Do CBD Tinctures Get you High? by Jessica Rosslee at CBD Origin
When I initially started looking at CBD products, I felt that it was a little dubious that a compound from the cannabis plant would be so “innocent.”
When you hear “CBD,” do you think of big marijuana stoner festivals where people are passing joints and blunts around in the hot summer sun? Do you imagine a group of friends sitting on a college dorm floor, passing a bottle of wine around and ignoring their homework? Do you think, “Oh, no way will I get caught smoking weed”? Well, CBD isn’t that. It’s different. And it is time everyone knew that.
What Is CBD?
CBD (cannabidiol) is one of the active cannabinoids within cannabis plants. It was first identified in 1940 when scientists discovered that a chemical found in marijuana effectively relieved pain and inflammation. Research has shown that CBD can have therapeutic effects as an anticonvulsant, antioxidant, antipsychotic, and antianxiety agent in recent years. It’s been used to treat epilepsy and schizophrenia.
In addition to its medical applications, CBD-rich cannabis may also help protect your body against some forms of cancer by stimulating apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells and by inhibiting angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels).
However, while CBD oil might have health benefits, some products may contain additional non-CBD ingredients that could have a negative impact on your health. For example, research has shown that some CBD oils contain significant amounts of THC.
Well, it’s a chemical compound found in the cannabis plant, but it doesn’t have the same mind-altering properties that THC does—it doesn’t get you high. Cannabidiol has been used as medicine for centuries because it interacts with receptors in your body (called CB1 receptors) to relieve pain and other symptoms without making you feel high. Researchers are also studying it as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory drug, and neuroprotectant. It sounds too good to be true!
Remember, They are not THC Tinctures
When talking about hemp-derived CBD, it’s not THC—the cannabinoid that gets you high. So, no, CBD oil can’t give you a buzz (unless you’re using pure C02 extract or something). Well, what gets you high? It’s the other cannabinoid: CBD interacts with receptors in your body called CB1 receptors. They help regulate your appetite and immune system. And when CBD interacts with them, it can make you feel relaxed, calm, and focused—which is why people take it for anxiety, pain relief, and insomnia.
If you want to avoid the high feeling in general, there are two ways to do that: –Look for only full-spectrum CBD oils (like this one ). That means they contain all the cannabinoids found in the whole hemp plant. Some companies use “isolate” only to cut costs, but isolate doesn’t have the whole spectrum of effects that full-spectrum oils do. Plus, it can contain low levels of THC—so if that’s a concern for you, stick with a full-spectrum oil. But if you want to get rid of the THC altogether… –Look for products that are labelled “broad spectrum” or “whole-plant extracts.”
What are Tinctures?
When you hear the word “tincture,” you might think of something old-fashioned or outdated- as I once did too. I mean, who even uses tinctures anymore? A tincture is essentially an extract made from some of our most beloved herbs. A tincture is an extraction of any plant or herb, made water-soluble, and taken internally. You could think of it as herbal tea, but stronger. One of the surprising truths about using tinctures is that they aren’t magical potions but an easy way to add to your daily routine and feel better over time. Tinctures aren’t the weird, old-fashioned potions your mother used to make you take. They’ve been transformed into a cutting-edge supplement that is used by top practitioners and athletes today — and they can even be something you might actually want to put into your own body!
They’re also more convenient to use than pills or powders. For centuries, people have used tinctures for health reasons, but now their popularity is surging for personal use. A tincture is a solution that uses alcohol to extract medicinal ingredients from plants and herbs. (There’s even a tincture for hangovers. So cool!) Scoff if you must, but tinctures are totally having a moment.
Plus, there’s no denying its appeal. Tinctures are portable, easy to use, and perfectly dosed. For this reason, it’s a perfect solution for the health-conscious crowd on the go.
CBD tinctures are cannabis-related products that contain the non-psychoactive compound called Cannabidiol. It’s also sometimes called hemp oil, though it doesn’t have enough THC to cause a high (which CBD does not have anyway).
CBD is great for many things, including pain relief and insomnia. That’s because it activates receptors in the brain that deal with pain, inflammation, and anxiety. It’s been used for everything from cramps to cancer treatment. There’s even evidence that it helps with diabetes management and reduces seizures. So it’s not just good for your body—it looks good on you too! You can also use it to make you feel more relaxed without making you feel like you’re going to get high. It’s a great alternative if you’re looking for an all-natural way to treat your symptoms without using chemicals or other artificial substances.
Recap: What is CBD?
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is one of over a hundred cannabinoids (natural compounds found in cannabis and hemp plants) that are known to interact with the endocannabinoid system, a network of receptors found in your brain and throughout your body. The compound has recently gained attention for its relaxing effects after adding it to many food products and skin-care products.
On the other hand, we have Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the one-name wonder that you have heard of, which is a cannabinoid found in marijuana. THC is responsible for the state or high that marijuana users experience when they smoke, eat, or drink raw marijuana. It plays a massive role in the plant’s effects and is responsible for the high you get from smoking or consuming marijuana. THC is a psychoactive organic compound in the Cannabis Sativa L species of the Cannabaceae family known for its ability to help induce feelings of relaxation and euphoria. You’ll often find THC (the most famous of cannabinoids) in its extracted form showcased by most people through a method commonly referred to as smoking or vaporizing.
As you can see, CBD and THC are two compounds in cannabis that cause various effects. Those who use CBD tinctures may not get “high” because CBD doesn’t contain THC. Some people choose to use CBD for its health benefits, such as aiding people with anxiety or depression. If you’re looking for a way to get high, CBD isn’t it.
Let’s get Back to the Main Question…
You’re Probably Still Wondering, “Do CBD Tinctures get you High?” And if They Don’t get me High, What are the Effects?
Well, that depends on what you mean by “high.” If you’re asking if they contain THC, the primary psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, then no. They won’t get you high in that sense. But if you’re asking if they will help treat some of your pain and anxiety, then yes! CBD tinctures have helped many people with that.
Both THC and CBD, two compounds found naturally in the cannabis plant, can exist independently. CBD oil and other CBD products contain only the non-intoxicating compound CBD.
So, why are people still getting confused when it comes to CBD making them high or not?
People often confuse CBD and THC. But CBD and THC are not the same things- they do, however, come from the same plant- and that is why (I think) people confuse the two. The famous THC compound is a psychoactive molecule that gets you “high,” while CBD displays none of the psychoactive qualities. While CBD will have its own set of effects, it will not cause a psychoactive response or any form of intoxication.
Hemp is Hip (and Legal)
Have you seen as many products and ads for hemp and hemp-related products as I have? Then you will agree with me when I say, “hemp is definitely hip right now. But besides it being a super hot topic, what else has that go to do with CBD tinctures and whether or not they can make you high?
Hemp is truly a wonder plant. For thousands of years, it has been used as an industrial textile (before there was even such a concept as ‘industry’)- ancient cultures used it as a building material. Its fibers made robust rope that gave sailors hope as they traversed new oceanic horizons. The strength and resilience of the plant gave many families shelter as it was one of the most common materials to build and fortify homes. Hemp seed oil is also a well-loved pantry item, and it carries high levels of healthy omegas. But cannabis cultivators also breed-specific strains of hemp to carry high levels of cannabinoids and even some terpenes.
CBD also can come from hemp, a type of cannabis plant that produces no THC (the stuff in marijuana that gets you high). How can I be so sure that hemp produces no THC? Well, it is quite simple, hemp- by definition, cannot contain more than 0.3% THC. It is not hemp if it has higher levels of the high inducing cannabinoid.
Many states have legalized only CBD that comes from hemp plants. These products, by law, must contain less than 0.3 percent THC. CBD products containing no more than 0.3 percent THC (or even less) are legal throughout the country and can’t produce a high effect.
CBD vs. THC: Understanding the Differences
You might be wondering about the differences between THC and CBD—they’re both cannabinoids found in cannabis, after all. And you’re right to wonder! It’s a confusing topic, even for pros. But I’ve got you covered. First, it’s important to understand that there are two major cannabinoid receptors: CB1 and CB2. Each one affects the brain in different ways.
CBD and THC both impact cannabinoid type 1 (CB1) receptors in the brain, but they differ in their effects on a person’s mood and general state of being. Here are some key differences between CBD and THC.
The thing with THC is it activates the CB1 receptors in your brain, which are responsible for that euphoric feeling. You know, that feeling you get when you eat some really good food? Or when you’re watching a sappy movie? That’s the CB1 receptors at work. And then there’s CBD, which is known as a CB1 antagonist. In other words, CBD blocks those receptors—and prevents them from creating a high. It’s kind of like the yin to THC’s yang. One of the most interesting things about CBD is that it might inhibit the effects of THC—which means you could take both substances together and not feel stoned as heck. In fact, one study found that taking CBD with THC may lessen the high from THC alone—but more research needs to be done on this subject!
Does CBD Have Side Effects?
The World Health Organization, or WHO, has released a report regarding CBD, the same non-psychoactive component of cannabis that we have spoken about throughout this article. For years, there have been questions about the safety of using CBD. Some people claim it has no side effects whatsoever. Others have reported experiencing negative side effects such as dizziness and nausea.
Although many people do not report experiencing any significant side effects when taking CBD oil, some people may experience some minor or unwelcome symptoms. These side effects can include diarrhea, mild nausea, dizziness, excessive fatigue, and dry mouth.
In the WHO report, they examined recent research. Also, they reviewed past studies related to CBD to determine whether or not it is safe for consumption. They focused on three different aspects of CBD: human health, animal and public health risk management, and drug interactions. The study found that CBD is not harmful to humans when taken in the recommended dosages. The report also noted that more in-depth research into the topic is needed to fully understand all potential uses for CBD and its side effects.
The World Health Organization says that CBD is safe. However, more research is needed to understand the full spectrum of effects and possible uses. In recent years, CBD has been the subject of extensive research regarding its potential medical applications. CBD is a chemical compound found in cannabis plants. It’s best known for its perceived medical benefits, such as pain relief and reducing inflammation. Some people also use it for cosmetic reasons or as an alternative to medications like opioid painkillers. The results of some studies suggest that CBD has potential as an anti-inflammatory, anticonvulsant, antioxidant, anxiolytic (anxiety reducer), antipsychotic, and/or antidepressant agent. The non-psychoactive component of cannabis (∆9-THC) has been well studied for decades for its therapeutic effects in treating nausea and vomiting during chemotherapy, especially in pediatric patients. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) still classifies cannabidiol as a Schedule I drug—meaning it’s illegal under federal law—although it does allow for certain exceptions for a CBD-based drug named Epidiolex that contains less than 0.1% THC and was approved by the FDA in 2018 for the treatment.
Since the World Health Organization formally declared that CBD was safe in 2018, it’s safe to say the cannabidiol market has pretty much exploded in popularity. In fact, a recent Pew Research poll found that more than 60% of Americans now believe that marijuana should be legalized. This is a particularly important development for CBD since most people use it to treat medical issues like anxiety and pain, which are generally more acceptable to talk about than recreational use. Despite its increasing popularity, though, there is still limited research on how CBD affects our bodies—and even less is known about how it interacts with other medications. One of the most pressing questions facing researchers today is whether or not CBD can cause side effects.
While CBD can be incredibly beneficial, it’s important to talk with your doctor before using any type of supplement. This is particularly true if you are taking prescription medications. Your doctor will have a better understanding of how CBD interacts with your prescriptions and may be able to help you find the best dosage for your situation. In other cases, you may choose not to use CBD at all if you know there are side effects associated with it or another medication you’re taking.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Is it Legal to Use CBD Products?
Answer: It’s a little confusing whether or not CBD is legal. Let’s start with the basics: In December 2018, Congress lifted the prohibition on hemp-derived CBD. This means that products derived from hemp plants are legal in the United States unless outlawed at the state level. So what are hemp plants? Hemp plants are different from marijuana plants; they contain less than 0.3 percent THC (the ingredient in marijuana that produces a high). By law, products made from hemp must contain no more than 0.3 percent THC and must be made from the flowers and leaves of the plant only. For now, CBD-to-THC ratios will vary by product, so it’s important to read labels carefully. And if you’re unsure about the legality of a certain product, check its source!
Question: Is THC Legal in the USA?
Answer: The legal status of THC in the USA is a bit confusing. That’s because THC is the name of a specific chemical compound that is found in the cannabis plant. Still, it isn’t an acronym or abbreviation—so it doesn’t stand for anything. It’s just a word name. And that word is an abbreviation of “tetrahydrocannabinol .”In fact, the full chemical name of THC is tetrahydrocannabinolic acid. Now that you know this, you can say things like: “I’m not sure if I’m allowed to buy products containing THC since I don’t know whether they contain tetrahydrocannabinolic acid or not.” Some states consider THC to be legal for medical use. Other states consider it illegal for all uses. Some states have even legalized the recreational use of marijuana. To buy any product containing THC legally, you must check your state’s laws and regulations first. When in doubt, consult with your physician and/or lawyer.
Marijuana that contains THC has been illegal since 1937 (for those of you keeping track at home, marijuana was banned way before it became cool). So to be clear: It’s illegal in the USA to have anything with THC in it, whether it comes in the form of edibles, tinctures, or body lotions (though only some states have legalized medical marijuana). It’s also illegal to produce or sell products with THC in them.
Question: Is Hemp Legal?
Answer: The Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018, also known as the 2018 Farm Bill, legalized hemp production in the United States. Hemp is a form of cannabis. But unlike THC, which is found in marijuana, hemp-derived CBD doesn’t have psychoactive properties. So while it still falls under the Controlled Substances Act—and there are some legal gray areas when it comes to hemp extracts—in December 2018, Congress lifted the prohibition on hemp and its derivatives like CBD. That means CBD products in the United States can be made from hemp (or technically from cannabis plants with less than 0.3 percent THC) without breaking any laws. Marijuana-derived CBD may also be available at dispensaries and online in states where medical marijuana or recreational marijuana is legal.
Question: How Long Will I Feel the Effects of CBD Tincture?
Answer: On average, when you take CBD tincture, it lasts anywhere between 2-6 hours. This is because it’s absorbed by the body in various ways, including an oral mucous membrane, a sublingual area under the tongue, or even in your stomach. But this can largely depend on whether you use CBD to provide its pain-relieving properties or its anti-inflammatory benefits.
Anecdotal reports amongst users show the latter is used to treat several conditions such as arthritis, psoriasis, and epilepsy. In contrast, the former is ideal for those looking to address chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia and migraines.
The Bottom Line
There are a few reasons why CBD products don’t usually make you feel high the way THC does, for one thing. The chemical structure of CBD molecules is different from THC molecules, so it doesn’t interact with the same cannabinoid receptors in your central nervous system. CBD also doesn’t have any psychoactive properties—it doesn’t get you “high”—which means you can take CBD without worrying about feeling intoxicated or getting a headache as an unwanted side effect. In fact, when it comes to pain relief and other health benefits, there’s still a lot of scientists don’t know about CBD. They know that research shows it’s been helpful with anxiety and inflammation, though, and could potentially be used to treat some medical conditions.
CBD is used for several ailments because it has been shown to interact with the endocannabinoid system in mammals. The endocannabinoid system regulates mood, sleep cycles, immune function, and more; it also helps regulate pain perception and inflammation. CBD interacts with this system by helping to restore balance through inhibition when there is too much activity and by helping to stimulate activity when it is too little.
When purchasing CBD, make sure to source from a reputable company. Check the label for an independent health-and-safety audit that confirms their product contains exactly what they say they do, and no more. If the brand you’re looking at doesn’t have that kind of lab test, it’s safer to choose another.
Further readings:
Bespoke Extracts CBD & CBG Tincture Review
Just Live CBD Pain Relief Cream & Tincture Review
Vital Body Therapeutics CBD Tincture Review
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