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What is CBD?
Cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD, is a naturally occurring compound found in the cannabis plant. It is one of over 100 cannabinoids identified in cannabis. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, CBD is non-intoxicating and does not produce the "high" associated with marijuana.
Sources of CBDCBD can be derived from two main sources:
- Hemp: This is the most common source for commercially available CBD products. Hemp is a variety of the Cannabis sativa plant that is specifically grown to contain very low levels of THC (typically less than 0.3%).
- Marijuana: This variety of the Cannabis sativa plant contains higher concentrations of THC. CBD derived from marijuana is legal only in areas where marijuana is legal for medical or recreational use.
CBD interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a complex cell-signaling system identified in the early 1990s by researchers exploring THC. The ECS is involved in regulating a range of functions and processes, including:
- Sleep
- Mood
- Appetite
- Pain sensation
- Immune response
The ECS has three main components:
- Endocannabinoids: These are molecules naturally produced by your body (e.g., anandamide and 2-AG).
- Receptors: These receptors are found throughout your body (e.g., CB1 receptors in the central nervous system and CB2 receptors in the peripheral nervous system and immune cells).
- Enzymes: These enzymes break down endocannabinoids once they have carried out their function.
While THC binds directly to CB1 receptors, CBD is thought to work by influencing the ECS indirectly, possibly by preventing endocannabinoids from being broken down or by binding to other, non-cannabinoid receptors.
Forms of CBDCBD is available in various forms, each offering different absorption rates and ease of use.
Form | Description | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
Oils and Tinctures | Liquid extracts placed under the tongue for fast absorption. | General wellness, pain management |
Capsules and Edibles | Pills or food items (gummies, brownies) that are swallowed. | Convenient, precise dosing |
Topicals | Creams, lotions, or balms applied directly to the skin. | Localized muscle or joint discomfort |
Vapes | Inhaled via a vaporizer for rapid onset of effects. | Acute needs |
Before using any CBD product, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Regulations regarding the safety and labeling of CBD products vary, and it is important to purchase products from reputable sources that provide third-party lab testing results.
