How to Take CBD Oil: A Guide on How to Use CBD Products
The use of CBD oil is becoming increasingly popular with people who are looking for a natural alternative to improve and enhance their health and mental and physical well-being. To help you make the most of the benefits of CBD oils, let's take a look at the different uses and dosages.
How is CBD Oil Made
CBD oil is a blend of a pure CBD extract and a carrier oil. To obtain the highest quality CBD, the hemp from which it is extracted should be grown organically without the use of pesticides. Anything that goes into our CBD oils undergoes rigorous controls to ensure you can enjoy our products with peace of mind.
CBD is lipophilic, which means it dissolves in oils. What's more, studies have shown that mixing it with a fatty substance increases its bioavailability (your body's ability to absorb it) - thereby enhancing its effects [1]. Generally, vegetable oils such as MCT coconut oil, olive oil, or hemp seed oil are used to make CBD oils. At Harmony, we developed a special mix of MCT and organic olive oil to ensure a long shelf life and optimal taste. We also add organic essential oils as a source of not only delicious flavour, but also natural terpenes that can work synergistically with cannabinoids to enhance their effect [2].
It's important to distinguish between broad-spectrum CBD and full-spectrum CBD oils. While both contain high levels of CBD and other cannabinoids (such as CBG, CBC and others) - the main difference lies in the CBD distillation process and the presence of THC residues. THC is the active molecule in cannabis responsible for its psychotropic effects (it's the compound that gets you "high") [3]. A full spectrum CBD oil contains a very small trace amount of THC (less than 0.2%, so it's still perfectly legal in the UK and EU). A broad spectrum CBD oil is guaranteed THC-free.
The Benefits of CBD Products
Studies and user feedback highlight the many benefits of hemp-derived CBD products and CBD edibles (such as CBD oil or tincture, CBD gummies, CBD capsules). Studies suggest that CBD has anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antispasmodic properties [4]. They also show that it is a powerful anxiolytic that could help combat anxiety and stress by acting directly on the nervous system [5]. However, we want to point out that this research regarding the health benefits of CBD is only in its infancy and CBD products should not be used as a medicine. If you have an underlying health condition you would like to address, please speak to your doctor first before you go ahead and try CBD.
The Best Way to Take CBD Oil
CBD oil can be taken orally, and more specifically sublingually (under the tongue). Just place a few CBD oil drops under your tongue and hold them there for a minute or more before swallowing or taking a sip of water. This is by far the most common way to use CBD oil and due to the sublingual absorption the CBD can take effect quicker compared to ingesting it directly [6].
As hemp has a very distinctive taste that might not suit everyone's palette, we offer a sweetened mint and citrus flavour in handy spray and drop formats.
How Much CBD Oil Should You Take?
We recommend that you always start with the lowest recommended dose of CBD and closely monitor how it makes you feel. From there, you can gradually increase your dose of CBD until you achieve the desired outcome. Keep in mind that it might take some time to feel the effects of CBD and that they vary according to the individual, the concentration and quality of your CBD oil, and the type of CBD in the oil. It is currently not recommended to exceed a total amount of CBD of 70 mg per day (5).
How to Use CBD Oil for Sleep
Numerous studies have highlighted the benefits of CBD for sleep [7]. Cannabidiol may be able to regulate the circadian clock and thus promote a better sleep/wake cycle. Effects of course vary according to the quantity of CBD ingested and the individual, but users often notice benefits starting from 20-25 mg of CBD taken 30 minutes before going to bed.
CBD drops : Very Strong - 3000 mg Start with ¼ dropper (0.25 ml) every night. The bottle (30 ml) will last you 120 days. Strong - 1000 mg Start with ¾ dropper (0.75 ml) each night. The bottle (30 ml) will last 40 days.
CBD Sprays : Very Strong - 1500 mg Start with 2 sprays (0.20 ml) every night. Bottle (15 ml) will last 75 days. Strong - 500 mg Start with 6 sprays (0.60 ml) each night. Bottle (15 ml) lasts 25 days.
How to Use CBD Oil for Anxiety
Research and the opinions of many users agree that using CBD oil can help you feel calmer and reduce anxiety [5]. We starting with 10 mg of cannabidiol per day, using it in the morning or just before a stressful situation.
CBD drops: Strong 1000 mg Start with 6 drops (0.3 ml) once a day, increasing to 3 times if necessary. The bottle (30 ml) will last at least 33 days. Mild 300 mg 22.99€ Start with 1 full pipette (1.0 ml) once a day, then increase to 3 times if necessary. The bottle (30 ml) will last at least 10 days.
CBD Sprays Very Strong 1500 mg Start with 1 spray (0.10 ml) once a day, then increase to 3 if necessary. The bottle (15 ml) will last at least 50 days. Strong 500 mg Start with 3 sprays (0.30 ml) once a day, then increase to 3 if necessary. The bottle (15 ml) will last at least 17 days.
How to Use CBD Oil for Pain
A growing number of studies suggest that CBD may be of interest for people looking to reduce pain and inflammation [8]. Studies, as well as the use of CBD by many sportsmen and women, highlight CBD's anti-inflammatory properties and its action on muscle and joint pain [9]. The recommended dose here varies widely and may be a little higher, but it of course depends on your profile and experience with CBD. Make sure not to exceed 70 mg per day and keep in mind that CBD is not a miracle drug or medicine!
At What Age Can You Take CBD?
Scientific studies are still contradictory on this subject, and the legal age for taking CBD varies from country to country. While CBD is used to treat epilepsy in certain children under medical supervision, the use of recreational CBD wellness products is different. In the UK and Europe, CBD oil and other CBD products can be taken from the age of 18.
CBD Oil during Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
CBD is an active substance that is not considered as harmful for adults, as long as the recommended doses are respected. Nevertheless, due to the lack of scientific studies at the time, it is not recommended to take CBD oil during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
The Best CBD Oil Price
You can buy CBD oil in specialized physical and online stores and you'll also find CBD oil in pharmacies. The price of CBD oil varies widely and depends on a lot of factors such as the concentration and the quality and origin of the ingredients. On average, the price of CBD oil ranges from €15 to €100+ for a 30ml bottle.
The level of CBD concentration will have a major impact on the price. Full-spectrum and broad-spectrum oils tend to be more expensive than CBD isolate ones, but also offer more benefits. If you're concerned about the effects of traces of THC, we recommend you use our broad-spectrum products.
If you compare prices, you will quickly find that our Harmony premium CBD oils are among the most affordable ones on the market. This is made possible thanks to close relationships with our partners and a short, sustainable supply chain operating exclusively in Europe and the UK.
written by
anna falk - head of product
As the Head of Product at Harmony, Dr Anna Falk leads the development of our products and provides expert tips for your wellness. With over 10 years of experience in the research and development of natural products, her work is based on rigorous scientific studies.
Anna is an award-winning, internationally published researcher with a PhD in Organic Chemistry. She applies her expertise to develop Harmony's certified products that support your overall well-being. From research to development, she ensures that our products are of the highest quality and meet the highest standards.
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[8] Svensson CK. CBD for the treatment of pain: What is the evidence? J Am Pharm Assoc (2003). 2020 Nov-Dec;60(6):e80-e83. — link to source
[9] McCartney D, Benson MJ, Desbrow B, Irwin C, Suraev A, McGregor IS. Cannabidiol and Sports Performance: a Narrative Review of Relevant Evidence and Recommendations for Future Research. Sports Med Open. 2020 Jul 6;6(1):27. — link to source
