The rising popularity of cannabidiol (CBD) means there are always new CBD products hitting the market.
You may be familiar with gummies, oils, and capsules. Did you know that there’s another form of CBD called CBD paste?
Below, we take a closer look at CBD paste and how it compares to other CBD products.
What is CBD paste?
CBD paste is similar to other CBD products in that it contains CBD, but it differs a lot in terms of potency. It’s usually much more concentrated than other types of CBD.
Some companies add CBD paste to oils like MCT oil.
CBD paste is a good option for people who want or need to take higher doses of CBD, whether for a specific condition or because smaller doses don’t quite do the trick.
What does the research say about CBD?
While the research on CBD is still coming out, what we know so far suggests that CBD might have a few benefits.
Some research points to CBD as a potential treatment for pain because it affects cannabinoid receptor activity and reduces inflammation.
Another study found that CBD may also help with pain related to multiple sclerosis (MS) and arthritis.
However, this study used Sativex, a type of prescription CBD spray not approved for use in the United States. Sativex also contains tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound in cannabis, which may contribute to its effects.
Some people also take CBD to help with:
- anxiety
- depression
- insomnia
- post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Evidence also suggests that CBD may help with cancer-related pain and chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.
Additionally, CBD can help people with certain kinds of epilepsy. Epidiolex is currently the only drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that contains CBD. It’s available by prescription and specifically intended to treat epilepsy.
Other animal and human studies suggest that CBD may also:
- Have antipsychotic effects. A 2015 review found this to be the case, though researchers note that more studies are needed.
- Have anti-tumor effects. This was noted in a 2015 research review, but again, more research is needed.
- Help with substance use treatment. A small review found that CBD may help with addiction to certain substances, including opioids, cocaine, and tobacco.
Benefits and drawbacks of CBD paste
You might be wondering, why choose CBD paste over other forms of CBD, like gummies or capsules? Here are some advantages of CBD paste:
- It’s a more effective way to take CBD in high doses (instead of taking several gummies or capsules, for example).
- You need to take a smaller amount to get a higher dosage, which can help you avoid additives.
- It’s often more cost effective.
- You can use it to make your own edibles or CBD products.
However, there are also several drawbacks of CBD paste compared to other forms of CBD.
It’s a little harder to figure out dosage with paste. It often comes in syringe form. Because it’s hard to dispense, it’s easy to take too much, which can increase your risk for experiencing side effects.
Paste also has a strong taste. The paste-like consistency means you might end up with it stuck to your teeth and gums.
How to shop for CBD paste
Here’s what you should look for when shopping for CBD products like CBD paste.
CBD source
You can choose between CBD isolate and full-spectrum or broad-spectrum CBD. If you prefer to stay away from THC, opt for an isolate. Know that by choosing an isolate, you’re not getting the full benefit of the entourage effect.
Potency
CBD paste is a lot more potent than other types of CBD. Keep this in mind when buying and taking it. It may not be the best product for people new to CBD.
Third-party testing
The FDA can take action against CBD companies that make false claims about their products.
But the FDA doesn’t currently guarantee that any over-the-counter CBD products are safe or effective. So, how can you be sure you’re buying a quality CBD product that is what it says it is?
Look for a certificate of analysis (COA). This means that the CBD paste has been tested for all sorts of contaminants, like pesticides, heavy metals, and molds.
The COA can also tell you whether the advertised potency is accurate or not, as well as which cannabinoids the product contains.
Hemp source
Look for companies that source their hemp in the United States, since U.S. hemp is subject to certain agricultural regulations. Bonus points for hemp that’s U.S.-certified organic.
Customer reviews
Look at customer reviews to get a sense of whether the company and its products have a good reputation. Reviews are a great baseline. If people are repeatedly mentioning the same problem, it’s usually a sign that that’s something to pay attention to.
How to use CBD paste
If CBD paste is already mixed with a carrier oil like MCT oil, you take it like you would a CBD oil.
Most CBD paste, though, comes in a syringe. You can push it out and add it to foods or beverages, or eat it straight from the syringe.
Because CBD paste is a lot more concentrated than gummies or oil, start off with a tiny amount. Remember, it can take some time to feel the effects of edible products.
Eloise Theisen, RN, full-time medical cannabis program faculty at the Pacific College of Health and Science, and president of the American Cannabis Nurses Association, suggests swallowing the paste instead of letting it dissolve under your tongue.
The longer it’s in your mouth, the higher the chance of the stuff sticking to your teeth and gums, which can feel unpleasant and delay its effects.
You can find out more about dosage by checking out our article on CBD dosage.
Safety and side effects
While research suggests that CBD is generally considered safe, some people can experience adverse effects, like:
- fatigue
- weight loss or gain
- appetite change
- diarrhea
Don’t forget to talk to your healthcare provider before taking any kind of CBD. It can interact with certain medications.
Also avoid taking CBD alongside high fat foods or meals. One study found that doing so might increase your risk for side effects.
Takeaway
If you’re finding it hard to take high doses of CBD with traditional gummies and oil, you may want to try CBD paste.
This cannabis-derived extract is a lot more concentrated, making it easier for people looking to take a high dose of CBD.
People with chronic pain or dealing with pain or nausea due to cancer and chemotherapy may need higher doses of CBD to feel any noticeable effects.
When shopping for CBD paste, look for a reputable company that provides customers with a comprehensive COA.
Is CBD Legal? Hemp-derived CBD products (with less than 0.3 percent THC) are legal on the federal level, but are still illegal under some state laws. Marijuana-derived CBD products are illegal on the federal level, but are legal under some state laws. Check your state’s laws and those of anywhere you travel. Keep in mind that nonprescription CBD products are not FDA-approved, and may be inaccurately labeled.
Image Credit: Julia Teichmann
Image Source: https://pixabay.com/photos/cbd-cbd-kapseln-cannabidiol-4474928/
Original Article: https://www.healthline.com/health/cbd-paste#takeaway
