What is CBD?
Updated: Apr 25, 2019
Hemp plants contain more that 100 naturally occurring, active compounds called cannabinoids. Cannabidiol or CBD is just one of the many cannabinoids found in the hemp and marijuana plant.
CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid. Preliminary research and clinical trials suggest that CBD has significant medical benefits, but does not make people feel “stoned” and can actually counteract the psychoactivity of tetrahydrocannabinol or THC. The fact that CBD doesn’t get one high makes it an appealing treatment option for patients seeking anti-inflammatory, anti-pain, anti-anxiety, anti-psychotic, and/or anti-spasm effects without troubling lethargy or dysphoria of THC.
How does CBD work?
The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is a group of cannabinoid receptors located throughout your body. It is involved in a variety of physiological processes including appetite, pain sensation, mood and memory. Your body naturally produces cannabinoids that interact with your ECS but cannabinoids from cannabis also interact with your ECS. CBD (a cannabinoid) works by interacting with your body’s ECS to help maintain homeostasis (body’s internal equilibrium). CBD activates several receptors including the 5-HT1A serotonin receptor, exerting anti-depressant effects. CBD also interacts with the TRPV-1 receptor, which mediates body temperature, pain perception and inflammation.
The Edocannabinoid System regulates: