Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the most well-known cannabinoids in cannabis, celebrated for its potential positive effects and growing popularity. Unlike THC, which is psychoactive, CBD is recognized for its nutritional and wellness benefits.
As awareness of CBD’s potential to address various health conditions increases, so does its demand. Media coverage has played a significant role in highlighting its advantages. CBD is extracted primarily from the seed, stalk, and flowers of the cannabis plant, and it is available in multiple forms, including oils, capsules, and liquids. Some manufacturers even process it into a crystalline form.
CBD products can be found in marijuana dispensaries and online retailers, providing consumers with various options to explore its potential benefits.
Understanding the Effects of CBD
CBD interacts with the body through the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates various bodily functions such as mood, appetite, sleep, hormone production, and immune responses. The ECS helps maintain balance by constantly adjusting these functions to keep the body operating at its best. CBD is considered safe for nearly everyone, as it is non-psychoactive and non-toxic. Even at high doses, there are no significant adverse reactions, making it safe for use by people of all ages.
Where to Get CBD
CBD is primarily sourced from the cannabis plant, but it can also be found in other places. The cannabis plant naturally synthesizes various compounds, including cannabidiolic acid (CBDa) from cannabigerolic acid (CBGa). Factors such as time and heat can cause CBDa to lose its carboxyl group, releasing COâ‚‚ and converting into CBD.
Both hemp and marijuana are varieties of cannabis that produce CBD, but they differ mainly in their THC levels. Marijuana is cultivated for its higher THC content, which is responsible for its recreational use, while hemp contains only trace amounts of THC and is legal in many places, including the U.S. The CBD found in marijuana is often illegal, though some states are beginning to change their regulations.
Additionally, CBD can be produced in a lab, but these synthetic versions are regulated, and possession of unapproved synthetic CBD can lead to legal issues. Interestingly, the human body can also produce CBD-like molecules, such as 2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), which has similar neuromodulatory effects and is abundant in human breast milk.
CBD as a Product
Many people are turning to CBD as a daily supplement due to its numerous benefits, leading to a rapid increase in CBD product commercialization. However, some states still prohibit CBD derived from marijuana, requiring individuals to have specific medical conditions for use. While movements push for its legalization, many opt for alternative sources like CBD from hemp, which has seen a surge in sales. Hemp-derived CBD is available in forms like oils and capsules, making it easily accessible for consumers.
Where is CBD Heading in the Industry
With the number of different health issues that it is able to address, CBD based pharmaceutical drugs are also on their way to the market. Since CBD has been considered to be beneficial, it has been made as the main ingredient in common products on the market. Many countries like Mexico, Brazil, and Paraguay has also approved the use of CBD as a prescription drug. It is also the WHO or the World Health Organization that recommended the removal of CBD as a scheduled drug.
