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CBD products: what are they and how do you take them?
Written byMedico Digital
Reviewed byJulie Cunningham
The world of CBD (cannabidiol) can be confusing. Learn more about the different types of CBD products available and how to take them.
Summary
1What is CBD used for?
More research is needed to prove any of the claimed benefits of CBD. But, many people who take CBD do so, as they feel it can help improve…
2Types of CBD products and how to use them
Whether you're brand new to CBD or looking to try something different to your usual go-to, we hope that the info below will help you work out which…
3CBD products FAQs
Including “How much CBD oil should I start with? “ and “What is the difference between CBD% and CBDmg?”...
Let’s get back to basics with CBD. CBD (cannabidiol) has been on the wellness scene for a while now, with many hailing it as a possible natural remedy for a range of health challenges, including sore muscles and joints, poor sleep and anxiety.1,2
Since then, there have been hundreds of products to try, in dozens of forms, from chewable sweet-like gummies to balms, sprays and oils.
If you're thinking of dipping your toe into the world of CBD, you may not know where to start.
Answering the all-important questions, discover exactly what CBD is as well as ways to take it.
CBD: the basics
First things first – what is it and how does it differ from cannabis we’ve heard about before? CBD stands for cannabidiol and is a non-intoxicating compound extracted from the Cannabis sativa plant.3
While CBD comes from the same plant as the illegal drug marijuana (weed), it won’t get you high, as the ‘psychoactive’ compound, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is either removed or only present in trace amounts.4
Because of this, CBD products, like oils, gummies and oral sprays, are legal to buy in the UK from reputable stores and online health retailers, like Holland & Barrett (hello!).4
What is CBD used for?
More research is needed to prove any of the claimed benefits of CBD. But, many people who take CBD do so, as they feel it can help improve problems like joint pain, poor sleep and anxiety.1,2
Initial studies and research also suggest that CBD may be helpful in managing symptoms in neurological conditions like epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease.5-7
While this could be fantastic news for treatment development, much more information and data are needed to prove the positive effects of CBD and rule out any potential long-term side effects.5-7
If you’re experiencing any symptoms or health issues, it’s important to talk to your GP before using CBD products, as there’s currently no evidence to support its use as a medicine.8
Types of CBD products and how to use them
There are so many CBD products available that choosing one can be a little overwhelming.
Whether you're brand new to CBD or looking to try something different to your usual go-to, we hope that the info below will help you work out which type of CBD product might be best for you.
CBD oil
CBD oil is probably the most well-known and easily accessible CBD product. It’s versatile and affordable, making it a great product to start your CBD journey with.
Most people like to take CBD oil by popping a few drops under their tongue and letting it sit there for a few minutes. This method allows the CBD to be absorbed quickly into the bloodstream.9
Some research shows that eating healthy fats can increase the bioavailability of CBD (how quickly and how well it’s absorbed). So, eating foods like fish, avocado and nuts around the same time as taking your oil could potentially boost its effects.10,11
If you have sensitive taste buds, this method might not be for you. Thankfully, CBD oil can be added to any kind of food or drink to help mask its taste. At H&B, we like to add CBD to our smoothies, protein shakes, baking mixtures and even sauces.
CBD balm
For aching muscles and joints, massaging a CBD balm over the area may help to soothe soreness and reduce inflammation.3
Simply get a blob of balm on your fingertips and gently and slowly massage it into your skin over the affected area. Depending on the product, you may feel a nice warming or cooling sensation.
Take a look at our range of CBD balms and read more about CBD muscle balm benefits.
CBD capsules
For traditionalists, CBD capsules are a great option. They’re quick and easy to take and don’t leave the earthy taste of CBD oil in your mouth.
Some CBD capsules contain vitamins and nutrients too, so you can enjoy additional health benefits with your dose of CBD.
CBD gummies
CBD gummies, just like vitamin gummies, are a fun and tasty way to get your dose without any funny or unpleasant tastes.
Gummies are a great option if you find it hard to swallow capsules, as you can simply pop one in your mouth and chew without any water, any time, anywhere.
Have a browse of all of our CBD gummies and find out which ones are our favourites..
It’s important to remember that CBD gummies aren’t sweets, and consuming an excessive amount of CBD gummies may pose potential health risks, especially to children, including drowsiness, gastrointestinal issues and possible interactions with other medications.13-15 Always keep CBD products out of reach of children
CBD oral sprays
CBD oral sprays are a super quick and easy way to get your CBD hit wherever and whenever you need it.
Pop off the cap and pump a couple of sprays onto your tongue, leaving the droplets to sit for a few seconds.
Just like CBD oils, sprays are absorbed into the bloodstream more quickly than capsules or gummies because they don’t have to pass through the digestive system.9 Plus, with flavoured and flavourless options to choose from, you don’t need a drink to wash them down with.
Some CBD sprays also contain vitamins and other nutrients, so you can enjoy even more benefits with each spritz. Not sure which to try? Check out our top picks of CBD sprays.
CBD drinks
When you’re on the go and short on time, convenience is key. It’s no wonder CBD drinks are becoming increasingly popular.
Whatever your drink – be it coffee, tea, sparkling drinks, smoothies or health shots – there’s a CBD-infused beverage out there for you to sip on.
CBD food enhancers
If you want to add CBD to your diet but don’t want to always have to buy products with CBD already in them, you can use CBD food enhancers instead.
CBD food enhancers are a small tincture of CBD that can be popped into any food or drink item you like. All you need to do is add a few drops (the recommended dose on the packaging) to your food or drink item and you’re good to go.
Whether you want to add some CBD to your coffee, protein shake or pasta sauce, the possibilities are endless with CBD food enhancers.
CBD cosmetic enhancers
You can buy cosmetic products with added CBD in their ingredients list. However, with cosmetics, you’ll usually know your fave products and might not want to stray from what you know and love.
However, if you want to try something new without having to buy a whole new set of creams and lotions, you can use CBD cosmetic enhancers. These can be added to everything from foundation to moisturiser so you can keep your regular skincare and makeup routine but still use CBD at the same time.
Simply add a few drops into the dispensed cosmetic product, mix it in and you’re all set. In just a few moments, you can elevate your products and transform them into CBD cosmetics.
CBD products FAQs
The general rule is to start slowly with a low dose and gradually build it up if you need it. This way you can monitor how it affects your body and have a positive experience.
Always check with your GP that CBD oil is safe to take for you before use.
CBD% refers to the amount of CBD compared to other ingredients. For example, a 10mL bottle of CBD oil with approximately 275mg per bottle could be sold as 2.75% strength CBD.
CBDmg refers to the total amount of CBD in the product. For example, that same 10mL bottle of CBD could also be sold as CBD oil, 275mg.
Most manufacturers provide both strength indicators, but understanding this difference can help you compare products.
The final say
Remember, every CBD product is different, so it might take a few tries to find the perfect one for you.
With our ultimate guides and knowledgeable in-store colleagues, we’re here to help narrow down your options and give you the confidence to try CBD for the first time.
Here at H&B, we only sell CBD that meets our highest standards for purity, quality, and safety, as backed by leading trade associations (HFMA & EIHA) and expert laboratories so you can find the CBD you can trust. And in the format, flavour and strength you want too.
The FSA set an acceptable daily intake of 0.15mg/kg/body weight which equates to
10mg for a 70kg for an adult (for products with 98% purity).
The advice in this article is for information only and should not replace medical care. Please check with your GP or healthcare professional before trying any supplements, treatments or remedies. Food supplements must not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.
- Shannon S, et al. Cannabidiol in anxiety and sleep: A large case series. Perm J. 2019;23:18–041. https://doi.org/10.7812/TPP/18-041
- Arthritis Foundation. CBD for Arthritis Pain: What You Should Know [Internet]. [cited 2024 May 24]. Available from: https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/managing-pain/pain-relief-solutions/cbd-for-arthritis-pain
- Meissner H, Cascella M. Cannabidiol (CBD). Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024. [cited 2024 May 24]. Available from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK556048/
- NHS. Medical cannabis (and cannabis oils) [Internet]. [cited 2024 May 24]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/medical-cannabis/
- Singh K, et al. Emerging therapeutic potential of cannabidiol (CBD) in neurological disorders: A comprehensive review. Behav Neurol. 2023;2023:8825358. https://doi.org/10.1155/2023/8825358
- Khalsa JH, et al. Review: Cannabinoids as medicinals. Curr Addict Rep. 2022;9(4):630–46. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40429-022-00438-3
- Cancer Research UK. Cannabis, CBD oil and cancer [Internet]. [cited 2024 May 24]. Available from: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/treatment/complementary-alternative-therapies/individual-therapies/cannabis
- British Heart Foundation. CBD: What is it, and can it help the heart? [Internet]. [cited 2024 May 24]. Available from: https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/medical/cbd-and-the-heart
- MSD Manual. Drug Administration [Internet]. [cited 2024 May 24]. Available from: https://www.msdmanuals.com/en-gb/home/drugs/administration-and-kinetics-of-drugs/drug-administration
- Zgair A, et al. Dietary fats and pharmaceutical lipid excipients increase systemic exposure to orally administered cannabis and cannabis-based medicines. Am J Transl Res. 2016;8(8):3448–59. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5009397/
- British Heart Foundation. Fats explained [Internet]. [cited 2024 May 24]. Available from: https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/support/healthy-living/healthy-eating/fats-explained
- Makhakhe L. Topical cannabidiol (CBD) in skin pathology – A comprehensive review and prospects for new therapeutic opportunities. S Afr Fam Pract. 2022;64(1):e1–e4. https://doi.org/10.4102/safp.v64i1.5493
- Bar-Lev Schleider, Lihi, et al. Real Life Experience of Medical Cannabis Treatment in Autism: Analysis of Safety and Efficacy. Scientific Report. 2019;9. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-018-37570-y
- Barchel, Dana, et al. Oral Cannabidiol Use in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder to Treat Related Symptoms and Co-morbidities. Frontiers in Pharmacology. 2018;9. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2018.01521
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children. NHS Foundation Trust. Cannabinoid (cannabis) oil [Internet]. [cited 2024 Jul 2]. Available from: https://www.gosh.nhs.uk/conditions-and-treatments/medicines-information/cannabinoid-cannabis-oil/
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