Cannabidiol (CBD) has become so common that even those who don’t consume cannabis have likely heard of it. While CBD products — many of which contain only CBD and are sourced from industrial hemp — can be bought outside a dispensary, you’ll find high-THC products that contain CBD when you shop at a licensed dispensary like Boone Town.
But before trying any product, it’s important to understand how CBD works.
Defining CBD
CBD is a well-known cannabinoid found in cannabis plants that, unlike THC, won’t make you feel “high.” It may also have some therapeutic benefits, which is a big reason why it’s become a household name over the past couple of years. Common CBD products include edibles, vaporizers, tinctures, topicals, and capsules.
Finding this article interesting? Check out our related cannabinoid guide to learn more about how THC works.
Hemp-derived CBD vs. CBD from high-THC cannabis
Oftentimes, CBD products are made from industrial hemp plants, which contain 0.3% or less THC content. This makes extracts from these products federally legal, which means they can be sold in any number of places outside a dispensary. These hemp-derived CBD products can be purchased virtually anywhere and are common sights in convenience stores or wellness shops.
However, there are also cannabis products that contain a blend of THC and CBD, which can only be purchased at a licensed cannabis dispensary. These products may offer similar therapeutic effects as hemp-derived CBD products, but they also provide a unique experience. The THC to CBD ratio, or the amount of each cannabinoid in a product relative to one another, can significantly influence how it makes you feel. It’s an important factor to consider when shopping for cannabis products.
It’s also important to note that cannabis products at a licensed dispensary are held to more stringent testing requirements than anywhere else. When you buy CBD products from a licensed dispensary, you can be certain they’re of high quality and safe to consume. Those you find at gas stations or corner stores, on the other hand, are unlikely to have been tested in the same way.
How does CBD influence your experience?
Choosing a cannabis product that contains a lot of CBD can significantly alter your experience compared to products that just contain high levels of THC. Here are some of the most common reasons we find consumers reach for cannabis products that have significant levels of CBD as well.
CBD may help with pain
Do you have sore muscles or a nagging ache? Choosing a cannabis product that contains significant levels of both THC and CBD may be an effective way to find some relief. Studies show these two compounds are even more effective at providing pain relief than CBD alone (which already seems to do a pretty good job). For long-lasting pain relief, consider ingestible cannabis products like edibles or capsules, which offer a longer duration of effects.
CBD may ease stress and anxiety
Feeling stressed or anxious? CBD might be the chill pill you need. Studies say it may help you kick back, relax, and let stress and anxiety go. Other studies suggest that heightened CBD content may even help improve your mood. So, if life’s got you wound up tight, CBD-rich cannabis may be the right choice for you.
CBD may reduce the intensity of a high
If you’re not into getting too baked, CBD-rich cannabis might be just the ticket. Studies say high levels of CBD may help dial down the paranoia and anxiety that may be caused by taking too much THC. This may appeal to folks who want to stay grounded and don’t like feeling too heady. Look for cannabis products that offer a balanced THC-to-CBD ratio, or if you want a low-key experience, choose CBD-dominant products that contain more CBD than THC.
Why does CBD affect us the way it does?
The reason CBD has these effects is because of its interactions with the endogenous cannabinoid system (ECS), or the endocannabinoid system for short. This intricate network is made up of cannabinoid receptors scattered throughout your brain and body, influencing various physiological functions such as mood regulation, pain perception, appetite, and memory.
Now, when we introduce CBD into this system, it can influence how that system operates. Although CBD doesn’t directly bind to cannabinoid receptors like THC does, it changes their activity, essentially resulting in a cascade of effects. This interaction can lead to a range of therapeutic outcomes, from alleviating pain to promoting relaxation and improving mood.
Moreover, CBD collaborates with other plant compounds present in cannabis, such as THC and terpenes like myrcene. THC, for instance, directly binds to cannabinoid receptors and can augment or alter CBD’s effects; when both compounds are present together, the effects may be altogether different than when just one or the other is present. This concept is referred to as the entourage effect, and it’s why it’s so important to understand the full spectrum of compounds in a cannabis product before buying.
So, when you consume cannabis products containing a blend of CBD, THC, other cannabinoids, and terpenes, you’re tapping into this synergistic interplay between these compounds. This results in a more nuanced and balanced experience, tailored to address your specific needs, whether it’s mental relaxation, mood enhancement, or physical relaxation.
In essence, CBD’s interaction with the ECS, especially in conjunction with other plant compounds, can significantly enhance your cannabis experience, providing a comprehensive approach to your cannabis journey and well-being.
Does CBD have any side effects?
CBD does sometimes result in side effects, most of which are relatively minor. These may include dry mouth, dry eyes, or feelings of nausea. Usually, these side effects can be avoided by monitoring the amount you consume and avoiding overconsumption. We recommend starting with between 5 and 10 mg CBD and gauging how it affects you first, though much larger amounts tend to be well-tolerated by most consumers.
The more serious side effect to be aware of is the possible interactions between CBD and prescription medications. If you’re on any type of medication, you should always consult with your doctor before adding CBD or any cannabis product to your diet. These interactions could negate the effects of your medication or even cause harmful side effects, so don’t take risks without discussing the possibilities with a healthcare professional beforehand.
What are THC to CBD ratios and why are they important?
When choosing cannabis products that contain CBD, it’s critical to understand THC-to-CBD ratios. As a general rule, THC-dominant ratios will produce a more intense high, while CBD-dominant ratios will result in a more low-key experience. Higher levels of CBD may also mean certain therapeutic benefits, such as pain relief, are more effective.
It’s common to find balanced products, which offer a ratio of 1:1 THC to CBD. You may also find 2:1 THC to CBD or 2:1 CBD to THC products; 5:1 THC to CBD or 5:1 CBD to THC products; and 20:1 THC to CBD or 20:1 CBD to THC products, just to name some common examples. Depending on your preferences, you may gravitate toward more balanced products or ones that are more dominant in either THC or CBD. The best way to understand which appeals most to you is to try them out and take note of your experience.
How to shop for CBD products
To improve the odds you bringing home the very best cannabis product for you, follow this simple list. It will help you tick the right boxes and, hopefully, find your new go-to choice.
Consider your preferences and objectives
Before evaluating any products, think about what you want to get out of your experience. Are you looking for any specific therapeutic effects like pain relief or stress reduction? Do you simply want a product that provides a nice mellow high that won’t be too overwhelming? Knowing your preferences and goals before you start comparing products at the dispensary will help you know what to look for.
Shop at a licensed dispensary
Always go to a licensed dispensary like Boone Town Provisions for cannabis products. Items at the dispensary have been tested by third-party laboratories and are guaranteed to be authentic, high quality, and safe to consume. Moreover, you’ll have access to a broader range of brands and resources when you stop in at a dispensary. The specialized knowledge of the staff and the vast inventory means you’ll have more choices than if you stopped in at a local retail shop that isn’t dedicated to cannabis products.
Check the CBD content on the label
When prioritizing high-CBD cannabis products, start by checking how much CBD a product contains. Some high-THC cannabis products contain only trace amounts of CBD, while others have higher levels. Make sure you’re looking at the latter if you think adding CBD to your next session is essential to your preferences and objectives.
Review the full spectrum of cannabinoids and terpenes
Of course, the entourage effect means the other compounds in the product are just as important as the CBD content. Consider THC potency and whether other cannabinoids are present. You should also examine the terpene profiles of each product and take note of which it contains; these can influence flavor and effects. You don’t have to be an expert on what these combinations mean, but it’s important to take note of them because you might find you enjoy certain combinations and prefer to avoid others.
Discuss your options with a budtender
If you’re not certain what the best choice is for you, discuss your options with a budtender. At Boone Town, our budtenders are trained experts on the products we carry, and they can help you make informed decisions. Not exactly sure which terpene profile makes sense for your goals? They can steer you in the right direction. Can’t decide which THC-to-CBD ratio is best for you? Our budtenders have your back.
Try different products for yourself
Cannabis is a journey and there are a lot of products out there to try. Don’t be afraid to broaden your horizons and go on a new expedition each time you visit the dispensary. As you try new products, you’ll start to figure out a clear picture of what you like and what you don’t. Soon enough, you’ll have a list of standby options that provide you with just the experience you’re looking for.
Get top-quality CBD products at Boone Town Provisions
If you want to make the most out of your cannabis experience, Boone Town Provisions can serve as your base camp. We’ll get you started on the right foot so your next session is bound to be one to remember. With helpful, knowledgeable staff and some of the best cannabis products that New Jersey has to offer, you can’t go wrong when you stock up at Boone Town. We’re open and can’t wait to meet you! Sign up for our email list to get the latest product drops, loyalty program info, and more.
