CBD: Application & Dosage

Cannabidiol, CBD for short, is receiving more and more attention. Meanwhile, the three letters can be found in countless variations in countless stores. There is much discussion and speculation about the effect, but about the application often only imprecise information can be found. We would now like to counter this gap with a Grünkraft blog. Cheers!

What does the effect of CBD depend on?

First things first: the effect of CBD is a very individual story and it is up to each of us to find our personal sweet spot. Every body is different and the effect of CBD on the body's endocannabinoid system varies.

Influencing factors include:

• weight

• general state of health

• metabolism

• body chemistry

• eating habits

• the use of medications

So if we imagine that each of these factors can have an impact, it's not surprising how difficult it is to provide general dosage guidance. Combine this with the fact that science has not sufficiently researched CBD to date. Even in this tricky situation, however, we don't want to leave you hanging and provide you with some tips that can improve your CBD experience.

Which CBD product is right for me?

Creams, gels, tinctures, oils, and the list isn't even complete. As different the needs, as different the answers of CBD manufacturers. Basically, two product groups can be distinguished: those for external and those for internal use.

The best known is probably CBD oil, which is usually dripped under the tongue with the help of a pipette. Those who are interested in the most accurate dosage option should get acquainted with our CBD spray range, because the spray head offers the most accurate measurement.

When taking orally, it should be noted that the way into the bloodstream first passes through the stomach and liver, and thus the effect can be delayed. On the other hand, the effect lasts longest with this form of intake. If you want to speed up the whole process, you should get a water-soluble CBD product. Unlike classic CBD oils, water-soluble products have a hydrophilic character, which means that the body can absorb them faster than lipophilic, oil-based substances.

Difference between full spectrum and broad spectrum

When it comes to CBD oil, there is basically a distinction between full spectrum and broad spectrum.

• Thanks to a gentle extraction process, a full spectrum CBD oil contains not only CBD but also other cannabinoids such as THC, as well as helpful terpenes and flavonoids.

• In a broad spectrum CBD oil, the THC has been removed.

Research to date suggests that it is the interaction of the individual plant components that is very promising. Find out how this works in our blog on the "Entourage Effect".

Which CBD concentration is right for me?

Now that you've decided on a product line, here comes the next hurdle: Which concentration is right for me? Here you should pause for a moment and answer the following questions for yourself:

• What are my expectations for my CBD product?

• What is my physical condition?

• Have I used cannabis before?

• How do I estimate my tolerance for such a product?

The answers should give an indication of how high a dose the desired product should be. The basic rule is to go slowly. Especially newcomers should not take the highest concentration right away.

Your first time

In chemistry there is the principle of titration. This means that only small steps should be taken during the course of a trial to allow for slow adjustments. The same is true when taking CBD: "START LOW, GO SLOW." This principle prevents overreaction.

For the first trial, you should retreat to your own home and wait calmly to see how CBD affects you. It is best to take a few drops under the tongue about half an hour before a meal and let it take effect for a few minutes.

CBD is considered safe and has few known side effects, yet every body reacts differently. If you feel unwell, you should refrain from taking any more and if in doubt, contact a medical professional.

The way to your CBD target dose

If you feel well after the first steps, you can start on the way to your personal target dose. You should always keep a close eye on how much CBD you are consuming. Many suppliers write on their product how much CBD one drop of their oil contains. For all others you have to use a calculator. Fasten your seat belt and we'll start the math:

Moritz has bought a CBD oil. It says 5% CBD, 500 mg, 10 ml. What is the concentration in one drop?

1. Moritz knows that there are 500 mg of CBD in his bottle.

2. What Moritz doesn't know is how many drops are in his bottle. That's why Moritz asked Grünkraft and learned that there are about 260 drops in a 10 ml CBD oil bottle.

3. Now Moritz can start calculating.

4. [CBD in mg/ 10 ml] ÷ [number of drops in 10 ml] = [CBD in mg/drops]

   Ex: 500 mg/ml ÷ 260 drops in 10 ml = 1.9 mg/drops

Once you have determined the CBD portion in a drop, you can work your way up to the desired dosage.

Three common application models for CBD ingestion

As said, a personal dosage recommendation is difficult, yet there are a few guidelines. The CBD canon so far describes 10-100 mg daily as a "standard dose." Initially, it is advisable not to exceed 5 mg/day. In the example from earlier, that would be 2-3 drops for Moritz.

In practice so far, four application models can be identified:

• Sporadic: Irregular single applications

• Microdosing: 0.5 mg-20 mg/day

• Standard dosage: 10 mg-100 mg/daily

• Macrodosing: 50 mg-800 mg/daily

The first three models are probably the most common. Targeted individual applications are certainly conceivable, but previous experience shows that daily application can have better effects. Macro doses happen mainly under medical supervision and CBD novices should be wary of such amounts. We remind you again of the principle: "START LOW, GO SLOW".

The effect of CBD usually does not occur overnight

The body needs some time to come to terms with the new situation, so desired effects may be delayed. Do not rush here. You should increase the dose every 4 days at most, giving your body enough time to get acquainted with the newcomer CBD.

If you feel worse with a higher dose, do not hesitate to reduce again. Less is often more. It is an exploration of your personal goal. A healthy use of CBD requires patience and a good body awareness. The best thing you can do is to make regular notes and take your time to discover the natural product duly, in return it may reward you with a more relaxed everyday life.

What else do I have to pay attention to when taking CBD?

In general, CBD is very well tolerated and safe. Nevertheless, there can be side effects and they should not be swept under the carpet. Here is the package insert known so far:

• Dry mouth

• Drop in blood pressure

• Nausea

• Drowsiness

• Reduced appetite

• Increase in intraocular pressure

Anyone who notices one or more of these side effects should discontinue CBD immediately and consult a medical professional if in doubt. Likewise, people who are taking medication should refrain from using it without medical clarification. Regarding the use of CBD during pregnancy or breastfeeding, not enough research has been done, ergo - safety first and hands off!

The three most important points

• Every body reacts differently to CBD

• The dosage is as individual as you are

• START LOW, GO SLOW!