What is CBD
CBD is a cannabinoid compound. (CBD) is an cannabinoid chemical with the same molecular structure as Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) however, it has distinct and different properties. CBD was first discovered in the year 1940 through Roger Adams and chemically identified in 1963 by Mechoulam and Shvo. Many people are shocked to discover that hemp doesn’t make directly CBD. The plant actually creates cannabidiol acids (CBDA) that converts into CBD slowly at room temperature or quickly when exposed to extreme temperatures.
Although CBD has many of the beneficial effects as its close cousin THC such as the alleviation of pain, anxiety, seizures, inflammation, as well as vomiting, these two substances perform very differently within the body. In addition, and in contrast to THC, CBD does not interfere with physical or mental function for the majority of users even in very high doses.
In the present, CBD is an exciting area of medical research as well as popular media and laws pertaining to cannabis. CBD is now a common sight in the shelves of health food stores as well as search results on search engines for a variety of medical ailments, but be skeptical of all you read. Although CBD is a very healthy and safe component that is found in cannabis, it has a lot of misconceptions and myths about CBD.
It is also important to remember that research conducted by humans on these cannabinoids is developing. As of now, we are even less knowledgeable regarding CBDA as compared to CBD. But, preliminary research suggests that even tiny quantities of CBDA could have profound physiologic effects.
How do CBD and CBDA work with your brain & body
It’s difficult to believe the claims of CBD aiding with many different problems, but the many benefits of CBD are in line with the crucial function that the endogenous system (endocannabinoid system, or EC) is playing in our overall health. Apart from its capacity to regulate your ECS, CBD acts on serotonin receptors, which is likely to contribute to its positive effects on anxiety, mood and nausea, as well as capsaicin (the active ingredient in the hot chilli peppers) receptors, which could contribute to its effects on inflammation and pain. This multifaceted activity, along with its proven security, is the main reason hemp is able to benefit numerous individuals with different health goals.
There are many aspects to which CBDA functions in a similar way to CBD in many ways, and has activity at serotonin and the capsaicin receptors. Contrary to CBD, CBDA has not been proven to affect cannabinoid receptors. It has been proven to inhibit the COX enzymes that cause inflammation, which is a similar process that is used by popular anti-inflammatory medications available over the counter.
CBDA has greater bioavailability, which means that it is absorbed more effectively – between 5 and 10 times better over CBD in the form of oral capsules [11]. There’s evidence based on animals that CBDA is more potent and powerful than CBD and CBD, not only because CBDA is absorbed more efficiently, but also because it’s performing more effectively. For instance, studies on animals have shown CBDA as being 10x more powerful than CBD in the model of seizures [100x more potent in a simulation of inflammation pain [100x more potent in a simulation of nausea [4], and 50,000x more potent an anxiety model [55].
About the Endocannabinoid System
The ECS is an organelle that is found in all animals and helps us to deal with illness and injuries and to maintain healthy health. Endocannabinoids and their receptors can be present throughout our body. CBD is a mechanism that regulates the activities of the ECS as well as a variety of other organs in the body.
CBD affects the ECS by reducing the absorption as well as breakdown of anandamide, one of the substances produced by us that stimulates cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) within our cells. Anandamide can be thought of as the body’s internal pharmacy’s version of THC. through reducing its absorption as well as breakdown CBD increases the amount of anandamide accessible. CBD is also proven to regulate the actions on CB1 receptors. This can aid in cases of over CB1 activity. CBDA is not active on the CB1 receptor, as CBD does.
Beyond its impact over ECS, CBD works at various other locations within the body, which are associated with health benefits
- CBD is a stimulant for it’s “capsaicin receptor” (TRPV1 channel) well-known for its effect on inflammation and pain. Contrary to capsaicin, that is often used in topical formulations, CBD does not cause an unpleasant burning sensation either in your mouth, or even on the surface of the skin.
- CBD increases serotonin 5HT1A receptors which are associated with mood, cognition anxiety, sociability sexual drive, impulsivity nausea, blood flow and the arousal.
- CBD is believed to stimulate the A2 receptor of adenosine, that is implicated in neuroprotection and anti-inflammatory activity.
There are important differences between CBD & CBDA
CBD and CBDA have a variety of physiologic characteristics However, they also have significant distinctions. These are the most important points to keep in mind:
- CBDA is more readily taken in and used in the human body when it is taken through the mouth, as opposed to CBD. CBDA as well as CBD both possess anti-inflammatory properties, but they may work through different mechanisms within the body. For instance in contrast to CBD, CBDA has been proven to block the COX-2 enzyme, which is a typical drug used to treat inflammation.
- CBDA could be more powerful than CBD for certain applications in rodent models of anxiety-related nausea, stress and seizures. We aren’t sure if these outcomes translate to humans however it is possible that CBDA could be more efficient than CBD in lower dosages.
- CBDA will not be able to counteract the negative consequences of THC the most commonly used form of CBD. Many people are enthused by the effects that come from CBD and THC however, others believe that CBD reduces the therapeutic benefits of THC.
The Difference Between CBD & THC
Although each CBD and THC are both able to affect their respective ECS, CBD is a far more gentle and tolerant. A lot of THC users have a limited therapeutic range, which means that excessively low or excessive of dose could be unable to deliver a positive effect or trigger adverse reactions or adverse effects. However, the majority of CBD users can take large doses with no side negative effects. Although CBD is able to, in a variety of ways mimic the therapeutic effects of THC however, it is not able to replace the therapeutic benefits of THC.
The Benefits of Combining CBD, CBDA & THC
Certain THC users enjoy the medicinal benefits, however, they don’t appreciate the psychoactive effects that may include euphoria, anxiety, and impairment. Combining CBD and THC generally prevents unwanted psychoactive effects and permits THC users to take more of the dose, which has more benefits overall.
Others THC users enjoy its psychoactive effectsthat can enhance creative, social and spiritual activities. CBD is unlikely to provide these advantages, but it can definitely help people feel more focused, centered and highly-perform. If you are a fan of the benefits of CBD but do not want to reduce the potency that THC has, CBDA can be a great option.
What conditions can CBD help with
The endocannabinoid system of your body (ECS) has been working since the time you were born, to ensure the balance of your cells and aid in healing from injuries and illness. It is present in all organs and tissues of the body and organs, it is the ECS regulates the functions of the cardiovascular, immune and musculoskeletal systems, and is a major influencer on all aspects of our well-being.
CBD could improve:
- Inflammation
- Anxiety and mood
- Sleep
- Resilience to stress
- Cognition
- Healing of the neurologic system
CBD for Anxiety
CBD could be beneficial to some individuals suffering from anxiety disorders. CBD could be beneficial in helping individuals lessen anxiety that is associated with frequent stress-inducing situations.
Apart from CBD’s effect on the ECS that is likely to account for certain of its anti-anxiety properties, CBD also hits non-ECS targets. For instance, CBD is a serotonin receptor agonist. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter associated with happiness and a feeling of satisfaction, and is a key factor in anxiety and nausea. CBD stimulates this receptor in a similar way to serotonin, a neurotransmitter -an additional reason CBD is so beneficial in reducing anxiety, focus as well as other areas of psychological well-being.
CBD is generally recognized as being more secure than benzodiazepine medications such as Ativan or Valium If it is effective it is likely to begin functioning much more quickly that SSRI antidepressants. Patients who aren’t responding fully to CBD-based products might find more relief when they combine CBD with THC.
- Pain signaling
- Gut function
- Recovery of the tissues following training or an injury
- Future research on humans and animals promises to uncover even further…
CBD for Sleep
Many users have reported success using CBD prior to bed and during the middle of the night, and some report that using CBD throughout the day can help people to sleep better and relax more soundly at night.
But, CBD can disrupt sleep in only a few people if taken prior to going to going to bed. the doctor. Davis recommends first trying CBD in the morning and midday for about 3-5 days prior to trying it before bed to ensure a restorative, regular sleep is vital to recovering and keeping healthy health.
Based on customer and patient comments, CBDA may be even more effective in improving relaxation than CBD.
CBD for Pain
CBD acts as an anti-inflammatory, which means it reduces the pain through a variety of mechanisms. As we’ve mentioned, CBD stimulates the “capsaicin receptor” (TRPV1 channel) which is a target that is that is well-known for its effect on inflammation and pain. Contrary to capsaicin, that is often used in the preparation of topical creams to treat arthritis pain, CBD doesn’t create a burning sensation and makes the usage more relaxing.
CBD for Seizures
Cannabinoids are naturally neuroprotective in actual fact the brain produces cannabinoids after injury for the goal of minimizing the damage and encouraging healing. In comparison to the majority of antiepileptic medications that have been proven to hinder the brain’s function and development, cannabinoids possess a superior security performance. If using cannabinoids is able to reduce the frequency of, duration, or intensity of seizures, it’s certain to encourage brain development, and not hinder it.
In the midst of a growing scientific inquiry into the non-THC and non-pairing cannabinoids, public interest on CBD increased in 2013 following the premiere of CNN’s first cannabis-related documentary “Weed.” The show told the story of a girl aged four whose seizures that were resistant to treatment were cured by a CBD-free, non-painting type of cannabis. The chemovar later was named “Charlotte’s Web” after her.
Epilepsy sufferers with various forms or seizures who are taking prescription medications should talk about CBD with their physician prior to starting. CBD can interfere in conjunction with medications such as seizure medications such as such as clobazam and valproic acid, as well as other drugs that are that are metabolized by liver enzymes CYP3A4 and CYP2C19.
CBD and Cancer
Cannabinoids have been proven to affect and target cancer cells in a different way in a different way than healthy, normal cells. For various kinds of cancer, cannabinoids have proven to stop tumor growth and cause cell death. They also stop the growth of blood vessels which supply the tumor, and block the spread of cancer from one area in the body and then to the next. Although we’re still far from knowing the best way to use cannabis to combat different forms of cancer, it’s established that cannabis can assist in the treatment of symptoms of cancer as well as the adverse effects of treatment for cancer and could help to boost the anticancer effects of standard treatments.
An abundance of research evidence made from animals research and cell research shows the many benefits of cannabinoids in the fight against cancer such as CBD according to the Dr. Davis commented for a Leafly article. Particularly, CBD rarely causes adverse effects, but can provide significant relief on its own and is particularly effective as an alternative to THC.
Researchers are now beginning to dig deeper into the ways CBD could work in synergy with chemotherapy drugs that are commonly used and the ways in which this powerful cannabinoid could be shifted from the lab and into the clinical setting.
CBD and Arthritis
Since CBD activates its “capsaicin receptor” (TRPV1 channel) well-known for its effect on inflammation and pain, as well as other actions that reduce pain signaling, CBD may help sufferers of arthritis. Contrary to capsaicin, that is used extensively in traditional topical treatments CBD doesn’t cause an unpleasant burning sensation within the mouth, or even on skin. CBD is also able to aid in bone healing and reduce the formation of scars, which is beneficial for arthritis sufferers.
CBD Dosage Guide
How to Use CBD
After observing hundreds of patients who have been using cannabis for over 10 years and a half, Dr. Nicole Davis has seen firsthand the relief that CBD can offer for a variety of ailments. Although it can sound too promising to be real, CBD is an incredibly flexible and safe treatment.
As the research continues to uncover more information about the mechanisms and effects of the action of CBD Dr. Davis’s experience in the clinic and new research prove that CBD is a non-toxic, non-injurious, and non-habit-forming substance that promotes wellness in the following ways , and more
- Enhances awareness and clear thinking*
- Helps reduce inflammation and pain following physical activity.
- Improve mood, increase resilience to stress, and ease irritation*
- Can improve performance and recovery from exercise.
Which one is better to me? CBD or CBDA?
It is recommended to begin with a reliable full-spectrum, broad-spectrum or broad-spectrum hemp CBD that contains naturally occurring flavonoids, terpenes as well as other essential plant-based compounds, such as CBDA If it is you can. But, you must begin with CBDA CBDA product when:
- You are aware that you react more strongly to CBDA rather than CBD
- Have you tried CBD previously in low or high quantities (25-50 mg) but are not satisfied with the results.
- You’re making use of THC and you don’t wish for your hemp product to alter the effects of THC.
How do you use THC together with CBDA as well as CBDA for better health
Find the optimal ratio of CBD to THC is extremely effective and well-tolerated, as well as non-harmful. Consider low or moderate amounts of CBD in the ratio 1:4 THC: CBD (1 mg THC to 4 mg CBD or a higher ratio in CBD).
The Dr. Davis recommends exploring THC and CBD use under the supervision by medical professionals.
How to use CBD Oil
The most important factor to achieve success with CBD is to use a dosage that is tailored to your specific requirements. To reap the maximum benefits from CBD it is essential to determine your own ideal dosage and the frequency at which you should take it.
The Dr. Davis recommends starting with CBD drops that are placed under the tongue. A portion of CBD and other beneficial plant compounds are directly absorbed into your bloodstream via the capillaries that line your mouth, resulting in quicker relief. The remainder is absorbed through swallowing to provide a delay in the effects. Additionally the consumption of CBD in this manner allows for the fine-tuning required to determine the most effective dosage for you.
Consuming CBD drops (or capsules or edibles) during a meal or snack that has fats can boost absorption five times over and make it more potent and cost-effective.
How to use CBD under the tongue
If taking CBD drops sublingually (under your tongue) isn’t feasible adding them to food or using CBD in capsule formcan be equally efficient. The results may take longer, and you might need to consume a greater amount due to the fact that CBD goes through your digestive tract first. This impacts the onset of effects and its potency. If edibles, capsules or any other forms of CBD take too long to begin functioning, or are not functioning well in moderate or high doses or for those with weak digestive motility, consider changing to drops.
How to use CBD Topicals and Lotions
Many people are unaware that CBD drops can be applied directly on the skin to treat it as an application for topical. They, along with different lotions, salve, balms or gel preparations are able to be used to ease muscle spasms, pain, inflammation, and other skin issues, such as the eczema. The Hemp CBD topical gel is a water-based product, to make you feel less oily and dry faster.
How to use CBD Vapes
For occasional symptoms, CBD Vape pens can offer quick relief. The risk of long-term negative consequences of a variety of products available, which often contain toxic solvents and heavy metals are greater than the advantages. The most secure, safest types of CBD are Drops, Capsules, and Topicals from trusted companies. If you are a fan of CBD vapour, make sure to ask about testing by a third party that confirms that the product is free of contaminants and other additives.
Is CBD Legal?
In 2018, the 2018 Farm Bill made huge progress in the legalization of CBD products, as it lifted hemp out of the Controlled Substances Act. State laws differ however hemp can now be grown legally in the US soil.
CBD is derived from hemp and has less than 0.3 percent THC is legally legal in all states as well as US territories. However the laws of each state and city differ on the sale, production, and use of CBD products. Be sure to verify whether CBD products are legal in your area. CBD products in the area where you reside.
Article Citations:
[1] Pellesi, Lanfranco, et al. ” European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology 74.11 (2018): 1427-1436.
[2] Anderson, Lyndsey L., et al. Journal of natural products 82.11 (2019): 3047-3055.
[3] Rock, Erin M., et al. Psychopharmacology 235.11 (2018): 3259-3271.
[4] Rock, E. M., et al. British Journal of Pharmacology 169.3 (2013): 685-692.
[5] Rock, Erin M., et al. Psychopharmacology 234.14 (2017): 2207-2217
Author
Nicole Davis is a integrative medicine specialist who focuses on sleep and fatigue. She has extensively explored the therapeutic properties of cannabis, and provides specialized treatment plans according to personal symptoms. Dr. Davis is passionate about helping people feel their best, and believes that everyone deserves access to quality healthcare.
