Since its legalisation in several countries across the globe, more and more people are using natural CBD oil products due to their healing and therapeutic benefits for both the mind and body. Studies show that cannabidiol (CBD) can help treat ailments such as depression, anxiety, pain and inflammation. There are various ways to ingest CBD, such as taking CBD oil sublingually, applying CBD topically, and CBD vaping.
Vaping is the use of an electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) to inhale smoke-like vapour. It is a simulation of traditional cigarette smoking but has fewer toxins and is therefore less harmful. With the popularity of vape devices and CBD on the rise, it’s unsurprising to hear that some users are vaping CBD. Keep reading as we delve into CBD vaping and its potential advantages, legality, side effects, dosage and more.
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol is an extract from the hemp plant. It is consumed, inhaled or applied topically to provide several wellness benefits and treat some chronic conditions such as anxiety, dermatitis and joint pain. Typically, CBD oil does not intoxicate or produce a “high” because it contains only trace quantities (if any) of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).
CBD oil is usually used as a sublingual tincture, containing MCT carrier oil (a type of coconut oil) which is not suitable for vaping. You may hear people say they are “vaping CBD oil” but they are more likely to be using a CBD vape juice (also known as CBD e-liquid or CBD e-juice). This typically contains CBD, terpenes, cannabinoids, VG (vegetable glycerine) and PG (propylene glycol).
Does Vaping CBD Get You High?
You will not get high from vaping CBD. While CBD vape juice may contain up to 0.2% THC, it’s not enough for the compound to intoxicate you. CBD e-liquid should help you to feel relaxed but without the psychoactive effects. Since THC content is so low, you also needn’t worry about failing a workplace or athlete drug test.
Is it Legal to Vape CBD in the UK?
Absolutely. As long as the CBD extract in your CBD e-liquid contains no more than 0.2% THC (the UK legal limit), it is perfectly lawful to vape CBD. Always check the packaging of your CBD vape or CBD e-juice for the ingredients list.
Is CBD Vaping Safe?
CBD is considered a safe substance and non-addictive. Vaping, while less harmful than traditional smoking, has lately become a widespread pastime that continues to skyrocket in popularity, but in truth, vaporisers are relatively new products and we lack the necessary research to conclude what the long-term effects – if any – could be. When purchasing a pre-filled CBD vape device or CBD e-juice, always buy from a reputable brand. Do your research, check the packaging and be aware of any unusual ingredients that could be harmful.
How Does It Feel to Vape CBD?
The most common effect of vaping CBD is a sense of relaxation. Mental stress, anxiety and low mood can be alleviated, as can pain and inflammation. You might even feel so relaxed from CBD vaping that you become sleepy and able to enjoy a deeper night’s sleep.
What you won’t feel, is intoxicated, since CBD vape juice does not cause psychoactive, mind-altering effects.
Benefits of Vaping CBD
Scientists understand that there are many potential benefits of using CBD, including:
- Anxiety and stress relief
- Improved mood
- Better focus
- Deeper sleep
- Pain relief
- Inflammation relief
Vaping CBD also offers its benefits as a method of using CBD. Using a CBD vape is considered one of the most efficient ways of using cannabidiol as inhalation provides fast and easy absorption into the bloodstream. This increased bioavailability (the proportion of the ingested substance which enters the circulation and is, therefore, able to have an impact on the body) is due to the larger surface area produced by dispersed vapour in the lungs, which can travel through the blood vessels and enter the bloodstream. The benefits can then typically be felt in quick succession.
Another benefit of CBD vaping is its ease of use. Vape devices are often discreet and compact, meaning you can vape on the go and enjoy the wellness-enhancing benefits of CBD throughout the day.
CBD Vaping Side Effects
There has been relatively little research carried out on the side effects of CBD, but based on anecdotal evidence and preclinical studies, CBD is well-tolerated by most people and generally very safe. If side effects are experienced, they are typically mild. The most commonly reported side effect is slight fatigue or drowsiness, which is usually caused by a high CBD dosage and likely goes hand-in-hand with the sense of relaxation that CBD provides. Fatigue can subside with regular CBD use.
CBD Vaping Dosage
The optimal CBD dosage for vaping largely depends on a myriad of individual factors, such as metabolism and body weight, therefore there’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to dosing for CBD. Many people simply experiment and find the right dosage for them. However, we strongly recommend starting with a low dose and building up gradually if you are new to trying CBD, which will enable you to carefully observe any side effects or yielded results.
Typically, a CBD vape pen consisting of 100mg of CBD will provide approximately 1-2mg of CBD per puff, but this will depend on the vape device being used and your e-juice strength.
Why Are CBD Lab Tests Important?
CBD lab reports are provided by reputable CBD manufacturers to verify the purity of their products. CBD lab analyses should be carried out by an independent laboratory and should clearly show THC and cannabinoid content, plus additional ingredients. CBD lab tests are important to show the legality of the product (it should contain no more than 0.2% THC) and the compounds contained. Since the CBD industry remains largely unregulated, lab testing is crucial to ensure that you are purchasing good-quality CBD and you are not being ripped off.
Alternative Methods of Using CBD
While increasingly popular, vaping CBD is just one method of using cannabidiol, and it isn’t for everyone. There are many alternatives, such as CBD sublingual oils, topical creams and balms, CBD gummies, CBD patches, drinks and even CBD bath bombs.
