15% off £35

Code:BONUS15
OffersBuy one get one 1/2 priceSave up to 1/2 Price3 for 2 Mix & MatchBuy 1 Get 1 FreeOutlet2 for £60 Mix & MatchShort Dated2 for £5 Mix & MatchBuy more save 10%Vitamins & SupplementsVitamins & Supplements Shop AllHair, Skin & NailsCollagen & SilicaMuscle Support & Joint PainDigestive HealthMagnesiumFunctional MushroomsVitaminsShop all VitaminsMultivitaminsVitamin AVitamin BVitamin CVitamin DVitamin EVitamin KVitamin DrinksMineralsShop all MineralsMagnesiumIronZincCalciumSeleniumChromiumSupplementsShop all SupplementsFibre SupplementsAcidophilus & Friendly BacteriaPeppermint OilGrapeseed ExtractLecithinCollagen & SilicaOmega & Fish OilsPlant Sourced SupplementsSuperfood SupplementsArnicaApple CiderRaspberry KetonesAloe VeraChondroitin & MSMCo Enzyme Q10Evening Primrose OilGarlicGinkgo BilobaGlucosamineGlucomannanSeaweed, Kelps and Aquaceuticals5 HTPDigestive EnzymesSaw palmettoCharcoalConditionShop all ConditionCholesterolAllergy & Hay Fever CareAnxiety SupportBone & Muscle HealthMuscle Support & Joint PainBrain & Memory SupportWomen's HealthMen's HealthChildren's HealthCold & Immune SupportFatigueDigestive HealthHair, Skin & NailsHeart & CirculationLiver CareMood SupportSexual HealthSleep & RelaxationStress ReliefVisionWomen's HealthShop all Women's HealthPerimenopauseMenopauseMenstrual SupportUrinary Tract HealthPregnancy & ConceptionMen's HealthShop all Men's HealthProstate HealthChildren's HealthCBD Vitamins & SupplementsShop all CBD Vitamins & SupplementsCBD OilCBD CapsulesCBD SprayCBD GummiesHerbal & Licensed RemediesShop all Herbal & Licensed RemediesRescue RemedyAshwagandhaMilk ThistleGinseng & GuaranaHomeopathic & Flower RemediesShop all Homeopathic & Flower RemediesRescue RemedyTissue SaltsFlower RemediesHomeopathic RemediesAt-Home TestsVegan Vitamins & SupplementsHolland & BarrettVitabioticsSolgarNew NordicBetterYouWeledaBioglanGrass & Co.Nature's WayNatures AidBuy one get one 1/2 priceSave up to 1/2 PriceBuy 1 Get 1 FreeOutletShort Dated3 for £15 Mix & Match3 for 2 Mix & MatchDairy FreeGluten FreeSesame Seed FreeCelery FreeCereal FreeCrustaceans FreeEgg FreeFish FreeKiwi FreeLupin FreeNew inFood & DrinkChristmas Food & GiftsFood & Drink Shop AllDried Fruit, Nuts & SeedsShop all Dried Fruit, Nuts & SeedsDried FruitNutsSeedsMixesTeas, Coffee & Hot BeveragesShop all Teas, Coffee & Hot BeveragesCoffee & Coffee SubstitutesMushroom DrinksHot ChocolateTeasSuperfood TeasMatcha & Green TeaHerbal TeaPeppermint TeaSleep & RelaxationSlimming TeaWomen's Health TeasHoney, Jams & SpreadsShop all Honey, Jams & SpreadsManuka HoneyHoneyNut ButtersJams & ChutneysSyrupsSpreadsPateDrinks & JuicesShop all Drinks & JuicesMultipack DrinksJuices & Health ShotsNatural Energy DrinksCoconut WaterKombuchaCBD DrinksSoft DrinksWaterAlcohol Free DrinksProtein ShakesSuperfoodsShop all SuperfoodsSuperfood BlendsSupergreensMoringa PowderSpirulinaMaca PowderFlaxseedBaobabChia SeedsGoji BerriesGut HealthSnacksShop all SnacksSweet SnacksSavoury SnacksLow Calorie SnacksChocolateCrisps & ChipsCrackers & CrispbreadsBiscuits & CookiesSnack BarsFlapjacksLiquoricePopcornVegan FoodShop all Vegan FoodMeat-Free AlternativesDairy Free DrinksEgg SubstitutesVegan ProteinVegan Protein BarsFood CupboardShop all Food CupboardApple Cider VinegarCondiments & SaucesMeat-Free AlternativesSoup & Ready MealsRice, Pasta, Pulses & GrainsGravy, Broths & StockBreakfast CerealsShop all Breakfast CerealsCereals, Bran & FlakesGranolaMuesliOats & PorridgeBreakfast BarsCookingShop all CookingCooking IngredientsApple Cider VinegarCondiments & SaucesMeat-Free AlternativesSoup & Ready MealsRice, Pasta, Pulses & GrainsTinned FoodsHerbs, Spices & SeasoningGravy, Broths & StockHome BakingShop all Home BakingBaking IngredientsBaking MixesBreadFlourSweeteners & Sugar AlternativesEgg SubstitutesDairy Free DrinksShop all Dairy Free DrinksOat, Rice & Hemp DrinksSoya DrinksNut DrinksNutritionally Complete FoodHolland & BarrettNaturyaGrenadeHuelHeath & HeatherPukkaTwiningsNakdPerfectTedOptimum NutritionBuy one get one 1/2 price3 for 2 Mix & MatchBuy 1 Get 1 FreeSave up to 1/2 PriceShort DatedOutlet2 for £5 Mix & MatchBuy more save 10%Gluten FreeDairy FreeWheat FreeSugar FreeEgg FreeMilk FreeSoya FreeSesame Seed FreeCelery FreeFish FreeNew inSports NutritionSports Nutrition Shop AllProteinShop all ProteinWhey ProteinClear ProteinMass GainersVegan ProteinDiet ProteinCaseinSports SupplementsShop all Sports SupplementsTestosteroneElectrolytesEnergy GelsSports CollagenCreatineShop all CreatineCreatine PowderCreatine CapsulesBars, Drinks & SnacksShop all Bars, Drinks & SnacksEnergy BarsProtein BarsProtein ShakesProtein SnacksNutritionally Complete FoodMeal Replacement ShakesPre Workout & EnergyShop all Pre Workout & EnergyPre WorkoutCaffeine Free Pre WorkoutAmino Energy PowdersIntra WorkoutPost WorkoutKetoAmino AcidsShop all Amino AcidsAmino Energy PowdersBCAAL-LysineGlutamineCarnitineArginineVegan Sports NutritionShop all Vegan Sports NutritionVegan ProteinVegan Protein BarsVegan Pre Workout & EnergyVegan Amino AcidsVegan CreatineSports AccessoriesShop all Sports AccessoriesBottles & ShakersFitness EquipmentOptimum NutritionPrecision EngineeredUSNGrenadeApplied NutritionMyproteinHolland & BarrettHuelPhDNakdSave up to 1/2 PriceBuy one get one 1/2 price3 for 2 Mix & Match2 for £60 Mix & Match2 for £25 Mix & MatchShort DatedBetter than 1/2 priceOutletGluten FreeDairy FreeSugar FreeWheat FreeEgg FreePalm Oil FreeMilk FreeSesame Seed FreeSoya FreeCelery FreeNew inBeautyGiftsNatural Beauty Shop AllSkincareShop all SkincarePremium SkincareFace CareBody CareSun CareTanning & BronzingEye CareLip CareFoot CareHand & Nail CareSkin AilmentsSkin OilsCBD BeautyFace CareShop all Face CareCleanser & TonerFace MoisturiserFace Oil & SerumFace WashFace Exfoliators & ScrubsFace MasksHair CareShop all Hair CareShampoo & ConditionerHair ColouringHair MasksHair Oil & SerumHair Spray, Gel & MousseHair AccessoriesWashing & BathingShop all Washing & BathingShampoo & ConditionerBathing AccessoriesFeminine CareShower Gel & Body WashDeodorantDentalHand WashSoapBath Soak & OilBody ScrubBath Bombs & SaltsIncontinence SupportAromatherapy & HomeShop all Aromatherapy & HomePure Essential OilsBlended Essential OilsBase & Carrier OilsHolisticMother & BabyShop all Mother & BabyBaby Skincare & ToiletriesElectrical WellnessSexual WellnessDr OrganicFaith in NatureWeledaNaturtintTisserandMiaromaSukinQ+ATrilogyChilds FarmBuy one get one 1/2 priceSave up to 1/2 PriceOutletAlcohol FreeParfum FreeGluten FreePalm Oil FreeDairy FreeCelery FreeCereal FreeCrustaceans FreeEgg FreeFish FreeNew inChristmasCBDShop all CBDCBD Vitamins & SupplementsShop all CBD Vitamins & SupplementsCBD OilCBD CapsulesCBD SprayCBD GummiesCBD Food & DrinkCBD BeautyGrass & Co.Cannaray CBDCBDfxTRIPfourfiveHolistic HerbHolland & BarrettReakiroLove HempBody & Mind BotanicalsBuy one get one 1/2 priceOutletSave up to 1/2 PriceDairy FreeAlcohol FreeGluten FreeNew inWeight ManagementWeight Management Shop AllFat Burners, Binders & Appetite SuppressantsShop all Fat Burners, Binders & Appetite SuppressantsFat BurnersFat BindersAppetite SuppressantsSlimming TabletsWeight Management Shakes Shop all Weight Management Shakes Meal Replacement ShakesDiet ProteinDiet Food & DrinkShop all Diet Food & DrinkHealthier CookingLow Calorie SnacksSlimming TeasExercise SupportShop all Exercise SupportFitness EquipmentMeal Replacement ShakesDiet ProteinProtein BarsHolland & BarrettGrenadeHeath & HeatherPhDUSNPrecision EngineeredOptimum NutritionTrekBouncePulsinBuy one get one 1/2 priceSave up to 1/2 Price2 for £12 Mix & Match2 for £25 Mix & Match3 for 2 Mix & MatchShort DatedBetter than 1/2 priceOutletGluten FreeSugar FreeDairy FreeWheat FreeEgg FreeMilk FreeCelery FreeCrustaceans FreeFish FreeKiwi FreeNew inHealth & WellnessShop all Health & WellnessEnergyJoints Bones & MusclesGut HealthHair Skin & NailsStress AnxietySleep & RelaxationHolland & BarrettVitabioticsNaturtintWeledaSolgarOptimum NutritionDr OrganicBetterYouApplied NutritionNew NordicBuy one get one 1/2 priceSave up to 1/2 Price3 for 2 Mix & Match2 for £60 Mix & MatchOutlet2 for £12 Mix & Match3 for £15 Mix & MatchShort DatedDairy FreeGluten FreeAlcohol FreeSugar FreeWheat FreeSoya FreeSesame Seed FreeCelery FreeCereal FreeCrustaceans FreeNew inMedicines and HealthcareVeganShop for your WellnessGut HealthImmunityEnergySkincareWomen's HealthMenstrual HealthMenopauseJoints, Bones & MusclesHair, Skin & NailsSleep & RelaxationFood & DietChildren's HealthStress ReliefHealthy HeartLow Mood & DepressionConcentration & AlertnessEye HealthSexual HealthLearn about WellnessJoints, Bones & MusclesWomen's HealthPeriods & Cycle HealthMenopauseImmunityGut HealthFood & DietSports & FitnessSleep & RelaxationHair Skin & NailsArticlesAll articlesHealthFood & nutritionGut healthImmunityJoints, bones & musclesWomen's healthWellnessHair & skinMental wellbeingSeasonalSleep & relaxationSports nutritionRecipesAll recipesGluten freeLow sugarVeganDairy freePodcast

Explore related topics

CBD products: what are they and how do you take them?

medico-author

Written byMedico Digital

julie_cunningham

Reviewed byJulie Cunningham

Various glass bottles with CBD oil, THC tincture and hemp leaves on a marble background. Flat lay, minimalism. Cosmetics CBD oil.
The world of CBD (cannabidiol) can be confusing. Learn more about the different types of CBD products available and how to take them.

Summary

1What is CBD used for?

More research is needed to prove any of the claimed benefits of CBD. But, many people who take CBD do so, as they feel it can help improve…

2Types of CBD products and how to use them

Whether you're brand new to CBD or looking to try something different to your usual go-to, we hope that the info below will help you work out which…

3CBD products FAQs

Including “How much CBD oil should I start with? “ and “What is the difference between CBD% and CBDmg?”...

Explore related topics

Let’s get back to basics with CBD. CBD (cannabidiol) has been on the wellness scene for a while now, with many hailing it as a possible natural remedy for a range of health challenges, including sore muscles and joints, poor sleep and anxiety.1,2 

Since then, there have been hundreds of products to try, in dozens of forms, from chewable sweet-like gummies to balmssprays and oils.

If you're thinking of dipping your toe into the world of CBD, you may not know where to start. Answering the all-important questions, discover exactly what CBD is as well as ways to take it.

CBD: the basics

First things first – what is it and how does it differ from cannabis we’ve heard about before? CBD stands for cannabidiol and is a non-intoxicating compound extracted from the Cannabis sativa plant.3 

While CBD comes from the same plant as the illegal drug marijuana (weed), it won’t get you high, as the ‘psychoactive’ compound, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is either removed or only present in trace amounts.4

Because of this, CBD products, like oils, gummies and oral sprays, are legal to buy in the UK from reputable stores and online health retailers, like Holland & Barrett (hello!).4

What is CBD used for?

More research is needed to prove any of the claimed benefits of CBD. But, many people who take CBD do so, as they feel it can help improve problems like joint pain, poor sleep and anxiety.1,2 

Initial studies and research also suggest that CBD may be helpful in managing symptoms in neurological conditions like epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease.5-7

While this could be fantastic news for treatment development, much more information and data are needed to prove the positive effects of CBD and rule out any potential long-term side effects.5-7

If you’re experiencing any symptoms or health issues, it’s important to talk to your GP before using CBD products, as there’s currently no evidence to support its use as a medicine.8

Types of CBD products and how to use them

There are so many CBD products available that choosing one can be a little overwhelming. 

Whether you're brand new to CBD or looking to try something different to your usual go-to, we hope that the info below will help you work out which type of CBD product might be best for you.

CBD oil

CBD oil is probably the most well-known and easily accessible CBD product. It’s versatile and affordable, making it a great product to start your CBD journey with.

Most people like to take CBD oil by popping a few drops under their tongue and letting it sit there for a few minutes. This method allows the CBD to be absorbed quickly into the bloodstream.9

Some research shows that eating healthy fats can increase the bioavailability of CBD (how quickly and how well it’s absorbed). So, eating foods like fish, avocado and nuts around the same time as taking your oil could potentially boost its effects.10,11

If you have sensitive taste buds, this method might not be for you. Thankfully, CBD oil can be added to any kind of food or drink to help mask its taste. At H&B, we like to add CBD to our smoothies, protein shakes, baking mixtures and even sauces.
Close up of pipette with pouring liquid essential oil on pink background. Dropper with a falling drop of aromatherapy oil close-up
CBD oil can also be added to cosmetics, like moisturisers and lotions, or simply massaged directly into your skin.12 

Make sure to always read the product label for guidance on the recommended dosage and how best to use it.

CBD balm

For aching muscles and joints, massaging a CBD balm over the area may help to soothe soreness and reduce inflammation.3
Hemp salve with cannabis leaves on powdery beige background top view, closeup, cdb.
Simply get a blob of balm on your fingertips and gently and slowly massage it into your skin over the affected area. Depending on the product, you may feel a nice warming or cooling sensation.

CBD capsules

For traditionalists, CBD capsules are a great option. They’re quick and easy to take and don’t leave the earthy taste of CBD oil in your mouth. 
Oil filled capsules, softgel of food supplements, fish oil, omega 3, vitamin D3, vitamin E
Some CBD capsules contain vitamins and nutrients too, so you can enjoy additional health benefits with your dose of CBD.

If you don’t mind swallowing them, CBD capsules are a convenient and often cost-effective way to take CBD.

CBD gummies

CBD gummies, just like vitamin gummies, are a fun and tasty way to get your dose without any funny or unpleasant tastes. 

Gummies are a great option if you find it hard to swallow capsules, as you can simply pop one in your mouth and chew without any water, any time, anywhere. 

Have a browse of all of our CBD gummies and find out which ones are our favourites..
Fruit jelly gummy vitamins in a jar, food supplement.
It’s important to remember that CBD gummies aren’t sweets, and consuming an excessive amount of CBD gummies may pose potential health risks, especially to children, including drowsiness, gastrointestinal issues and possible interactions with other medications.13-15 Always keep CBD products out of reach of children

CBD oral sprays

CBD oral sprays are a super quick and easy way to get your CBD hit wherever and whenever you need it. 

Pop off the cap and pump a couple of sprays onto your tongue, leaving the droplets to sit for a few seconds.
Woman holding cosmetic spray bottle, pressing spray mist to spray skin care products close-up atomizer. Gray backgorund. Water splash.
Just like CBD oils, sprays are absorbed into the bloodstream more quickly than capsules or gummies because they don’t have to pass through the digestive system.9 Plus, with flavoured and flavourless options to choose from, you don’t need a drink to wash them down with.
Some CBD sprays also contain vitamins and other nutrients, so you can enjoy even more benefits with each spritz. Not sure which to try? Check out our top picks of CBD sprays.

CBD drinks

Pouring tea into a cup or glass, hot brewed tea, and dried tea leaves on a wooden plate placed on a wooden table on a dark black background.
When you’re on the go and short on time, convenience is key. It’s no wonder CBD drinks are becoming increasingly popular. 

Whatever your drink – be it coffee, tea, sparkling drinks, smoothies or health shots – there’s a CBD-infused beverage out there for you to sip on.

CBD food enhancers

If you want to add CBD to your diet but don’t want to always have to buy products with CBD already in them, you can use CBD food enhancers instead. 
Cannabis essential oil drip into food. Keto breakfast concept. Fried egg with avocado and fried bacon in a white plate.
CBD food enhancers are a small tincture of CBD that can be popped into any food or drink item you like. All you need to do is add a few drops (the recommended dose on the packaging) to your food or drink item and you’re good to go. 

Whether you want to add some CBD to your coffee, protein shake or pasta sauce, the possibilities are endless with CBD food enhancers.

CBD cosmetic enhancers

You can buy cosmetic products with added CBD in their ingredients list. However, with cosmetics, you’ll usually know your fave products and might not want to stray from what you know and love.
close up of pipette with pouring liquid serum and shadows on beige background. Face cream stroke. Trendy cosmetics shot with hard shadows.
However, if you want to try something new without having to buy a whole new set of creams and lotions, you can use CBD cosmetic enhancers. These can be added to everything from foundation to moisturiser so you can keep your regular skincare and makeup routine but still use CBD at the same time.

Simply add a few drops into the dispensed cosmetic product, mix it in and you’re all set. In just a few moments, you can elevate your products and transform them into CBD cosmetics.

CBD products FAQs

How much CBD oil should I start with?

The general rule is to start slowly with a low dose and gradually build it up if you need it. This way you can monitor how it affects your body and have a positive experience. 

Always check with your GP that CBD oil is safe to take for you before use.
 

What is the difference between CBD% and CBDmg?

CBD% refers to the amount of CBD compared to other ingredients. For example, a 10mL bottle of CBD oil with approximately 275mg per bottle could be sold as 2.75% strength CBD. 

CBDmg refers to the total amount of CBD in the product. For example, that same 10mL bottle of CBD could also be sold as CBD oil, 275mg.

Most manufacturers provide both strength indicators, but understanding this difference can help you compare products.
 

The final say

Remember, every CBD product is different, so it might take a few tries to find the perfect one for you. 

With our ultimate guides and knowledgeable in-store colleagues, we’re here to help narrow down your options and give you the confidence to try CBD for the first time.

Disclaimer

Here at H&B, we only sell CBD that meets our highest standards for purity, quality, and safety, as backed by leading trade associations (HFMA & EIHA) and expert laboratories so you can find the CBD you can trust. And in the format, flavour and strength you want too. 

The FSA set an acceptable daily intake of 0.15mg/kg/body weight which equates to 10mg for a 70kg for an adult (for products with 98% purity). 

The advice in this article is for information only and should not replace medical care. Please check with your GP or healthcare professional before trying any supplements, treatments or remedies. Food supplements must not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.
 

Sources

  1. Shannon S, et al. Cannabidiol in anxiety and sleep: A large case series. Perm J. 2019;23:18–041. https://doi.org/10.7812/TPP/18-041 
  2. Arthritis Foundation. CBD for Arthritis Pain: What You Should Know [Internet]. [cited 2024 May 24]. Available from: https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/managing-pain/pain-relief-solutions/cbd-for-arthritis-pain 
  3. Meissner H, Cascella M. Cannabidiol (CBD). Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024. [cited 2024 May 24]. Available from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK556048/ 
  4. NHS. Medical cannabis (and cannabis oils) [Internet]. [cited 2024 May 24]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/medical-cannabis/ 
  5. Singh K, et al. Emerging therapeutic potential of cannabidiol (CBD) in neurological disorders: A comprehensive review. Behav Neurol. 2023;2023:8825358. https://doi.org/10.1155/2023/8825358 
  6. Khalsa JH, et al. Review: Cannabinoids as medicinals. Curr Addict Rep. 2022;9(4):630–46. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40429-022-00438-3 
  7. Cancer Research UK. Cannabis, CBD oil and cancer [Internet]. [cited 2024 May 24]. Available from: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/treatment/complementary-alternative-therapies/individual-therapies/cannabis
  8. British Heart Foundation. CBD: What is it, and can it help the heart? [Internet]. [cited 2024 May 24]. Available from: https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/medical/cbd-and-the-heart 
  9. MSD Manual. Drug Administration [Internet]. [cited 2024 May 24]. Available from: https://www.msdmanuals.com/en-gb/home/drugs/administration-and-kinetics-of-drugs/drug-administration 
  10. Zgair A, et al. Dietary fats and pharmaceutical lipid excipients increase systemic exposure to orally administered cannabis and cannabis-based medicines. Am J Transl Res. 2016;8(8):3448–59. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5009397/ 
  11. British Heart Foundation. Fats explained [Internet]. [cited 2024 May 24]. Available from: https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/support/healthy-living/healthy-eating/fats-explained 
  12. Makhakhe L. Topical cannabidiol (CBD) in skin pathology – A comprehensive review and prospects for new therapeutic opportunities. S Afr Fam Pract. 2022;64(1):e1–e4. https://doi.org/10.4102/safp.v64i1.5493 
  13. Bar-Lev Schleider, Lihi, et al. Real Life Experience of Medical Cannabis Treatment in Autism: Analysis of Safety and Efficacy. Scientific Report. 2019;9. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-018-37570-y 
  14. Barchel, Dana, et al. Oral Cannabidiol Use in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder to Treat Related Symptoms and Co-morbidities. Frontiers in Pharmacology. 2018;9. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2018.01521 
  15. Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children. NHS Foundation Trust. Cannabinoid (cannabis) oil [Internet]. [cited 2024 Jul 2]. Available from: https://www.gosh.nhs.uk/conditions-and-treatments/medicines-information/cannabinoid-cannabis-oil/
 

Related Articles