Anxiety relief, sleep improvement and muscle relaxation are just a few of the benefits of the latest wellness craze, CBD oil. CBD, short for cannabidiol, is one of the cannabinoid compounds found in cannabis plants, most often known as hemp. However, unlike its controversial cousin marijuana, CBD does not contain THC, the well-known principal psychoactive ingredient. In fact, CBD has been used medicinally for hundreds of years but has only recently reached new popularity. You might have seen it popping up in your skincare products, being incorporated into your massage appointment or even presented as a supplement. It’s everywhere!
So what do you need to know about this latest wellness trend? We turned to certified health coach and CBD company owner, Liz Carlile. As the founder of Motherhood Unstressed, a top-rated health and wellness podcast, lifestyle brand and CBD company, Liz is nothing short of a CBD expert. Beyond having oodles of CBD knowledge, Liz is also the woman behind her own brand of CBD supplements. Below, she offers valuable insight about the benefits, misconceptions and FAQs about CBD.
Everything You Need to Know About CBD Oil
Set the record straight: Is CBD oil legal?
Yes! CBD is sourced from industrialized hemp (not marijuana), and it does not contain THC. It is legal to ship to all 50 states.
Does CBD oil have a taste? What does it taste like?
CBD capsules don’t typically have a taste. Some companies mix citrus or sweet flavors into oil, but I’ve found that pure and clean is best. I recommend taking two capsules first thing in the morning, or at least a half hour before any stressful event like a big meeting or carpool run. To take the oil, simply add a few drops under your tongue and hold there for 30-60 seconds.
PinYES! CBD oil is legal in all 50 states. It does not contain THC and therefore, does not produce a “high.” Image: Liz Carlile
How often should we take CBD oil? Is it something that we can see effects from immediately, or do our bodies need to adjust to it?
You can safely take it every day, and it has a compounding balancing effect. You will feel calming effects within a half hour. And the more you take it, the more grounded and calm you will feel 24/7.
What are some of the other common misconceptions about CBD oil?
I think a lot of people confuse hemp with marijuana when in fact the two plants are cousins. In order for hemp to be in compliance with federal law, it must contain less than .3% THC. Because of that fact, it will not get you high, and it is safe and effective for so many ailments. I personally don’t suffer from pain, but as a busy mom, I can’t tell you how much it’s helped me feel more balanced and calm when life gets stressful. And unlike a glass or two of wine, it’s not going to impair you or leave you feeling groggy the next day. I tell all my mom friends about it, and yes, they usually give me a sideways stare, but all it takes is for them to try it and feel its benefits for them to make the switch. I used to have a glass of wine every night to wind down from the stress of the day, but now I never do. Not only is it saving my liver, but it’s also saving my waistline!
PinLiz says CBD oil is popular because “CBD works, and every day more and more people are feeling its healing effects and getting rid of their big pharma anxiety and sleep drugs.” Image: Courtesy of Liz Carlile
CBD oil is taking wellness by storm, and we can only assume that we’ll continue to see it rise. Why do you think it’s all the rage right now? In what ways is it more than a trend?
I think people are hungry for something that actually works and that isn’t going to harm them with nasty side-effects. People are intuitive, and they’re realizing that they can work with their bodies, not against them, and actually achieve better results. Trends are usually short-term because they aren’t sustainable, but CBD works. Every day more and more people are replacing their big pharma anxiety and sleep drugs with CBD oil. That, to me, is a huge indication of healing and the exact opposite of what constitutes a “trend.”
Is there anything else we should know about CBD?
Be vigilant about the CBD that you try. Make sure you’re buying from reputable businesses who care about quality. A cheaper price is usually a big sign that it is sourced from overseas and is not regulated. Also, realize that CBD is not a tranquilizer or heavy pharmaceutical drug. It works with your body to help you feel more balanced and calm. The effects are subtle but empowering!
To delve even further into the CBD wellness world, you can follow Liz @motherhoodunstressed, tune into her weekly podcast or visit her website at motherhoodunstressed.com.
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Nicole is a life-long Southerner and freelance journalist based in Atlanta who relishes sharing the stories of inspiring Southern businesses and residents. When she’s not weaving her next tale, you can find her stitching cheeky needlepoint canvases or perusing area antique shops.
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