Keen to find out what all the fuss is about? Discover which type best suits your needs
IF YOU HAVE CONCERNS ABOUT YOUR HEALTH, SEE YOUR GP. CHECK WITH YOUR GP OR MEDICAL EXPERT BEFORE TAKING NEW SUPPLEMENTS. *CENTRE FOR MEDICINAL CANNABIS. PHOTO: GETTY
Sitting beside the chewing gum and hand sanitiser at the supermarket checkout, there’s no denying that this oil found in the cannabis plant is now mainstream. In fact, there are three million regular users in the UK* and some claim great health benefits from taking it.
‘Moderate evidence shows that CBD can improve sleep disorders, chronic pain and anxiety,’ says Dr Luisa Searle, associate medical director at jorjaemersoncentre.com. Our experts are on hand to help you make the best choice.
1 MASSAGE OILS AND BALMS
If you have pain in a particular area, such as sore muscles after exercise, balms and lotions can be very soothing, as you can be precise when applying them. ‘Be sure to rub them into the skin for 20 seconds until fully absorbed,’ says CBD expert Tom Bourlet.
✢ TRY: CBD Muscle Balm Extra, 50ml (£19.99, Holland & Barrett).
2 ORAL DROPS AND SPRAYS
Drops allow for easy dosing, says Dr Stephen D’Souza, medical director at releaf.co.uk. Maximise effectiveness with drops and sprays under the tongue – this allows for faster onset. Always check the product for specific use and dose recommendations.
✢ TRY: Trip CBD Oil 300mg Wild Mint & Chamomile, 15ml (£15, Boots).
3 GUMMIES AND SOFT DRINKS
‘Edibles can take longer to absorb, but this means they’re less likely to produce side effects, which are usually mild but can include drowsiness or a dry mouth,’ says Dr Searle. Added flavour masks the natural bitter taste of CBD, but be cautious of
