The word ’cannabis’ raises quite a few eyebrows but shunning social stigmas aside, it’s a natural remedy used for many common ailing diseases. CBD (Cannabidiol) is an amazing derivative of the marijuana plant that has found its way into the market as a wonder medicine.
Why are all the UK consumers turning to this relatively untested product?
What is CBD oil, what does it do, how and why you should be buying it? Should you be a part of the CBD life?
With popular high street shops in the UK now selling CBD oils, which ones should you choose?
We delve into the recent developments in the CBD oil industry and Research, pondering over some pressing FAQs.
What Is CBD Oil & How Is It Made?
CBD (Cannabidiol) or ‘cannabis Sativa’ is one of over 100 chemical compounds or cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the active cannabinoid that is present in cannabis and causes the feeling of getting ‘high’. But unlike THC, CBD is not usually a psychoactive substance.
CBD is extracted from the cannabis plant and then diluted with a carrier like a hemp seed oil or coconut oil.
What Does CBD Oil Do?
CBD has gained significant attention for its potential health benefits. The most robust evidence supports its use in treating severe childhood epilepsy syndromes like Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS), which are often resistant to conventional antiseizure medications. Clinical studies have shown that CBD can substantially reduce or even eliminate seizures in these cases. Epidiolex, a medication predominantly made of CBD, is the first cannabis-based drug approved by the FDA for these specific conditions.
Additionally, research and anecdotal evidence suggest CBD might be beneficial for several other health concerns:
- Anxiety: Studies are investigating CBD’s potential to alleviate anxiety, with some clinical trials showing promising results.
- Insomnia: Evidence indicates that CBD may help improve sleep by addressing factors like chronic pain and anxiety that interfere with restful sleep.
- Chronic Pain: Human studies are increasingly supporting the idea that CBD can help manage pain. For instance, research published in the European Journal of Pain found that CBD could reduce pain and inflammation in arthritis when applied topically. Other studies suggest it may also help with inflammatory and neuropathic pain.
- Addiction: Some research suggests CBD may reduce cravings for substances like tobacco and heroin. Animal studies further indicate it might help lessen cravings for alcohol, cannabis, opiates, and stimulants.
CBD works by targeting the two endocannabinoid receptors in humans – CB1 and CB2. The majority of CB1 receptors lie in the brain. CB2 receptors can be found in the immune system. It could also work by:
- Affecting the endocannabinoid receptors in the nervous system.
- Engaging the serotonin receptors.
- Reducing sebum as it is naturally anti-inflammatory.
- Cranial and neural pathways to the brain due to it being an antioxidant.
How Can You Consume CBD Oil?
Capsules
A CBD oil capsule provides the same results as digestible normal pills. The effects may be witnessed within an hour of consumption.
Lotions/Creams
Purchasing a pre-infused cream/lotion with CBD or infusing the CBD helps to interact with endocannabinoid receptors that treat muscles and skin.
Edibles in Food or Drink
Edible CBD can be directly added to food or drink or bought pre-made, which will be ingested and absorbed in the stomach like any other consumed good.
Vaping
Plenty of warnings about the long-term health effects of vaping surrounding the inhalation of CBD oil through vaping have been issued. But it provides immediate benefits and lasts for a shorter duration.
Tinctures
Tinctures of CBD oil in a small bottle with a dropper included in the cap, are the most common method of ingesting CBD oil. The oil can be administered under the tongue which provides an effect within 20-40 mins.
What Can You Use CBD Oil For?
CBD oil can be used for treating numerous symptoms of the following conditions:
- Depression
- Sleepiness
- Anxiety
- Stress
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Diabetes
- Neurological Disorders
- Drug Withdrawals
- Cancer
- Acne
- Epilepsy
- Chronic Pain
What Are the Benefits Of CBD?
Stress, Anxiety and Depression Reduction
With medical research studies on humans showing that CBD works well as an anti-anxiety medicine, there has been a surge in people using CBD to deal with nerves and perform better.
CBD oil treats depression and anxiety without side effects like addiction and substance abuse which are common with antidepressants containing benzodiazepines.
Relaxation
CBD is anti-inflammatory and could help you sleep like a baby at night. CBD consumed during or post-workout and training sessions boosts quick recovery. The same properties also help to lower blood pressure and reduce cell death associated with heart diseases.
Chronic Pain Treatment
CBD oils, capsules, edibles, or lotions can be used for chronic pain treatment of severe pains like arthritis without overdosing on the non-addictive components of CBD.
Alleviation of Cancer-Related Symptoms
Side-effects related to cancer treatment like pain, vomiting, nausea or symptoms related to cancer can be reduced by using CBD.
A study by the Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, has revealed that using a combination of CBD and THC administered on the tongue is effective in reducing chemotherapy-related side effects.
Neuroprotective Properties
The ability of CBD to target the endocannabinoid system, nervous system, and cranial-signalling systems provides benefits to those with neurological disorders. Muscle spasticity, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis can also be reduced by CBD.
Potential Benefits for Heart Health
High blood pressure is a significant risk factor for various health issues, including stroke, heart attack, and metabolic syndrome. Some research suggests that CBD might help people with high blood pressure by influencing heart muscle contractions and dilating blood vessels.
Although more human studies are needed, CBD shows potential benefits for heart health, such as lowering blood pressure and enhancing artery function.
Other Potential Benefits
Beyond the benefits mentioned, CBD has also been explored for its potential in treating various other health conditions. Although more research is needed, CBD may offer the following health benefits:
- Substance misuse treatment: Preliminary evidence suggests that CBD might help reduce anxiety and depression in individuals with a dependency on substances like heroin.
- Potential life extension for glioblastoma patients: Some studies indicate that a combination of CBD and THC could potentially prolong life in people with glioblastoma, an aggressive type of cancer, although this research is still limited.
- Possible sleep improvements: CBD may aid in improving sleep for individuals with certain sleep disorders, though more studies are necessary to confirm these effects.
Are There Any Side-Effects Of CBD?
Even though CBD is very well-tolerated and considered to be a safe alternative, it may cause adverse reactions in some people like:
- Fatigue
- Changes in appetite and weight
- Diarrhoea
- Medication/Drug Interactions with Certain Prescription Medications
- Psychosis, drowsiness, and hallucinations
Is CBD Oil Legal In The UK?
Yes, CBD is legal in the UK in 2024, provided it meets certain regulations. CBD products must contain no more than 1 mg of THC per container. Additionally, CBD food and drink products require a Novel Food authorization from the UK’s Food Standards Agency (FSA). This ensures that the products are safe for consumption and properly labelled.
This process involves submitting a dossier of toxicological data for the Agency’s review and approval. The approval process can take a minimum of one year and may cost over £50,000.
What Should You Consider Before Buying CBD Oil In The UK?
Before buying CBD oil you should be familiar with terms like CBD concentration, hemp oil volume, and CBD volume.
THC Concentration
Anything containing a higher part than 0.2% of THC is illegal in the U.K. and may get you in trouble as it could be an entirely different substance.
CBD Concentration
The ideal concentration depends on different factors like your body weight or the symptoms you’d like to treat. Read more about how to work out the right concentration for you by reading this CBD Dosage Guide.
Third-Party Lab Tests
Look for lab test results, reports, content descriptions, markers or a certificate of authenticity that shows that the manufacturer has diligently made a good product.
Organic or Non-GMO Sourced
A less pure CBD carrying health risks is associated with hemp plants that have been sprayed with pesticides or insecticides. To be safer and support ethical growing practices, always choose organic and non-GMO companies.
CBD Type and Extraction Method
Full-spectrum CBD oil contains fatty acids, proteins, vitamins and much more, so it’s the healthiest form of CBD oil on the market. CBD oil extracted via CO2 extraction has no solvents or chemicals, hence delivering the purest and most superior product.
Disclaimer: The information shared in this post was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change. The below list has been arranged according to the customer reviews, from higher to lower.
What Brands of CBD Oil Should You Consider Buying?
1. Endoca Raw
Website: https://www.endoca.com/en-in/shop/cbd-oil-in
Address: 41 Kingston Street, Cambridge, CB1 2NU
Phone: +31 23 808 0104
Email: info@endoca.com
Reviews: 4.6 out of 5 stars with 5317 reviews on TrustPilot.
Overview:
Endoca, based in Northern Europe, manages the entire hemp production process from seed to shelf. They extract CBD from organic hemp, free from harmful chemicals and preservatives. Offering raw and decarboxylated CBD oil options, Endoca prioritises quality and purity.
Highlight:
- Gluten-free and organic for effective use by vegans as well.
- Supercritical CO2 extraction to filter out CBD from the hemp and get a quality yield.
- Certification and purity reports for individual batches and ingredients.
- Available as capsules and tinctures, but in a weirdly strong taste.
- Available only in two strengths.
Social Presence:
- Facebook: 24K Followers
- Twitter: 3.1K Followers
- Instagram: 22.6K Followers
- YouTube: 57.1K Subscribers
2. Love Hemp
Website: https://love-hemp.com/
Address: Unit 13, Watford Metro Centre, Dwight Road, Watford, WD18 9SB.
Phone: 07547396173
Email: info@lovehemp.com
Reviews: 4.7 out of 5 stars with 2774 reviews on TrustPilot.
Overview:
Love Hemp Group PLC operates as a health and wellness supplement company. The Company manufactures, markets, and sells hemp-based CBD and probiotic products. Love Hemp Group serves customers worldwide.
Highlight:
- A UK-based company operating out of London that focuses on quality.
- Extraction through CO2 extraction process with the highest medical grade CO2.
- Genetically selected plants with suitable phytochemical range.
- Full-spectrum CBD oil provides additional health benefits.
- No pesticides or insecticides make the product completely organic.
Social Presence:
3. Provacan
Website: https://provacan.co.uk/
Address: 11 Shepherd Market, London, W1J 7PG
Phone: +44 208 1380 343
Email: care@provacan.co.uk
Reviews: 4.6 out of 5 stars with 2154 reviews on TrustPilot.
Overview:
Provacan is a well-known UK CBD brand developed in collaboration with the Israeli cannabis research company CiiTECH. They are recognised for their scientific approach to product development.
Highlights:
- Full-spectrum CBD oil with additional cannabinoids and terpenes for the entourage effect.
- Offers various strengths, including 300 mg, 600 mg, 1200 mg, and 2400 mg.
- Uses organically grown hemp and CO2 extraction.
- Third-party lab tested for quality assurance.
- Also offers CBD balms, e-liquids, and capsules.
Social Presence:
4. Blessed CBD
Website: https://blessedcbd.co.uk/
Address: 71-75 Shelton Street, Covent Garden, London, United Kingdom, WC2H 9JQ.
Reviews: 4.6 out of 5 stars with 2044 reviews on TrustPilot.
Overview:
Blessed CBD, a leading U.K. retailer, emerged in 2018 to address the lack of quality CBD products. Their mission is to make premium CBD accessible worldwide. They source from USA and European hemp plants, ensuring lab-tested, high-quality products at affordable prices. With rapid shipping and personable customer service, they’re unlocking nature’s secret for wellness.
Highlight:
- High level of transparency and a trustable brand.
- Purest and strongest CBD oil in the U.K.
- Available from 250-1000 mg and 1800mg strength.
- The product is extracted by the CO2 extraction process.
- Full-spectrum CBD provides maximum benefits.
Social Presence:
5. FourFive CBD
Website: https://fourfive.com/
Address: 2 Victoria Square, St Albans AL1 3TF
Phone: 07398434814
Email: contact@fourfive.com
Reviews: 4.8 out of 5 stars with 823 reviews on TrustPilot.
Overview:
Founded by world-class athletes, fourfive is the UK’s first BSCG and Informed Sport-tested supplements brand. Co-founded by ex-international rugby players George Kruis and Dom Day, they bring game-changing wellness to the market through natural CBD oil, premium vitamin supplements, and mushroom supplements.
Highlights:
- Broad-spectrum CBD oil for maximum benefit without THC.
- Available in various strengths, from 500 mg to 2000 mg.
- Products are third-party tested for purity and potency.
- Offers a range of products, including CBD capsules, oils, and topicals.
- Suitable for vegans and free from pesticides and herbicides.
Social Presence:
6. Hempura
Website: https://www.hempura.co.uk/
Phone: 020 3965 2420
Email: support@hempura.shop
Reviews: 4.5 out of 5 stars with 773 reviews on TrustPilot.
Overview:
Hempura, a UK-based CBD brand founded in 2017, prioritises high-quality, safe, and effective hemp-derived CBD products. Their pure formulations undergo state-of-the-art technology and meticulous growing processes. With a loyal customer base, Hempura aims to help people through natural, organic alternatives. Sustainability, traceability, and customer safety are at the heart of their ethos.
Highlight:
- Top-notch product made with organic hemp.
- The crop is hand-selected based on the phytochemical properties of the plant.
- No herbicides or pesticides are used during cultivation.
- Medical grade CO2 is used for the extraction process.
- Available as e-liquid or e-juice (for vapes), edibles, cosmetics, and CBD oil sprays.
Social Presence:
7. Bud & Tender
Website: https://www.budandtender.com/
Address: 1 Harley Street, Marylebone, London, W1G 9QD
Phone: 020 8144 0099
Email: info@budandtender.com
Reviews: 4.9 out of 5 stars with 643 reviews on TrustPilot.
Overview:
Bud & Tender, a UK-based premium CBD supplement company, blends wellness with scientific excellence. Their mission is to create high-quality, effective, and sustainable CBD products. Founded by Mark Turner BSc and Charles Clowes, they prioritise quality, purity, and environmental impact. Their Premium CBD Oil, developed in England, stands out for taste, effectiveness, and legal compliance. With rigorous testing and a commitment to community and environment, Bud & Tender offers excellence at every drop.
Highlight:
- Combination of ethanol-based and CO2 extraction process.
- Pure oil with a floral and fruity taste.
- Natural hemp flavour without any bitter taste.
- Made for vegetarians and vegans containing 100% organic products.
- Verified by third-party certifications and lab results.
Social Presence:
- Facebook: 838 Followers
- Twitter: 228 Followers
- Instagram: 1.6K Followers
- YouTube: 52 Subscribers
- LinkedIn: 331 Followers
8. Holistic Hemp
Website: https://www.holistichempscotland.com/
Address: 4 Panmure Street, Brechin DD9 6AP
Phone: 01575 520 272
Email: info@holistichempscotland.com
Reviews: 4.8 out of 5 stars with 470 reviews on TrustPilot.
Overview:
Holistic Hemp Scotland, founded in September 2016, is a well-known UK brand for premium CBD oils. Their commitment to excellence ensures purity and is free from heavy metals and pesticides. Crafted from natural hemp extracts, their diverse range includes CBD oils, pastes, and capsules, rich in beneficial compounds for overall health and vitality.
Highlight:
- Selected crop yields from small farms all across Europe.
- 100% organic product with zero pesticides or herbicides.
- Extracted under low pressure to keep the chemical profile of the oil.
- Available as edible pastes with strong concentrations and tinctures with 500mg strength.
- Natural feel, fragrance, and taste to feel as close to nature as possible.
Social Presence:
- Facebook: 3.3K Followers
- Twitter: 450 Followers
- Instagram: 2.3K Followers
- YouTube: 21K Subscribers
- LinkedIn: 199 Connections
- Pinterest: 1 Follower
9. Excite CBD
Website: https://www.excitecbd.co.uk/
Reviews: 4.1 out of 5 stars with 48 reviews on TrustPilot.
Overview:
Excite CBD focuses on delivering high-quality CBD oil extracted from organic hemp grown in Colorado. The brand is committed to transparency and quality.
Highlights:
- Full-spectrum CBD oil is available in various strengths, from 250 mg to 2000 mg.
- The CO2 extraction process ensures high purity and potency.
- All products are third-party tested for safety and quality.
- Offers both CBD oils and CBD vape oils.
- No additives, preservatives, or artificial ingredients.
Social Presence:
- Facebook: 6 Followers
10. Vibes CBD
Website: https://vibescbd.co.uk/
Address: 24 Rue Sibille, 83990 Saint-Tropez, France
Phone: +33986673582
Email: support@vibescbd.co.uk
Reviews: 4.6 out of 5 stars with 35 reviews on Google.
Overview:
Vibes CBD is a newer entrant in the UK CBD market but has quickly gained a reputation for high-quality, full-spectrum CBD oils.
Highlights:
- Uses CO2 extraction to ensure the purity of the oil.
- Available in strengths ranging from 1000 mg to 2000 mg.
- Organically grown hemp with no GMO ingredients, fertilisers, or pesticides.
- Independent lab testing for quality assurance.
- Products include CBD oils, gummies, and capsules.
Social Presence:
- Instagram: 2K Followers
CBD has a lot to offer but needs to be explored further
There’s certainly no harm in buying CBD oil online or in a shop as available CBD products contain a low percentage of the chemical. Being well-informed and aware of what to look for before grabbing that bottle off the shelf is important though as it should be used appropriately.
Some of you may still be hesitant to buy and use CBD oil and we don’t blame you. You can always wait for more confirmed studies with bigger test groups and not rely on one-sided lab test results.
Future lab and test results may reveal what CBD can do for our health. So continue to follow up on it to not miss beneficial health opportunities.
If you want us to add a suggestion here based on your experience, please get in touch with us.
