Cannabidiol (CBD) is a naturally occurring chemical compound found in the hemp plant. It is one of over 100 known cannabinoids and terpenes, making up at least 40% of the plant’s extract. The hemp plant produces almost all cannabinoids as CBD a (non-psychoactive), then the plants’ enzymes convert it to CBD once harvested.
CBD can be used by itself or with other cannabinoids present in cannabis plants, commonly including THC and both major phytocannabinoids: cannabigerol (CBG) and cannabichromene (CBC).
Although there are many similarities between CBD products and THC they have very different effects on users due to how each interacts with our natural endocannabinoid systems. In fact, there are at least 20 different types of cannabinoids present in any cannabis strain.
Endocannabinoid system
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a group of cannabinoid receptors located throughout the human body and central nervous system. They play a key role in regulating various biological processes like appetite, mood, and sleep and they impact the body’s reaction to pain and inflammation.
It was discovered by scientists after THC was tested on animals with an older version of the CB1 receptor which proved to exacerbate negative effects. Today we know that our bodies produce cannabinoids themselves similar to ones found in cannabis called endocannabinoids, such as anandamide (the bliss molecule).
Cannabis works along the same pathways but its results are magnified. For example, due to the increased potency of cannabis, we also see a stronger reaction from CB1 receptors and this can cause heightened feelings of paranoia or anxiety after smoking marijuana.
When CBD products are combined with THC it can help balance out these negative side effects usually within an hour of ingestion by inhibiting the enzyme that breaks down endocannabinoids. This helps keep us balanced internally despite changes in our environment or moods which makes it perfect for medical cannabis treatments.
For conditions like chronic pain, inflammation, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis (MS), anxiety disorders, schizophrenia and depression there is significant evidence showing how cannabinoids play a key role in affecting brain function through various neurotransmitters via the ECS.
Using CBD products is not psychoactive because CBD does not act on the same pathways as THC. One study even found that CBD has antipsychotic effects when taken over an extended period of time, while others suggest it is more likely to be effective in treating psychosis-related conditions like schizophrenia and paranoia compared to other cannabinoids.
CBD is also more suitable for younger people due to how it affects ADHD, autism, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) sufferers which makes it easier for them to focus or adapt behaviourally without worrying about getting high or breaching their daily responsibilities. On top of this, CBD oil can help slow the aging process by regulating healthy cholesterol levels which produce hormones like testosterone needed for proper bodily operation.
