A short guide to CBD and CBD teas
What is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a natural compound that is found in the Cannabis sativa plant. Known as hemp or just 'cannabis', this plant has been used for millennia as a natural medicine for everything from problems with sleep and anxiety to helping with chronic pain and inflammation.
Of course, CBD is not the only chemical found in the plant, there are over 80 more cannabinoids active in the stems and leaves. You'll probably be familiar with CBD's famous sibling - THC. That's the compound that gets you high and intoxicated when someone smokes or digests it. CBD however, unlike tetrahydrocannabinol, does not and has no psycho-active effect. It is completely legal in the UK, across most of Europe and the world.
Modern science and legislation are starting to change the public's perspective on these cannabinoids and you can now find CBD in everything from oils and drinks to topical creams, vapes and gummies.
What does CBD do?
In recent years, CBD has become extremely popular with users claiming it as a natural remedy for a variety of ailments. CBD interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system, which plays an important role in regulating anxiety, pain, appetite, and mood. Think of this system as working to keep your body in balance and 'on the level'.
Recent scientific discoveries have also shown that CBD may be effective in treating depression and anxiety disorders, although further studies are continuing. They show CBD may play an important role in shaping how serotonin receptors behave within the brain and it's this that helps our mood. In addition, CBD is often used as a natural sleep aid as users claim it can help to reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. Despite the need for further research, due to its wide range of potential benefits, it is no wonder that CBD has become so popular in recent years.
Broad spectrum CBD vs isolate.
Broad-spectrum CBD refers to products that contain CBD as well as other active compounds from the cannabis plant, such as terpenes and other cannabinoids (but not THC). These products are typically produced using extraction methods that allow for the preservation of these beneficial compounds. Terpenes are a diverse group of hydrocarbons and are responsible for the distinct smells and flavours of different plants, and also have a range of health benefits. As a result, broad-spectrum CBD products tend to be more potent and effective than products that contain CBD isolate.
Isolate is pure CBD, which sounds like it might be the best thing, right? But the other compounds and terpenes within the Cannabis sativa plant also do their bit for your health, so look for products that have independently tested broad-spectrum CBD (like Four Twentea, naturally).
How much CBD should you take per day?
How much CBD you should take each day depends on a range of factors, including your weight, the severity of your condition and what you're trying to achieve.
Most people start by taking between 10-20mg of CBD per day and increase this gradually if needed. It is always best to start with a lower dose and work your way up until you find the right level for you. The Food Standards Agency recommends starting at 20mg (that's two cups of Four twentea) and not exceeding 70mg per day.
Some people find that they need to take higher doses of CBD to see results, while others find that a smaller dose is all they need. As with any supplement, it is important to find the dosage that works best for you.
Why drink CBD tea?
Rich in antioxidants and polyphenols, the herbs and spices in our Four Twentea teas go hand in hand with the natural compounds in our broad-spectrum CBD. Our CBD teas allow you to find a moment of calm and peace in your day and offer balance, clarity and perspective for the body and mind. Unlike CBD oils, our CBD teas have no strong hemp taste, which some people find overbearing. It's also very easy to take note of how much CBD you're taking each day, unlike fussing with oils or drops.
Four twentea offer a fantastic range of broad-spectrum CBD teas, that are fully tested and certified by the Food Standards Agency and the European Hemp Association.