What is CBD?
CBD, also known as Cannabidiol, is a type of cannabinoid, a naturally occurring chemical compound present in cannabis plants. The cannabis plant contains over 100 distinct chemical compounds known as cannabinoids, including:
- Cannabidiol (CBD)
- Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
- Cannabinol (CBN)
- Cannabichromene (CBC)
- Cannabigerol (CBG)
- 2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG)
- Anandamide
- Beta-Caryophyllene
Among these cannabinoids, THC and CBD are the most prevalent and best understood.
SOURCES OF CANNABINOIDS
Marijuana serves as the primary source of plant cannabinoids. Additionally, various plant cannabinoids are present in our diets. For instance, grapes, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, parsley, sunflower seeds, cocoa, tea, and peas all contain plant cannabinoids. Furthermore, cooking herbs like basil, cinnamon, black pepper, and rosemary contain plant cannabinoids. Herbal medicines such as echinacea, turmeric, and licorice also contain cannabinoids.
CBD Benefits
Cannabidiol holds the highest medical value among cannabinoids. It is a non-psychotropic active ingredient with a diverse range of pharmacological effects, including anti-anxiety, anti-psychotic, antiemetic, and anti-inflammatory properties.
There is ample anecdotal evidence suggesting that CBD helps address various ailments. People are increasingly using oils, gummies, and other Cannabidiol-infused food and drink products to unwind after a long day. Retired NFL players use Cannabidiol to manage physical pain, debilitating headaches, and sleeplessness. Spa clients even apply Cannabidiol skincare products to combat signs of aging.
The main benefits of CBD include:
Pain Relief
Researchers believe that CBD (Cannabidiol) interacts with receptors in the brain and immune system. Receptors are small proteins attached to cells that receive chemical signals from different stimuli and aid in cellular response. This interaction produces anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects, facilitating pain management. As a result, Cannabidiol oil may benefit individuals with chronic pain, such as chronic back pain.
A 2008 review examined the effectiveness of CBD in relieving chronic pain. The review analyzed studies conducted between the late 1980s and 2007. Based on these findings, researchers concluded that Cannabidiol effectively managed pain without causing adverse side effects. They also noted that Cannabidiol proved beneficial in treating insomnia related to chronic pain.
Stress and Anxiety
Cannabidiol may help alleviate severe social anxiety.
In a 2011 study, scientists aimed to analyze the effects of CBD (Cannabidiol) on individuals with Generalized Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD). The researchers selected 24 people with this condition who had never received treatment for SAD and divided them into two groups. One group received 600 mg of Cannabidiol, while the control group received a placebo. Researchers then asked participants to partake in a simulated public speaking test while measuring blood pressure, heart rate, and other physiological and psychological stress indicators.
The CBD group exhibited significantly reduced anxiety, cognitive impairment, and discomfort during their speech performance. In contrast, the placebo group displayed heightened anxiety, cognitive impairment, and discomfort.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 15 million adults in the United States have social phobia, and about 6.8 million have generalized anxiety disorder. Traditional treatments typically involve counseling and medication. Cannabidiol treatment may be superior to antidepressants because it acts quickly and does not cause side effects or withdrawal symptoms.
Anti-epileptic
In 2013, CNN first aired the story of Charlotte, making CBD a global hot topic. Charlotte, who had severe myoclonic epilepsy (Dravet syndrome), experienced 300 seizures per week, occurring every 15 minutes before Cannabidiol treatment.
After taking CBD oil, Charlotte’s seizures decreased dramatically. Following four months of treatment, seizures occurred only once a week, and Charlotte now lives a normal life. Inspired by Charlotte’s story, numerous epilepsy patients and their families worldwide relocated to Colorado for treatment, resulting in a 700% increase in young epilepsy patients in the state.
Is CBD an addictive compound?
Some individuals believe that CBD, like THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol), is an addictive compound. However, CBD is not addictive.
Among all cannabinoids found in cannabis plants, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the only ingredient with a potent, intoxicating mental effect. When THC reaches the brain, it stimulates cells, resulting in dopamine release. THC also activates cannabinoid receptors, which impact the brain in various ways. While some THC strains provide a burst of energy and creativity, the outcome is always a mellow
Potential side effects of CBD
The immediate and long-term side effects of CBD (cannabidiol) seem to be negligible or non-existent. Some individuals may experience mild symptoms after consuming CBD, such as fatigue, diarrhea, and fluctuations in appetite or weight.
Notably, CBD is a non-psychoactive compound. Extensive research has demonstrated its non-toxic nature, with no risk of lethal overdose. Studies have indicated that even long-term and high-dose usage of CBD (up to 1,500 mg/day) are generally well-tolerated by human subjects.