Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of literally hundreds of naturally occurring plant compounds known as phyto-cannabinoids (“phyto” meaning “plant”). While phyto-cannabinoids are found in a variety of plants such as coneflower ( Echinacea) and even cocoa (yes that includes chocolate!), the most abundant source in particular, is found in the flower or aerial parts of both hemp and cannabis plants.
While both plant strains share many of the same cannabinoids, cannabis contains a disproportionately high amount of the cannabinoid known as Tetrahydrocannabinol or THC. If you’re completely new to the cannabis game,
THC is very simply the part of the plant that gets one “high” or “stoned” and is only available for sale in select states and sold through marijuana caregivers and dispensaries.
Hemp on the other hand, contains little to no THC (less than 0.3% of total cannabinoids) and is generally classified as non-psychotropic or non-high inducing. The other key point here is that hemp contains the highest concentration of CBD available anywhere and is where most CBD supplements and products are derived. Chances are if you’ve seen CBD for sale, it likely came from a hemp plant.
No CBD will not make you high as it is non-psychotropic. The cannabinoid responsible for psychotropic affects is THC.
Similar to other systems, such as the nervous system, the endocannabinoid system has vast networks which branch throughout the body. In short, these networks act as pathways, connecting phyto-cannabinoids, such as CBD, with corresponding receptors within our bodies.
The main receptors comprising the endocannabinoid system are CB1 and CB2 receptors. These receptors are found in clusters within our organs and tissues and are what largely contribute to the benefits commonly observed by users, such as decreased pain signaling, lowered inflammation and improved sleep.
With all that said, a lesser known effect, yet one with even broader implications, regards CBD and its overall effect on the brain. This expanding field of study has yielded a number of research papers and has even led to the development of an FDA approved drug (epidiolex ), which offers CBD as the key active ingredient.
NO, there have been no reported overdoses on CBD.
Unfortunately, we cannot make any direct health related claims in regard to CBD because it has not been validated by the FDA, but studies have shown that it may have many positive effects.
Nootropics or smart drugs that can be used to enhance brain function, Examples are things like focus and sleep.
Terpenes are found within the essential oils of many plants that provide certain aromas and effects. Recently they have become important as they may have many prospective health applications.