CBD FAQs

Think of CBD as a food supplement derived from a pure plant extract. Like many other plant-based remedies, it is incredibly effective. But unlike many, CBD can help regulate a vast array of physical and mental functions.

Even though it seems like CBD is something new, it has been used by humans since the dawn of civilisation. Cannabinoids are natural compounds found in hemp, aka Cannabis Sativa L, a plant that has been utilised for centuries for its health benefits.

The Tonic’s CBD is perfectly safe and legal. Ours is triple tested, grown organically and is only ever extracted using the most effective and safe method, using high pressure and low temperatures.

All our products, apart from the CBD Patches, are made from full spectrum CBD Oil.

There are three types of CBD on the market. Full spectrum is the highest quality and most effective. It’s made from the entire plant, tip to root, ensuring it contains as many beneficial compounds as the plant can provide. Not just the full array of cannabinoids*, but flavinoids and terpenes too – terpenes, like curcumin, which is also found in tumeric. All these cannabinoids, terpenes and flavinoids work together to provide a synergistic effect. Broad spectrum is the next next level down, made from parts of the plant and has certain cannabinoids like THC extracted. Then there is CBD isolate, also referred to as ‘pure’ CBD. The most prevalent cannabinoid, Cannabidiol, has been extracted from the CBD Oil, and is presented as a white powder. This is used in our CBD Patches and most CBD drinks available to buy today.

*the most common being CBD cannabidiol, CBG cannabigerol, CBN cannabinol and trace amounts of THC Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol.

Cannabis is predominantly associated with the cannabinoid THC (Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol) – it’s the one that gets you high. And it’s the one which is only seen in ‘trace’ amounts of hemp, unlike other cannabis strains. Because of its psychoactive properties, THC is a controlled substance and illegal in the UK. Full Spectrum CBD products in the UK must contain no more than 2mg of THC per container, no matter the size of the container. Non-Full Spectrum CBD products must contain no more than 1mg THC per container.

CBD is believed to be responsible for most of the wellbeing benefits of the cannabis plant, and new benefits are being discovered all the time.

It has been reported that CBD can help with lowering anxiety, deepening sleep, easing pain, clearing brain fog and help with focus, help with depression, addictive tendencies and much, much more. We do not promote CBD to do any of these things and we always recommend you search the internet for ‘specific issues + CBD’.

CBD is actually a very subtle worker, so quite often people do not realise there has been an effect on their system until they realise they haven’t noticed a particular pain for a while, or that their sleep has improved. Side effects are very rare and I have only witnessed two in five years of running the Tonic; over stimulation and active bowel movements. The former is eased very quickly by actually increasing the CBD intake temporarily and balance in the system will resume. The latter is due to the Herxing Effect, which is a detox and therefore isn’t a bad thing, but again will pass quickly and is helped along by increasing water intake.

Buying CBD online can be confusing as there are many different retailers and brands and it can be tricky knowing who to trust. Getting yourself clued up on the different grades (or quality) of CBD oil, the concentrations and varying formulas and types can help your decision making. And always ask to see Lab reports if they are not available on the website. If you want to know more about what is CBD all about, click the previous link.

Traditional CBD oil is taken sublingually. This means placing the oil under your tongue and holding it there for a minute or 2. The sublingual membrane allows the oil to pass through and into the bloodstream. CBD is absorbed at a rate of 50% to 80% this way. If you were to swallow traditional CBD oil directly or take in food or drink, the absorption rate is drastically reduced to around 4% to 20%. This is why we created the unique Full Spectrum Water Soluble CBD – no matter how you take it you always absorb the maximum CBD content. Learn more on how to take CBD.

Classic CBD Oil taken sublingually – it’s in your bloodstream anywhere between 20 minutes to 2 hours, and lasts around 6 to 8 hours depending on the individual.

The Tonic’s Water Soluble CBD – it’s in your bloodstream in 20 to 30 minutes and lasts 6 to 8 hours.

CBD Patches are transdermal and therefore slow releasing, so you’ll have a few mg of CBD supplied at a steady rate into your blood stream over a 24 to 36 hour period. These are the longest lasting forms of CBD.

Edibles like CBD Gummies are the slowest to reach your bloodstream, but again it’s different person to person – expect to feel effects after 1 to 3 hours.

CBD Vape is as fast as our Water Soluble CBD to enter the bloodstream via the lungs, but stays in your system for the shortest period, usually between 1 to 2 hours.

With this information in mind, you will then want to consider what you are taking it for and how fast and for how long you need the effect to last. Here are some examples; for deeper sleep, take an oral classic CBD Oil or Water Soluble CBD at the time you go to bed. This way the effects last through the night. To keep anxiety at bay throughout the day, either an oral CBD oil or CBD patches (stronger for higher stress or those less susceptible to CBD).

Here are some reviews on our CBD Products to see what our customers are saying:

“Amazing product! I would just like to say how amazing this product is…I’m 34 and I was diagnosed with cancer, it turned my world upside down. This oil is helping me mentally get through it. I couldn’t sleep or eat because of fear that I would either die in my sleep or eat something that would feed cancer (ridiculous but it was so real to me). Thanks to these lovely people speaking to us and listening, I now can watch commercials (mentioning cancer) without having panic attack.

I can now eat, sleep and function relatively normally (under the circumstances). I see now how precious life is and how short it could be, I hope the fact I’m taking time to rate this product shows how fabulous it really is. Thank you the tonic tribe. P.s it really helps menopause symptoms too” – LUCY about Classic CBD Oil

“You know when you’re blown away by product quality, tailored advice and unsurpassed customer service and you think, blimey, I’m going to write a review and then months go merrily by, possibly because the magical 25% CBD oil, the super chilling CBD Infused Tea and the luxurious CBD body face & body cream are doing their jobs and you think oh my god I still haven’t written that review?? No?? Just me then. Thank you Tonic Tribe xx” – REBECCA about Classic CBD Oil

“I use the 8% CBD oil from The Tonic Tribe. Love this CBD oil. Great company to deal with, always helpful and very friendly” – AMANDA

“I’ve been using CBD from The Tonic for over a year. First of all, you always get excellent customer service, they are friendly and personable and always happy to help if you have any questions. Products are always packaged beautifully.

I use CBD to help with IBS symptoms. I originally used the 8% Classic CBD Oil then changed to 8% Water Soluble as it has more anti inflammatory properties, I use it every day and along with dietary changes my symptoms are under control. I wouldn’t be without it now. Definitely recommend the tonic for the quality of their products along with excellent service” – REBECCA ABRAMS

For more reviews you can check our Trust Pilot page or contact us.

THC is a compound which resides in the Cannabis plant alongside many other compounds like CBD (cannabidiol), CBG (cannabigerol), CBDA and all the terpenes and flavinoids – individually, they all have their special powers, but together is when the magic really happens. This is why we produce Full Spectrum CBD Oil and not CBD Isolate or Broad Spectrum.

“I have been really struggling with joint issues related to my cancer drugs. I phoned for advice which was really helpful as there are so many options you can purchase and I found it confusing. The chat I had was really informative. I felt a difference after 4 days of using the Classic CBD oil. My joint issues are reduced and I am not having to take so many painkillers” – HEATHER MATTHEWS about Classic CBD Oil

“CBD Oil that works and knowledgeable people” – TONI ROSE

“One delivery in and I love The Tonic and would highly recommend their products. I bought the 4% Water Soluble and the Cleansing Blossom CBD Infused Tea, which is delicious and soothing. Both products are helping take the edge off and helping me sleep better. Even my sceptical partner who has been very stressed out with work says that they are definitely helping him too. Everything about the Tonic, including their packaging and handwritten note, shows caring and quality, and I feel very lucky to have found them” – FIONA KOLEK

“WOW…These products are truly amazing, after suffering from anxiety for some years I was willing to try anything, along with the tools I learned from CBT, and a little shot of 8% Water Soluble CBD, my thoughts are definitely more realistic. The 2% Miracle Serum helps with my knees and I love to end my day with a cup of the CBD Tea. Such kind and honest people who are always on hand to help with any questions I may have, just can’t rate this company enough” – DEB WICKENS

You can find more on our Trust Pilot page

Traditional CBD oil is best taken ‘sublingually’, which means placing the oil beneath your tongue, holding it there for up to 2 minutes ideally, to allow the CBD to travel through the sublingual membrane and into the bloodstream.

But there are many different ways to take CBD – Transdermal CBD Patches, CBD Tea, CBD Cream and Balms, Edible CBD, so the way to use CBD differs.

No, CBD oil does not need THC to work, but it certainly helps! Good quality full spectrum CBD will contain trace amounts of THC and together with all the many cannabinoids, terpenes and flavinoids these compounds work in synergy for the best effect possible. The better the quality the less you need to take, so spending a little more actually goes a lot further than many of the cheap options, like CBD isolate infused oils and broad spectrums.

Head to our CBD info page and scroll down to ‘Dosage and How to Take It’ for a thorough explanation.

It all depends on your personal preference so that is why we offer free consultations for this very reason, to help you make an informed choice. We are not medically trained to discuss ailments, symptoms or give medicinal advice. We encourage everyone to research their symptoms and CBD for themselves too.

Always consult your doctor if you are on regular medication before taking CBD.

We suggest you leave a 2 hour gap between taking your medication and your CBD. If you are taking medication for heart conditions or blood thinners, leave a 4 hour gap.

Avoid consuming grapefruit or derivatives of, when taking CBD as it can increase or inhibit the effects.

Yes, it is perfectly safe, but do ensure you discuss this with their doctor first and ensure you’re buying CBD from a trusted and reputable UK supplier.

Many of our customers do you use CBD for their pets and report back possitive results, but we must stipulate that it is entirely up to you as the British Veterinary Association do not formally promote its use. 

You can read our blog on this topic here.

You may experience some minor effects of dehydration, so drink plenty of water. This is associated with dexification, also known as ‘herxing’. You can also research independently ‘CBD herxing’.

One other less common side effect is increased anxiety. This is experienced for a short period of time and can be managed by increasing CBD dosage for 24 to 48 hours. Once the body has adjusted to the changes CBD is making to our regulatory system, the anxiety should decrease and things will settle back down.

If you still have issues, please get in touch and we will arrange a replacement.

Tips for unblocking the CBD oils with spray tops:

When you first open your bottle, hold it over a sink and give it a few pumps/sprays. This gets it going. If the oil doesn’t come out at any point of using it, it could be due to the sediment in the oil blocking the nozzle or if it has got cold it can solidify.

This is why you should always shake the bottle before use and not store in a cold place. To free up the nozzle, unscrew the top and pump warm water through until it runs through OK. If solidified, get the bottle warm with hot water or on a radiator and this should get it going again.

Tips for using the 8% CBD Shots pen:

It will take a few pumps to push the CBD paste through to the exit nozzle, so when you first use it, do this with caution.

If the pen stops dispensing CBD and you know it’s still full, there could be an air bubble blocking the exit. You’ll need to draw the air bubble through by sucking on the exit end of the pen, while pumping the CBD through.

The former has a very grassy taste and carries a small amount of CBD and in some cases THC as well – it is a contentious issue as some brands are using CBD Tea as a way to sell weed for people to smoke, so do make sure you’re buying this type of tea from a respected and reliable source!

This is why we designed our Water Soluble Full Spectrum CBD – it is specially formulated to be absorbed through ingestion and the absorption rate is almost 100%, no matter how you take it – hot or cold food or drink.

There is one benefit to heating up CBD that is worth mentioning here, it can trigger a process called Decarboxylation, it’s like an ignition of the cannabinoids and can make them more effective!

We have 5 different flavours and they range from caffeine free (Fruit Explosion) to Intense Flavour with high caffeine content with Black Mango (black tea with real mango, lime and lemongrass). If you’re sensitive to caffeine and find it can over stimulate, and in turn increase a sense of anxiety, we suggest the Fruit Explosion or the Cleansing Blossom (a white tea, which is naturally low in caffeine). But because all our teas contain 5mg of Water Soluble Full Spectrum CBD, you’ll get the usual benefits of CBD in every cup – one of which is a calmer nervous system and steady mind

You can use an infuser too which is great for a 1 cup portion. Tea Pot Infusers are also perfect.

Each Tonic Tea product states how much you need for 1 portion, and there are 20 portions in a pouch. We ensure 5mg of CBD per portion, which sounds like a low amount, but because we are our Water Soluble Full Spectrum CBD the CBD absorption is almost 100%, unlike regular CBD oils, so 5mg of this is the equivalent of 10mg of regular CBD oil taken sublingually.

A 2020 study found that CBD may have vasodilatory effects in human and rat arteries showing CBD may improve flow because it widens blood vessels.

2017 study found that it lowered blood pressure in individuals at rest and those under stress.

The main reason it can help is by reducing stress. American Institute of Stress, stress may cause blood pressure to rise.

Grapes, Hibiscus, Banana*, Licorice, Orange Peel, Yellow Marigold, Cinnamon Sticks, Apricot, The Tonic’s Water-Soluble full spectrum hemp extract* (Water, Curcumin, Vegetable Glycerin, Triglycerides, Mycreen, Caryophyllene, Limolene, Pinene, Linalool, Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate).

You can check out the ingredients of each CBD tea in every product page.