
CBD 101
What is CBD?
CBD (Cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid found in the cannabis plant that interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system.
What is the endocannabinoid system?
The endocannabinoid system was discovered in the early 1990s by researchers studying the effects of THC on the human body. The ECS is a complex cell-signaling system found throughout our body that plays a rule in regulating a range of functions and processes.
Researches have found two types of receptors in the ECS, the CB1 and CB2 receptors. The CB1 receptors are found mostly in the central nervous system and the CB2 receptors are found in the peripheral nervous system, especially in the immune cells.
To stimulate these receptors, our bodies produce molecules called endocannabinoids. These endocannabinoids help keep our internal functions running smoothly.
Endocannnabinoids can bind to either type of receptor depending on what the body needs. For example, endocannabinoids might bind to a CB1 receptor in a nerve to relieve pain or a CB2 receptor in your immune system to signal that your body is experiencing inflammation.
Research has shown that the ECS is linked to the following processes:
- appetite and digestion
- metabolism
- chronic pain
- inflammation and other immune system responses
- mood
- learning and memory
- motor control
- sleep
- cardiovascular system function
- muscle formation
- bone remodeling and growth
- liver function
- reproductive system function
- stress
- skin and nerve function
The purpose of endocannabinoids is to activate a homeostatic effect, bringing the body to a balanced state of health.
What are phytocannabinoids?
Phytocannabinoids are molecules derived from the cannabis plant that interact with the body’s ECS system. Some well known subclasses of cannabinoids include:
- Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
- Cannabidiol (CBD)
- Cannabigerol (CBG)
- Cannabichromene (CBC)
- Cannabinol (CBD)
Of these phytocannabinoids, only THC is psychoactive and can produce intoxicating effects, however all cannabinoids interact with our ECS system in different ways.
What’s the difference between Full-Spectrum and Broad-Spectrum CBD?
Full-Spectrum CBD includes many of the cannabinoids and compounds of the cannabis plant, including up to 0.3% THC. Broad-Spectrum CBD contains all the same compounds as full-spectrum CBD, minus the THC.
If you are required to take drug tests, we recommend that you only consume Broad-Spectrum CBD products as even the small amount of THC in Full-Spectrum could show up on a drug test.
Is CBD legal?
Hemp-derived CBD products (with less than 0.3 percent THC) are legal on the federal level in all 50 states and regulated under the 2018 Farm Bill. Anything above 0.3 percent THC is still considered illegal by the federal government. All of DR Brown’s products have testing results located on their product page for easy access to their compliance with current regulations.
For more information about the legality of CBD in your state, we encourage you to consult with your state’s laws, and the laws of the local governments wherever you plan to travel.
How do I use CBD?
CBD can be taken orally, topically, or inhaled.
Using CBD topically is great for localizing their effects within one area as CBD topicals aren’t absorbed into the bloodstream but rather connect with nearby cannabinoid receptors through the skin. Topicals are great for people looking to relieve minor discomfort or revitalize the skin in specific areas.
Taking CBD orally allows the CBD to be absorbed into the bloodstream for an all-over effect. Tinctures can be taken sublingually for maximum absorption and are recommended when higher doses are required. Gummies and pills are absorbed through the digestive system and liver and can take longer to take effect but can be a more convenient way to take CBD.
How long does CBD take to work?
Generally, you can begin to feel the effects of CBD within 15 minutes of using it sublingually. Edibles and topicals can take longer.
The effects of CBD last from 2 to 6 hours, depending on how you use it.
What you eat, how much you eat, and when you eat matter. If you take CBD on an empty stomach, it gets metabolized and eliminated faster than if you take it on a full stomach, which slows its absorption.
How long will CBD stay in my system?
CBD typically stays in your system for 2 to 5 days. The higher the dose and frequency of usage, the longer CBD will stay in your system. It builds up in your body over time. This is why it’s recommended to use it for at least a week to see if it’s right for you.
How much CBD should I take?
When starting any new medication, the best approach is to start with the lowest dose possible and slowly increase the dose as needed to achieve the desired effect. Below is an example of how our DR Brown’s associates may get you started with CBD:
- Take 10-20mg once daily at bedtime for 3-5 days
- After 3-5 days, take 10-20mg twice daily in the morning and at bedtime
- After 3-5 days, take 10-20mg three times daily as needed
- Adjust dose as necessary to achieve desired effects
Everyone’s body is different and may respond to CBD differently at various doses. You should always talk with your doctor or pharmacist about how to properly dose CBD products while using them to get the maximum benefit and avoid unwanted side effects. This will also help avoid any unnecessary interactions with other prescription drugs.
It’s important to note that because CBD products are not FDA regulated, they do not have any official recommended dosages. Likewise, make sure you are using a quality CBD product that has undergone third-party testing to ensure the product you’re using is safe and effective.
Can I take CBD every day?
Not only can you take CBD every day, but taking CBD every day will give you the best results. CBD compounds in your body over time adding to the potential health benefits.
What are the side-effects of CBD?
A review of potential side effects in humans found that CBD was well tolerated across a wide dose range, up to 1500 mg per day orally.
Though it’s often well-tolerated, CBD can cause side effects such as dry mouth, diarrhea, reduced appetite, drowsiness, and fatigue. CBD can also interact with other medications you’re taking, such as blood thinners, so always check with your doctor when starting CBD if you have prescriptions.
What is the Entourage Effect?
The Entourage Effect is a phrase coined in 1998 by two Israeli scientists to describe their findings that taking a range of natural compounds found in cannabis is more beneficial than just taking a single molecule compound alone.
DR Brown’s products are full-spectrum extracts that include a variety of phytochemicals. These beneficial compounds include a range of phytocannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids.
Delta-8, Delta-10, THC-O & THC-V
What is Delta-8?
Delta-8 (or Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol) is a naturally occurring chemical compound called a cannabinoid that’s found in small traces in hemp and cannabis (marijuana) plants. Delta-8 is like a middle ground between CBD and Delta-9 THC. Delta-8 is a cannabinoid that provides a calming or euphoric effect, without intense feelings of paranoia and anxiety. Delta-8 is derived from cannabis plants and interacts with the CB1 receptors in your brain. It does get you high but not over the edge; on top of that, it offers several health benefits typical of cannabinoids, such as relief from pain, nausea, inflammation, loss of appetite, and depression.
What is Delta-10?
Delta-10 (or Delta-10-tetrahydrocannabinol) is a naturally occurring chemical compound called a cannabinoid that’s found in small traces in hemp and cannabis (marijuana) plants. Delta-10 is like a middle ground between CBD and Delta-9 THC. Delta-10 is a cannabinoid that helps relieve stress and tension while not causing you to get intense feelings of paranoia, anxiety, or psychoactive effects. Delta-10 is derived from cannabis plants and interacts with the CB1 receptors in your brain. It does get you high but not over the edge and has been found to be less potent than Delta-8; on top of that, it offers several health benefits typical of cannabinoids, such as relief from pain, assistance with focus and energy as well as motivation.
What is THC-O?
To create THC-O, a highly-flammable compound called acetic anhydride is added to THC molecules. The process involves a series of extractions that begin with hemp, the low-THC cannabis plant that was made federally legal by Congress in the 2018 Farm Bill. First, CBD is extracted from raw hemp. Then, Delta-8 is extracted from the CBD. Finally, acetic anhydride is added to the Delta-8 molecules to make THC-O acetate. THC-O is believed to be roughly 3 times as potent as Delta-9-THC and 5 times more potent than Delta-8. THC-O is said to present a high similar to those of psychedelics and can help ease pain and stress, increase appetite, and support healthy sleeping habits.
What is THC-V?
THCV, or tetrahydrocannabivarin, is a compound in cannabis that offers a unique array of effects and medical benefits that sets it apart from other cannabinoids like THC and CBD. THC-V seems to affect certain nerve cells in the brain. These effects have been found to help reduce seizures, regulate emotional reactions to food, and reduce cravings for addictive substances.
Are these Cannabinoids/Acetates Legal?
Another reason for the growing popularity of these cannabinoids and acetates is that, unlike heavily regulated THC, they are legal to use in most states. That’s because it’s extracted mostly from hemp-derived CBD, which is legal to farm across the U.S.
But they still sit in a legal gray area. Hemp’s legality stems from the so-called federal farm bill (the Agriculture and Nutrition Improvement Act of 2018), which removed hemp and its byproducts from the list of controlled substances. The reason: Hemp’s low THC levels (less than 0.3%). The bill doesn’t mention Delta-8, Delta-10, THC-O or THC-V anywhere. Hemp advocates and others who sell it have used this loophole to legally market these products. As a result, it’s now the fastest growing product from the hemp industry.
Will I experience a high from these?
Yes, but each high will be different. A high from Delta-8 is comparable to that of an Indica high whereas a high from Delta-10 is comparable to that of a Sativa high. As for THC-O, the high you receive has been described to be similar to that of psychedelics and a THC-V high is also comparable to that of an euphoria, Sativa high.
Product Related Questions
Can my cat or other pets take your pet line?
The pet products we offer currently are designed to support canine and feline wellness. We are continually evaluating ways to expand our offerings and develop new products to serve the Endocannabinoid Systems of many mammals.
Stay tuned for more from DR Brown’s for your favorite pet!
How should I decide which pet product is best for my pet?
You know your fur baby better than anyone. As you observe their health from day to day, you can see which areas of wellness are most important for maintaining. We’ve added more products to our pet line so you can care for your best friend in a variety of ways.
Our Beggin’ Bites were designed to support your dog inside and out, whether they need help for stress, anxiety or even joint care.
For topical needs, our Nose & Paw Balm comes in a soothing scent and is designed to support canines with sensitive skin. It supports skin health and helps maintain normal skin moisture.
Those who already love our Pet 300 Tincture will be pleased to have two different strengths as we’ve introduced a 600mg option to our line. We’ve updated our bottle to include a plastic, graduated dropper to make it easier to give your furry friend DR Brown’s hemp extract.
How much oil does the dropper hold on the tinctures?
The dropper on 100mL bottles holds 1mL of hemp extract oil.
Dropper use: Gently squeeze the rubber end and release. Oil will not fill the entire dropper. The dropper will usually be about half full, which indicates a “full dropper.”
How many servings are in each tincture of hemp extract oil?
The dropper on all bottles holds 1mL of oil.
3000mg/30 = 100mg
1mL = 100mg
.5mL = 50mg
1500mg/30 = 50mg
1mL = 50mg
.5mL = 25mg
1000mg/30 = 33.33mg
1mL = 33.33mg
.5mL = 16.67mg
600mg/30 = 20mg
1mL = 20mg
.5mL = 10mg
300mg/30 = 10mg
1mL = 10mg
.5mL = 5mg
How should I decide which product to purchase?
DR Brown’s is well-known in the competitive CBD industry. All of our products are manufactured with extremely high-quality controls that start on the farm. If you are new to DR Brown’s, we suggest using our product finder to help you select the best product for you.
Are DR Brown's topicals considered full spectrum?
Yes, our DR Brown’s topical formulas are made with full-spectrum hemp extract.
What's the difference between the pain sticks and the salves?
DR Brown’s CBD Pain Sticks tend to be a bit stiffer than our Repair and Relief salves, and you can apply it with the applicator, rather than with your fingers.
Are your topical creams good for sensitive skin?
Yes, our CBD Repair Salve is ideal for sensitive skin and was formulated with Shae Butter, Mango Butter, Coconut Oil, Frankincense, Lavender, Myrrh, Peppermint, Tea Tree and top-tier industrial hemp to help repair any damage while creating a long-lasting calming effect and nourishing your skin.
How do I use the Pain Sticks most effectively?
Our CBD Pain Sticks, available in 300mg or 750mg, are ideal for small areas of the body such as the temples, forehead or wrists. You can apply day or night, as needed—just avoid contact with your eyes.
How do I use the CBD Cool 1000 Lotion most effectively?
Our CBD Cool 1000 Lotion was formulated for a more mindful wellness routine and features menthol and full-spectrum hemp extract. Our 2.5 fl. oz., airless pump dispenses a dime-sized amount of product per use, which we recommend using anywhere on the body you want a cooling effect for serious soothing and pain relief. Avoid contact with eyes.
Can I use DR Brown's topicals on my face?
Our topical formulas were designed for body use, not facial application. Our scented formulations feature natural botanicals such as menthol, which tend to feel soothing on your body, but may be a bit much if you try them on your face.
Were any of these topicals tested on animals?
No. Our topical formulas underwent zero animal testing.
Can I take DR Brown's with prescription medications?
As with any dietary supplement, we recommend consulting your physician prior to adding hemp extract with naturally occurring CBD to your daily routine.
What products do you recommend if I have to pass a 12-Panel Drug Test?
The only DR Brown’s products that would be suitable to pass a 12-Panel Drug Test would be our Broad Spectrum THC-Free Tinctures or our CBD Topicals.
Order Related Questions
What Shipping & Handling methods do you offer?
We currently offer a Ground Shipping (5-7 Days) option for $8.99 and an Expediated Shipping (1-3 Days) option for $12.99.
Does DR Brown's ship to PO Boxes?
Yes, we do ship to PO Boxes via Ground Shipping only.
Does DR Brown's CBD Products ship to all 50 U.S. States?
Yes, DR Brown’s CBD products are sold or shipped to all 50 states.
Please Note – We do not ship Delta-8, Delta-10, THC-O or THC-V products to Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, Idaho, Kentucky, Mississippi, Montana, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Utah, Washington, or Vermont. If you order this product from those states, we will NOT ship to you!
Can I modify my order after it has been placed?
If you’ve placed an order and would like to modify the items or shipping address, please call our team at (201) 230-9516. If the order has not shipped, we can modify the order to your liking.
Can I return a DR Brown's product?
At DR Brown’s, we stand behind our products 100%. We work hard to ensure that our quality is extraordinary and thousands of our customers agree that this difference is something you will experience. We’re so convinced our products will make a noticeable impact in your life, that if any product doesn’t meet your expectations, we want you to send it back within the first 30 days of delivery and we will happily give you the opportunity to exchange it for another product or receive a full refund.
Contact us within 30 days of receiving your product shipment. Once we receive the returned product, a refund will be issued, and an automated email will notify you of that transaction.
If you purchased our product through a DR Brown’s distributor or retailer, just visit the original purchase location for any return or exchange.
Please note: There are no returns or exchanges on Final Sale items.
Click here to learn more about our shipping and return policy.