Close up of a woman using an Appalachian Standard CBD vape and exhaling vapor

CBD For Beginners

May 17, 2022Customer Service

Thankfully, the stigma against hemp and cannabis use is starting to shift and the benefits of this magical healing plant are surfacing, drawing people from all walks of life seeking natural relief. You might be considering starting a CBD regimen for a more holistic approach to manage chronic pain or anxiety, to help maintain focus, or to simply get a better night’s rest. Here we will take a deeper dive into what CBD is, how it works, and what different intake method options are available.

WHAT IS CBD AND HOW DOES IT WORK?

CBD or cannabidiol is the naturally occurring cannabinoid that is found in the cannabis plant. Although it is oftentimes confused with marijuana, CBD does not cause any psychoactive effects in users the way that another cannabinoid, THC, does. Research on CBD is still in its infancy, but multiple studies and a large body of individuals’ anecdotal reports show that cannabidiol provides users with an ever-growing list of medicinal benefits. All bodies (even animals) have an endocannabinoid system, a collection of cell receptors whose primary role is to regulate different functions and systems in the body. The receptors that make up our endocannabinoid system regulate major bodily systems. Endocannabinoids are actually created naturally within the body as well! Supplementing cannabinoids (like CBD) can be helpful to maintain optimal endocannabinoid system function, thus CBD can be helpful in regulating inflammation, sleep, immune function, and mood to name a few.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT METHOD OF INTAKE

As CBD products are becoming more popular and widely accepted as legitimate holistic healing remedies, there is an ever-growing abundance of different products and options when it comes to ingesting this beautiful plant. It can be a little overwhelming when trying to decide between them, but not to worry, we can break it down for you to make it a little easier to choose the method that’s best for you!

Tinctures: Tinctures are a great option if you are wanting to start a daily regimen and they are especially perfect for those who want to avoid inhaling or smoking anything. Our tinctures contain two simple ingredients- full spectrum hemp extract and an organic MCT oil which acts as a carrier oil to increase the bioavailability of the extract – the extent to which the body is able to absorb it. It does take a bit longer for tinctures to kick in versus inhaled methods like vaping and smoking, but the effects from tincture last longer than the effects you get from inhaling. Tinctures work best when they are taken consistently every day and effects begin to compound over time. 

 

A man sitting on a log at a campsite in the woods making a CBD latte

 

Pre-rolls and flower: Perhaps the most simple or old-school method of combustion, pre-rolls and flower are great for folks who are seeking to use CBD as needed or who truly enjoy the ritual of smoking itself. If you don’t have a pipe, grinder, or papers on hand, pre-rolls are a perfect solution, as all you need is a lighter! Our rollie flights are also a great way to start so you can try out multiple strains and see if a certain strain gives you more relief than others. 

Vapes: If flavor and convenience are top priority for you- you might want to consider a CBD vape. The liquid in our stoke stick diffusers contain only full spectrum hemp extract and organic MCT oil. Vaporizing is different from smoking as vaping is transitioning liquid into vapor, whereas combustion (or smoking) entails burning a substance. Since vape pens heat CBD oil with a specific and consistent temperature that is easily controlled (in comparison to combusting with fire), there is less of a chance for CBD to be lost during vaping. For those sensitive to a strong hemp-y taste, we also offer flavored CBD vape cartridges that are enhanced with all natural terpenes. Vapes are also easier to carry around and use in public since they don’t create large clouds of smoke like pre-rolls and they don’t smell as much since they are not combusting plant matter.

Edibles: Who doesn’t love a sweet treat? Similar to tinctures, CBD edibles take a bit longer for our bodies to break down and kick in, but these effects do last longer than combustible methods. Because of their longevity, edibles are great in the evening time before bed for improved quality of sleep. Our Boujee Bears CBD Gummies are great to have on hand for those nights you need a little extra help falling asleep, not to mention they are insanely tasty! 

STRAINS

Choosing between different strains can be a little stressful as there are quite a few options. There’s no need to stress though! The main difference between strains is going to be if they are indicas, sativas, or hybrids. Sativas are known to be energizing and mentally stimulating, whereas indicas tend to be more relaxing and calming. Hybrids are sort of a middle-of-the-road option as they are crossbreeds of the two. If you are seeking a strain to use during the day, a sativa might be better suited for you. On the other end of the spectrum, if you are needing something to aid sleep, indicas might be more up your alley. For a further look into different strains, you can find a more in depth article here.

 

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO NOTICE THE EFFECTS?

The amount of time it takes for the effects of CBD is dependent on the method of consumption, along with other factors like metabolism and tolerance of the individual taking it. Keep in mind that consistency is key when it comes to taking CBD and keeping your endocannabinoid system functioning at its highest potential. People tend to see the best results when taking CBD daily so that it is built up in their system. Smoking and vaping produce results almost instantaneously since the CBD is absorbed directly into the bloodstream via the lungs while ingested forms of CBD like tinctures and edibles typically take about 45 minutes to an hour to kick in. This varies from person to person but these are the results that are typical.

 

FINAL THOUGHTS

Whether you are wanting to add it to your daily routine or use it as needed, supplementing your endocannabinoid system with CBD is an easy way to help feel your best both physically and mentally. It takes a little experimenting to figure out what works best for your body, so keep in mind that what may work for some might not necessarily work for you. Dosage and preferred methods of intake vary from person to person. Also, it is important to note that we recommend that you speak to a physician before starting a CBD regimen. As always, feel free to reach out to customerservice@ross.farm for any further information or guidance on starting your CBD regimen!



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