What You Need To Know About THC-Free CBD

Cannabis is a naturally grown wild plant that contains cannabinoids. These are chemical compounds that can affect the human body once consumed. Their effects vary depending on the type of plant, how it was cultivated, and the quantity used. Two of the main cannabinoids are THC and CBD.

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the chemical primarily responsible for the psychological effects of cannabis. It gives users a sense of ‘high’ which—with prolonged and regular use—can cause substance dependence. On the other hand, CBD (cannabidiol) is another cannabinoid. It may be lab-manufactured or derived from hemp—a close relative of marijuana.

CBD products may contain trace amounts of THC. Legally, these products can contain 0.3% of THC at most. For consumers who are worried about the effects of THC exposure, THC-free CBD products may be a more appealing option. Below, check out the things you may not know yet about THC-free CBD.

THC-Free CBD Is Not Totally THC-Free

CBD isolates, another term used for THC-free CBD, still contains a small portion of THC, but isn't enough to give a high sensation to users. However, if you’re planning to take a drug test in the near future, it’d be best if you don't use any CBD drug because the test can still trace THC even on such levels. 

Before you purchase a CBD product claiming to be THC-free, make sure to check its COA (Certificate of Analyses). The amount of THC should be no more than 0.3% in accordance with federal law. 

In addition, don’t forget that while CBD is legal in all 50 states, there are restrictions on what types of products people can access. For example, in Virginia, people can use CBD for medical purposes as long as the product contains 0.5% THC or less. In Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New Hampshire, only CBD products that are approved by the FDA may be legally sold and purchase.

THC-Free CBD May Help Relieve High Blood Pressure, Anxiety, And Stress

High blood pressure is a condition that can lead to serious health problems like a stroke or heart attack. A recent study published in the Journal of Hypertension suggested that CBD may act as a vasodilator—a treatment or medication that opens blood vessels, helps improve blood circulation, and lowers blood pressure. 

Another study published in The Permanente Journal examined the reported anxiety levels and sleep quality scores of 72 adults. 79% of those who were treated with CBD reported experiencing reduced anxiety. 67% of the participants also saw higher sleep scores during the first month of the treatment.

A study published in the journal Neuropsychopharmacology conducted an experiment on patients who are suffering from generalized social anxiety. The respondents who had taken CBD before the public speaking task reported reduced levels of cognitive impairment and nervousness.

THC-Free CBD May Help Reduce Inflammation

Inflammation is essential because it lets macrophages (a kind of white blood cell) protect the injured area from possible infection, but the discomfort it brings can be inconvenient. There are some studies that show how THC-free CBD may help slow down the inflammation. 

For instance, in a 2018 study, patients suffering from knee pain due to osteoarthritis reported statistically significant improvements in their pain level after the researchers administered synthetic CBD gel. Researchers from the Medical University of Białystok in Poland also suggested that CBD may help reduce inflammation by affecting the endocannabinoid receptors in the body.

THC-Free CBD Is Available In Different Forms

THC-free CBD comes in different forms, including the following:

• Edibles contain CBD extracts in food form, such as tea or chocolate.
• Tinctures and oils generally have an alcohol, oil, or glycerin base. They’re taken through a dropper and are available in different flavors and strengths.
• Lotions and creams are applied topically.
• Vaporizers<span< a=””> style=”font-weight: 400;”> deliver CBD extracts through inhalation.</span<>

Before purchasing THC-free CBD in any form, take the time to check the product’s ingredient list. Manufacturers often include ingredients such as flavoring and other additives alongside the CBD extract.

THC-Free CBD Has Side-Effects

As amazing as it may appear to be, THC-Free CBD still has side-effects that you should be aware of, like fatigue, weight loss, diarrhea, and dizziness. According to a 2017 study, a person can safely tolerate at least 1500 mg per day. Excessive consumption of CBD may cause seizures, unresponsiveness, and liver damage.

The effects of CBD would mostly depend on how you use it. If CBD was smoked, the effect may be felt sooner because it can go straight to your bloodstream and your nervous system. If CBD was orally consumed, the effect may take some time to settle in because it has to go first through your digestive system.

Is It Worth The Shot?

You’ll often see THC-free CBD being touted by marketers and manufacturers as a cure-all treatment addressing a wide variety of illnesses and medical conditions. The reality is that research on the long-term effects of CBD is still quite limited. However, there’s science-backed evidence out there suggesting that THC-free CBD may be beneficial to your health.