If you're like most people, you've probably heard of CBD. But what does CBD stand for? What does it do?
CBD stands for cannabidiol, and it is one of the many naturally occurring compounds found in cannabis called cannabinoids.
Cannabinoids are a class of chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant.
These molecules interact with the human body's endocannabinoid system, which is involved in a variety of physiological processes including pain, inflammation, and appetite.
Endocannabinoids are cannabinoids that are produced naturally in the body.
Phytocannabinoids (plant cannabinoids) are structurally similar to endocannabinoids and bind to the same receptors in the body.
There are over 100 different cannabinoids found in cannabis, each with its own unique properties.
In this guide, we will discuss all things CBD, including what it is, how it works, and the benefits that it provides.
What is CBD exactly?
CBD stands for cannabidiol and is one of the many cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant.
It is the second most abundant cannabinoid next to THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), though, unlike THC, does not cause any psychoactive effects.
Cannabinoids, along with terpenes and other phytonutrients, are responsible for many of the therapeutic properties associated with cannabis.
Research has shown CBD to have a number of medical benefits, including pain and anxiety relief, anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, and seizure suppression.
How does CBD work?
CBD works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, which is a network of receptors and chemicals that are found throughout the body.
These receptors are responsible for mediating the effects of cannabinoids. When CBD binds to these receptors, it helps to regulate various functions in the body, such as pain perception, mood, and memory.
By modulating these functions, CBD can help to alleviate certain medical conditions, such as anxiety and chronic pain.
THC is the main psychoactive component in cannabis, and it works by binding to CB1 receptors in the brain. This binding creates a number of different effects, including the high that many people associate with marijuana use.
However, CBD is an inverse agonist of the CB1 receptor, which means it can actually block some of THC’s intoxicating effects.
This property makes CBD an attractive option for those who want to enjoy the benefits of cannabis without experiencing the high.
CBD doesn't just bind to CB1 and CB2 receptors. It also binds to a number of other receptor proteins in the endocannabinoid system, including GPR6, GPR3, TRPV1 and TRPV2.
Research suggests that these interactions are responsible for many of the pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects of CBD.
CBD also activates one of the brain's main serotonin receptors, 5-HT1A. This might explain why CBD is said to be beneficial in the treatment of anxiety and depression.
While it may seem simple, the process is actually quite complicated and scientists are still working to discover just how CBD affects our bodies and brains.
As it stands right now, there are over a dozen different ways that CBD affects us.
Types of CBD products
CBD is available in a variety of forms, including CBD oils, tinctures, capsules, gummies, vape products and topicals.
Oils and tinctures are the most popular CBD products; they are typically taken orally, either by drops under the tongue or by mixing with food or drink.
Capsules and gummies are other oral options, but they take longer to take effect since they must be broken down by the digestive system first.
Topicals are CBD-infused creams, lotions, and balms that are applied directly to the skin; they are often used to treat localized pain or skin conditions.
CBD vape products are used by inhaling CBD-infused liquid through a vaping device.
This method of administration is one of the fastest-acting, as the CBD is directly absorbed into the bloodstream through the lungs.
Other CBD products include CBD Isolate and CBD Distillate, which are raw CBD ingredients used by manufacturers to create a variety of different CBD products.
Hemp-derived vs marijuana-derived CBD
CBD can be derived from both hemp and marijuana plants, but there are some key differences between the two.
Hemp-derived CBD contains only trace amounts of THC, the psychoactive compound that produces the "high" associated with marijuana use.
This means that hemp-derived CBD will not produce any psychoactive effects.
Marijuana-derived CBD, on the other hand, may contain higher levels of THC. As a result, marijuana-derived CBD products may produce psychoactive effects.
In Canada, cannabis and all of its derivatives, including CBD, are legal, so you have the option of choosing between hemp-derived and marijuana-derived CBD products.
However, it's important to note that not all CBD products are created equal.
Make sure to do your research before purchasing any CBD products, as some may be of better quality than others.
Summary of what CBD is and what it stands for
CBD (cannabidiol) is a compound found in cannabis plants that can provide a number of health benefits.
It's available in a variety of forms, including oils, tinctures, capsules, gummies, vape products and topicals.
CBD can be derived from both hemp and marijuana plants, but the two types of CBD products differ in their THC content.
Hemp-derived CBD contains only trace amounts of THC and will not produce any psychoactive effects, while marijuana-derived CBD may contain higher levels of THC and could produce psychoactive effects.
CBD has become increasingly popular in recent years, as more and more people are beginning to discover its many potential health benefits.
Have you tried CBD? What form of CBD do you prefer? Let us know in the comments below!