What is CBD?

Cannabidiol or CBD is one of the main molecules contained in hemp, Cannabis Sativa. It is its second main component. The plant also contains CBG, CBN and THC. THC is at the root of the controversy surrounding cannabis because it is a psychoactive substance. CBD, once extracted from hemp, is not a drug but has real therapeutic effects. This molecule helps to relieve stress and anxiety and promotes sleep. It therefore contributes to general well-being, but also moisturises the hair and skin, relieves skin inflammation and protects the body against oxidative stress generated by the production of free radicals. Consuming CBD in small doses is safe but can be done in different ways. In fact, there are a host of CBD products available today: sweets, infusions and flavoured teas,drops to be placed under the tongue or in a drink, creams and moisturising balms... In reality, the way CBD is administered depends on the objective pursued.

How to use CBD?

The form selected to consume CBD not only affects its taste but also its time of action. Depending on the format chosen, the molecule acts more or less quickly and in a more or less pronounced way. Indeed, CBD does not come in a raw form but is associated with a carrier that allows it to release its properties. Most of the time, this is a vegetable oil.

• CBD oil to be placed under the tongue

CBD oil to be ingested directly under the tongue is one of the best known and most effective solutions. It comes in the form of a small bottle containing a vegetable oil, to which a variable dose of CBD has been added, and a pipette from the lid. The latter allows you to take a few drops and place them directly under your tongue. They should then be kept in the mouth for 60 to 90 seconds before being swallowed. This method guarantees rapid absorption: in this way, CBD circulates directly in the blood and does not pass through the digestive system, which contains enzymes that could slow down the action of the molecule. It is estimated that, in this form, cannabidiol takes between 10 and 30 minutes to act.

• CBD infusions and food products

It is still possible to consume CBD in a derivative way. If the taste seems too strong or too bad, an alternative to the previous solution is to add CBD oil to cold drinks or yoghurts, for example. Cannabidiol is not heat resistant, so it should not be added to food that is to be heated in the oven or pan. For some years now, many food products containing CBD have been available in specialised shops and even in some supermarkets: CBD infusions, teas and drinks, but also CBD chocolate, capsules, etc. In the case of a CBD infusion, however, it is necessary to add a fatty substance to the liquid, such as milk or coconut oil, for example, so that the cannabidiol can release its effects. These products seem more familiar than oil to put under the tongue and help to reduce the taste of the product, but their passage through the digestive system slows down their action time. Consumed in this way, cannabidiol can take between one and two hours to take effect.

• Balms and creams for massage

There are now several cosmetic products containing cannabidiol. These often take the form of gels, creams or balms to be applied directly to the skin to cure all sorts of problems. This method helps to moisturise the skin and also to reduce sebum production. For example, CBD can be used to calm eczema and acne outbreaks. While there are specific massage oils and moisturising creams, it is also possible to simply add a few drops of CBD oil to your usual cosmetics.

• CBD e-liquids for electronic cigarettes

The electronic cigarette is one of the best known solutions for consuming CBD. In this case, it is sufficient to acquire specific e-liquids, dedicated to this use, because the usual CBD oil cannot be smoked or vapoured. This method is one of the most effective because the molecule reaches the lungs and respiratory system directly, so it works extremely quickly.

When should I take CBD?

CBD, consumed in low doses and in a punctual manner, remains perfectly harmless and can be taken at any time of the day. Only the desired speed of action can actually determine the best time to take it. CBD oil under the tongue remains the fastest way to experience the benefits of cannabidiol. It therefore seems worthwhile to take a few drops in the morning, in order to start your day in a relaxed manner, especially before a workout or in anticipation of a long, stressful day. Taking a CBD infusion in the evening also allows you to relax before going to bed and guarantees a good night's sleep.

Ecosystem Laboratory markets several CBD-based products. First of all, our water-soluble CBD extract, FS+, fulfils the same functions as the oily extracts found on the market, while having an exceptional taste. Our innovation comes from the fact that it is a water soluble extract. In our cosmetic range we offer a CBD Serum. Thanks to its unique formula with CBD and hazelnut oil, it offers an effective anti-ageing solution for all skin types. In addition, two other CBD-based products will soon be added to our cosmetics range. Finally, our partner Jovia offers an excellent CBD herbal tea, a mixture of flowers and leaves carefully selected to offer you a superior quality infusion, entirely made in France.