You’ve just purchased CBD and are ready to give it a try. But the big question remains: how much do you take? The answer to this question can be a complicated one.
Unlike ibuprofen and cough syrup, CBD doesn’t necessarily have a standard “dosing” recommendation. This is because while over-the-counter pharmaceuticals are digested and dispersed throughout the bloodstream and central nervous system, CBD also targets the Endocannabinoid System (ECS). The functionality of the ECS can vary from person to person, making the creation of a standard recommended amount challenging.
To take a deeper dive into this question, we reached out to Sasha Kalcheff-Korn, Education Coordinator, with Realm of Caring, a global non-profit focused on research, education and community. They fund and conduct research to learn more about cannabis and its effects while also legitimizing the therapy. Education serves the two-pronged mission of empowering consumers to select the best products for their individual needs while also informing healthcare professionals about options for their patients. The Realm of Caring community supports those seeking cannabinoid therapy and expands access to those in need.
Stratos is one of a handful of companies who have received the Realm of Caring Seal of Approval after extensive review of the products and manufacturing process.
Q&A w/Realm of Caring:
Can you tell us a bit about how you work with people?
We work with all of our clients one on one, just as we have done for each individual that has come to us for the past 7 years. Every individual truly has their own therapeutic amount they need, their own experiences, and their own questions; therefore we want to take the time to work with each person to help make their cannabinoid therapy a success.
What is the endocannabinoid system and how does it come into play?
The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is a network of cellular receptors, which helps the body to maintain homeostasis and is arguably one of the body’s most essential biological systems. It is composed of endocannabinoids, endocannabinoid receptors, and enzymes that break down the endocannabinoids. There may be cases where an individual does not produce enough endocannabinoids for the ECS to function properly. This is known as an endocannabinoid deficiency. If the endocannabinoid function were decreased, symptoms such as lessened pain threshold and effects on digestion, mood, and sleep may follow. By supplementing with phytocannabinoids, like CBD, we have the potential to mimic the action of endocannabinoids to fill in those gaps of deficiency and bring about symptomatic relief.
How often do you receive questions about how much to take?
Many, many times a day. These are probably the most often asked questions; whether it be for someone who is just starting out with CBD, or for someone who is looking for ongoing support, as how much one takes may change over time.
Do most people start at a certain amount?
Yes and no. We follow the principle of “start low and go slow”. There are several variables considered when deciding on an amount to begin with. This is why we really take an individual, one on one approach when helping a client start out.
What factors do you consider when suggesting an amount to take?
If that individual is taking other medications, the condition, the symptoms of the condition, age, and weight are among the top factors.
There are a lot of different CBD products. How should people choose what’s right for them?
It is overwhelming how many products are out there! First and foremost, we stress the importance of quality because the quality of the product matters. CBD itself is not condition specific, so you want to ensure whatever you are using is accurately labeled, consistent, and tested for harmful neurotoxins.
How does someone know when they are taking the right amount? When should they increase or decrease that amount?
Yes, you might consider this to be the “goldilocks principle”. Take a self-assessment and decide “what will success look like for me?”. This may require increases, or decreases, of the amount you are taking to get there. As you go you will want to take note of when you feel symptomatic relief. This can be referred to as your “therapeutic amount” where you may level off.
How long will it take to notice beneficial effects?
We would advise waiting about 2-3 weeks before increasing, if relief is not realized by then an increase may be needed.
How can people determine if they have a quality product that is safe?
First, you can contact Realm of Caring to see if they are a product we support. We have done the due diligence on a few companies to ensure their products are safe and of quality. We are proud to say that Stratos products have received our Seal of Approval. Once you are a Realm of Caring client, you may also utilize our Quality of Product Matters guide that provides you with questions to ask companies before purchasing a product.
Does CBD mix safely with prescription medication?
As a general rule, we advise spacing the administration of CBD 2-4 hours away from all other medications to avoid any drug interactions.
If anyone has further questions, how can they ask you?
Call us: 719-347-5400 option 1
Email us: info@realmofcaring.org
Chat us: www.realmofcaring.org
Register for a free client account and schedule an appointment: www.realmofcaring.org/client-registration/
Disclaimer
The Realm of Caring Foundation specifically invokes the first amendment rights of freedom of speech and of the press without prejudice. These statements have not been evaluated by the food and drug administration. the products discussed are not intended to diagnose, cure, prevent or treat any disease. Realm of Caring always recommends when and wherever possible that licensed local healthcare professionals be consulted.
The Realm of Caring Foundation is an independent nonprofit with its own governing board. We do not produce or sell cannabinoid products, nor do we receive funds from the sale of other company’s products.