One of the questions we get asked all the time is, What is Cannabidiol (CBD)? CBD is the second most prevalent chemical compound in Hemp behind THC. Unlike its sister chemical however, it does not have the same psychoactive effects, but maintains its therapeutic properties.
As the second most active chemical in Hemp, knowledge of the chemical dates back to long ago. It’s only as recent as 2013 however, that CBD was put under the spotlight. Cannabidiol is only one of over 80 chemical compounds known as cannabinoids in the Hemp plant. These cannabinoids are agonists (a substance that initiates a physiological response when combined with a receptor) that bind to specific receptors in your cells, called cannabinoid receptors.
Some of these cannabinoid receptors are highly concentrated in the CNS (Central Nervous System) while others are found in the body’s other organs. Some cannabinoid receptors can even be traced in the skin, digestive tract, and reproductive organs. This set of actions triggers changes along what is known as the (ECS) endocannabinoid system.
This system is comprised of a vast network of cell receptor proteins with many functions. The ECS has a hand in ones mood, immune function, reproduction, pain perception, memory, sleep, appetite, and bone development. The main purposes of the Endocannabinoid System are immune balance, stress recovery, neuroprotection, and homeostatic regulation. It is within this greater system that CBD works its therapeutic effects.
CBD imitates chemicals the human body produces naturally, called endocannabinoids, to interact with the different cells in our body There is also research suggesting the CBD can have an effect on receptors beyond the cannabinoids. The evidence shows Cannabidiol to have an indirect effect on, Serotonin receptors (mood and stress management), Adenosine receptors (important to the sleep-wake cycle), and Vanilloid receptors (pain modulation). While further research needs to be conducted, current studies back the therapeutic value of CBD. A question a lot of people ask, is “Does CBD Work?” A lot of customers will tell you “Yes!” and current research is working to back those claims. So, what better way to find out for yourself, than to try CBD?
Read our previous blog: Benefits of CBD by clicking here.
