What is CBD, you ask? If you are new to (or thinking about using) CBD oil products, medical cannabis, or some other form of cannabis products, this article is for you. We’ll cover all things cannabidiol, or simply CBD. With so many cannabis-based products available to for sale, it can be overwhelming for newcomers to understand the world of CBD.
TL;DR – CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of many different phytocannabinoids within cannabis. People use it for the different potential health benefits it offers. Our bodies can utilize CBD, thanks to the endocannabinoid system we all have. The result is different benefits that may help people cope with the discomforts of life.
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a natural plant chemical found in the cannabis plant species. It can be found in different quantities in both marijuana, or cannabis sativa (industrial hemp). Typically, CBD manufacturers extract CBD from the cannabis sativa plant due to the almost non-existent THC content. They then make different dietary supplements with the CBD extract for people to consume.
CBD products help offer a form a relief for people with symptoms like:
- inflammatory and neuropathic pain
- forms of chronic pain
- depression
- anxiety
- seizure management
- multiple sclerosis
There are some of the more frequently reported health conditions that people report using CBD products for.
What Does CBD Stand For?
CBD stands for cannabidiol, as discussed previously. It’s found in cannabis plants, which includes both marijuana, and hemp (cannabis sativa). Most people do not know that cannabis plants includes both hemp and marijuana.
The main difference between these plants is THC content – that’s it. We will get more into this later on, though.
Is CBD Legal in the United States?
Yes, CBD is legal on a federal level in the US. It was removed from the controlled substances act back in 2018 when the Agriculture Improvement Act (a.k.a. the Farm Bill) was made into federal law.
All of the cannabis derived compounds (cannabinoids, specifically) in cannabis were considered a controlled substance up until this point. Since CBD is not intoxicating, it makes sense that laws legalized CBD were made. Hemp-derived CBD products are legal, while marijuana-derived products are not.
Medical marijuana and recreational marijuana is still largely illegal, and is considered a prescription drug because of the high THC content. THC remains a part of the controlled substances act, but it may not be much longer until the US makes THC legal at a federal level, too. The exact legal status of THC, though, remains illegal.
Recognizing How Cannabinoids Like CBD Function In Our Bodies
The term phytocannabinoid simply means plant chemical. It’s one of approximately 124 known cannabinoids. There are likely more, we just haven’t isolated them and studied them – yet. More research in the form of clinical trials is definitely needed for both CBD, and other cannabinoids.
Most people have heard of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Both CBD and THC are different cannabinoids. While THC is highly psychoactive (making you get high if you consume it), CBD oil is 100% non-intoxicating.
Discover:Â How CBD Works in the Body
The health benefits of CBD are undeniable. By taking CBD products, like CBD oil or gummies, our bodies can utilize the benefits of CBD, and all of the compounds that go along with it.
The endocannabinoid system is responsible for how CBD works when we consume it.
Importance of the Endocannabinoid System
Did you know there is a system in our bodies that utilizes cannabinoids, like CBD? It is called the endocannabinoid system. It is a recently discovered system in our bodies that researchers still don’t know much about.
Recently, scientists and health specialists found out that it affects a few significant cycles in our body like hunger, mood swings, the way we rest, and other functions.
This system is composed of three parts:
- the CB cannabinoid receptors
- endocannabinoids
- enzymes
All of these parts are working 24/7 – regardless of whether you use something like CBD balm, or not.
Recognizing the impacts of CBD oil includes inspecting, and then classifying, the connections between the CB receptors and the endocannabinoids.
Cannabinoid Receptors
Cannabinoid receptors are found throughout our bodies. It is where the endocannabinoids initially bind. They are classified as CB1 and CB2 receptors. While we think there might be more than two receptors, these are the only two we’ve found so far.
The CB1 receptors mainly focus on the focal sensory system in our body. CB1 receptors are responsible for overseeing mood swings, memory loss, hunger, body coordination, and state of mind. The CB2 receptors are responsible for influencing pain and irritation.
According to researchers from multiple scientists, CBD doesn’t directly combine with the CB receptors, but it does impact it somehow. Some research thinks CBD interacts with an undiscovered receptor.
The CB1 receptors mainly focus on the focal sensory system in our body. CB1 receptors are responsible for overseeing mood swings, memory loss, hunger, body coordination, and state of mind. The CB2 receptors are responsible for influencing pain and irritation.
The enzymes show up in different structures, but only two kinds of proteins separate the endocannabinoids.
The process that includes how enzymes work is extremely complicated, so I made this little picture above to help give you an idea of what goes on.
After all of the above happens, your body will see the results of taking CBD oil in the form of different health benefits.
What Are CBD Oil Products?
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Pure CBD Products for Sale by New Phase Blends
Type: CBD Starter Kit Bundle
Includes: Tincture, Balm, and Gummies
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Type: Pure CBD Softgel Capsules
CBD: 40mg per capsule
Features: Broad spectrum, vegan certified softgels
Type: Pure CBD Gummies
CBD: 45mg per gummy
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Type: Pure CBD Oil
CBD: 33mg or 66mg per serving
Features: Broad or full spectrum, premium CBD oil
CBD oil products are different forms of CBD, made readily available to consume. Different forms of CBD products include:
There are other forms of CBD products available for sale, but these are (by far) the most effective ones you’ll find.
Whether you apply a topical balm on your skin, eat CBD gummies, or put some CBD oil under your tongue, the results will be very similar. For this reason, there really is no ‘best’ product. It all comes down to personal preference.
The one piece of advice I would offer is to be very hesitant in trying different CBD vapes. Due to the unregulated nature of CBD and poor quality vape oils on the market from unsafe manufacturing practices, there may be some adverse effects with trying to vape CBD right now. This doesn’t mean all vape devices are bad, it just means you need to exercise extra caution with this form of CBD product. CBD isn’t bad for you, but some synthetic vape juices can be bad for you.
Where Can You Buy CBD?
CBD can be found everywhere, but that doesn’t mean most of it is high-quality, legitimate CBD. Stick to reputable brands that sell premium, pure CBD products. Look for companies that have a phone number you can actually call. Check for money back guarantees. Only buy CBD online from an organization that meets this criteria.
The Effects of CBD, or Cannabidiol in Our Bodies
CBD oil effectively offers health benefits for anxiety, stress, depression, chronic pain, and inflammation. It proved to work in treating persons with epilepsy, too.
Discover:Â What Do CBD Gummies Do For The Body?
CBD also plays a significant role in terms of pain relief. When the CBD molecule reaches the transient receptor potential cation channel member 1 (TrpV1), it successfully obstructs the pain signals before it spreads throughout our bodies.
Remember, you should intake CBD in moderation, especially when starting out.
CBD Oil for Pain
Of all the reported benefits of using CBD, taking CBD oil for pain is probably the most commonly discussed. Reviews by all age groups are showing that when taken, CBD helps reduce inflammation which is a huge factor in causing pain signals to spike. Ever experience excruciating back pain? If so, you are among the thousands of others who decided to try CBD to help their back pain.
Remember, though, that CBD does not cure anything. It only helps you deal with the discomforts that pain brings so you can go about your life. Chronic pain is an indicator of something that needs to be addressed with your doctor. Consider using CBD gummies for your pain along with a comprehensive health plan that your healthcare provider gives you.
CBD for Anxiety
Related read:Â Can I Take CBD for Anxiety?
Another popular reason people use CBD is to help with their anxiety.
You should feel the CBD begin to lower your anxiety after taking it. CBD does not take long to work on anxiety, but some forms of CBD can take longer than others to kick in.
While you don’t necessarily feel anything after taking CBD, people do report a sensation of mild calmness. This can help manage anxiety and depression. As we spoke about earlier, CBD won’t cure your anxiety.
It will only help manage it while you work with your healthcare provider to figure out a plan to solve the mental health issues you may be experiencing.
Related:Â CBD vs THC for Anxiety and Depression
Dravet Syndrome and Seizures
Using CBD for seizures is, actually, one of the reasons CBD became so popular. CBD seems to do an excellent job in managing different forms of seizures that accompany Dravet Syndrome, and other seizure disorders.
Epidiolex is currently the only FDA authorized CBD pharmaceutical you can find. This form of CBD helps manage certain types of seizures in people.
Side Effects of CBD
Although not FDA approved for use as dietary supplements, CBD is safe to use. The World Health Organization has deemed CBD safe, in addition to other organizations. That said, users may experience some side effects when taking high doses. The side effects of CBD oil include dizziness, fatigue, dry mouth, and feeling sleepy during the daytime.
Thankfully, these side effects come mainly from taking too much CBD oil, or relatively high doses. Remember, start off with the lowest effective dose to see health benefits, and work your way up from there. If using other medications, please consult with your doctor to make sure there are no negative drug interactions.
The Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Stance on CBD Products
You can purchase CBD products for sale in a number of different places, but did you know that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not authorized it for use to treat anything?
It’s 100% federally legal within the United States, but the FDA still hasn’t allowed people to mark CBD products as a dietary supplement, or make health claims on the medical use of CBD. Most experts in the industry believe that the FDA will soon change their stance.
Is CBD Safe?
Related read:Â Is CBD Safe?
Yes, it is extremely safe. In fact, the World Health Organization issued a statement claiming that CBD is safe for use.
That said, CBD may not be safe for pregnant women and lactating mothers – we just don’t know yet. Health specialists recommend that you avoid the use of CBD products when you are in these kinds of situations.
If your children are prescribed to take CBD oil, then it’s recommended that a child should only consume a what they need to feel relief – no more.
Interesting fact: Did you know that CBD is safe for dogs, too?
As mentioned earlier, the side effects are quite rare, and mostly come from taking too much CBD. Finally, if you are currently taking other medications, be sure to discuss your CBD use with your doctor to ensure no drug interactions occur.
CBD Dosage Guide
There is no official recommended CBD dosage issued by any healthcare body for how much CBD people should take. That said, we have developed a calculator that will help you get started.
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Your goal should be to take as little CBD as possible to feel a difference in your discomfort. Additionally, CBD affects people differently. Remember, this is only a recommendation. Should you have further dosing questions, consult your healthcare provider.
CBD vs. THC – There is a Big Difference!
THC and CBD are completely different compounds.
Unlike THC, CBD won’t make you high when you inhale it. THC is often used for recreational purposes, because of how it makes people feel.
Oftentimes, the use of THC is abused by many. THC is also illegal in most states, because of its’ intoxicating effects. CBD, on the other hand, is completely legal. It is legal thanks to the Farm Bill of 2018.
CBD is not intoxicating like THC is. This is why health care specialists prefer it more than THC. When substances do not give effects like euphoria, or make you high, the potential for abusing them is basically non-existent.
CBD has more positive effects in the medical field for its’ low likelihood of being abused. It is proven to work as an antioxidant in the body.
Summary – CBD Explained
Cannabidiol (CBD) may be effective in providing comfort from chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, anxiety, overthinking, and depression. Laws legalizing CBD, federally, have already been passed in the US. You can now, legally, try a CBD product for yourself to help add to a more healthy lifestyle.
There are so many uses and beneficial effects that CBD offers for people struggling with both their mental and physical health. It is non-intoxicating, and quite safe to use. It’s a medicinal plant cannabinoid, effective for calming your mind and your body.
CBD is helpful as it provides positive effects to the people who need it the most.
If you are considering trying pure CBD oil, or other CBD products, you need to check out New Phase Blends. With a money back guarantee on all products sold, what do you have to lose?
In this day and age, we are fortunate to discover the beneficial effects of the cannabis plant. With continuous efforts from researchers, we continue to discover more unique things about this plant.
Real CBD is not a scam. The effectivity is proven and tested by institutes and researchers all over the world. CBD has great potential in the medicinal industry, too.
If it is studied and supported more, it has a massive potential of becoming known globally.
References
Cold Spring Harbor Perspectives in Biology: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
Current Drug Metabolism: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
PNAS: https://www.pnas.org/
*FDA disclaimer: none of the statements on this webpage have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Medical advice should be sought before starting any supplement. If you are pregnant or nursing consult with a doctor. Medical advice should be sought if you have any pre-existing medical conditions. If you take other prescription medications, a doctor’s advice should be sought. Site void where prohibited.
TL;DR – CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of many different phytocannabinoids within cannabis. People use it for the different potential health benefits it offers. Our bodies can utilize CBD, thanks to the endocannabinoid system we all have. The result is different benefits that may help people cope with the discomforts of life.
