One of the most controversial and newly trending cannabinoids that is predicted to financially account for a $22 billion-dollar industry by the year 2022 is none other than CBD.
Cannabidiol (CBD) is an organic chemical compound of the cannabis sativa plant. Derived from industrial hemp by way of an extraction process, CBD has become something of a buzzword in the health and wellness niche, and even among mainstream consumers. People who were previously wary of using cannabis for fear of getting “high” (side note: the cannabinoid THC produces the psychoactive high feeling associated with cannabis usage, not CBD) are now open to using cannabidiol and cannabidiol infused products as a way to incorporate the health benefits into their regular routine.
Cannabidiol is the second most prevalent cannabinoid in the cannabis plant profile. The body has two receptors for cannabinoids: CB1 and CB2. While THC is known to attach itself to the CB1 receptor, CBD does not attach to either. What CBD does do is encourage the body to utilize its own cannabinoids. CBD is a helper cannabinoid. What is known as “the entourage effect” is actually a broader example of this very behavior; cannabis components working together to produce a greater effect than any one cannabinoid alone.
For CBD to be the most beneficial, it is best consumed in full spectrum form. Full spectrum refers to CBD products that contain multiple cannabinoids as well as terpenes, fatty acids, proteins, vitamins, antioxidants and other organically occurring elements. This means that there is indeed a trace amount of THC present in full spectrum CBD products. Most CBD distributors know that in order to sell CBD online, products such as tinctures, balms, gummies, capsules and other popular items must contain less than .3% THC in order to be legal. With such trace amounts of THC within a full spectrum, hemp-derived CBD product, a consumer will not generally feel the psychoactive effects that THC produces. CBD is commonly known to promote a general feeling of well-being, but not a “high” feeling.
What does CBD do, exactly? Cannabidiol is one of the most effective phytocannabinoids for reducing inflammation in the body. CBD also has shown to have incredible effects on people suffering with pain, seizures, anxiety and panic, insomnia, depression, addiction issues and much more. An extremely powerful analgesic, CBD can be neuroprotective and therefore, exceptional for treating pain in any capacity.
While CBD has become a popular treatment option for a plethora of ailments, it’s important to make sure that the CBD products you purchase are organic and safe. Any CBD company worth their salt will provide lab test results for consumers directly on their website to show the chemical profile of their CBD products. CBD products that are shipped from overseas can be less potent or contain other additives which may cause adverse effects. Be mindful of what you are putting into your body and always do your research. Properly produced and responsibly sourced, CBD is one of nature’s most potent and beneficial plant medicines.
