It’s time to talk about CBD.
Before I go further, as a disclosure, this post is sponsored by Social CBD Drops through the MOMS MEET program. As a Moms Meet blogger, I received free products to try and was compensated to write this post. This arrangement does not affect my opinions about the product being reviewed. Yes, I’ll tell you as I see it.
Now that I got that requirement out of the way, let us continue.
What exactly is CBD?
CBD or Cannabidiol is a compound from the Cannabis sativa plant that interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system. This system has a series of receptors that regulate functions such as pain, mood, the immune system, memory, appetite and stress.
There are two main varieties of the cannabis sativa plant – marijuana and hemp. While both plants contain the compounds CBD and THC, their chemical makeup is totally different. The Marijuana plant produces moderate to high levels of THC (delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol) and less CBD. THC is the molecule in cannabis plants that causes psychoactive effects or the “marijuana high”. Hemp plant on the other hand, only produces pharmaceutically minute levels of THC and greater amount of CBD.
The CBD products available on the market are from the hemp variety.
Here are 5 Things about CBD that I think is really good to know:
CBD technically does NOT get you high.
While both CBD and THC interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, it is the compound THC that causes psychoactive effects or “marijuana high”. Since both compounds are found together naturally, there are three important factors to consider:
- THC concentration. Does the product contain 0.0% of THC?
- Extraction process. Is the product isolate (just CBD) or broad spectrum (CBD with other beneficial plant compounds)?
- Product testing. Is the product pure? Does it contain residual contaminants?
CBD is federally legal if it meets these two criteria.
One, it has to be hemp based. Two, the CBD products contain less than 0.3% THC. To get more info on this, see 2018 Farm Bill, section 12619.
Take note, different states have different laws and opinions about CBD. That’s why it is important to know your own state laws as well as the state laws where you are going (if you are travelling). I’m based here in New Jersey and CBD is legal here.
CBD is not a “Cure-All” Wonder Drug.
As of this writing, there is only one CBD derived drug approved by the US FDA. It is Epidiolex which is an oral solution used for treatment of seizures associated with two rare forms of epilepsy and this is only available with a prescription.
CBD is not currently classified by the FDA as a drug, dietary supplement or food. Because of this, companies cannot legally be marketing their product to cure, treat or prevent illness or disease.
CBD interacts with the ECS (endocannabinoid system)
ECS is the system of the body that plays an important role in managing pain, sleep, inflammation, anxiety, nausea, and so much more. This is the factor that we consider when using CBD.
CBD might help you live better.
Just like any dietary supplement, CBD does not work the same way with each person. That is why experiences with CBD are completely a personal thing.
My experience with CBD
I was first introduced to CBD three years ago when I attended the Natural Products Expo East. At that time, CBD products were just being introduced to the market. Technically, the 2018 Farm Bill, Section 12619 was not even passed.
Anyway, since it was really new back then, I was able to directly get information from several manufacturers of CBD containing products. Frankly, I was a bit skeptical too. But my curiosity won and I was able to take home a bunch of sample products such as balms, tinctures, oils, soap, shampoo, creams, gummies and more.
Each year I attended the Expo East, I noticed the fast growth of that niche. Last Fall, I even got the change to try cotton candy infused CBD!
My first experience using CBD started around Spring of 2019. I use CBD containing creams to help soothe my muscles and joints after playing badminton. Yes, I workout by playing badminton three times a week. Whenever I’m stressed with work and home demands, I use CBD drops to relax so that I can fall asleep.
Since the CBD products I used were samples I collected from Expos, I was able to pin point the differences from several brands.
My experience with Social CBD
When the people at Moms Meet asked me to review social CBD, I was really excited because I personally still haven’t tried that brand.
After I received my packet, I was thrilled to see how informative and transparent the company is. Their website has an FAQ section that gives direct and easy to understand answers. I like that they don’t use “gimmicky” marketing techniques.
To facilitate the review, I was sent the items below.
Due to time constraints, I am focusing this review to the four CBD drops.
As I mentioned earlier, I have already used several brands of CBD drops before this review. What made Social CBD drops stand out for me was that they made the product easier and nicer to consume. By adding subtle flavors (my favorite is the pomegranate tea), it makes the product pleasant to the palate. I can even add it to my coffee or drink without any issues. It doesn’t have any strong after taste too.
Most of the brands I tried before Social CBD produce liquid drops that were very thick. I like that Social drops have a thinner consistency. Not only is it easier to swallow, I can also get he exact dosage I want as the product does not stick to the dropper. Also, after the bottle has been opened, the product continues to stay in the same consistency. I’ve experienced other products hardening which I think is a waste.
Price wise, Social CBD is on the mid range. I consider it quite affordable of it’s quality and I actually enjoy taking or using it. Yes, it is not a product I’ll try one time and throw the rest of the bottle because I am not happy to consume it.
After trying several brands, Social CBD is a brand I would like to use more often and actually purchase.
Want to give Social CBD a try? Use the code MOMSMEET25 to get 25% OFF on your purchase.
Have you used CBD containing products? Love to hear your thoughts.
Hugs,