Increasing numbers of people are choosing to reap the rewards of CBD products, but how exactly do they work?
You might have heard of CBD products in recent years as an alternative way to improve your wellbeing and boost your daily health. That’s because more and more of us are choosing to give CBD products a try, having heard about the many promising studies that have shown the possible benefits of CBD in treating skin concerns, pain relief, anxiety and more.
But CBD is not a new phenomenon. For centuries people have used the cannabis plant as a source of healthcare, thanks to its impressive natural properties. Thanks to modern extraction technology, these properties can now be harnessed and used in the form of CBD oils, pastes, balms and capsules.
But what exactly is CBD and how does it work? We’re going to take a look at the science behind this impressive plant, exploring how it might help you improve your wellbeing.
What is CBD?
The cannabis plant contains a wide range of vitamins and minerals, as well as cannabinoids. One of these cannabinoids is known as CBD, or cannabinol.
Cannabinol is found in sativa and hemp cannabis strains. It differs from one of the other well-known cannabis compounds, THC, which is the compound found in marijuana. THC is the cannabis compound which is responsible for causing the ‘high’ effect associated with the marijuana drug.
Because CBD is a different compound to THC, it’s important to note that CBD products do not make you high. Instead, you can enjoy all the benefits of the cannabis plant without the more controversial psychoactive effects. This is why CBD-infused products are now perfectly legal in the UK and are often sold online and in health food shops.
Where does CBD come from?
Cannabinoid molecules like CBD can be found in industrial hemp as well as in cannabis plants. Through modern extraction methods, the raw nature of the hemp plant can be carefully preserved. This is important, as it leads to the highest quality CBD products. These products can then deliver a natural alternative to health and wellbeing.
The cannabis plant thrives in locations across Europe, and the most well-established and trustworthy suppliers will use the highest quality seeds in the manufacturing process in order to create CBD products which are as rich in nutrients as possible.
How does it interact with the endocannabinoid system?
The endocannabinoid system is a complex network of receptors and molecules which is present in everyone. This is where the cannabinoid receptors are located.
The endocannabinoid system is responsible for helping to regulate a large variety of bodily functions and systems. These include sleep, motivation, memory, temperature, appetite and the immune system.
Within the immune system are two main kinds of cannabinoid receptor: CB1 and CB2. While THC causes these receptors to become imbalanced, ultimately leading to the ‘high’ effect of marijuana, CBD simply stimulates activity in both receptors.
What’s more, CBD’s introduction into the endocannabinoid system leads to the release of 2-AG – a naturally occurring endocannabinoid which, when produced, enhances the overall effect of the endocannabinoid system.
As well as this, CBD can even activate certain serotonin receptors when taking in high concentrations. The 5-HT14 serotonin receptor is responsible for producing anti-depressant effects. This allows it to impact many different factors of your health including mood, appetite, anxiety, pain relief, sleep, addiction mechanism and nausea.
With all this under its belt, organically grown CBD products can provide a real boost to your wellbeing. Simply order online from reputable brands such as SmartCBD Oil and a package of cannabis-based goodness will wing itself to you in no time.
Mike is a guest blogger.