CBD, also known as cannabidiol, is a compound derived from cannabis, specifically the hemp plant. This compound is world famous for its wide range of medical and therapeutic properties. Since legalization has spread throughout North America and many parts of the world, this substance has completely taken over the health and wellness industry.
It’s important to note that CBD, unlike THC, does not have any mind-altering effects, making this substance appealing to all who want the medical benefits without the high that comes with it. This substance has been strongly linked to alleviating pain, anxiety, menopause symptoms, and epilepsy, to name a few.
CBD has also been linked to aiding withdrawal from drugs and alcohol, showing this herb’s versatility. And if you’re unfamiliar with CBD, here’s everything you need to know.
What is CBD?
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CBD is a compound derived from the cannabis plant, specifically the hemp plant. This compound is extracted from the hemp plant using a method called CO2 extraction, and this method of extraction uses what is known as a closed-loop extractor. This is a system used for extracting essential oils for perfumes, as well as being used for creating food additives.
There are two main active ingredients in the cannabis plant, THC and CBD. Unlike THC, CBD has no psychoactive effects, which means you won’t experience a high when you consume this substance. This is because CBD blocks the intoxicating impacts caused by the CB1 receptors in the brain.
How Does CBD Work?
There is a popular and controversial belief that cannabis harms the brain; however, a few ways that CBD affects and even protects the brain from harm oppose this popular belief. There are many chemical properties of CBD that can work to protect the brain cells in people who have neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease, and even dementia.
This happens when the CB2 receptors in the brain that CBD interacts with, thus creating an anti-inflammatory response in the immune cells in the brain. Besides the brain, CBD interacts with the body by calming and relaxing the body, which is helpful for those suffering from stress and anxiety and those struggling to fall asleep.
How is CBD Used?
It is common for most people to pop prescription pills whenever they are experiencing sickness in their minds or bodies. Although this is the traditional way to treat symptoms, many people now opt for a more holistic approach to healing. This is where CBD comes into effect.
This compound has taken the health and wellness industry by storm, with more and more people testifying that CBD effectively relieves their symptoms. The availability of CBD products has increased dramatically in recent years.
Thanks to the online world, people can now purchase CBD products from the comfort of their own homes. There are a variety of online retailers that sell CBD products, and the selection of products is vast. Whether you’re looking for CBD oil, edibles, or topicals, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for online.
When it comes to the ailments these CBD products can help with, here are some of the most popular uses:
- Pain: CBD helps to alleviate pain by interacting with the endocannabinoid receptors in the brain.
- Anxiety: CBD alleviates anxiety by calming and relaxing the body and brain.
- Depression: CBD stimulates serotonin and dopamine release, which fights depression.
- Sleep disorders: CBD calms and relaxes the body, which helps you fall asleep. CBD also promotes melatonin release, which is essential to maintaining a healthy and balanced sleep cycle.
You will also currently find a drug called Epidolex that is CBD-made and is used to treat epilepsy.
Different Consumption Methods
There are many different ways to consume CBD, with the most popular being:
- Vaping: This is a popular inhalation method of consumption that involves a battery-powered device called a vaporizer. This device uses heating technology to heat the herb at a controlled temperature, so this method does not involve combustion.
- Edibles: These are foods, baked goods, and drink products that contain CBD. These products are consumed orally and broken down in the digestive tract, which takes 1 to 2 hours.
- Tinctures: This liquid is created by dissolving dry cannabis flowers in alcohol. It is then consumed sublingually by placing a few drops of the tincture underneath the tongue and then swallowing after 2 minutes.
- Topicals: This is a cream, gel, or lotion with CBD infused in it. Topicals are applied directly onto the skin’s surface for targeted relief.
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