If you're on the search for CBD to help you feel and function better, you're far from alone. To say CBD has been popular is an understatement. The demand for CBD products has continued to soar year over year. And responsible CBD companies like us here at Koi have responded by providing you with precisely what you want, more CBD products of a high quality that you can rely on.
Today, CBD is everywhere. It has dominated the internet. And from the looks of it, it's just getting started. You can now easily find your favorite CBD products, and if you're new to the cannabinoid, it's easier than ever to onboard CBD into your wellness routine because you can quickly find something you like. But what exactly is CBD, and what CBD products are there?
What is CBD, and Where Does It Come From?
Surprisingly, despite CBD's popularity, what is CBD is an overly common question. That speaks to the potential of CBD becoming even more sought after as more people get interested in what it is and what it has to offer.
You might have heard CBD, but its full name is cannabidiol. It's a compound called a cannabinoid found in both marijuana and hemp variations of the cannabis plant. It's one of the over 100 types of cannabinoids identified in the plant so far.
CBD is closely associated with THC, another prevalent cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. But unlike THC, CBD doesn't have uplifting effects. It's one of the reasons many people are considering CBD; you can enjoy CBD's balancing benefits without being slowed down by any euphoric effects.
CBD is present in marijuana and hemp plants but is much more abundant in hemp plants, which naturally have very little THC. Therefore, these plants are often preferred for the commercial extraction of CBD to make CBD products.
Is CBD the Same as THC?
It's a common misconception, especially among new consumers, that CBD and THC are the same phytochemicals. While they have some significant similarities, including their source and closely similar molecular structure, they are very different compounds.
The main difference that sets CBD apart is that it doesn't have the elevating effects that THC is known for. Instead, CBD promotes balance in various functions so that you feel and perform at your best every day.
Also, CBD is federally legal when it comes from hemp and is widely accepted in most states. Therefore, you shouldn't have any problems with the authorities when buying and consuming CBD products as long as your CBD products meet the federal legal requirements.
Types of CBD
We offer multiple types of CBD extracts at Koi to produce CBD products that match your needs and preferences. You will notice that each product has a different type indicated on the packaging. Understanding the different kinds of CBD is critical in helping you purchase the right CBD products to suit your needs.
Full-spectrum CBD
Full-spectrum CBD is widely considered the most effective type of CBD extract. This is because it retains CBD and all the many other naturally occurring compounds in hemp plants, like terpenes, vitamins, flavonoids, and other cannabinoids. Full-spectrum CBD does contain some THC. However, these THC levels do not exceed the federally mandated maximum of 0.3%. However, even this tiny amount is thought to help enhance the benefits of other cannabinoids, including CBD.
Full-spectrum CBD extract also contains flavonoids, terpenes, and other cannabinoids. These compounds work synergistically to create the 'entourage effect,' which researchers believe may increase the wellness effects of CBD compared to when it's used alone.
Broad spectrum CBD
Broad-spectrum CBD extract is similar to full-spectrum CBD, except for THC. Broad-spectrum CBD undergoes extra processing to remove detectable levels of THC but leaves the remaining compounds like other cannabinoids, oils, flavonoids, and terpenes in the hemp plant.
Broad spectrum CBD can still deliver the 'entourage effect' but offers consumers the benefits of not consuming any THC if they don't want to. differences between full spectrum and broad spectrum CBD on our blog.
CBD isolate
This is the purest form of CBD. It contains no detectable THC or other naturally occurring compounds in hemp. Just pure CBD, nothing more.
Unlike full and broad-spectrum CBD extracts, CBD isolate cannot produce the 'entourage effect' because all the other compounds are removed. However, it's still potent and is an efficient way to deliver a high concentration of CBD to your body's systems.
Ways to Consume CBD
There are four main ways to consume CBD products:
- Sublingually – This method involves placing a few drops of CBD under the tongue (in the buccal cavity) for absorption.
- Oral ingestion – This technique involves placing CBD edibles or beverages in your mouth and swallowing.
- Inhalation – This involves delivering the CBD to the lungs for absorption through vaping, smoking, or using a CBD inhaler.
- Topical – This method involves the external application of CBD products like salves or lotions.
Each method of using CBD takes a different time for the onset of effects, and the duration of the effects also varies. Also, each method has a different bioavailability (amount of CBD absorbed into the bloodstream), so choosing the right CBD products for the right effects is crucial.
What Are the Potential Benefits of CBD?
It only takes a little digging to find out why CBD is as popular as it is. For ages, it has been associated with numerous wellness and balancing benefits. In addition, it has been extensively studied, and some claims about its benefits have been confirmed.
Everyone who uses CBD can describe their unique experiences with the cannabinoid because the effects and benefits may vary from person to person based on the type of CBD product and personal factors. However, there are some benefits that we see hemp fans associate CBD with, like:
A sense of calm
One of the main reasons people turn to CBD is because they're looking for support during stressful times. CBD has natural balancing properties that can help you feel centered, so you're better able to face busy days at work and many other personal responsibilities. CBD products can be used on an as-needed basis when high-pressure times arise, but CBD should be taken daily to maximize its calming benefits.
Sleep support
Many also report sleeping better after adding CBD to their sleep time routine. Some CBD companies have gone as far as creating CBD products designed explicitly for sleep support. CBD has calming and relaxation effects that will help you to calm down a racing mind and unwind at the end of the day, helping you fall asleep and stay asleep more easily.
Promote overall health and well-being
CBD stimulates your body's endocannabinoid system, enabling better balance and performance in various functions. This includes mood, memory, sleep, stress response, appetite, and more. Most individuals looking for a natural way to feel and function better every day and sleep more restfully at night have often turned to CBD products. If the anecdotal reports are anything to go by, it's safe to say that CBD has delivered promising results.
How CBD Works in the Human Body
CBD works through a unique cell signaling network to produce its wellness and health benefits for the body. That signaling system is called the Endocannabinoid System, or ECS for short.
The ECS has many roles in the body. The primary one is coordinating communication between the central nervous system and the body's visceral and peripheral organs. The ECS also has roles in immune function and aids in its response.
As a system, the ECS comprises different parts, like cell receptors, chemical messengers, and enzymes that help to break down the chemical messengers called endocannabinoids (Cannabinoids naturally found in the body).
CBD fits into the receptors like a key to a lock. Once it contacts the receptors, it triggers various physiological changes inside the cells, which could cause them to respond differently or alter the messages they send to their surroundings.
CBD is also thought to engage and influence other neurotransmitters and the production of hormones like serotonin, which is how it achieves its many wellness benefits.
CBD Products and Ways to Use Them
You can enjoy these and other benefits from a vast selection of CBD products. The type of CBD product you choose depends on your preferred method of consumption, your experience with CBD, and your CBD requirements. Available options include:
Edibles
CBD edibles are the best way to introduce yourself to the hemp world. There’s an extensive range of CBD edibles you can choose from, but most of them have one similar quality – they taste great!
CBD edibles are perfect when you want to avoid the natural taste of CBD and give yourself the best and easiest start to CBD.
Reports indicate that CBD edibles are perfect for relaxation and a finding sense of peace without changes in cognition. However, the gummies must go through digestion, so the onset of effects might take an hour or more. Our beginner's guide to CBD gummies explains more.
CBD oils and tinctures
CBD oil comes in various forms:
- CBD tinctures
- CBD oil spray
The forms contain the same CBD oil but have slightly different delivery methods. Of the three forms, CBD tinctures are the most popular. They come with a dropper to measure your desired CBD oil. You can also use the dropper to transfer the CBD oil from the bottle to your mouth or food.
Most CBD oil products are flavored, but some are unflavored. The taste is not the best when unflavored, and most people struggle to withstand it, but it's the purest form of CBD. Most hemp connoisseurs love CBD oils.
Why not also read: CBD Oil Vs Gummies
There are many ways to take CBD oils. You can take the drops orally, sublingually, or mix them with your food or drink. CBD sprays work the same as CBD oils. But, the spray maximizes the absorption of CBD oil by widening the area of contact.
CBD oil is ideal for experienced CBD lovers looking for a fast onset of benefits or those who do best with a high CBD intake.
CBD Pills and Capsules
If measuring your CBD each time is daunting, you can consider CBD capsules. Most capsules have CBD oil enclosed in a gel capsule. Once consumed, the gel capsule is quickly digested to release CBD oil.
Capsules are convenient for CBD fans who want pure unadulterated CBD but can't stand the taste. Another advantage of CBD capsules is how easy they are to swallow. As you look into CBD capsules, you can also consider CBD pills. They work the same way.
Both CBD capsules and pills come in pre-measured amounts. So you can easily consume them on the go if you have some water to wash them down.
CBD Vapes
CBD vapes are a relatively new category of CBD products that have caught on like wildfire. When looking for vape products, you’ll find you can choose between CBD vape pens and CBD vape juices that you can use with existing vape hardware. In a nutshell, CBD vapes comprise the following:
- CBD disposable vapes
- CBD vape juices
CBD disposable vapes are a convenient, no-frills method of delivering CBD directly to your lungs for fast absorption. The vapes don't require refilling, maintenance, or recharging. They come ready to use out of the box. All you need to do is inhale from the mouthpiece to enjoy the CBD benefits.
CBD disposable vapes are a hit among new vapers that want to enjoy the rapid effects of vaping CBD but don't want the responsibilities of maintaining a vape. They're also ideal when looking for a convenient CBD vape that you can use on the road.
For experienced vapers who already have their preferred devices, there are CBD vape juices you can use with the devices. With CBD vape juices, you can continue enjoying the convenience of your vape device and the benefits of CBD.
The benefits of CBD vapes include immediate effects and high bioavailability. When you vape CBD, it doesn't go through biological processes like digestion which can break down or filter some of the CBD. Instead, it goes directly into the bloodstream. The high bioavailability means you need less CBD to attain your preferred serving to experience effects.
CBD Topicals
The CBD topical range is emerging as the most versatile among CBD products. As a result, hemp companies are constantly finding new CBD products you can apply to the skin for various reasons. Some of these include:
- CBD balms – Also known as CBD muscle balms, these are CBD topicals applied directly on the skin for slow-acting, long-lasting effects. CBD balms are a great way to provide targeted support and relief.
- CBD creams – CBD creams are skincare products designed for daily use. They deliver the nourishing and balancing effects of CBD directly to the skin.
- CBD bath bombs and bath salts – CBD bath bombs are an innovative way to help you enjoy the benefits of CBD and help you calm down and relax at the end of the day. You can use bath bombs and bath salts to treat yourself to a spa-like bath as the CBD absorbs through the skin.
- CBD roll-ons – CBD roll-ons are a relatively new product, but still exciting for those who have physically strenuous days. The CBD roll-on might be the solution for CBD fans who want quick-acting, cooling relief to address tired muscles and joints.
You're spoilt for choice when considering CBD topicals. There's a little something for everyone. You should consider CBD topicals when looking for targeted relief or improving the appearance and health of your skin.
When applying CBD topicals, be generous and massage the product into the skin for a while to maximize absorption.
What to Consider When Buying CBD Products
The best way to guarantee you get the best CBD experience is to take time to ensure you get the best quality and safest CBD product. You should look for several factors to help you when purchasing the products.
3rd Party Lab Reports
3rd party lab reports highlight various qualities of the CBD products, such as purity and composition, and confirm the CBD's concentration in the product. At Koi, we work with ISO-certified 3rd party labs that test every batch of products we make to ensure they meet our high standards and are safe for our consumers. We provide access to the results of the tests through our lab results page, where you can view all the CoA’s of our CBD products.
Extraction Method
Koi uses the best quality hemp extract made using supercritical CO2 extraction to minimize the contamination of the extract.
CO2 extraction relies on a system that uses pressurized carbon dioxide pushed through the hemp plant. It results in an oily concentrate that is rich in compounds. This method is ideal because it doesn't use solvents that interfere with the flavor and purity levels of the extract. Superior quality hemp extract is the basis of our quality CBD products and ensures you get the desired effects.
Organic Hemp
We only use hemp extract sourced from farms in the US that use industrial, organic cultivation methods for their hemp. These methods ensure the hemp plant is provided with proper nutrition and that the plants are not exposed to herbicides and other toxins that can find their way into the final product.
As a precaution, we subject our CBD products to extensive full-panel analysis that also checks for common toxins in our products before we make them available to cannabis consumers.
Type of Hemp Extract
We have CBD products made from full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD extract. Each type of extract has its benefits and levels of potency. By using broad-spectrum and full-spectrum CBD extract, we provide consumers with the best chance to experience CBD’s full wellness and therapeutic benefits while providing products that appeal to their preferences.
Full-spectrum hemp extract contains the complete cannabinoid profile found in the hemp plant, including trace amounts of Delta 9 THC, while broad-spectrum has undergone additional processing to remove all Delta 9 THC. Full-spectrum extract is the most potent, but broad-spectrum isn’t far behind. Both options allow you to experience the elusive entourage effect.
Positive Reviews
A quick look at what other CBD enthusiasts say about the CBD products you’re interested in should help you determine if it’s the right purchase. At Koi, we have over 50,000 customer reviews that you can look at to help you decide which of our CBD products will work best for you. Regardless of your choice, you‘re assured of great taste and unrivaled quality.
CBD Serving Guide
Your ideal CBD serving will depend on various physiological factors, so you should experiment with different servings, starting with the lowest and working your way up to determine the right dosage.
First, you need to know the factors that affect how much CBD you should take. These include:
Body weight
Your body weight is the first consideration when dosing CBD. If you have a higher body weight, you have a larger distribution volume, meaning CBD is less concentrated in the bloodstream. You can make up for this by upping your CBD intake.
Tolerance level
CBD tolerance is the body's decreasing response to your CBD intake over time with repeated consumption. Essentially, the longer and more frequently you use CBD, the higher the dose you will need to reach the same level of effects as your body adjusts to its exposure. If you're new to CBD, you don't have to worry about the tolerance, but it is something you should be aware of because it creeps up over time.
Reasons for taking CBD
CBD is biphasic, meaning it delivers different results when taken in different amounts. The type of effects you want to experience determines the amount of CBD you should take. Energizing effects are expected at lower servings while relaxing and calming effects are more prevalent at higher doses.
CBD extract type
Full and broad-spectrum fall in the category of the stronger extracts. CBD isolate has the lowest potency, requiring a higher intake for the right results.
Mode of administration
The type of CBD product you choose and the mode of administration will also affect how much CBD you take. That's because different administration methods have different absorption efficiencies. Vaping is the most efficient, followed by sublingual, oral, and topical administration. The less efficient the administration method, the more CBD you need.
What is a Normal CBD Serving?
Technically, there isn’t what you would call a “normal” CBD dose because each person has a unique intake. However, CBD doses can be classified into three categories.
- Low strength – This is a CBD dose in the range of 1mg per 10 lbs of body weight
- Medium strength – Starting around 3mg of CBD per 10lbs of body weight
- High strength – Starts at 6mg of CBD per 10 lbs of body weight.
These measurements are a good starting point when determining how much CBD you should take. If you're new to CBD, use the low-strength measurement and slowly work your way up.
How to Use Different CBD Products
We offer various types of CBD products, including CBD tinctures and oils, CBD gummies, vapes, and balms. Each product has different applications and consumption methods to provide the best results.
Why not also read: Do CBD Gummies Have THC?
How to use CBD oil tincture
CBD oil tinctures blend CBD oil mixed with a carrier oil packaged in a small bottle with a dropper. At Koi, we throw in an added twist of flavor to the CBD oil tinctures. From Lemon Lime to Orange, Strawberry, and Spearmint. We have a flavor for you! This makes our CBD oil tincture a popular product often preferred by experienced CBD fans chasing high-concentration CBD products.
CBD oil tinctures are your go-to when looking for quick, direct application. You only squeeze a dropper full under your tongue and hold it for about 60 seconds to increase absorption or mix the drops with a latte or protein shake for more subtle effects. In the latter approach, the onset and duration of effects will change.
Why not also read: CBD Tincture Vs CBD Oil
How to Use CBD Edibles
These are CBD products that look like your favorite treats or snacks. The most common are the Koi CBD Gummies. These chewy, fun-shaped, tropical-flavored treats provide a delicious way to carry CBD into your body.
You can take CBD gummies by chewing them or sucking on them. A quick tip when taking CBD gummies is not to swallow the juice quickly. Hold it in your mouth for some time to increase absorption through the internal cheek walls and the area under the tongue for a quick onset of effects. You can swallow the rest.
As far as time is concerned, there is no good or bad time to take CBD gummies and most of the other edibles. You can even mix them with your other CBD products as a way to keep your CBD levels up in between your main intakes.
How to Use CBD Topicals
Our Koi Naturals CBD Balm provides an immediate soothing sensation and a difference you can feel. Whether it’s sore muscles or troubled skin areas, this topical CBD balm melts on contact to apply it exactly where you need it. Its refreshing yet tranquil scent is a delightful bonus.
When applying CBD balm, you should always ensure the area where you want to apply the topical is clean and dry. Cleaning the area helps to remove any dirt film that might reduce the absorption of CBD, and it also helps to open up the pores, increasing the amount of CBD absorbed after the application.
When applying any CBD topical, apply a generous amount and take time massaging it into the body. Not only is this relaxing and therapeutic, but it also helps maximize the absorption of CBD.
How to Use CBD Vapes
CBD vapes are the fastest way to deliver CBD into your body. Koi CBD Disposable Vapes are a convenient, all-in-one vape device with CBD vape juice and a complete vape device with a pre-charged battery and pre-filled tank right out of the box. Besides the rapid delivery of CBD into the body, our disposable vape also packs plenty of flavor and is an enjoyable and chic way to enjoy CBD.
CBD disposable vapes are easy to use and maintenance-free. They don’t come with any buttons but have a draw-activated function to operate the device. Once it is depleted, you can order a replacement from Koi.
The Best Time to Take CBD
There’s no good or bad time to take CBD. It all depends on the range of effects you want and when you want to feel them.
Morning
Products like CBD gummies and oil tinctures are an excellent choice in the morning. A small serving of CBD from either of these products brings your tastebuds alive and delivers a jolt of energy to get you started with your day. Some CBD in the morning can also help you concentrate and stay focused when you have challenging tasks ahead of you. Why not also read: How Long Do CBD Gummies Last?
Evening
You can also take CBD in the evening or at night. Most people taking CBD at this time want to relax, calm down, and prepare for sleep. Typically, this calls for a higher CBD intake, but this varies depending on the person. CBD oil tinctures or disposable vapes are the best for this because they can deliver a higher serving of CBD. Taking CBD an hour or two before bedtime can help your racing mind slow down and make falling and staying asleep easier.
Make Your CBD Journey Exciting with Koi CBD Products
Determining the CBD products that work for you is not enough. You also need to find a reputable and reliable CBD supplier, and Koi CBD ranks top among them. We are passionate about the CBD products we create and the people that consume them. We are driven to provide you with the best CBD experience by crafting high-quality CBD products packed with great taste and designed for every hemp fan. Here's why we know you will love Koi CBD products:
- USA-grown hemp – The best quality CBD products begin with the best quality hemp. We work with experienced partners that source the best hemp extract from leading industrial hemp farms in the US. The hemp is grown in perfect conditions and harvested at maturity. The plants have the ideal cannabinoid profile and are tested to ensure they meet the highest agricultural standards.
- Third-party lab tested – You don't have to take our word about the quality of our products. We work with ISO-certified third-party labs to test every batch of CBD products we produce for quality, purity, and potency. Each batch goes through a series of tests to confirm the composition of the products and screen for common toxins like herbicides and heavy metals. We have the results of those tests on our website in the form of certificates of analysis, where you can view them before purchasing your CBD product.
- Diversity – We believe no two CBD lovers are the same, and you deserve the opportunity to create your own CBD experience and see where it takes you. You get just that with our vast CBD product selection and multiple CBD extract types. We have products that feature different types and concentrations of CBD to allow you to live out your CBD experience just the way you want to.
- Taste galore! – You should never compromise fun for health. Our CBD products prove that you can make great health choices and still get the best flavor. We have a dedicated team of in-house taste specialists that ensure each product is the best tasting before it hits the market.