Short for cannabidiol, CBD is one of the most abundant chemical plant compounds that comes from the cannabis plant. Unlike the other compound in cannabis, THC, CBD does not cause the psychotic highs associated with cannabis used. Instead, it boasts a multitude of health benefits which are thought to stem from CBD’s interaction with our endocannabinoid (ECS) system. The ECS system is responsible for several functions in the body, such as sleep, immunity, pain, and mood.
There are many established retailers and suppliers of CBD, who sell various types of CBD products. From the best CBD oil UK to creams, edibles, supplements, sweets, and vapes. There is even an influx of cosmetic products infused with CBD, such as lipstick!
It’s Nothing New: CBD was discovered in the 1940s
Though CBD is seemingly a modern-day discovery, it has in fact been used for thousands of years in plant medicine due to its benefits on both physical and mental health. Therefore, it’s nothing new. It’s only within the last hundred years, with developments in scientific research, that we have been able to research the health benefits it provides. Roger Adams scientifically discovered CBD in 1940. He was the first to isolate this chemical from the hemp plant and hypothesise the psychotic effects of THC.
Don’t Worry, You’re Not a Criminal
Many associate cannabis with the illegal highs, crime, and substance misuse. However, CBD is different. Notably it does not cause psychotic highs and can be used safely to promote your health. If a CBD product it contains less than 0.2% of THC, CBD is now legal in many countries. Any more levels of THC, and it can be considered classified cannabis. The passing of the Farm Bill in 2018 meant that CBD is legal in all 50 states in the U.S. Each country that has legalised CBD has its legislation and rules regarding the cultivation of hemp plants. Therefore, it is important to research the rules in our home country.
CBD Doesn’t Give You a High, But Why?
Our brain function is altered under the influence of psychoactive drugs. THC is the chemical compound from cannabis that causes a high. These psychotic effects can lead to dangerous drug dependency, addiction, and withdrawal. However, CBD is different. Despite CBD coming from the same plant, it has different structures of atoms in comparison to THC. It’s this difference which causes both to bind to receptors in our brain very differently.
We Don’t Know the Optimal Dose
Despite the numerous health benefits of CBD, from improving emotional well-being to relieving us of pain and more, the optimal dose is yet to be established. It may be that different amounts may benefit different health conditions, or different doses may work better for different individuals. Therefore, it’s important to do your research before you choose to take it. Remember to make sure that you are getting it from a trusted and certified supplier.
Hemp Oil & CBD Oil Are Not the Same
Watch out for this when purchasing your CBD products. Since CBD is extracted from hemp flowers and buds, you would think hemp oil is the same as CBD. However, they are different. This always confuses people who are interested in taking CBD. Hemp oil can also be extracted from hemp seeds that don’t contain cannabinoids. Therefore, when you purchase CBD, it’s best to check these details to maximise the benefits you will reap.
