What is CBD (Cannabidiol)?
What is CBD? CBD or cannabidiol is a compound that belongs to the cannabinoid family produced by the cannabis plant. Cannabis is the general name, all hemp and marijuana types fall in this genus. Hemp and marijuana both contain the 113 different cannabinoids, but in different quantities. Marijuana produces a high quantity of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and low cannabidiol (CBD). This is the type of cannabis that will give a psychoactive effect or “high”. Hemp on the other hand has a high concentration of CBD and low THC concentration. Hemp doesn’t contain enough THC for the psychoactive effects and the CBD may have the an opposing effect on anxiety and disordered thinking brought on by THC.
Although further CBD research is needed in order to fully understand the effects and effectiveness in treating certain disorders and ailments, research into CBD and its effects has been limited but has been gaining momentum with its growing interest. CBD products are meant to be therapeutic and should not be used to treat any illness. See a physician for series conditions and see if CBD could be helpful for you.
The endocannabinoid system is made up of millions of receptors spread throughout the central and peripheral nervous system of mammals. This system is involved in regulating a variety of physiological and cognitive processes including pain-sensation, mood, appetite, sleep, and memory. Cannabinoids such as CBD and THC interact with and around these cannabinoid receptor sites. The effects each cannabinoid have are still being researched as to the degree of effectiveness in treatments.
There are two primary endocannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2, and unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD) doesn’t actually interact with these receptor sites. The interaction between THC and CB1 receptors are thought to be the cause of the “high” effect. CBD does its work near the receptors, but not with them directly. CBD instead inhibits enzymes from breaking down endocannabinoids, leading to a rise in endocannabinoids in the system. Interaction with CB2 receptor is crucial in management of inflammation and pain.
Studies have found that CBD, among other cannabinoids, may also interact with the central nervous system by activating glycine receptors. These receptors are important in reducing chronic inflammatory pain and neuropathic pain. Glycine receptors, when inflamed, stop working and pain increases. CBD reactivates these receptors and decreases pain sensitivity.