What is CBD?

Intro to CBD

CBD, short for Cannabidiol, is simply a naturally occurring compound found in the flowers of both the Cannabis and Hemp plant. In recent years, CBD products have become the center of attention amongst those seeking relief from a wide variety of ailments including arthritis, autism, epilepsy, ADHD, inflammation, general pain, and much more. With the growing interest and popularity of CBD, many consumers are often asking the same questions: What is CBD? Is CBD marijuana? Will CBD get me high? Is CBD safe and effective? Where do I buy CBD? Unfortunately, like with any growing industry, their is much misinformation being spread about CBD which leaves consumers ill-informed and left with products that seem ineffective. 

How Does CBD Work? 

Now getting back to what is CBD. CBD is just one of many cannabinoids which are found in both hemp and cannabis plants. Currently, we understand Hemp and Cannabis flowers to contain at least 113 cannabinoids all of which interact with our bodies in different ways. Most consumers are familiar with THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, which is the psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant. Both CBD and THC have significant therapeutic properties , however CBD has become the center of attention as it can provide relief without causing the intoxication that THC is very well known for. Furthermore, both government and independent studies have shown CBD to have no addictive properties, no potential for abuse or dependency, and is found to be safe for consumption by humans and many animals. ​

     Now that we have a basic understanding of what CBD is, let us go over about how CBD works. In order to understand how CBD works we need to first understand the Endocannabinoid System. The Endocannabinoid System, or ECS for short, is a system found in the bodies of both humans and animals  comprised of cannabinoids and receptors. The functionality of this system is to create endogenous cannabinoids which are molecules that are very similar to the cannabinoids found in both the hemp and cannabis plants.  Once our body creates these endogenous cannabinoids they bind to the receptors in order to signal that the ECS needs to take action. Once the ECS takes action it can help regulate instability in our physiological processes including our mood, our energy levels, our intestinal fortitude, immune activity, blood pressure, bone density, glucose metabolism, how we experience pain, stress, hunger, and much more. 

       The ECS is an extremely complex system and experts are currently determining exactly how it works and the entire scope of all its primary functions. The current understanding of the ECS shows that the function of this system is to help maintain homeostasis within the body, meaning the stability of your internal environment.  For example, if you suddenly developed a fever, the fever would create an instability of your bodies homeostasis. At this time your ECS should begin producing cannabinoids and help your body return to its natural balance. Many experts agree the primary role of the ECS is to maintain homeostasis of the body. 
    Currently experts and scientist are researching a theory known as Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency (CECD). This theory suggests that low Endocannabinoid levels in your body may contribute to the development of certain conditions such as migraines, fibromyalgia, and irritable bowel syndrome which are all conditions that have no clear underlying cause and are often resistant to treatment or sometimes occur alongside each other. Researchers are now trying to determine the correlation between a deficiency in cannabinoids and the development of many medical conditions. This is where CBD comes in. Countless studies and testimonies have shown a major improvement in individuals suffering from various illnesses by introducing CBD in to their bodies possibly giving credence to the theory of a Endocannabinoid Deficiency. 
     In conclusion, people around the world have found solace after being introduced to products containing CBD. While we know a significant amount of information about CBD, research is still being done to understand its absolute full potential. In the meantime you will find countless testimonials from everyday people across the world who truly believe everyone can truly benefit from this incredibly interesting natural compound.