Are you interested in trying CBD to improve your health and wellness? Then there are a number of important facts that you should definitely know. Here are just a few of the key takeaways about this natural substance that has been shown to offer a host of benefits for those who take it.
1. CBD Is Derived From The Cannabis Plant
CBD stands for Cannabidiol, one of the main components of the cannabis plant. There are more than 85 different compounds which are contained in this plant, but out of them all, the two primary cannabinoids are THC and CBD.
2. CBD Doesn’t Cause Any Psychoactive Effects
Lots of people are very confused about the effects that CBD can have on the body. As it is derived from the cannabis plant, it’s only natural for some people to worry that it might cause a high or psychoactive effect. However, this isn’t the case at all.
It is the THC component of the cannabis plant that causes you to get high by binding to nervous receptors in the brain and body. CBD cannot bind with the receptors and therefore it causes no intoxication. As a result, it’s ideal for anyone who needs to keep a clear head.
3. Hemp-Derived CBD Oil Is Legal
It’s possible to make CBD products from either industrial hemp or from medicinal cannabis. Although some states have legalized cannabis, either for medicinal or recreational purposes, some have not. In those states where cannabis use remains outlawed, it’s still possible to have CBD oil which is derived from industrial hemp since it has such as low level of THC.
4. Neurotransmitter Receptors Are Affected By CBD Oil
CBD is able to alter the shape of receptors in the body so they interact in a different way with neurotransmitters. CBD can enhance the ability of the delta and mu opioid receptors to reduce pain naturally. CBD can also reduce the ability of the CB1 receptor to bind effectively with THC so it can mitigate some of the negative side effects linked with THC use. When taken in high doses, CBD can also activate the 5-ht1A receptors which regulates addiction, anxiety, sleep, appetite, nausea, pain perception and vomiting.
What’s more, CBD can also antagonize the GPR55 receptors which help in the control of blood pressure and bone density as well as activating the TRPV1 receptors which regulate body temperature, inflammation and pain. Finally, CBD can also activate the PPAR-gamma receptors to help people suffering from Alzheimer’s Disease, schizophrenia and diabetes.
5. CBD Oil Can Help People With CECD (Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency)
Some people have a condition known as CECD or Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency. This condition involves someone having fewer endogenous cannabinoids in their body than they need to promote good well-being and health. Experts believe CECD might affect several medical problems including:
- IBS
- Fibromyalgia
- Migraines
- MS
- PTSD
- Huntington’s Disease
- Neuropathy
- Motion Sickness
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Autism
CBD has been found to help increase the number of cannabinoids in the body so sufferers can see an improvement in their symptoms.
6. CBD Helps Children Suffering From Seizures And Epilepsy
An extremely exciting application for CBD oil is its ability to help people suffering from seizures and epilepsy. Some children who experienced a significant number of seizures every day found after taking CBD the numbers of seizures they experienced were dramatically decreased. Since CBD is a non-toxic and natural alternative to traditional medications, it is proving to be a popular choice among sufferers.
7. CBD Oil And Hemp Oil Aren’t The Same Thing
There is some confusion about whether hemp oil and CBD oil are the same thing. In fact, they are very different. CBD oil contains Cannabidiol which is extracted from industrial hemp or cannabis plants. Usually, it is combined with olive oil, MCT oil or coconut oil as a base. Meanwhile, hemp oil is only extracted from hemp plant seeds. It contains no CBD and contains no other cannabinoids. While hemp oil does offer some health benefits of its own, they are very different to those offered by CBD oil.
8. CBD Is Extracted In Two Primary Ways
The majority of CBD in CBD oil products is extracted from the stalks, flowers, and leaves of cannabis or industrial hemp plants via heat or solvent extraction methods. The solvent extraction method uses solvents that separate the plant from its compounds. CO2 is the most common solvent used and is the safest option. Sometimes, harsh chemicals such as kerosene, butane or ethanol are the solvent used. These are less safe. Heat extraction, on the other hand, uses steam for extracting the oil more gently yet effectively.
The method of extraction will have a direct impact on how good the oil’s quality is. Damage can be caused to the delicate plant during the extraction process including destruction of the terpenes or cannabinoids which then reduces their efficacy. It may also add unwanted flavors which spoil the taste of the finished CBD oil product.
9. CBD Is Available In Several Forms
CBD oil is becoming more well-known, more recognized for the benefits it can offer and more widely available to consumers everywhere. With this in mind, there are now more ways than ever before to take this substance. While the most common form is still in tincture format which is dropped under the tongue, there are also topical creams, cosmetics, edibles like gummies or infused beverages and oils available to buy.
Another popular form of CBD is in vaping format. CBD vape oils or e-liquids are available which make it really easy for everyone to experience the benefits that this natural compound can provide. A CBD vape pen is discreet and easy to use and is combined with vape cartridges filled with CBD vape oil. When the oil is heated by the heating element in the vape pen, a vapor is produced which is then inhaled by the user so they can experience the benefits rapidly.
These are just nine of the most important things to know about CBD if you’re considering taking this natural and beneficial substance.
