Is CBD Oil Safe to Use in the UK?
CBD is becoming more popular, both as a food supplement and as an oil to apply directly. But how does it work and is it safe?
CBD is considered safe by the World Health Organisation and the UK’s Food Standards Agency. But it can interact with some medications, particularly those that are metabolised by the P450 enzymes, including anti-coagulants and some antibiotics.
What is CBD?
CBD is a compound found in cannabis sativa – better known as hemp. It’s an oil that has become a big seller in the health food aisle of your high street stores and is used as a natural remedy for many conditions including chronic pain and anxiety.
It is legal in the UK to sell CBD products as long as they comply with regulations and contain less than 1mg of THC. This is because the low THC content means that it won’t get you high.
CBD oil can be purchased in a range of forms including drops, capsules, gummies and topical creams. Each product has its own specific strengths which will be indicated on the label as a percentage or as a number of milligrams per bottle. The strength of CBD is important as our endocannabinoid systems respond differently to various types and strengths of CBD. For this reason, it’s best to start with a small daily amount and increase slowly over time until you find what works for you.
Is it safe?
CBD oil is legal and safe to use in the UK as long as it has been registered as a novel food with the Food Standards Agency, is derived from an EU approved strain of hemp and contains less than 1mg THC. Any reputable brand should be happy to show you their registration details, lab reports and the full ingredients list of their products.
It’s thought to be effective in reducing symptoms of a number of conditions including pain, anxiety and depression. A 2020 study showed that CBD may help reduce PTSD symptoms and nightmares too.
However, more research is needed before it can be considered a medical treatment. Some people have reported side effects such as dry mouth, gastrointestinal issues and changes in appetite and weight. As with any supplement it’s important to speak to your GP if you are concerned about using CBD. They will be able to advise you on the best CBD oil for your needs.
Is it legal?
Unlike its psychoactive counterpart, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD doesn’t produce the ‘high’ associated with cannabis. CBD works with your endocannabinoid system, which keeps your body in balance by controlling things like temperature, metabolism and pressure.
CBD is legal to buy and sell in the UK, as long as it doesn’t contain more than 0.2% THC. CBD products can be bought on the high street, and you don’t need a prescription. They’re also considered a food supplement rather than a drug, and you can safely take them with other supplements and medications.
However, not all CBD oils are made equal. The quality of the hemp plant used to make a particular product is crucial, as well as the way it’s grown and processed. This is why it’s best to stick to reputable brands that have been independently tested for safety and efficacy. Having good-quality, trustworthy products is the only way to ensure that you get the most benefit from your CBD.
Where can I buy it?
CBD interacts with receptors in the brain to help reduce anxiety and promote calm. It has also been linked to pain relief, and is a popular natural treatment for insomnia.
ACCESS CBD oils are fitted with spray nozzles, making them easy to dose and more user-friendly than other CBD oil products (just hold under the tongue for one to two minutes). They’re available in a range of strengths and flavours including peppermint, coconut and orange.
A newer entry to the UK CBD market, this company’s products are rigorously lab tested. They check for cannabinoid content, heavy metals, herbicides and solvents. They’re also committed to sustainability and ethical production practices.CBD Oil UK
