CBD is short for “cannabidiol” and it comes from the hemp cannabis plant. Most people associate cannabis with the drug marijuana, but CBD is from the hemp plant.
The cannabis plant is made up of several compounds. Two of the most famous compounds that have been found and studied are delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).
The THC compound is what is found traditional THC is regulated by the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) because it produces psychedelic effects.
In contrast, the CBD compound which is found in the hemp plant is not addictive or psychedelic like THC, and it’s not under the jurisdiction of the DEA since it’s not a drug. It is managed through the agricultural department. It is derived from the hemp plant which is known for its all-natural healing properties.
CBD is a natural substance from the hemp cannabis plant. It is most often distilled into oils and used to make a variety of CBD products. It’s been found to have many health benefits, like healing.
CBD also works with the Endocannabinoid System that each one of us has. The endocannabinoid system is a biological system which plays many important roles in the human body. It is also responsible for the physical and psychological effects of cannabis. Scientists first discovered the system while trying to understand the effects of cannabis, and named it the endocannabinoid system for this reason.
Endo stands for endogenous, which means originating within the body. Cannabinoid refers to the group of compounds that activate this system.
The endocannabinoid system is a major target of medical research because of its widespread effects and therapeutic potential. While scientists have sorted out the basics of this fascinating system, much more remains to be uncovered.
Cannabinoids are the chemical messengers for the endocannabinoid system. While many different cannabinoids exist, they all fall under two categories: endogenous or exogenous.
Endogenous means originating inside the body. Also known as endocannabinoids, these compounds are produced naturally by the human body. They interact with cannabinoid receptors to regulate basic functions including mood, memory, appetite, pain, sleep, and many more.
Exogenous means originating outside the body. The cannabinoids found in marijuana, such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), are considered exogenous. When consumed, they also interact with cannabinoid receptors to produce physical and psychological effects on the body. CBD works with these different messengers and helps promote and maintain a healthier internal system. These help to promote things like better overall health, reduced stress and anxiety, helps with sleep, and overall joint health.
