Cannabidiol, better known as CBD, is a hemp compound that consumers turn to for all-natural care. The potent plant cannabinoid offers a wide range of benefits for all ages and life stages. Hemp extracts containing CBD are an all-natural option to calm your mind and body while improving your overall life quality.

What Is CBD?

CBD or cannabidiol is a biologically active compound that forms in hemp’s trichomes. These are tiny, hair-like growths found on the plant’s stalk, stems, leaves, and flowers. The roots and seeds contain zero cannabinoids or terpenes but are highly nutritious. The highest concentration of trichomes is found in the buds or flowers.

Along with the phytocannabinoids, the trichomes include terpenes and flavonoids. Experts have identified at least 545 hemp compounds. Over 140 are cannabinoids with similar characteristics to CBD. The plant also contains between 100 and 200 unique terpenes and about 20 flavonoids. Terpenes provide the hemp’s distinct aromas and are also found in hundreds of other plant species. There are over 20,000 of these aromatic compounds identified. The flavonoids are responsible for the different flavors of hemp flowers.

CBD was discovered in 1940 by Roger Adams. More than 20 years later, Dr. Raphael Mechoulam completed the Harvard-trained chemist’s work. Along with the help of his team, he identified cannabidiol’s chemical structure. However, it’s essential to mention the difference between the compound found in the trichome and the final product in your CBD gummies. All cannabinoids begin life in an acidic form. The precursor to CBD is cannabidiolic acid or CBDa. An acid has CBD benefits, but it’s not the same as CBD after it goes through the decarboxylation process.

A Little History Of Hemp

Hemp has a long history of use in the U.S. and worldwide. Proof of the popular plant’s cultivation dates back more than 10,000 years. Its first use involved fiber. Sometime later, hemp’s use would expand to include the leaves and flowers. Hemp and marijuana are both cannabis plants with the only difference being THC potency to define either hemp/marijuana. We don’t want to misinform readers or hinder marketing potential. They share many of the same properties with a single difference—the hemp plant only contains a small amount of THC. In the last 20 years, cultivation specialists have developed highly potent cannabis strains with 25% or more THC. Hemp levels stay below 0.3% for THC but have between 15% to 25% CBD.

Cannabis tinctures with much lower THC levels were legal and regularly prescribed by physicians in the 17th and 18th Centuries. The plant was even listed in the U.S. Pharmacopeia in 1850. It maintained that position in the publication until 1942, fifteen years after the U.S. passed the 1927 Marihuana Tax Act, criminalizing hemp and cannabis.

Hemp Compounds Are Legal

Yes! It was a long wait, but science won out, and all hemp cannabinoids are 100% legal. In December of 2018, the president signed the 2018 Farm Bill, legalizing the cultivation, manufacturing, distribution, sale, and use of the amazing plant.

All plants containing 0.3% are allowed under these changes. Some of our products include the legal amount of THC. The small percentage isn’t enough to produce a high. However, it might cause some consumers to fail a drug test. For more information about legal hemp products and drug testing, speak with your testing lab’s administrator.

Some of our products include the legal amount of THC but not all. Some will be an isolate base instead of full spec to eliminate the risk of failing a UA.

Benefits of Hemp Cannabinoids

Hemp plant compounds offer a wide range of benefits. The most studied with the highest number of customer testimonials include CBD for anxiety, muscle recovery, and sleep. While more research is necessary, what experts know about hemp’s naturally occurring cannabinoids is they’re an excellent addition to any wellness routine.

CBD has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation throughout the body. This is especially helpful for people with chronic pain, arthritis, or other conditions that cause inflammation. CBD also has antipsychotic effects and may help reduce symptoms in people with schizophrenia and other mental disorders.

CBD has been shown to reduce anxiety and depression symptoms in both human and animal studies. In one study, researchers found that CBD could reduce social anxiety in people with a social anxiety disorder. Another study showed that CBD could have antidepressant effects by acting on the brain’s serotonin receptors.

Moreover, CBD has gained attention for its potential benefits in improving sleep quality. Many individuals struggle with sleep disorders, and CBD has shown promise in helping regulate sleep patterns. It may help reduce insomnia and improve overall sleep duration and quality.

Furthermore, CBD has been explored for its potential neuroprotective properties. Research suggests that CBD may have a protective effect on the nervous system and may help reduce the risk of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease.

It’s important to note that CBD affects individuals differently, and results may vary. It’s always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating CBD into your wellness routine, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking medications.

In conclusion, CBD is a natural compound derived from hemp that offers a wide range of potential health benefits. With its anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, sleep-regulating, and neuroprotective properties, CBD has captured the attention of many individuals seeking natural alternatives for their wellness needs. As research on CBD continues to expand, we are uncovering more about its therapeutic potential. Remember to choose high-quality CBD products and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

Sources:

1. Pamplona, F. A., da Silva, L. R., & Coan, A. C. (2018). Potential Clinical Benefits of CBD-Rich Cannabis Extracts Over Purified CBD in Treatment-Resistant Epilepsy: Observational Data Meta-analysis. Frontiers in neurology, 9, 759.

2. Zuardi, A. W., Rodrigues, N. P., Silva, A. L., Bernardo, S. A., Hallak, J. E., Guimarães, F. S., & Crippa, J. A. (2017). Inverted U-shaped dose-response curve of the anxiolytic effect of cannabidiol during public speaking in real life. Frontiers in pharmacology, 8, 259.

3. Blessing, E. M., Steenkamp, M. M., Manzanares, J., & Marmar, C. R. (2015). Cannabidiol as a Potential Treatment for Anxiety Disorders. Neurotherapeutics, 12(4), 825–836. doi: 10.1007/s13311-015-0387-1

4. Shannon, S., Opila-Lehman, J. (2016). Effectiveness of Cannabidiol Oil for Pediatric Anxiety and Insomnia as Part of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A Case Report. The Permanente Journal, 20(4), 108-111. doi: 10.7812/TPP/16-005

5. Fernández-Ruiz, J., Sagredo, O., Pazos, M. R., García, C., Pertwee, R., Mechoulam, R., & Martínez-Orgado, J. (2013). Cannabidiol for neurodegenerative disorders: important new clinical applications for this phytocannabinoid? British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 75(2), 323–333. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2125.2012.04341.x

Please note that these sources provide additional information and scientific studies related to CBD and its potential benefits. Remember to conduct further research and consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice and guidance.