Cannabidiol, better known by its acronym “CBD”, has been enjoying incredible success over the past three years. A legal alternative to cannabis containing THC, a substance still prohibited in many countries, CBD is, according to the World Health Organization, “ a useful treatment for a number of pathologies “. But between CBD oils, edibles, flowers, creams and herbal teas… it’s hard to find your way around. Don’t panic, Zeweed tells you all about this cannabinoid with superpowers.
What is CBD?
The Cannabis Sativa L or hemp plant has been domesticated by man since Neolithic times in Asia, and its use has been anchored in civilizations for millennia. It wasn’t until the 20th century that scientists began to take an interest in its chemical composition. It was in 1940 that American researcher Roger Adams succeeded in isolating thecannabidiol (CBD) molecule.
In 1963, Israeli biochemist Raphaël Mechoulam established the molecular structure of CBD. After carrying out a series of tests on primates, the scientist concluded that cannabidiol is very different from THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). In fact, unlike its THC cousin, cannabidiol has no psychotropic or psychoactive effect. In other words, it has no effect on mental activity, so does not produce a high or psychological addiction.
In Canada, it is legal in all preparations, and in France it is authorized for sale on condition that it contains less than 0.2% THC.
Terpenes, “full spectrum”, “broad spectrum” and “isolate”: what are the differences?
Terpenes are the components responsible for the characteristic aromas and flavors of hemp flowers, activating our perception of the essences released by the plant (lemony, mentholated, earthy, etc.). They act in synergy with cannabinoids, optimizing their benefits – the so-called “entourage effect”.
- Full spectrum”CBD contains all the cannabinoids, including THC at the legal level in force in each country (0.2% in France) and all the terpenes.
- Broad spectrum CBD contains all the cannabinoids except THC and terpenes. “Broad spectrum” and “full spectrum” are preferred for oils.
- CBD “isolate” is the pure concentrate of cananbidiol (in the form of crystals or powder) obtained after extraction from the plant or by synthetic reconstitution. It contains no other cannabinoids, and is found in most food and cosmetic products.
What are the benefits of CBD for the body?
The consumption of CBD acts on our endocannabinoid system and activates the two cannabic receptors present in our body: CB1 and CB2. Once these receptors are activated, the body begins its self-regulation process, reinforcing immunity. Each receptor interacts with a network of specific functions.
The CB1 receptor interacts with motor activity, cognition, coordination, appetite, short-term memory, pain perception and immune cells.
The CB2 receptor acts on the digestive system: liver, kidneys, pancreas and adipose tissue, muscles, bones, eyes, reproductive system, respiratory tract, skin, central nervous system and cardiovascular system.
Numerous studies and now consumer feedback have proven that CBD is effective against mood and anxiety disorders, menstrual or musculoarticular pain, skin problems, digestive disorders, sleep disorders, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, osteoporosis…
The list is not exhaustive, as studies are still lacking on certain pathologies. One thing is certain: CBD is packed with benefits for body and mind. It relieves, soothes and does good! It’s non-addictive and can even help you kick your addictions (tobacco, THC, alcohol, opiates).
Which product to choose? In what form?
CBD can be found in different forms: flower, resin, oil, wax and crystals, in a wide variety of products: hemp oils or vegetable oils (olive, coconut, rapeseed, etc.) with a CBD base are the most popular, especially for those who wish to incorporate it into their daily dietary routine to optimize their immunity and well-being. Food products such as infusions, candies, cookies, chewing gum or honeys are more for those looking for a one-off action to relieve pain or relax. Finally, cosmetics: soaps, creams, balms, gels, serums, deodorants, lubricants, etc. meet the same requirements as ordinary skin care products, but with additional active ingredients. (pain-relieving, soothing, lipid-replenishing, etc.).
Routes of administration vary from product to product. Their effects can be more or less rapid, depending on individual weight and metabolism.
- In dispersion sublingual in the form of drops of vegetable oil (olive, coconut, hemp, etc.).
For optimum effectiveness, leave the oil under the tongue for 30 seconds before swallowing. - By ingestion In the form of capsules, infusions, food products.
Effects are felt during digestion, a few hours after intake. - Applied topically by the skin in the form of a balm, cream or spray.
For better absorption of the product, we recommend massaging it into the targeted areas. - Vaporized (flower, crystal or resin), inhaled with a vaporizer
For an immediate effect.
