WATCH: What is CBD? | Learn

Anisha Dhiman - thegrowthop.com Posted 5 years ago
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Cannabidiol (CBD) is a naturally occurring chemical compound found in cannabis. In studying the plant researchers identified more than 100 such phytochemical compounds that are collectively called cannabinoids—CBD and tetrahydrocannabinol THC are the most prominent in terms of typical volume.

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CBD does not have psychoactive properties that produce euphoric highs and it potentially reduces or delays THC-related euphoria. More importantly, clinical studies show that CBD has extensive medical applications probably more so than any other cannabinoid.

How CBD Works

Each person has a cannabinoid receptor system in the brain that includes type 1 receptor (CB1) primarily in the central and peripheral nervous system and type 2 receptor (CB2) primarily in the immune system. While THC binds directly to the receptors, CBD affects them indirectly through endocannabinoids produced naturally in the body. In addition to stimulating natural production, CBD suppresses the enzyme that metabolizes endocannabinoids.

The cannabinoid receptor system plays an important role in maintaining a stable, biological environment. Fittingly, CBD seems to counter potential THC side effects like anxiety, paranoia, and short-term memory disruptions.

CBD and THC

CBD is appealing for medicinal users since the non-psychoactive oil can be taken in measured concentrated doses that do not adversely affect cognition or motor skills. Several studies do suggest, however, that CBD reaches optimal efficacy when paired with THC. In addition to boosting the antioxidant potency of CBD, studies show that THC has its own therapeutic profile that includes potential anticancer agents.

The two cannabinoids seem to have a symbiotic relationship that fosters mutual enhancement and some medicinal experts advocate for whole-plant use when appropriate. Still many individuals prefer the singular use of CBD especially when the treatment involves children and the extracted oil is undeniably a potent medicine with or without THC. The immense game-changing potential for CBD-based medical treatments is a primary force driving the cannabis legalization movement.

 

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