CBD, or cannabidiol, is an organic molecule found in the flowers, stems and leaves of the hemp plant. CBD use has become more widespread in recent years with early testing suggesting a wide range of potential benefits associated with taking the supplement.
CBD differs from THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) in that it has no psychoactive element and cannot therefore produce a feeling of “high”. It is instead taken to relieve conditions such as PTSD, epilepsy or chronic pain. Research is being undertaken to find out how CBD might also benefit arthritis and anxiety. This is where the main confusion and misapprehension stems from concerning CBD as many people believe that it contains similar high-inducing properties to THC.
There is some early research to suggest that CBD may help to ease symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well as also potentially soothing muscle soreness and inflammation. Those who support CBD oil praise its many uses for relieving conditions such as insomnia and depression, inflammation and chronic pain. We have many customers who attest to the power of CBD and how it has been an essential in their recovery from both injury and extensive exercise.
Following the arrest and sentencing of Billy Hood in Dubai on 31 January 2021 for possession of a CBD vape oil, there has been heightened interest on the CBD industry and the product in particular. Below, we will hope to clear up some questions surrounding CBD in the UK: what it is, its uses, its legality currently.
What Is CBD?
Cannabinoids are the chemical compounds that make up the cannabis plant. There are more than 100 different cannabinoids, concentrated to various degrees in specific areas of the plant. The most familiar of these compounds are cannabidiol (or CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (known as THC).
These cannabinoids interact with receptors in cells to influence the release of neurotransmitters in the brain. They impact on the body in a variety of ways. In the UK, oil made from CBD is available over-the-counter, as it does not produce a “high”. On the other hand, THC is classified as a controlled substance under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 due to its psychoactive elements. CBD oil has become normalised over the past few years but opinions differ on its usefulness. Some praise its benefits while others dismiss it altogether.
What Is CBD Used For?
Chronic Conditions
In 2017 the WHO (World Health Organisation) released a report, detailing its findings on the benefits of CBD. The report found that CBD might relieve a variety of chronic diseases or conditions, such as cancer, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease. In addition, it may provide relief for some complications from diabetes and ease the symptoms of anxiety, depression and general pain. It should be noted that research is still ongoing into the health benefits of CBD.
The journal “Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry” recently published a study linking CBD oil with weight loss. It reported that CBD could help the body to convert white fat cells into brown. White fat cells store excess calories that can lead to conditions such as obesity or diabetes. Brown fat cells, however, burn off as the body generates heat. In this way, CBD oil might be a healthy way to lose weight.
Studies have suggested that CBD can boost the amount of mitochondria in brown fat cells. These literally provide the power for the cells to produce heat and burn calories. CBD might also reduce the generation of protein that makes new fat cells. Scientific research suggests that this provides more evidence of the potential for CBD to aid weight loss.
How To Take CBD Oil
There are various ways to take CBD oil. It is available in capsule form or taken as a tincture under the tongue. Oral drops or sprays are available or it can be applied directly onto the skin. Gels and rubs are generally used for sporting injuries. Those suffering with arthritis use CBD products to try to reduce their symptoms.
We would suggest that to effectively take our CBD oil tinctures, one should fill the pipette with around 0.8 – 1.0 ml of oil before dropping the amount underneath the tongue. We would then suggest you let the oil sit under your tongue for 30 seconds before swallowing. This process increases the bioavailability of the CBD, meaning that by letting it diffuse slowly through the sublingual glands underneath your tongue the CBD can more effectively enter the bloodstream and get to work.
CBD On The High Street
Many CBD oil products are readily available on today’s high street. The Centre for Medicinal Cannabis (CMC) carried out an analysis of CBD products available on the high street. It found considerable variations in the quality. An article in the Times suggested that more than half of the most popular oils contained less CBD than was labelled.
Despite variations in the quality of CBD products, the market is constantly growing. The CMC predicts that in the UK the annual CBD market may reach nearly one billion pounds within the next five years.
We have a range of CBD products from our CBD tincture oils that have been seen by our customers to reduce inflammation, to our muscle and joint balm that helps soothe soreness post-exercise. For those who are still unsure of CBD, we also offer a range of nootropic products that contain the finest mixture of natural ingredients to improve cognitive function and dissolve brain fog.
Is CBD Oil Legal?
There is some confusion about whether or not CBD oil is legal in the UK, especially following the conviction of Billy Hood in the United Arab Emirates following his possession of a CBD oil vape. Laws in the United Arab Emirates treat CBD as a drug similar to cannabis, thus making it is highly illegal to possess and consume there. What’s more, the punishment for breaking these laws is severe: if Emirati authorities find just traces of CBD in your blood they can issue a sentence of up to four years.
In the UK however, CBD is totally legal following a lengthy process of legislative recalibration. On 14 February 2020 the Food Standards Agency and CBD foods/food supplements released updated information on the importing and sale of CBD. The sale of CBD depends on the product category. No licence is required to sell CBD in the UK as long as it contains 0% THC. Generally, for CBD to be sold legally, sellers must comply with rules on labelling and ensure that the product contains 0% THC.
Puresport CBD’s Quality CBD
Puresport’s CBD is tested by the Banned Substances Control Group (BSCG) which represents the gold standard for supplement testing worldwide. The rigorous testing process ensures that Puresport’s broad spectrum CBD is of the highest purity, free from harmful contaminants, toxins, and most importantly ensuring that there is the 0% THC content.
We are trusted by athletes and professionals alike for the quality of our CBD. Alongside our stringent testing stipulations, we ensure that our CBD is third party lab tested to promote consistency and remove any bias. Our tinctures are 100% vegan and vegetarian friendly as well as being herbicide and pesticide free. Whilst the market is saturated with CBD oils of varying quality and consistency within the UK, Puresport’s products differentiate themselves on their supreme quality; we as a company make sure that we are providing the best natural ingredients and pure CBD for our customers to produce the best results.
Laws For CBD Oil
The ever-changing legislative environment is paving the way for people to incorporate CBD safely and healthily into their lifestyle. Sativex is medical marijuana made from a concentrate taken from the whole plant. Manufactured in the UK, it is used as a mouth spray. It may improve symptoms related to muscle stiffness, or spasticity, in those suffering from multiple sclerosis.
Specialist clinicians are now able to prescribe some medicinal products derived from cannabis. Medicinal cannabis is not licensed and can only be prescribed to a patient if licensed medicines have proved unsuccessful. Yet, this does not affect the legality of CBD oil which is fully available for sale without a prescription. Confusion over the legal status of CBD has resulted in several well-publicised cases of parents taking their children abroad to receive treatment. New rules on the manufacture and sale of CBD are expected soon. They should further clarify the legal position on CBD.
Ultimately, the power of CBD is slowly being recognised by the wider wellness community. The experiences of our customers demonstrates that this high quality, BSCG product can be an important addition to your daily routine. We would like to extend an invitation to join us on our wellness journey.