You are probably already familiar with Cannabidiol, better known simply as CBD. But maybe that’s as far as your knowledge goes for now. That’s not a problem because we are here to help you understand just what CBD is, where it comes from, and what its potential might be to relieve pain or anxiety and enhance general human wellness.
Health and Wellness Potential
If you suffer from sleeplessness, pain, swelling, sore muscles, inflammation, achy joints, or anxiety, then CBD could be a game changer for you. CBD research is in its infancy, so we can’t make any guarantees about what will or will not help any one individual. Fortunately, as longtime sufferers of severe anxiety and post-traumatic stress we share our own positive experiences with CBD as anecdotal evidence.
The Endocannabinoid System
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a biological system composed of endogenous lipid-based retrograde neurotransmitters. These transmitters bind to cannabinoid receptors (CBRs), and cannabinoid receptor proteins that are expressed throughout the vertebrate central and peripheral nervous systems (including the brain). The ECS plays an important role in multiple aspects of neural functions, such as control of movement and motor coordination, learning and memory, emotion and motivation, addictive-like behaviors, and pain modulation, among others.
Natural Constituent from the Hemp Plant
Cannabidiol is a natural constituent of the Cannabis sativa plant, an annual herbaceous flowering variety. Some strains of cannabis also contain a psychoactive constituent known as Tetrahydrocannabinol or THC. Strains of cannabis with high levels of THC are sometimes called marijuana or weed. There are other casual names for this type of cannabis like chronic, pot, and ganja. Marijuana has many street names due to the popularity associated with the high its users experience.
How CBD is Made
Organic industrial hemp contains little to no THC. Hemp does contain high concentrations of cannabidiol, up to 30% in many cases. Hemp can be cured to smoke or vape the flower (buds). Or it can be further processed to extract and, in some cases, isolate certain cannabinoids. Extract and isolate are infused with tinctures, lotions, oils, bath bombs, gummies, and other supplements.
Three Different Types of CBD: Full Spec, Broad Spec, & Isolate
Full spectrum CBD contain the full array of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds produced by its source plant. With CBD products, CBD will be the most pronounced cannabinoid, but these products may also include low levels of THC. A CBD product is unlikely to produce a high with only trace levels of THC (less than 0.3%), but it’s important to be aware of if you’re looking to avoid THC altogether.
Many consumers consider full-spectrum products to be the most effective due to the “entourage effect,” which refers to the theory that cannabis works best when all of its natural ingredients work together rather than in isolation. More research is needed to understand the entourage effect and to what extent it does result in more potent benefits—still, many swear by it anecdotally.
Broad spectrum CBD products contain all of the cannabinoids but with THC removed. Because of this, most (if not all) of these products are produced from industrial hemp, which naturally produces far less THC than traditional cannabis. By retaining cannabinoids and terpenes, broad-spectrum CBD still produces the entourage effect but without the inclusion of any THC.
CBD isolate products are pure CBD, meaning they contain only CBD and no other cannabinoids or terpenes. Because of this, CBD isolates lose the essence of the plant and have no aroma but are still able to promote wellness qualities attributed to CBD. Much like broad-spectrum CBD products, CBD isolate products are typically derived from industrial hemp.
How to Take CBD
Oral methods of consumption are the easiest and maybe most effective way to experience the effects of CBD. Topicals have a more targeted use, such as treating skin rashes or muscle pain. CBD oils, tinctures, and candies (such as gummies) are reasonably safe ways to consume CBD.
Use CBD with Caution
Consider dosage carefully when trying CBD. We find it helpful to keep a journal of doses and times along with any noticeable changes to the body or mind. Learn how to read labels and lab tests as well. Never buy from any stores that do not offer independent lab test results for each CBD product they sell.
CBD Tinctures
A tincture of CBD oil contains liquid hemp-oil extracts designed to be taken orally. They are rich in cannabidiol, which promotes feelings of calm and relaxation. CBD tinctures are made by steeping a CBD-rich material such as hemp flower, hemp oil or CBD isolate in alcohol, leaving a powerful concentration of CBD. CBD tinctures are used by people struggling with pain, inflammation, anxiety, depression, and those who like to incorporate cannabinoids in their natural health routine.
CBD Gummies
Gummies are made with three primary ingredients:
- Sugar
- A thickener (gelatin or fruit pectin)
- Flavoring
Natural coloring, starches, and other ingredients are also often added to ensure the right consistency. Then, these primary ingredients are mixed, heated, and poured into molds. After cooling, cannabinoids like CBD or Delta-8-THC are added. This is important because CBD will start to deteriorate at 392°F (200°C).
CBD Oils
First, there are a few types of CBD oils about which you will want to be informed. Coconut oil is one popular carrier for CBD isolate. Another popular carrier is Medium Chain Triglyceride or MCT oil, which has its own health benefits as a saturated fatty acid. Hemp oil is also commonly used as a carrier for CBD isolate for an entourage effect.
CBD Topicals
Topicals are terrific for targeted pain and swelling relief. CBD topicals may also relieve dermatitis and other skin conditions. Common therapies include balms, lotions, bath bombs, and CBD patches. Here are some reasons you might want to consider CBD topicals:
- Skin moisturization
- Workout recovery
- Joint inflammation
- Targeted pain relief
CBD Bath Bombs
A bath bomb is a compacted mixture of wet and dry ingredients molded into a sphere, then dried. Bath water effervesces at the surface when a bath bomb is immersed. Attendant dispersion of ingredients: essential oil, moisturizer, fragrances, and cannabinoids result in an excellent body soak.
CBD Lotions
A high-quality CBD lotion can be used for skin therapy. Users have reported the successful treatment of rashes, blemishes, and itchy dryness with CBD lotions. Topicals are not just for the skin, keep in mind. CBD from topicals can be absorbed into the system for a calibrated soothing effect.
Other CBD Topicals
In addition, innovative CBD makers like Olivia Alexander (aka. The Kush Queen) are offering great new options for cannabidiol use. This includes lubes for sexual dysfunction and balms for lips and other tender skin areas. Become a member at Trust CBD USA in order to learn more about brand new CBD products that could be life changing.