriety such as at work or school.

High-CBD/Low-THC Strains Are Used For:

• Pain relief
• Cognitive enhancement (mild)
• Stress reduction
• PTSD treatment
• Epileptic seizure reduction
• Anxiety relief
• Insomnia relief
• Promoting relaxation
• Reducing depressive symptoms
• Adjunctive treatment for cancer therapy

A Quick Note On Marijuana Terpenes

Although the main focus of the strains on this list is CBD and THC, terpenes play an important role in the effect profile of a particular strain.

“Terpenes are small organic molecules found throughout the plant kingdom. They evaporate with little effort and have characteristic aromas. Pinene, for example, is a common terpene found in a variety of plants that have the characteristic aroma of pine trees. Limonene is another common terpene that gives citrus fruits their classic aroma. The marijuana plant can have hundreds of different terpenes in its leaves and flowers. This is why some marijuana strains can smell like roses, citrus fruits, geranium, or mint” says Augustine Hanger, founder of CBD weed manufacturer IHF, LLC – a wholesale provider of high CBD strains.

These terpenes share some medicinal effects as well. Some boost neurotransmitter production, others are anti-inflammatory, and some even boost the absorption and function of the cannabinoids themselves. These components are important to consider in the overall effect profile of the marijuana plant.

Top 5 Best High CBD Strains

Charlotte’s Web

Charlotte’s Web is the first strain on our list, and for good reason…

It has an incredible development story involving a little girl named Charlotte Figi who was suffering from seizures every 15 minutes. After her parents were unable to find effective treatment they turned to CBD out of pure desperation.

CBD was by far the most effective treatment the family tried. This eventually caught the attention of a pair of breeders in Colorado (The Stanley Brothers).

These breeders got to work developing a strain with the highest CBD content possible. They aptly named their result after Charlotte (Charlotte’s Web).

Despite being one of the first high-CBD strains developed, it remains one of the premier high-CBD strains on the market. Most commercial CBD oil on the market today is made from Charlotte’s Web.

Charlotte’s Web boasts an impressive 20% CBD content and less than 0.3% THC. It’s completely void of psychoactive effects but provides potent relief for pain, inflammation, and epileptic conditions.

Charlotte’s Web is similar to hemp in its chemical profile. It contains about 4.45% terpenes, the majority of which is linalool (2.25%).

Linalool has been shown to inhibit glutamate [3] which is the main stimulating neurotransmitter in the brain. Increased glutamate activity has been shown to be connected with epileptic conditions [4]. Linalool is likely one of the main reasons why Charlotte’s Web is so effective for treating seizures.

Sour Tsunami

Sour Tsunami was created by the late Lawrence Ringo, a superstar in the CBD community. This was a man who paved the way for CBD and marijuana legalization and has developed many of the world’s leading high-CBD strains.

After the death of this marijuana legend, another high-quality CBD strain was named in his honor (see “Ringo’s Gift” below).

Sour Tsunami was born from a combination of Sour Diesel and NYC Diesel. Both of these parent strains are fairly stimulating and contain fairly high THC. The pair makes for an unlikely set of parents for one of the best CBD strains in existence. This unlikely creation is a testament to Lawrence Ringo’s expertise in marijuana breeding.

Sour Tsunami has about 12% CBD and less than 1% THC. This appears to vary depending on how the plant is grown, however, with some samples tested showing as high as 6% THC.

Nevertheless, this strain is considered mildly stimulating, while maintaining the characteristic benefits of high CBD strains.

Sour Tsunami is rich in the terpenes limonene and pinene.

Limonene is useful for boosting the effects of CBD and THC. Pinene, on the other hand, has the ability to inhibit the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine.

This neurotransmitter is an important player in the process of learning and memory. It’s a common mechanism for nootropic supplements aimed at boosting learning speed and memory.

Sour Tsunami is an excellent choice for those looking to receive the benefits of CBD during the day without feeling sedated. It has the benefits of some mild THC stimulation, which makes it good for improving concentration and focus.

It’s a favorite strain among many business professionals, creatives, and students.

Ringo’s Gift

Ringo’s Gift contains as much as 20 times more CBD than THC. In total, it has about 16% CBD and less than 1% THC.

Ringo’s Gift is the child of ACDC (see honorable mentions) and Harle-Tsu, which are impressively high-CBD strains of themselves.

Its low THC content allows for some mild psychoactivity, mostly in the form of background euphoria. This is a great strain for those looking to receive the benefits of high-CBD marijuana but doesn’t want the couch-lock and fatigue that often comes along with it. This makes Ringo’s Gift perfect as a daytime high-CBD strain.

Ringo’s Gift has a very low terpene content (<1%) which means the majority of its benefits rely specifically on the CBD and THC concentrations. It also means that it has a very mild, earthy aroma.

Harlequin

Harlequin has the highest THC content of any of the other choices on the list. We’ve included it because despite having a higher THC content, its effect profile resembles that of a more CBD dominant strain. The THC content allows for some unique differences.

The CBD:THC ratio of this strain is somewhere between 5:2 and 2:1 (varying reports from cannabis analysis lab results).

Harlequin is great for promoting relaxation without being too sedating. In fact, it tends to be more uplifting on the mood than most of the other high CBD strains available, making it useful for increasing productivity and improving depression or anxiety.

This strain is highest in the terpenes myrcene and pinene.

Myrcene has been shown to provide analgesic effects through the opioid receptors in the brain. This is the same mechanism of action for pharmaceutical painkillers like codeine and morphine [5].

Myrcene has also been shown to improve muscle relaxation by increasing the activity of GABA [6], which is the neurotransmitter responsible for rest and relaxation.

Harlequin is often used in a similar respect to nootropics for boosting creativity, cognitive performance, and focus. It can be used to boost workflow by reducing anxiety and promotes clarity of thought while maintaining only mild psychoactive effects.

Remedy

The remedy is the most sedative of the high-CBD strains on this list. It’s a combination of Cannationnic (one of our honorable mentions) and Afghan Skunk.

The high terpene concentration is unique for a high-CBD strain, which is generally lower in terpene content than other, high-THC strains.

Of the terpenes, limonene is the most abundant terpene in Remedy.  This is the characteristic scent of lemons and citrus fruits and has some medicinal benefits of its own.

In one study, limonene was shown to boost serotonin activity in the prefrontal cortex of the brain [2]. It’s useful on its own as an antidepressant and anxiolytic (reducing anxiety). It’s also reported to enhance the effectiveness of other cannabinoids [1], making their effects more noticeable in the body.

In this way, it’s thought that the limonene content of Remedy is able to boost the overall effectiveness of the CBD, making it more comparable to some of the other strains on this list that contain as much as twice the CBD.

Honorable Mentions

Choosing only 5 of the many high-CBD strains available today was difficult. There are so many breeders producing high-quality strains with varying cannabinoid profiles.

Here are some of our honorable mentions.

Pennywise

Pennywise has high CBD but also contains fairly high THC. It’s a nearly perfect 1:1 ratio of the two cannabinoids.

The equal CBD: THC ratio makes it a jack of all trades, useful for high stress, insomnia, pain, fatigue, poor appetite, and anxiety.

Unfortunately, it also produces a fair degree of psychoactive effects and can be very unpredictable from one user to the next. This is ultimately why it didn’t make our list of top 5.

ACDC

ACDC is overall a great strain, high in CBD (as much as 20%). The THC and terpene content can vary a fair amount and has proven to be unpredictable. THC can range from <1% to over 6%.

This is a great strain for conditions like anxiety, pain, arthritis, and insomnia. Unfortunately, the high variability of this strain’s chemical profile makes it unreliable and its use involves a bit of a gamble.

It may be sedating to some, stimulating to others, and can have any degree of psychoactivity depending on the person.

Cannatonic

Cannatonnic has roughly double the CBD content to THC (15% and 7% respectively) as well as a higher level of another cannabinoid known as CBG (0.5%).

The CBG content offers some additional benefits towards treating pain and insomnia. It tends to complement the effects of CBD well without causing oversedation like other complimentary cannabinoids like CBN which is more often found in high-THC strains.

This is a great high-CBD strain but isn’t as powerful as any of the other strains on our list.

References

1. McPartland, J. M., & Russo, E. B. (2001). Cannabis and cannabis extract: greater than the sum of their parts?. Journal of Cannabis Therapeutics, 1(3-4), 103-132.
2. Komiya, M., Takeuchi, T., & Harada, E. (2006). Lemon oil vapor causes an anti-stress effect via modulating the 5-HT and DA activities in mice. Behavioral brain research, 172(2), 240-249.
3. Effects of Linalool on glutamatergic system in the rat cerebral cortex. Elisabetsky E, Marschner J, Souza DO Neurochem Res. 1995 Apr; 20(4):461-5.
4. Chapman, A. G. (2000). Glutamate and epilepsy. The Journal of nutrition, 130(4), 1043S-1045S.
5. Rao, V. S. N., Menezes, A. M. S., & Viana, G. S. B. (1990). Effect of myrcene on nociception in mice. Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, 42(12), 877-878.
6. Do Vale, T. G., Furtado, E. C., Santos, J. G., & Viana, G. S. B. (2002). Central effects of citral, myrcene and limonene, constituents of essential oil chemotypes from Lippia alba (Mill.) NE Brown. Phytomedicine, 9(8), 709-714.

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• “Drink some nice ginger tea!”
• “That didn’t work? Here’s some peppermint tea!”
• “Still not better? Drink this lemon juice and salt!”
• “Wow, this is a stubborn one. Warm water and baking soda coming up!”

Some home remedies actually can relieve nausea and stop vomiting some of the time. Then again, mom and grandma probably had no other choice. CBD wasn’t legal for sale when you were growing up.

The explosion of CBD sales online and at local stores in virtually every American city has made cannabidiol (the formal name for CBD) available for all sorts of patients – and for those who believe taking it regularly can help with general wellness.

Even if you don’t use it regularly, though, having some CBD oil on hand could be a welcome alternative if you’re suddenly stricken with nausea and need fast relief.

Cannabidiol’s anti-emetic properties haven’t been definitively proven yet, since scientists have only been researching CBD for a few years. But the initial research is promising – and if you’re not sure whether to try it, ask anyone who’s used CBD oil to end a bout of persistent nausea or vomiting. You’re likely to become a convert.

When you’re nauseous, you want relief in a hurry. That requires a very high-quality product because it will retain all of the cannabidiol’s potency, and it will act quickly. After all, it doesn’t really help to take something you think will ease your nausea and then have to wait a few hours before it takes effect.

Here are the best CBD oils for nausea available today.

Best CBD Oil for Nausea

1. Royal CBD Oil

When a new product bursts onto the scene, many companies jump into the marketplace, trying to make a quick buck. For the most part, those manufacturers care a lot less about the product itself than they do about the profits they could make. The CBD market has certainly seen its share of those vendors since the Hemp Act legalized the sale of cannabidiol in 2018.

We prefer companies that focus on quality rather than the potential of quick money – companies like Royal CBD. A small group of cannabis devotees started the operation several years ago to produce high-quality CBD in small batches and raise industry standards. That philosophy is apparent in Royal’s products.

Their full-spectrum CBD oil is sourced from organic, GMO-free West Coast hemp. The cannabidiol is extracted via the supercritical CO2 method, which costs more but produces the most potent CBD. The carrier oil is top-shelf MCT oil from coconuts, and the mint, berry, and vanilla flavors are all provided by natural essential oils. (Royal also offers a natural flavor option).

There are four potencies to choose from, but the best starting point for treating nausea is the lowest: 8.5mg/ml (in a bottle with total CBD content of 250mg). Remember that the higher the dose, the less likely CBD oil is to tame nausea and vomiting. If you want to use the oil for other purposes, however, Royal has potency choices all the way up to 83mg/ml.

Things We Liked:

• Full-spectrum oil with the full entourage effect
• Organic, non-GMO West Coast hemp
• Cannabidiol extracted by supercritical CO2 method
• Four flavors, only natural essential oils used
• Low-potency options for nausea, higher options for other uses

Things We Didn’t Like:

• Rather pricey

2. Gold Bee CBD Oil

Here’s another premium CBD manufacturer. Gold Bee is so focused on quality that they manufacture all of their products in just one facility (to prevent contamination) and produce in such small batches that it can be difficult to find your choice of CBD oil on their website. It sells out that quickly.

The specifics will sound familiar: full-spectrum oil with full entourage effect, organic hemp from local farmers (in Colorado and California), supercritical CO2 extraction, MCT carrier oil, and no artificial ingredients of any kind. In fact, the only ingredient that’s added to Gold Bee CBD oil is natural stevia and honey. Gold Bee also offers two unique flavors; you can pick between Kiwi or Lychee. They are both delicious!

Gold Bee doesn’t sell high-potency CBD; its highest strength level is 80mg/ml (2400mg of CBD per bottle). That shouldn’t matter if you’re buying CBD oil for nausea, though. Fortunately, if you want a lower dose, the company offers a lower strength – 1200mg of CBD per bottle, which is their best seller. CBD Oil is the most versatile way to consume; measure how much oil you needed with the dropper. It does the job well – if you’re able to find it in stock.

Things We Liked:

• Organic American hemp is grown in Colorado and California
• Full-spectrum oil with the entourage effect
• High-end supercritical CO2 extraction, MCT coconut carrier oil

Things We Didn’t Like:

• Only three strength and two flavor choices
• Can be hard to find

3. CBDPure Hemp Oil

The full-spectrum oil from CBDPure sounds a lot like the Gold Bee product. The only production differences are that organic hemp comes from Washington State. The cannabidiol is extracted via CO2 (leaving it slightly less potent than the supercritical method). The only difference you’ll notice when buying this CBD oil for nausea is that there are no flavor choices other than “natural hemp.”

If you want a versatile CBD oil to be used for its other health benefits, you’ll find that the highest potency level that CBDPure offers is even lower than that of Gold Bee, at just 33mg/ml. But if you want it for nausea, the two companies each offer a low strength option of 10mg/ml, which is definitely a workable level.

One definite plus: you’ll probably find it easier to purchase CBDPure Hemp Oil than our top two choices since the company produces at higher volumes and is rarely sold out. It’s a good fallback product.

Things We Liked:

• Washington State, organic hemp
• Full-spectrum oil with <0.3% THC content

Things We Didn’t Like:

• The extraction method (CO2) is not optimal
• No flavor-alternative to “natural hemp”
• Higher potency options aren’t very high potency

CBD Oil for Nausea: Buying Guide

The home remedies for nausea we mentioned earlier remain part of our “folklore” because they’ve been proven to work over generations.

CBD has only been a viable product since 2018 when the U.S. government legalized hemp. It’s already become a go-to answer for many people suffering from nausea or vomiting, though, and research on the use of CBD oil for nausea is up-and-coming.

What Causes Nausea?

To understand why cannabidiol effectively eases nausea, you first have to understand what causes that sickening feeling.

Nausea is a symptom, not a disease, and many issues can make you feel nauseous. Common ones are food poisoning or other bacterial infections that affect the GI tract, motion sickness, reactions (like heartburn and GERD) to specific types of food, and chemotherapy treatments.

CBD can’t prevent most of those initial problems. But it can do something else almost as important.

When the body recognizes that you’re developing nausea, it jumps into action by releasing a neurotransmitter known as serotonin. It’s basically a chemical that transfers signals to the nervous system and brain.

The body may not know exactly what’s causing the problem, but it assumes that the issue is in the gastrointestinal system. Since serotonin is essential to moving food out of the GI tract (1), serotonin is meant to force irritants or “bad food” out of the body. Here’s the problem: serotonin can actually make nausea even worse. That’s why a slight feeling of nausea often gets much worse before it gets better.

How CBD Helps With Nausea

When the discomfort of nausea sets in, here’s how CBD can help. Research has found that cannabidiol interacts with the same receptors that handle signals from serotonin. In large doses, CBD appears to boost the effect of serotonin and make nausea worse, even though it helps lower stress. In small doses, though, there is strong evidence that cannabidiol lowers the effect of serotonin, easing both nausea and vomiting. (2)

Cannabinoids (the active components in cannabis, like CBD and psychoactive THC) don’t just affect serotonin. They also interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), and that interaction is believed to play a role in suppressing nausea and vomiting. The primary benefit occurs when THC binds with CB1 receptors in the ECS. However, CBD seems to play a role in the process as well. (3)

Marijuana contains both THC and CBD. It’s one form of cannabis and has been used for quite some time to help cancer patients deal with nausea and vomiting, which often accompany chemotherapy. On the other hand, commercially available CBD is sourced from the other form of cannabis, hemp. It only contains a minuscule amount (less than 0.3%) of THC and doesn’t make it high.

But even without the “high” THC content of pot, evidence shows that small amounts of CBD can reduce nausea. It’s also been shown to prevent anticipatory nausea brought on by sights, sounds, or smells that a patient associates with previous nausea-inducing experiences.

CBD Oil vs. Other Forms of CBD

Some of the medical benefits that CBD apparently provides are useful for long-term issues like anxiety, chronic pain, heart disease, and even skin blemishes like acne (4). In those cases, it doesn’t matter if the cannabidiol takes a while to make it into the bloodstream after you’ve taken it, as long as it works.

Nausea is very different, of course. It’s an immediate problem that needs an immediate solution. Since research shows that cannabidiol is a promising treatment for nausea, it goes without saying that you need relief right away.

That would seem to rule out several forms of CBD which are commonly available.

• CBD capsules and edibles take quite a while to act since you must first digest them, and the cannabidiol must then be broken down in the liver. (The same drawbacks apply to CBD oil that’s dropped into food or drinks.)
• Topical CBD creams and ointments are only effective for muscle aches and skin treatment since cannabidiol can’t penetrate the epidermis to reach the bloodstream.

Vaping CBD is a viable option. Vapor reaches the lungs and is transferred into the bloodstream almost immediately. Most people, however, don’t want to bother with vaping – or don’t want to inhale anything foreign into their lungs.

The remaining choice is CBD oil, and for the majority of patients, it’s the most effective way to get immediate relief. The oil is dropped onto the sublingual glands (located under the tongue) and is instantly absorbed by the body. That way, there’s no hours-long wait for the cannabidiol to take effect. It can quickly stop or ease nausea and vomiting.

One question remains, and it’s a good one. How do you know much oil to use?

If you’re lucky, the company may print dosage instructions right on the label. Otherwise, you’ll have to figure it out on your own, using a medicine dropper that measures milliliters.

The potency of CBD oil is measured in milligrams (of cannabidiol) per milliliter (of oil), abbreviated as mg/ml. So the key number to look for on the bottle’s label is mg/ml. The general recommendation is to use 1-2mg of cannabidiol for every ten pounds of your body weight.

As we’ve mentioned, however, research indicates that only small doses of CBD are effective against nausea. That means using an even smaller dose than is suggested for other purposes; you may want to try starting with ½ mg for every ten pounds of your weight. Here’s an example. If the CBD’s potency (from the label) is 20mg/ml and you weigh 200 pounds, a good starting point would be 10mg of cannabidiol, the amount contained in ½ milliliter of oil.

You can always increase from there since you can’t overdose on CBD, and it doesn’t have any serious side effects. And don’t worry – dosing and taking the oil will be easy after you’ve done it once or twice.

The last remaining task is finding the highest quality CBD oil for your nausea.

Best CBD Oil for Nausea: Buying Tips

Buying CBD oil can be tricky. It’s only been legal for sale for a few years, so there are no “well-known manufacturers” to rely on. Instead, it’s up to you to do your due diligence ahead of time.

But once you understand the key attributes to look for in CBD oil, you’ll be able to judge whether a producer really cares about what’s inside the bottle or is cutting corners to earn a quick profit.

The best-quality CBD oils have these qualities in common.

1. They’re full-spectrum oil. That means all hemp plant components have been extracted along with the CBD, allowing them to work together in an “entourage effect” that boosts the cannabidiol’s performance. The common alternative to full-spectrum oil is CBD isolate, which some people choose because it doesn’t contain the tiny amount of THC normally found in hemp. There’s no entourage effect with CBD isolate, but there’s also zero chance that a susceptible drug test will go “tilt” because of the <0.3% THC in full-spectrum oil.
2. The CBD comes from organic hemp grown in America. Organic hemp produces organic CBD without pesticides or other nasty chemicals, and U.S. farmers have to adhere to stricter standards than their counterparts in most other nations.
3. The cannabidiol has been extracted with the supercritical CO2 method, which preserves almost all of the CBD’s potency. Less-expensive methods like standard CO2 extraction, cold-press extraction, steam distillation, and extraction with natural solvents eliminate some of the CBD’s strength. (Avoid any oil produced by hydrocarbon extraction because it can leave toxic residue behind.)
4. The “carrier” oil added to provide even distribution of the cannabidiol should ideally be an MCT oil. MCT oils like coconut oil do the job better than hempseed or other types of oil. The worst choice is vegetable glycerin.
5. There are only two (or three) ingredients in the best CBD oil for nausea. Cannabidiol and carrier oil are the key ingredients in CBD oil; the third can be a natural essential oil for flavoring since natural hemp tastes quite raw. Any artificial flavorings or unnecessary ingredients will produce a lower-quality oil and detract from the performance of the CBD.

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