So a friend raved about their CBD oil, but you tried it and didn’t feel a thing? It’s possible — even likely — that genetic differences were likely at play. When it comes to cannabis we’re not all the same. And while that means your pal’s favorite might now work for you, getting tangible results from a CBD supplement doesn’t have to be a complete guessing game. A CBD genetic test can give you insights into your sensitivity to CBD and how different types of the cannabinoid will affect you.
CBD genetic tests — the basics
If you’ve done a Covid test, this one’s going to be a breeze. Swab your cheek, mail the sample and get test results delivered via email. Typically, test results come with details about your genetic makeup and product recommendations based on your results. So you’ll narrow down the choices and find what’s right for you, faster.
Much depends on how quickly your body processes CBD
The rate at which your liver processes the CBD in your bloodstream will impact your CBD experience. And that’s influenced by your genes.
Up to a quarter of the population may metabolize CBD faster than the other 75 percent. And a very small percentage, about a quarter of one percent, has a genetic variant that leads to slow CBD metabolization.
“By highlighting these genetic markers and explaining the potential effects, the reports empower clients to make more informed decisions about what they consume, how much they consume and how they consume it,” Adam Tschorn wrote of cannabis tests in the Los Angeles Times.
He noted that your experience isn’t completely determined by genetics — factors including food choices and lifestyle play a role in the expression of those genes.
What happens to your DNA data?
The specifics vary between testing companies, but those services seem to be very aware of privacy concerns.
Lobo Genetics’ website says the lab limits its examination to a few relevant genetic markers, and destroys your DNA sample during testing. They promise not to sell or in anyway share individual personal information without explicit consent. At a customer’s request, they will delete all information associated with the account.
EndoCanna health anonymizes data, according to Tschorn of the LA Times. Customers receive an encryption key so that the DNA record is not linked to their identity. The information is not sold or shared.
Strain Genie’s website promises that data is uploaded to secure servers and used once to generate a report, then it’s archived. Like the others, they don’t sell or share the data.
Recommendations made for you — and the results you’re after
Your genetics are part of the equation. Your goals are too. Are you hoping to improve sleep or relieve anxiety during the day? Maybe this goes without saying, but the results you’re looking for will factor into the products you ultimately choose.
Finding the right CBD doesn’t need to involve a lot of disappointment, with time and money wasted trying products that aren’t right for you. Worse, you might give up when a product that could help you is sitting on a shelf a few miles away.
The insights and product recommendations gleaned from a CBD genetic test can set you on the path to finding the results you’ve heard others talk about — helping you relax, sleep, or find relief from anxiety or pain. It’s a convenient way to learn more about your body, and get recommendations for high-quality products that fit your needs.
