A Beginner’s Guide to CBD

CBD. You’ve seen it talked about in blogs and online videos, as well as promoted in advertisements and in shop windows on the street. But what is it? What does it do? And why are people using it? Let’s go over the basics…

What Is CBD?

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is one of over 100 cannabinoids found in cannabis plants. Cannabinoids (including CBD, THC, and many others) are chemical compounds that act on the receptors in your body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS).

CBD is the most abundant cannabinoid in cannabis plants and is being researched for its ability to help those suffering from anxiety, arthritis, epilepsy, and various other conditions. CBD is legal in much of the United States and is being used by many to promote general wellness and to combat anxiety, stress, sleeplessness, inflammation, and more.

Where Does CBD Come From?

CBD comes from the cannabis plant, and that’s where the confusion begins for a lot of people.

Cannabis is a family of plants containing multiple species including marijuana and hemp. While similar, these plants have one major difference, and that’s the amount of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) present. THC is mostly known for its ability to cause psychoactive effects in users. Hemp contains less than or about 0.3% THC (i.e., the legal limit). Marijuana, however, contains much more.

For this reason, it’s common for CBD products to be derived from hemp, not marijuana.

How Does CBD work?

Without getting into the technical details, understanding the science behind CBD requires a brief overview of the endocannabinoid system (ECS).

Back in the 1990s, researchers found that there were receptors in animal brains that were extremely sensitive to THC, which kick-started a massive biological breakthrough. It turned out that our bodies naturally produce similar chemicals, called endogenous cannabinoids (i.e., cannabinoids from outside the body) or “endocannabinoids,” which gives the system its name.

The ECS regulates several essential processes in the body with its receptors, and the most important of these are called CB1 and CB2.

CB1 & CB2 Receptors

CB1 receptors are mostly found in the brain and are intensely compatible with THC. Tiredness, mood, appetite, and pain are all affected by the CB1 receptors. CB2 receptors, on the other hand, are spread throughout the body. These largely influence skin health and inflammation.

Effects of CBD in the Body

Whereas most chemicals directly influence the body’s processes, CBD can make your body better at doing its job. CBD doesn’t bind to either CB1 or CB2, but it can maximize the effects of the endocannabinoids your body naturally produces. For example, CBD inhibits the enzyme that breaks down anandamide, which reduces pain and boosts happiness. Science still has a long way to go with CBD, but it’s promising. The FDA has approved two epilepsy medications derived from this chemical, so research around the benefits of CBD continues.

Frequently Asked Questions About CBD

Is CBD legal?

Check your state laws to see if CBD is legal where you live. In most cases, if the CBD oil has less than 0.3% THC in it, then it should be acceptable to use.

Can CBD get you high?

No, CBD can’t get you high. THC is the chemical responsible for the “high” associated with marijuana. In fact, CBD actually makes THC less effective.

What’s the difference between CBD and THC?

There are several differences, which are better explained in this guide to CBD vs THC.

Will CBD show up on a drug test?

No, CBD itself won’t cause you to fail a drug test. Full spectrum CBD oils do contain trace amounts of THC, but it shouldn’t be enough to test positively. That said, if taking high enough doses of CBD products containing THC, it is possible for THC to show up in a drug test. If you’re still concerned, use 100% THC-free products.

Is CBD addictive?

No, CBD isn’t chemically addictive. But like anything, it can become a habit.

What’s the proper CBD dosage?

That depends on a multitude of factors, such as your weight and the type of CBD product you’re using. It’s best to start with the recommended dose listed on the product you purchase, and adjust as you learn how CBD effects you.

Where can I buy CBD products?

With Frontier Jackson! We offer everything from CBD oils and edibles to CBD topicals and pet products. We strive to provide high-quality, all-natural CBD products that promote a balanced and healthy lifestyle. Search our CBD products now.