Interest in cannabidiol (CBD) continues to grow as more patients and doctors hear about the compound and its therapeutic potential.
For those of you interested in learning more about CBD, here we answer some of the most common questions we get asked:
What is CBD?
CBD is the most abundant of the more than 100 naturally occurring cannabinoids found in hemp plants. CBD has shown to interact with the human body through our endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for regulating an array of physiological functions in an effort to maintain homeostasis. CBD oil, extracted from the stalks and seeds of hemp, has shown to potentially offer anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and neuroprotectant effects.
What is CBD used for?
While the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not yet approved CBD, studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that the compound could be beneficial for managing seizures, fighting the spread of cancer, treating neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease or Alzheimer’s disease, reducing anxiety, curtailing nausea, and relieving pain. While CBD is available legally under federal law, regardless of a prescription, we recommend you discuss incorporating the possibility of incorporating CBD into your treatment regimen with your physician.
You can learn more about CBD’s therapeutic potential here.
What’s the difference between CBD and THC?
CBD and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are similar in that they’re both cannabinoids that interact with the cannabinoid receptors of the endocannabinoid system. However, their similarities just about stop there. THC is the cannabinoid that directly activates that CB1 receptor to elicit a euphoric side effect. CBD, on the other hand, is considered an indirect antagonist of the CB1 receptor because it blocks it from linking with other compounds. Not only is CBD non-psychoactive itself, but also it counteracts the euphoric effects of CB1 agonists like THC.
The two compounds aren’t opponents, however. While THC directly activates the cannabinoid receptors and CBD indirectly interacts with them, together, along with other cannabinoids and natural constituents found in pure hemp oil, they work together in what’s referred to as the “entourage effect” to provide therapeutic effects.
You can learn more about the differences between CBD and THC here.
What forms of products does CBD come in?
The array of CBD products now available makes it easier to find an option that fits your needs and lifestyle. Once extracted from hemp, pure CBD oil can be taken directly and absorbed under the tongue. However, the oil can also be infused into products like tinctures, liquid concentrates, capsules, edibles, beverages, vape oil, lotions, and salves.
You can learn more about different ways to consume CBD here.
Is CBD Legal?
CBD is legal under federal law, provided that it is derived from imported hemp. No prescription needed. CBD itself is not specifically listed as a controlled substance in the United States Controlled Substances Act like THC. Individual state laws, however, are dynamic and some individual states may govern hemp-derived CBD.
You can learn more about the laws surrounding CBD here.
Want to learn about cannabinoids like CBD and their therapeutic effects? Visit our Education page and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest for the latest updates.
