CBD oil is the latest health craze to hit the UK high street, with claims it can treat everything from anxiety to joint pain. But is it actually any good, and can it help the heart? Emily Ray investigates.
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a chemical found in the cannabis (hemp) plant. It doesn’t contain the psychoactive ingredient THC that gives cannabis its intoxicating effects, and it’s completely legal to use in the UK. There is ongoing research into the possible health benefits of CBD, and it’s thought it might help with a range of conditions, including chronic pain and depression.
In fact, two CBD-based medicines are already licensed in the UK: Nabilone, a capsule that you swallow whole, and Sativex, which is a liquid you spray into your mouth. Both are taken under prescription and are approved to treat symptoms of multiple sclerosis. But more research is needed to confirm that CBD can really help with these conditions.
There are many different types of CBD products available, but a typical product is a blend of hemp extract and carrier oil. This is the most popular type of CBD product, and it’s easy to take – simply add a few drops under your tongue. Other types of CBD products include gummies, e-liquids and capsules.
You might also find CBD in skin-care products, such as face masks and moisturisers. CBD is thought to be useful in treating acne, psoriasis and other skin conditions, and there’s growing evidence that it might be able to help with a range of other issues, such as insomnia, anxiety and chronic pain.
When choosing a CBD product, it’s important to check the ingredients and the concentration of cannabidiol. Look for a certificate of analysis, which will provide you with details of the amount of cannabinoids and other plant compounds in each bottle. The best brands will also ensure that their products are made from hemp grown using a low-pressure CO2 supercritical extraction process, as this is more likely to preserve the cannabinoids and terpenes.
Vibes CBD is a newcomer to the UK wellness scene but has quickly made a name for itself by taking the same care with the quality of its products as its more established competitors. Its oils are sourced from carefully selected growers in the US and are then refined to produce a pure, potent oil with a high concentration of cannabinoids. Its products are all tested by a third party for purity and consistency.
AB CBD is another USA-based company that has recently started to ship its products to the UK. It’s a slightly more specialist option, as it focuses on producing very potent oils in large batches to suit those who need a high-level product. This makes it the best choice for veteran CBD users who are looking for a top-quality product at an affordable price. It will also begin delivering to the UK later this year. Like NuLeaf Naturals, AB CBD uses a proprietary extraction process that’s designed to maximise the levels of cannabinoids in each batch. CBD Oil UK