A guide to CBD gummies: Everything you need to know
16th May 2022 CBD Oil
10 min read
The wellness industry in the UK has seen many products emerge in recent years.
One of these products is CBD gummies, which are quickly gaining popularity as an alternative to traditional medication.
Offering convenience, portability, quality and a delicious taste, CBD gummies provide an excellent way to experience the many potential health benefits of cannabidiol. In this guide, we will explore in-depth everything you need to know about these CBD edibles in the UK – including how they are made, what to look for in a quality product, and where to buy the best CBD gummies UK brands.
What are CBD gummies?
Gummies are edible CBD sweets that contain cannabidiol (CBD). CBD is among hundreds of active compounds found in the cannabis plant, known as cannabinoids. Unlike its more famous cousin THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it won't make you feel 'high' or 'stoned'.
While CBD can be consumed in many different ways – including oils, capsules, vape liquids and topical creams – gummies are one of the most popular options, thanks to their ease of use. CBD gummies are a quick, discrete and fun way to enjoy the many benefits of CBD.
How are CBD gummies made?
CBD gummies are made in much the same way as other types of sweets, except for one key difference: they contain extracts from Cannabis sativa (hemp plants) and are typically made with high-quality, natural ingredients that make these sweet treats vegan friendly, non-GMO, and gluten-free.
CBD gummies usually come in a bottle containing around 20-30 gummies, each with a pre-measured dose of CBD. The cannabidiol extract is added to the flavored gummy mixture before being molded into shapes and left to cool. Once they're ready, the CBD gummies are packaged up and ready to sell.
How do CBD gummies work?
Taking CBD gummies is an easy, efficient and effective way to deliver the potential beneficial effects of cannabidiol into your body. The cannabinoids in these tasty treats are absorbed through your digestive system and interact with receptors found throughout your body.
This interaction is believed to help modulate a variety of important functions, including pain perception, mood, memory and appetite. As a result, CBD gummies are thought to provide the same therapeutic benefits as other CBD products, without the added hassle of measuring out doses or using droppers.
CBD gummies work slower than other CBD products because they must first be digested before the CBD can enter your bloodstream and start to work. However, this also means that the effects of edibles tend to last longer – up to 4-6 hours in some cases.
What are the benefits of CBD gummies?
CBD has been shown in clinical studies and a mountain of anecdotal evidence to be a potentially effective treatment for many chronic and acute conditions related to:
- Chronic pain
- Anxiety and depression
- Insomnia
- PTSD
- Epilepsy
- Arthritis
- Multiple sclerosis
- Crohn's disease
CBD gummies are an excellent option for those looking to enjoy the benefits of CBD without having to smoke cannabis or deal with the taste of CBD oil. These edibles are also non-addictive and have very few side effects, making them a safe option for those looking for an alternative to conventional medication.
For those suffering from extreme chronic or severe acute conditions, CBD gummies may be a more effective way of dosing CBD as the effects last longer, providing relief for several hours at a time.
How to find the UK’s best CBD gummies
The CBD market is still relatively new and unregulated, which means it can be tricky to know what to look for when buying products like gummies. Always keep an eye out for the following when purchasing CBD gummy bears or other edibles.
Type of CBD
There are three main types of CBD that can be used in gummies and other edibles: pure CBD isolate, broad-spectrum, and full spectrum.
CBD isolate is the purest form of CBD and contains no other cannabinoids, terpenes or flavonoids. This makes it ideal for those who want to avoid THC entirely or are subject to regular drug tests at work.
Broad-spectrum CBD gummies contain a range of other phytocannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids but are THC-free. This makes it a good option for those who want the beneficial entourage effect that comes with taking multiple cannabinoids but without the psychoactive effects of THC.
Full-spectrum CBD gummies contain all the cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids found in the hemp plant, including trace amounts of THC. This type of CBD is thought to provide the most benefit as all the compounds work together synergistically. Still, it may not be suitable for those who need to avoid THC for personal or professional reasons.
Extraction method
The extraction process used to create the CBD oil in your gummies is also essential. It is generally assumed that supercritical CO2 extraction is the best method, as it preserves all the beneficial compounds in hemp plants and removes harmful contaminants like pesticides or heavy metals.
Look for gummies made using this extraction method to ensure you are getting high-quality CBD that is as pure as possible.
Testing
All reputable CBD companies will have their products batch tested by an independent third-party laboratory. This ensures that the products contain the amount of CBD advertised and do not contain any harmful contaminants.
The results of third-party lab reports should be readily available on the company's website or via a scannable QR code printed on the label. If the CBD gummies UK brand you want to purchase does not offer these results, it is best to look for a different brand.
Ingredients
As with any food supplement, knowing what ingredients are in your CBD gummies is important. For example, some companies use artificial fruit flavors and colors, which may not be suitable for those with allergies or sensitivities.
It is also worth checking to see if the gummies contain any additional ingredients that may positively or negatively affect your health. For example, some companies add vitamins or minerals to their products, while others use sugar or high-fructose corn syrup as a sweetener.
If you follow a particular faith-based diet, you may want to consider only purchasing CBD gummies that are certified kosher or halal.
Are CBD gummies safe to take?
One of the benefits of the 2018 UK resolution that legalized CBD use is that it has helped regulate the industry. This means that more CBD gummies UK brands are being held accountable for their claims, products and safety standards- something that is not always the case with cannabis products.
Since CBD gummies are considered food supplements in the UK, they need to follow the same rules as other products sold within this category. This means that all ingredients must be safe, and there should always be clear labeling and a straightforward description outlining precisely what is being sold.
Additionally, these products need to submit a Novel Foods Application to the FSA (Food Standards Agency) before they can be legally sold. This is a lengthy and detailed process that assesses the safety of the product in question, so you can rest assured that any CBD gummies on sale in the UK have been through this process and are considered safe for human consumption.
Side effects of CBD gummies
Overall, CBD products are considered relatively safe to take by the medical community. However, some people may experience mild side effects when taking CBD gummies that include:
- Dry mouth (cottonmouth)
- Light-headedness or dizziness
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Nausea or upset stomach
- Diarrhea
If you experience any of these side effects, it is best to stop taking the gummies and speak to a medical professional. It is also worth mentioning that CBD can interact with some medications, so if you are taking any prescription drugs, you should always consult a doctor before introducing it into your treatment plan.
Are CBD gummies better than CBD oil tinctures?
There is a lot of debate surrounding the use of CBD gummies vs CBD oil tinctures. Both are popular and effective ways to take CBD, but which should you choose?
The truth is that there is no definitive answer when it comes down to choosing between the two. Instead, it largely depends on the type of product you prefer.
CBD oils come in various flavors and strengths, meaning you can tailor them to your own requirements. However, they usually have an earthy hemp taste that not everyone enjoys.
On the other hand, CBD gummies usually come in sweet fruity flavors such as berry or strawberry, making them the perfect sweet-treat alternative to traditional CBD oils. They also come with more accurate dosing compared to oils, as each gummy typically contains a specific amount of CBD.
The bottom line is that both options are effective, so you'll have to use both to determine which is best for your needs. However, if you want something quick and easy to take with you on the go, then CBD gummies are probably the best option.
How are CBD gummies dosed?
CBD gummies can come in various doses per gummy that affect their overall potency. The dosing of CBD gummies typically ranges between 2 to 100 mg per gummy, so it is important to choose a product that matches your needs.
It is worth noting that most people find smaller doses of around 5-10mg of CBD effective for managing their symptoms and improving their overall health and well-being. In contrast, a larger dose of CBD (20mg+) is usually preferred for more specific issues such as pain management or sleep disorders.
If you are new to taking CBD, it is always best to start with a low dose and gradually increase until you find the right amount of CBD for your condition or wellness needs. This will help your body get used to the compound and reduce the risk of any potential side effects.
How to take CBD gummies
Taking CBD gummies is a straightforward process. All you need to do is pop one or two gummies into your mouth and chew them like you would any other type of candy.
You can take CBD gummies at any time of day, although it is best to take them with food so that the CBD is absorbed more effectively by your body. It usually takes around 30-60 minutes before you start to feel the effects of CBD gummies, so it is best to take your gummies at least an hour before you need them.
How does CBD interact with the Endocannabinoid system (ECS)?
The ECS (endocannabinoid system) consists of a vast network of receptors in the brain, skin, immune system, and throughout the body that regulates various bodily functions and responses. CBD works by interacting with ECS receptors (CB1 and CB2) which is presumed to be the reason for its ability to improve various health conditions.
For example, CBD has been shown to help reduce inflammation by interacting with receptors in the immune system, as well as reducing anxiety and depression by interacting with receptors in the brain.
Primarily, CBD gummies interact with the CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system. This receptor is thought to play a role in the overall health of your immune system, as well as inflammation and pain. Additionally, this receptor is not responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis, so you can take CBD without feeling "high".
Are CBD gummies legal?
New UK regulations outlined in 2018 removed CBD and other hemp-derived cannabinoids (CBDa, CBG, CBGa) from the nation's official list of controlled substances. As such, CBD gummies made from hemp grown outside of the UK are legal for sale as long as they meet the following criteria:
- They contain 1 mg or less of THC per product container
- They are not advertised as having medicinal properties for humans or animals
- They are made from CBD-rich hemp plants, not marijuana plants
- They don't contain cannabinoids still considered controlled substances (CBC, CBN)
- They have submitted a Novel Foods Application and been approved by the UK Food Standards Agency
As long as these criteria are met, UK retailers can sell CBD gummies without legal penalties, and UK consumers can purchase them without worry.
Where to buy the best CBD gummies in the UK?
A few years ago, you may have been hard-pressed to find CBD gummies anywhere other than high-street shops or shady online retailers. However, CBD gummies are now widely available from a range of different brands and retailers, both online and offline.
The best place to buy CBD gummies in the UK is from reputable CBD brands online. Online vendors go above and beyond to ensure that their products meet the highest quality standards, and they also offer a wider range of products than most brick-and-mortar stores.
When choosing an online retailer, be sure to check that they have a valid license to sell CBD products and that they only source their CBD from reputable suppliers. You should also look at customer reviews to get an idea of the quality of the products on offer.
Furthermore, with the growing popularity of CBD products, more established retailers are starting to offer CBD gummies in their stores.
Take a look at our best CBD gummies UK or best CBD oils UK list for recommendations, or visit our shop to buy CBD products from Blessed CBD.
Are CBD gummies good for wellness support?
Many people think that they may only be able to take CBD products if they are struggling with a specific health condition. However, this is not the case! CBD products can actually be used for general wellness support, even if you don't have any particular health concerns.
For example, CBD gummies can be a great way to reduce stress and anxiety levels or improve your sleep quality. Additionally, CBD is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, and taking CBD gummies regularly can help support a healthy immune system, according to many clinical studies.
Of course, if you are struggling with a specific health condition, then CBD gummies can also be used as part of your treatment plan. For example, many people use CBD to help relieve pain associated with conditions like arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and fibromyalgia.
Final thoughts on CBD gummies
CBD gummies are one of the most popular ways to take CBD, and they offer a fun, delicious, and convenient way to get your daily dose of cannabidiol. UK consumers can purchase CBD gummies without any legal penalties, as long as the products meet specific quality criteria.
When choosing a CBD gummy product, be sure to look for one sourced from CBD-rich hemp plants and contains no more than 1 mg of THC per product. You should also check that the gummies have been approved by the UK Food Standards Agency as Novel Foods.
For the best results, take your CBD gummies regularly as part of your wellness routine. And remember, if you are struggling with a specific health condition, be sure to speak to a medical professional before taking CBD products.
References:
3. Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs “Research and analysis: Consumer cannabidiol (CBD) products report”
4. Blessed CBD: Available in UK (https://blessedcbd.co.uk), Germany (https://blessedcbd.de), USA (https://blessedcbd.com)
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