The Basics of CBD
Have you been thinking about trying CBD? Maybe you’re just curious in learning more about what it is and how to use it . You have probably heard it can help you sleep better, reduce inflammation, help reduce pain and anxiety. Whatever the case, I’m breaking down the basics so that you have a better understanding of this unique compound.
WHAT IS CBD?
CBD is short for cannabidiol, it is part of a group of active compounds called cannabinoids that are found exclusively in the cannabis plant. Cannabinoids like CBD interact with different receptors in the body to produce a wide range of effects. There are actually over 113 cannabinoids produced by cannabis. The most well-known cannabinoid is THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). This is what makes you feel high when you smoke or ingest cannabis. CBD is another cannabinoid that is gaining a lot of attention. Unlike THC, it wont get you high (non-psychoactive). Instead it has been gaining popularity because of growing evidence linking it to an extensive list of health benefits.
The ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM
CBD interacts with something called the endocannabinoid system (ETS). This system is believed to be vitally important to your health and plays a key role in keeping everything in your body balance and running smoothly. Things such as your immune system, mood, cardiovascular system, digestive system and even your sleep cycle.
The body actually produces its own cannabinoids referred to as endocannabinoids, These include anandamide, which is also known as the “bliss molecule”, and 2-AG. These are abundant in the brain and play a role in everything from appetite to fertility and pain management. Whether produced by the body or in a plant, these naturally-occurring compounds all interact with the ETS through cannabinoid receptors. Cannabinoid receptors are present all over the body in tissues like the brain, digestive system, spleen, arteries, reproductive system and even the heart.
Researchers believe that CBD supplements can help correct any problems within the endocannabinoid system and has the potential to improve many aspects of your health.
HOW CBD CAN HELP
Reduce Pain
Reduce Anxiety and Depression
Reduce Menstrual Cramps
Reduce Inflammation
Can Alleviate Cancer-Related Symptoms
Relieve Nausea
May Treat Seizures and Other Neurological Disorders
Promotes Cardiovascular Health
and Much More..
DIFFERENT TYPES OF CBD
Isolate
Ful Spectrum
Full-spectrum or whole plant tinctures take advantage of the ‘entourage effect’ that comes from combining all the naturally occurring chemicals found in the hemp plant. The cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids found in cannabis have shown to work better when they are taken together as opposed to in isolation from each other.
CBD Isolate, on the other hand, is simply purified CBD that has been extracted from the marijuana plant and isolated from the other cannabinoids.Isolates are great for cooking with CBD or consumers that are especially sensitive to the taste of hemp extract, but some research suggests they may be less effective for certain uses than full spectrum extracts.
DIFFERENT WAYS TO TAKE TAKE CBD
Sublingual Tinctures (under the tongue)
Edibles
Topical Lotions or Salves
Vaping
DOSAGE AND SAFTY
Everybody is different. How well each method works or how much to take varies from person to person, and is influenced by many factors so dosing is a highly individual process. I recommend checking out this article if you are interested in digging a little deeper.
CBD is incredibly safe to take. However, CBD can have both a positive and a negative interaction with other drugs. It’s very important that you understand the effects CBD has on other medications so that you can decrease the chance of experiencing any problems. If you are taking medication it is always a good idea to do some research or talk to your doctor. Here is an article on CBD and drug interactions.
My Experience
After using CBD for over 8 months now, I personally find that it has helped me reduce anxiety and stress significantly. I use it every couple of days along side some other herbal remedies. However, I do not think that CBD isn’t a miracle cure all by any means. I believe that reducing stress and overall wellbeing involves SO much more than just herbs and supplements-such as eating whole foods, mindfulness, connection with nature, community and a toxic free lifestyle.
If you are interested in learning more about CBD and other stress reducing herbs join me at my next CBD + Adaptogens workshop.
Have you tried CBD? what are your thoughts? Let me know in the comments below.
