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 the facts.
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’. Research even suggests that CBD may temper the psychoactive effect 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 legal in the Netherlands, as long as the percentage of THC stays below 0.05%. All our CBD products meet this requirement and are therefore legal. If you are travelling or want to take CBD oil on the plane, check the rules of your destination. They differ per country, also within the EU.
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 with brands such as Dutch Hemp and Wedihemp, which have every batch tested externally.
4. “The higher the percentage of CBD, the better”
A higher percentage only means there is more CBD in each drop. What you take in depends on the number of drops. A lower percentage is actually handy for dosing accurately. Start low, for example with 2 to 3 drops of 5% CBD oil, and stick to the dose on the label.
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 reach your blood, because it first has to be absorbed through the digestive tract.
7. “CBD works the same for everyone”
People respond differently to CBD. Some notice something quickly, others later and others hardly at all. There are no EU-approved health claims for CBD, so we make no promises about it. If you want to use CBD in a set way, read how to build a CBD routine.
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. “You have to use CBD every day”
This too is a misconception. There is no rule that says you have to take CBD daily. Some people take it every day at a set time, others now and then.
Frequently asked questions about CBD
Does CBD have an effect on health?
That is exactly the question we are not allowed to answer. No health claims for CBD have been approved in the European Union, and CBD is a food supplement, not a medicine. What we can tell you is what CBD is, what is in it, how to dose it and what to watch out for with medicines. If you have persistent complaints, discuss them with your GP.
What do you feel after taking CBD oil?
It will not make you high: CBD is not psychoactive and legal CBD oil contains less than 0.05% THC. People respond differently, and you may notice little or nothing. We make no further promises.
How many drops of CBD oil can you take?
Start low, for example with 2 to 3 drops of 5% CBD oil, and stick to the dosage on the label. A lower percentage actually makes it easier to dose accurately. Keep the oil under your tongue for about a minute before you swallow.
What is the best time to take CBD?
There is no single best moment, and there is no rule that you have to take CBD every day. Some people take it daily at a set time, others now and then. If you do not want to forget, link it to a regular habit such as breakfast.
The right information helps you make the best choice
By clearing up these misconceptions, we hope you have a better idea of the facts about CBD. 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.
