CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of the most beneficial cannabinoids found in the marijuana plant. Used in a variety of forms including candy, coffee, vapor, oil and more, it is getting increasingly popular for its relieving action on inflammation, pain, chronic illness, mental disorders, cancer and others. Another well-known compound in the cannabis plant is THC or tetrahydrocannabinol. Read on to find the primary difference between these two compounds and everything you need to know about CBD oil.
What is Cannabidiol? – CBD Vs THC
Both CBD and THC have the same molecular structure with a minor difference in the atomic arrangement, making all the difference in the psychoactive properties. The human body has an endocannabinoid system that contains receptors for cannabinoids like THC and cannabidiol. These chemicals interact with the endocannabinoid system which is responsible for regulating various functions including sleep, memory, pain, mood, immune response and appetite. The chemical structures of THC and CBD resemble that of the body’s own endocannabinoids, allowing them to interact with the system’s receptors to affect various functions.
The main difference between these two is that THC causes mind-altering effects like euphoria which CBD doesn’t. THC is found in high amounts in marijuana plants while cannabidiol is abundantly present in hemp.
What Does CBD Do? Benefits
While research on cannabidiol is in its initial stages at this time and more comprehensive studies are required, scientists and researchers are studying various effects of this compound to demonstrate how the compound can benefit users.
Here are some of the things about CBD that scientists could prove:
- Provide relief from chronic pain when used in combination with THC
- Prevent the invasion and spread of lung cancer
- When taken in larger doses, help users sleep, even those who suffer from insomnia
- Kill breast cancer cells and down-regulate the gene responsible for breast cancer strains
- Decrease anxiety in public in high doses
- Prevent seizures
- Improve the symptoms of schizophrenia
- Decrease social anxiety with the regulation of the fear-controlling part of the brain
- Increase alertness in humans in small doses
- Potential as a neuroprotective. Decrease brain damage after stroke
- Proved to be an antioxidant. A study showed that cannabidiol can protect neurons from oxidative stress and inflammation better than vitamins.
There is a lot more when talking about the benefits of cannabidiol. It is known as a natural cure-all and helps with everything from anxiety, autoimmune diseases and neurodegenerative disorders to inflammation, pain and cancer. Refer to the CBD Oil Benefits Guide published by BWell Market to learn more about how CBD can improve your overall well-being and health.
Different Forms of CBD
Isolates
Made using the CO2 extraction method that involves pressurizing the material with the use of carbon dioxide, CBD isolates are comparatively potent and pure oils. This process requires professional equipment and expertise. You can look for CO2-extracted products if you want to use isolates.
Extracts and Tinctures
When cannabidiol is extracted using solvents like ethanol, hexane or methanol, the medicinal oils are obtained from the plant material. This method is highly common for manufacturers of vape pen cartridges. While solvent extraction is highly effective, there are some issues with the integrity and purity of the oils and it is important to use high-quality solvents to make sure the oil is effective and safe.
Infused Oil
CBD oil is mostly infused in virgin olive oil. Cannabis-infused oils are available online at various stores from reputed brands. It is also possible to extract your own oil if you have some high-quality cannabis plant material available.
How To Take CBD?
Cannabidiol can be taken in a variety of delivery methods and some of them are better than others in particular respects. The ideal dosage depends on the user’s weight, age and the condition he/she is trying to cure with it. Here are some of the most effective and convenient delivery methods.
Ingestion
CBD can be ingested with the help of a dropper, in the form of a capsule, candy, baked edibles or gums. As stated by NanocraftCBD this method takes longer to take effect as compared to some other delivery methods like inhalation.
Inhalation
It is possible to inhale CBD vapors using a special vape pen. Being the fastest-acting method of consumption, inhalation is highly preferred by those who are looking for immediate relief from pain or insomnia. This method is also easy if you have the required equipment. Vaping is recommended over smoking to stay away from harmful effects on the throat and lungs. Newbies should start slow and gradually increase the dose as per personal preferences.
Transdermal
Cannabidiol can penetrate the skin and enter the bloodstream. The benefit of this method is that you can rub CBD-infused creams or oils directly onto the affected area of the body to get instant relief.
Sublingual
One can also drop the CBD oil on the tongue or under the tongue to see faster effects. The sublingual delivery method takes about the same time as ingestion to take effect.
CBD Oil Side Effects
Cannabidiol is commonly tolerated by most people. Some users report sleepiness or dropped blood pressure with the use of this compound. As the skin has cannabinoid receptors, it is common to notice dry skin upon using it. However, it does not affect heart rate, alertness, behavior, blood pressure, appetite, sensory perception or consciousness. Studies show that you need to intake a lot of the compound to see adverse effects on liver metabolism and other functions. Like vegetables, fruits and grains, cannabis plants are sprayed with fertilizers and pesticides and you can end up suffering from harmful effects from these chemicals and additives which have nothing to do with active ingredients in the product. Hence, it is important to research the brand thoroughly and choose from the purest products without any additives or chemicals.
So, if you wonder whether ‘CBD is for you?’ there are so many variables that you should take into account to decide. Science says this compound is not addictive or harmful and has the potential to benefit the health positively.