CBD has become tremendously popular as a food supplement in recent years. More and more people come across CBD oil and other CBD products. But because CBD is still relatively new to many people, there are plenty of misconceptions about it too. In this article we set out the nine most common misconceptions about CBD and explain how it really works.
1. “CBD gets you high”
A persistent misconception is that CBD, like cannabis, has a psychoactive effect. This is not true. CBD (cannabidiol) does come from the cannabis plant, but unlike THC it has no psychoactive properties. So CBD does not get you ‘high’. In fact, CBD can counter the psychoactive effects of THC. Want to know more about the difference between CBD and THC? Then also read this article.
2. “CBD oil is illegal”
This too is a misconception. CBD oil is completely legal in the Netherlands and most countries in Europe, as long as the percentage of THC stays below 0.05%. All our CBD products meet this requirement and are therefore legal. You can also simply take CBD oil on the plane to most countries within the EU. Do take care when travelling outside Europe: the rules differ per country.
3. “All CBD oil is the same”
There are big differences in quality between CBD products. Some products do not contain the amount of CBD stated on the label, or contain unwanted compounds such as pesticides. This is because not all producers are equally careful in their production process. So always choose CBD from reliable brands that have their products tested by independent laboratories. At Dutch Balance we work only with leading brands such as Dutch Hemp and Wedihemp, which have every batch tested.
4. “The higher the percentage of CBD, the better”
A higher percentage of CBD does not automatically mean a better effect. The ideal dose differs per person and depends on factors such as body weight. A lower dose often works perfectly well too, certainly when you take more drops of it. We recommend starting with a low dose (5% CBD oil for instance) and building it up slowly if needed.
5. “CBD is addictive”
This is incorrect. Scientific research shows that CBD is not addictive. You cannot become physically or mentally dependent on CBD. CBD acts on the endocannabinoid system, a network of receptors that is involved in many bodily processes.
6. “You have to swallow CBD oil”
Many people think you have to swallow CBD oil straight away. For faster absorption you are better off holding the oil under your tongue for a minute. This way the CBD is absorbed directly into your bloodstream through the mucous membranes. Swallowing it straight away is possible too, but then it takes longer for the CBD to have an effect because it first has to be absorbed through the digestive tract.
7. “CBD works immediately”
Although some people notice an effect from CBD quickly, others need more time. It can take several weeks before you notice a real difference. It is therefore important to take CBD consistently and give it enough time. So develop a good CBD routine and keep to it for at least a few weeks.
8. “You cannot combine CBD oil with medicines”
This is too general an assumption. Although CBD can indeed interact with certain medicines, it does not mean you can never use CBD if you take medication. It depends on the type of medicine. A good rule of thumb is that when your medicine carries a warning about grapefruit, you should be extra careful with CBD. If in doubt, always consult your doctor or pharmacist.
9. “CBD only works if you use it daily”
This too is a misconception. Although many people choose to use CBD daily, it can work perfectly well with occasional use too. The optimal frequency of use depends on your personal situation and goals. Some people take CBD only in the evening before going to bed, for instance, while others use it during the day.
The right information helps you make the best choice
By clearing up these misconceptions, we hope you have a better idea of what CBD can and cannot do. Would you like to know more about CBD or do you have questions about which CBD product suits you best? Then feel free to get in touch with us. We are happy to help you make the right choice.
