CBD oil is everywhere, but do you really know what it’s all about? Here’s everything you need to know about the latest health craze!

How much CBD oil should I take?

While many integrative doctors are recommending CBD oil to their patients and seeing results, clear dosage guidelines haven’t been set by the medical community. Dr. Robert Rountree, a CBD oil pioneer and expert, recommends 10 milligrams a day for treating anxiety and pain—but your dosage will vary based on what you’re treating. Your doc can help you determine which dosage and form is best for you.

Where can I buy CBD oil and what kind should I get?

Because of the murky laws around growing Cannabis sativa in several states, some companies are producing CBD oil in a lab so they can make a profit without breaking any laws. Integrative docs discourage using these synthetic preparations because they often contain toxins, come with a list of possible side effects like agitation and rapid heartbeat, and are less potent than the naturally cultivated varieties.

Because the CBD oil industry is unregulated and full of companies trying to get a piece of the pie, it’s important to look for pure, high-quality sources that are pharmacist-formulated, third-party tested and have a trusted purity verification (check the labels for all those buzz words!). Examples of trusted brands include Green Roads, Sisters of the Valley and Charlotte’s Web.

What are the side effects of CBD oil?

There are few known side effects of CBD oil to date. One study** lists tiredness, diarrhea, and changes in weight and appetite as possible side effects, so keep those in mind and adjust dosage with your doc if you’re experiencing any uncomfortable reactions. Also, it’s important to note that certain medications may interact with CBD oil, including heart medications, antibiotics and allergy meds—all the more reason to work with a professional as you move forward!

The CBD oil industry is booming and more research comes out every day. But, what we know now is that this simple, naturally occurring remedy has the potential to help many people find relief from an array of health challenges—and that’s incredibly exciting. I hope to see CBD oil become a mainstream treatment in the near future. Until then, I encourage you to do your research, work with your doctor and check back in on this post for new info!