CBD gummies are a new and innovative way to add certain health benefits to your life or help manage the symptoms of a medical condition. They provide an option for you to seamlessly integrate cannabinoids, specifically CBD, into your well-being routine. CBD gummies are affordable, easily accessible in both ‘brick and mortar’ shops and online and come in different strength mg doses. The ease of dosage allows for accurate and consistent administration, and in a discreet manner.

CBD gummies offer a prolonged shelf life and don't require immediate consumption. They closely resemble regular candy, which helps reduce any associated stigma. These gummies are suitable for individuals of all ages and present the opportunity to address various health conditions. By incorporating CBD into your diet as a conscious choice for a healthy and well-balanced lifestyle, you may also experience some noticeable benefits.

Unlike THC, CBD does not induce any type of intoxicating 'high'. Although non-psycotropic, it is still considered a psychoactive compound, primarily due to its potential in treating psychiatric conditions. CBD has shown promising results in reducing unwanted symptoms related to stress, depression, ADHD, autism, schizophrenia, anxiety, and PTSD.

What is CBD? The lowdown

Now that you're familiar with CBD gummies, you might have a larger question in mind:

What exactly is CBD?

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a compound derived from the cannabis plant. It's produced in the tiny, crystal-like glands called trichomes that grow on the surface of cannabis flowers and leaves. CBD belongs to a group of chemical neurotransmitters called cannabinoids, with CBD being a phytocannabinoid. Endocannabinoids are cannabinoids that your body produces naturally, and phytocannabinoids are those found in plants. Certain phytocannabinoids, CBD included, have a very similar chemical structure to the endocannabinoids, allowing them to interact with your body's endocannabinoid system (ECS).

The ECS is the largest regulatory system in your body, responsible for maintaining balance and homeostasis. It is a vital system that plays a role in regulating a wide variety of processes in the body, including pain, inflammation, mood, sexual function, hunger, inflammation, and immune response.

Why gummies? Convenience meets cannabinoids

Discovering a means to enhance your health and alleviate discomfort, inflammation, or other annoyances can have a profound impact on your life. However, determining the most effective method to derive those benefits may not be a straightforward task. Historically, cannabinoids were predominantly inhaled, but now, gummies offer a delightful way to enjoy the advantages of CBD without any of the health concerns related to smoking cannabis.

Incorporating CBD into your daily routine is made easy with CBD gummies. They offer a cost-effective and easily obtainable option, commonly found in health food shops across the UK, or can also be sourced online. Each package of CBD gummies provides dosage information, ensuring you are aware of the CBD content in each individual gummy and the total pack. It is important to note that not all gummy brands offer the same dosage, so exercise caution if you are sensitive to their effects. Take gummies as needed, finding the optimal dose for your needs, and observing the duration of their effects.

CBD gummies have a long shelf life, allowing you to enjoy them at your own pace. They are convenient to carry and discreet to use in public, easily mistaken for ordinary sweets by unsuspecting individuals. It's worth noting that CBD gummies are completely legal, so there's no need to feel any stigma or shame when consuming them.

So, CBD is legal in the UK?

Yes, it most certainly is, as long as it meets specific criteria. CBD is not a scheduled cannabinoid in the UK. CBD must be derived from hemp cultivars which contain low levels of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound found in cannabis responsible for producing a 'high' sensation. CBD products must contain less than 0.2% THC and no more than 1 mg in a total packaged item. To be legal in the UK, making it safe and non-intoxicating.

What are the different types of CBD gummies?

There are three main categories of CBD gummies:

Isolate CBD gummies

Isolate gummies are created with pure CBD extract, meaning they contain only CBD and no other compounds from the cannabis plant. These gummies are suited for those who want to avoid consuming traces of THC.

Broad spectrum CBD gummies

Broad spectrum gummies include a range of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids from the hemp plant, but do not contain any THC. They provide a more comprehensive range of benefits than isolate gummies, but still without the risk of psychoactive effects.

Full spectrum CBD gummies

Full spectrum gummies contain all the naturally occurring cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids from the hemp plant, including trace amounts of THC. These gummies offer enhanced benefits due to the entourage effect, where all the compounds work together synergistically to produce a more profound effect.

What are the potential benefits of using CBD gummies?

Research on the potential health benefits of CBD is still ongoing, but preliminary studies have shown that CBD may help with a variety of conditions. Some potential benefits include:

• Pain relief: Studies have shown that CBD may help alleviate chronic pain by interacting with the ECS and receptors involved in pain perception.
• Anxiety and depression: CBD has been found to interact with serotonin receptors in the brain, which are responsible for regulating mood and anxiety. This may result in a reduction of anxiety-related symptoms.
• Inflammation: Studies have suggested that CBD may offer anti-inflammatory effects, making it a potential treatment for conditions like arthritis, Crohn's disease, and other inflammatory diseases.
• Neurodegenerative diseases: Some studies have shown that CBD may have neuroprotective properties, potentially slowing down the progression of neurological conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.
• Epilepsy: The administration of CBD has been approved by the NHS to treat certain forms of epilepsy, and studies have shown that it may help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures.

Potential side effects

The safety data supporting CBD’s efficacy shows that it is very safe (especially when compared to certain pharmaceuticals), with few side effects reported. However, some potential side effects may include:

• Dry mouth: CBD can decrease saliva production, leading to a dry mouth. It is important to stay hydrated when consuming CBD products.
• Low blood pressure: High doses of CBD have been associated with a temporary drop in blood pressure. Those taking medications for low blood pressure should exercise caution when consuming CBD.
• Drowsiness: Some people may experience drowsiness when taking CBD, especially at higher doses.
• Gastrointestinal problems: In rare cases, CBD may cause diarrhoea or changes in appetite.
• Negative drug interactions: CBD may interact with certain medications, so it is significant to consult with a healthcare professional before consuming CBD products if you are currently taking any medications.

What size dose of CBD gummies should I take?

This is a bit of a "how long is a piece of string?" type of question. The optimal dose of CBD gummies varies depending on several factors, including body weight, individual biology, and the severity of the medical condition being treated. It is best to start with a low dose and gradually increase until you reach your desired effect.

Some general guidelines for dosing include:

• For mild conditions: 10-20 mg per day
• For moderate conditions: 20-40 mg per day
• For severe conditions: 40-70+ mg per day

It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment, including CBD gummies. They can provide you with personalized recommendations and monitor your progress.

Some individuals may experience the effects of as little as 2.5 mg of CBD, however, those with more severe conditions or a higher tolerance to CBD might require doses ranging from 25 mg to 100 mg or even higher. If you are uncertain or anxious, it is advisable to start with a low dosage and gradually increase it.

In the UK, individuals consuming CBD edibles are advised by the government to limit their daily intake to a maximum of 70 mg. This guidance aims to minimize any potential drug interactions that may arise from CBD usage, ensuring the best possible outcomes. It will usually take anywhere between 30 and 120 minutes for the effects of CBD gummies to be felt, and they should last 3–5 hours.

Patients prescribed Epidyolex for epilepsy through the NHS are advised to take a dose of 5 mg per kg of body weight. This dosage demonstrates that humans have a significant tolerance for CBD, as there are no reported serious side effects. For instance, a person weighing 70 kg would require a dose of 350 mg of CBD.

Conclusion

CBD gummies offer an easy, convenient, delicious, and discreet way to take CBD to help manage a range of medical conditions. With its potential health benefits and minimal side effects, it is no wonder that more and more people are turning to CBD as a natural alternative. While the need for more research is ever-present, preliminary studies have shown its potential in treating various medical conditions such as pain, anxiety, inflammation, neurodegenerative diseases, and epilepsy.

And while CBD gummies can be easily sourced from reputable retailers in the UK, it is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your current treatment plan. This helps ensure the best possible outcomes and to monitor for any potential interactions with other medications. With proper guidance, CBD gummies can be an effective and safe treatment option for those seeking natural relief.

Releaf understands the importance of medical cannabis in treating various medical conditions. With our tailored monthly packages, specialist consultations for medical cannabis, and a unique medical cannabis card for protection, you can access the treatment you require without worrying about the stigma.