What is CBD?

Chances are, you have arrived here because you heard about CBD and its health effects, either from a friend, family member, or the media. 

From a substance that was barely understood and rarely studied just a few short years ago, CBD has exploded in awareness and popularity. 

It is now estimated that nearly 1 in 8 of all Americans has used CBD for their health. 

People from all walks of life are discovering the benefits of this often-misunderstood cannabinoid. 

We will try to decipher some of the mystery around CBD, and answer questions you may have.

First, CBD is the abbreviated and more commonly used term for Cannabidiol. It is a cannabinoid, a natural substance found in the hemp plant, L Cannabis Sativa. 

Closely related to the more well-known psychoactive cannabinoid THC, Cannabidiol works through some of the same pathways and channels in our body, but with much different effects. 

It is typically taken orally as an oil, but can also be vaped or applied topically. Like its chemical cousin THC, CBD is extracted and processed from the hemp plant. 

Once harvested it is refined to remove plant chlorophyll and lipids (winterization), then heat-treated to make it bio-available to the human body (decarboxylation).

Unlike THC, CBD has no negative psychoactive effects. It is not habit-forming, will not negatively affect memory or performance, and is not illegal to possess or use anywhere in the United States. 

Other countries may regulate cannabinoids like CBD differently, so it is best to check local custom and legalities if you are located outside the United States or Great Britain.

So what does CBD do, and what is it used for? While it’s true that this useful little cannabinoid has no negative psychoactive effects and won’t make you “high”, it does have an effect on mood. 

Specifically, users of CBD predominantly use it for its relaxing and calming effects, and mood enhancing properties. 

Long-time users of CBD describe its effects as “turning down the volume” on stress and anxiety, and that is a good description of the effect most people report while using CBD oil. 

CBD interacts with your body’s own endocannabinoid system, enhancing feelings of relaxation, and resulting in a “de-stress” effect. 

One of the positive benefits of this calming effect is on sleep, many CBD clients use CBD to relax in the evening; falling asleep more quickly, and enjoying more restful, restorative sleep.

Before you think CBD is only for sedentary effects, realize that one primary reason people use CBD on a regular basis is for the relief of physical relief and recovery. 

CBD is a potent anti-inflammatory, and can soothe the aches and pains associated with strenuous workouts, and muscle and joint soreness. 

It can be ingested or rubbed on topically, though most users report better long term results from taking CBD orally, while topical use may result in more immediate relief.

OK, so now you know where CBD comes from, why it is legal and safe to have, and why people use it. Next, we will talk about how the body utilizes the effects of CBD through its own Endocannabinoid System.