Everyone’s gotta start somewhere! If you’ve heard the buzz about CBD and you’re wondering if it’s all hype or a promising relaxation tool, why not give it a try? Whether you would prefer to smoke it, vape it, swallow it, chew it, slather it on, or go straight to the source with a full flower, you’ve got plenty of options. But if you’re a total newbie, you might be confused or intimidated by the consumption methods, the dosages, and the new terms. So, in this guide, we’re going to discuss CBD for beginners: what it is, how it works, and what you should know before diving in.
A Quick Guide to CBD for Beginners
What is CBD?
CBD is short for cannabidiol, which is a naturally occurring compound found in the cannabis plant. More specifically, it’s found in hemp, a variety of cannabis with very low levels of THC. Unlike THC, the psychoactive compound responsible for the “high” produced by marijuana, CBD doesn’t produce any intoxicating effects. It does provide other wellness benefits, however.
What are the potential benefits of CBD?
Research into the full potential of CBD is still ongoing, but many people use CBD as a natural supplement to support their overall wellness. Some of the most commonly reported benefits of CBD include the following:
- Stress Relief: CBD may provide a sense of calm by interacting with receptors in the brain involved in mood regulation. People often report feeling less anxious and stressed after using it.
- Better Sleep: If you struggle with falling asleep or staying asleep, CBD could provide nightly assistance. It can act as a natural sleep aid, helping to ease racing thoughts and prevent restlessness so that you can wind down and doze off.
- Pain Management: CBD has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce discomfort from sore muscles or joints. Some people like to use it after workouts.
- Mental Clarity: Some people find that CBD helps them avoid mental fog and distractions, which can lead to better focus. This could be related to its ability to lower stress levels, with less stress leading to more focus.
- Relaxation: When you simply want to chill out, CBD can come in handy. It can provide a sense of physical ease, helping you calm down and relax.
Which consumption method is recommended for beginners?
Several consumption methods work well for beginners, so your choice will likely depend on your goals. How fast-acting would you prefer it to be? Are you worried about measuring the dosage? Are you looking for targeted or full-body relaxation? Do you need it to be discreet? Let’s look at the pros and cons of a few options:
- Tinctures are fast-acting and flexible. You simply place the drops under your tongue, and you can easily adjust the dosage. However, they do require a bit of measuring. They also have an earthy taste, which you may or may not enjoy.
- Gummies are convenient, tasty, and discreet. Because they come in pre-measured dosages, they’re an excellent choice for beginners. However, they do take a while to kick in (about 30 to 90 minutes), and you’ll need to chop up the gummy to adjust the dose, which can be tricky and imprecise.
- Topicals are very easy to apply — simply slather them on like lotion. However, they provide localized relief, not full-body relaxation.
For most people, a CBD tincture or gummy is probably the best starting point. Just decide whether you want it flexible and quick (tinctures) or pre-measured and slow-acting (gummies).
How much CBD should I start with?
It’s always best to start small and work your way up. Try starting with 5-10 mg of CBD and see how your body responds. If you enjoy the effects, wonderful! If you’re hoping for a more potent experience, add more.
When using gummies, keep in mind that you can easily cut a gummy in half for a less potent experience. Also, remember that it can take 90 minutes or more for the CBD to enter your bloodstream, so be cautious about consuming more too soon.
What else do I need to know?
When you’re shopping for CBD, you’ll notice terms like broad-spectrum, full-spectrum, and isolate. To better understand these options, review our blog post What Is Broad-Spectrum CBD? You might also find these blog posts helpful:
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Are you interested in trying CBD? Whether you’re a newbie or a total pro, check out Metta Hemp. We offer a wide variety of high-quality CBD for beginners. While you’re visiting our online shop, be sure to peruse our vast collection of CBD gummies, joints, tinctures, topicals, vapes, flowers, and more. Founded in 2017, Metta Hemp is committed to providing high-quality products, ethically grown cannabis, and kind and helpful customer service. Find our products in a store near you or shop online today!
