Cannabidiol (CBD) has attracted many people’s attention in recent years. While the effects of THC are widely known, the same can’t be said about CBD. Nevertheless, many individuals refer to this cannabis plant as the all-in-one cure for many ailments. This article talks about the fundamental things about CBD like its effects, therapeutic benefits, etc. Read on to learn and understand CBD and Hemp secrets.
Brief History of CBD
CBD’s origin dates back to 1940, when an expert chemist, Roger Adams, first extracted it from cannabis. Dr. Raphael Mechoulam then took over and did further research focusing on the cannabinoid. In 1963, he managed to describe the chemical structure of CBD. After that, many other researchers used this advancement to explain and understand cannabinoids and their therapeutic effects. A year later, the chemical structure of THC was then demystified, which linked the psychoactive and euphoric effects of cannabis plants only to THC and disassociated CBD as an intoxicating compound.
Mechoulam has recently explained his motivation behind his interest in cannabis research. He says that he was surprised that the chemistry of cannabis, unlike morphine and cocaine, wasn’t well known. And that CBD’s active compound(s) has never been isolated in pure form. It’s why Raphael and his associates were motivated to dig deeper to understand cannabinoids’ structure, especially of CBD.
What Is CBD?
According to the U.S. Library of Medicine, CBD is among the compounds found in Cannabis sativa, also called hemp or marijuana. It occurs naturally in this plant and is used in products like edibles and oils for its relaxing effects. Unlike its counterpart THC, a primary active ingredient in hemp, CBD does not produce psychoactive effects.
Understanding CBD Oil
The cannabis plant has more than 80 compounds. However, CBD and THC are the most prevalent compounds of this plant. When consumed, cannabinoids interact with our endocannabinoid system, a network of receptors regulating psychological functions like digestion, sleep, stress response, and pain perception.
There are two ways of purchasing CBD; either in Cbd Oil form, which filters out all other cannabinoids of the cannabis plants to remain with only CBD or hemp oil extract containing high CBD concentration levels along with other beneficial terpenes and cannabinoids.
Both these oils have less than 0.3% of the psychoactive cannabinoid THC, meaning you’ll not get high. Plus, they’ve been approved legally in 50 states. Although CBD oil can help manage stress and enhance sleep along with other benefits on its own, many experts recommend using hemp oil over CBD oil as it has other compounds that work together to give you the desired effects.
What’s with the Hemp?
The Cannabis Sativa plant has two types: marijuana and hemp. These species contain CBD only that its concentration level is higher in hemp, and it also has low THC levels compared to marijuana. When we talk about hemp oil, we mean oil that has been extracted from the hemp plant’s seed. This oil doesn’t contain CBD or THC, and it has high amounts of healthy fats. Hemp oil is often used in beauty products for its moisturizing effects.
But there’s a difference between whole hemp extract oil and Hemp Seed Oil. The seed oil comes from pressing hemp seeds and is used for cooking, skincare, etc. Sometimes, this oil is referred to as Cannabis sativa seed oil or cannabis seed oil. It tastes a nutty-like taste and contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. You can add hemp oil to your diet. But, note that it isn’t CBD oil and won’t produce the same benefits.
What’s the Difference between CBD Oil and Hemp Seed Oil?
Hemp seed oil comes from hemp’s seeds, while CBD oil and hemp oil are extracted from hemp’s flower or stalk, which contain a high concentration of cannabinoid. Therefore, these two oils will not have the same effects. Hemp seed oil is good for the skin. However, it would help if you didn’t use it as a source of CBD oil. Therefore, if you want to relieve stress or manage pain, ensure that you’re buying a product that contains cannabinoids.
How Does CBD Differ from THC?
As we’ve earlier said, THC and CBD are compounds found in marijuana. But, their differences can make you favor one over the other. An easy way of differentiating THC and CBD is how they make you feel after consumption. With THC, you’ll feel intoxicated as it contains psychoactive properties, while CBD will not make you feel high. It’s why CBD is preferred for pain management.
Additionally, CBD can block the psychoactive effects of THC since it binds to cannabinoid receptors hence blocking THC from activating these receptors. As a result, you experience a less intoxicating effect. That’s why experts recommend a product containing a mix of THC and CBD for first-time consumers.
However, please note that CBD can still offer effects on its own. When used in high amounts, it produces a relaxing effect, which helps clear the brain.
The Legality of CBD and THC
Industrial hemp was made legal in 50 states in 2018 after the Farm Bill was passed. Although DEA regards CBD as a Schedule I controlled substance; it explained in a memo that small traces of this compound in hemp stalks or seeds were legal.
But different states have different laws regarding hemp-derived CBD. You should, therefore, determine your state’s regulations before purchasing hemp-derived CBD products. Also, note that cannabis strains with a high CBD: THC ratio are legal only in states that have made the regulated cannabis market legal.
How Does Cannabis CBD Compare to Hemp CBD?
Hemp and have CBD, THC, and other substances. However, the difference is in the amount of each compound found in these plants. Generally, cannabis has more THC and less CBD, while CBD is more than THC in the hemp plant.
But we should mention that the effects of CBD do not change whether it is hemp-derived or cannabis-derived. You’ll enjoy the benefits and might experience similar side effects no matter where the CBD you consume is derived. That’s because CBD’s chemical structure isn’t dependent on the plant that it comes from.
Still, the amount of CBD that can be extracted is affected by the plant. The hemp plant has more concentration of CBD hence a better option for manufacturers. Plus, it is associated with fewer legal issues. Note that the Farm Bill in 2018 legalized hemp CBD products that met the traditional standards in all but three states. However, products with high THC content aren’t covered by the law. You should know that all CBD products should not have higher than 0.3% THC, even those derived from cannabis. CBD products containing more than 0.3% of THC are considered Schedule I drugs by the DEA in states that haven’t legalized the recreational use of CBD.
What Are the Benefits of CBD?
Could Have Neuroprotective Properties- because CBD can act on the endocannabinoid and other brain systems, researchers believe it could benefit those with neurological disorders. It’s why it is said to be effective in treating conditions like multiple sclerosis and epilepsy. However, more research needs to be conducted on this benefit. But, Sativex, a spray consisting of THC and CBD, is safe and effective in reducing muscle spasticity for people with multiple sclerosis. A study concluded that this spray reduced muscle spasms in 75% of people who had muscle sclerosis. Other neurological disorders that CBD can treat include sleep quality for people with Parkinson’s disease and reduced inflammation for those with Alzheimer’s disease.
Acne Treatment– acne affects many people regardless of age and gender. Experts argue that it is caused by several factors, including underlying inflammation, bacterial infection, overproduction of sebum, and genetics. Recent research, however, reveals that CBD oil, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, can help treat acne. A test-tube study concluded that this oil helped reduce excessive sebum production while exerting anti-inflammatory effects and preventing “pro-acne” agents from being activated. However, we should mention that while these results are encouraging, human research on the effects of CBD on acne is still being explored.
Can Better the Heart’s Health-research claim that CBD has several effects on the heart’s health, including it can lower blood pressure. Hypertension is said to cause various health conditions like heart attack, stroke, and metabolic syndrome. Thankfully, CBD has proven effective in reducing high blood pressure. A study conducted on nine healthy men concluded that inducing 600mg of CBD oil reduced resting blood pressure. Experts link CBD’s effect on blood pressure with its ability to reduce stress and fight anxiety. Some studies conducted on animals revealed that CBD could reduce inflammation and cell death caused by heart disease thanks to its stress-reducing and antioxidant properties.
May Alleviate Symptoms of Cancer– some studies have linked CBD to reduce cancer side effects and those caused by cancer treatment. CBD is said to reduce vomiting, pain, and nausea that are common while treating cancer. A study concluded that giving a combination of THC and CBD to cancer patients helped reduce pain significantly compared to only giving them THC. Other experts argue that CBD can help reduce chemo-related nausea and vomiting, which are common side effects of this drug. Note that doctors can prescribe medicines to help ease these frustrating symptoms. However, some might be ineffective, forcing patients to seek other alternatives. Also, note that some studies on animals have revealed that CBD contains anti-cancer properties that might help prevent and fight off this disease.
Fight Anxiety and Depression– these mental issues are significantly on the rise these days. And they impact a person’s health and overall well-being. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that depression contributes largely to disability while anxiety was rated position six. While doctors may recommend pharmaceutical drugs to those with anxiety and depression, most of these medicines have various side effects like drowsiness, sexual dysfunction, headache, etc. Plus, some medications, such as benzodiazepines, can be addictive, leading to abuse. Thankfully, CBD has proven effective in treating anxiety and depression. It is a natural treatment preferred by many as it doesn’t produce the dreaded side effects. CBD helps fight these mental diseases by stimulating serotonin production, a neurotransmitter responsible for regulating mood and social behavior.
Pain Relief- the use of marijuana as a pain reliever dates back to 2900 B.C. Recent research has discovered that some components of this plant, like CBD, contain pain-relieving properties. Note that we have an endocannabinoid system that regulates various processes like pain, immune, digestion, and sleep. Our bodies produce endocannabinoids, neurotransmitters that bind to our nervous system. Studies claim that CBD can relieve chronic pain by impacting the endocannabinoid receptors’ activity, which reduces inflammation. Some studies also suggest combining THC and CBD works better for treating pain from conditions like arthritis and multiple sclerosis.
Other potential benefits of this non-psychoactive cannabinoid are;
- Reduces psychotic symptoms for people with schizophrenia and other mental illnesses.
- Prevent diabetes.
- Treating withdrawal from drug and substance abuse.
- Prevent the spread of some cancers, including the brain, breast, colon, and prostate cancer.
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CBD skincare is a whole world by itself. This ingredient is used in lotions, serums, salves, and other beauty products, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. Experts say that it can help eliminate puffy eyes, wrinkles, facial redness, and acne. Plus, since it can regulate sebum production, CBD is used for controlling oil production and dryness on the face. Other uses of this compound in Cannabidiol skincare include treating atopic dermatitis and slowing aging signs.
CBD Statistics
A widespread assumption is that the young generation mainly uses hemp extract. However, according to research by the non-profit CBD, most people using this ingredient are above 44 years. That’s because of the pain and difficulty sleeping associated with age. Additionally, other studies have revealed that out of 10 pet owners, one has bought CBD products for their pet. CBD pet products are standard these days as the substance causes anti-inflammatory activity, which reduces inflammation and also contains antibacterial properties. Overall statistics reveal that:
- 33% of Americans have used this ingredient.
- 32% didn’t find it effective
- 64% use it for relieving pain and inflammation.
- 45% have increased their CBD use since the coronavirus pandemic.
- 26% are stocking it up due to fear of shortages caused by COVID-19.
- Gummies, lotions, oils, and capsules are the most common forms of CBD used
- Lack of trust from manufacturers and lack of belief in CBD’s benefits are the largest preventers of using CBD.
Does CBD Work?
Evidence suggests that this compound works for some but not all conditions that it is being promoted for. Unfortunately, there’s no evidence linking CBD to cancer cure. But, there is some evidence suggesting that it can promote quality sleep, relieve anxiety and reduce muscle spasticity. The most accepted benefit of CBD is pain management, anxiety, and sleep disorders treatment. We should also mention that while CBD is said to have fewer side effects, it’s not easy to tell what effects most of the products on the market will have, especially those applied on the skin. Most products don’t contain clinical benefits, and it’s hard to tell which ones since they haven’t been sufficiently tested.
CBD: Safety and Legality
Like any other medicine, CBD has side effects such as diarrhea, drowsiness, fatigue, and reduced appetite, among others. However, most of these can be tolerated. But, we advise that you buy from a reputable brand and vendor. Please check the purity and dosage level of a CBD product before using it. It should also be noted that while CBD is legal in many states, marijuana and CBD products derived from marijuana in almost all forms are illegal.
We should clarify that while CBD will not get you high, the compound reacts differently with people. Statistics say that 5% of users feel altered after taking CBD. They are usually the same people who experience side effects from taking Tylenol and Advil. Since it’s hard to tell how your body will react to a new supplement, we advise that you take CBD under supervision for the first time. Additionally, since CBD isn’t FDA regulated, you recommend that you buy third-party tested CBD for quality assurance.
Which Products Should I Focus on?
- Soothing & Irritation Relief Bundle
It contains a calming cream for people experiencing eczema, dryness, and contact dermatitis. It also includes a repair cream with anti-inflammatory properties to relieve bug bites, dermatitis scratching, and other inflammation. Also included is the hand repair cream, which comes in handy at such a time that washing our hands frequently is essential. (Disclaimer: These products do not contain CBD oil, instead they are made of other plant and herbs oils with wonderful skincare benefits)
