The 2018 farm bill legalized the production of hemp as an agricultural commodity and removed it from the list of controlled substances. This was a big step in clearing the way for the growth and production of hemp with a distinct requirement to keep the THC level below 0.3%.
Since 2018 there are multitudes of studies around the CBD cannabinoid (as well as many other cannabinoids) providing insight into the efficacy of CBD on the human body. Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of 100 cannabinoids found in the hemp plant. There are a number of these cannabinoids, including CBD which are used for various physical and mental challenges our customers face each day.
The human body has The endocannabinoid system (ECS) which is a biological system composed of endocannabinoids. These are endogenous lipid-based retrograde neurotransmitters that bind to cannabinoid receptors (CBRs), and cannabinoid receptor proteins that are expressed throughout the vertebrate central nervous system (including the brain) and peripheral nervous system.
There are two main types of CB receptors throughout the human body which vary in their chemical structure and thus perform different functions in terms of diet, lifestyle, and nutrition
Experts are still trying to fully understand the ECS. But so far, we know it plays an important role in regulating a range of functions and processes, including:
- sleep
- mood
- appetite
- memory
- reproduction and fertility
The ECS exists and is active in your body even if you don’t use hemp.
Cannabinoid Receptor 1 (CB1) is associated with psychoactive, neuromodulatory, and analgesic effects due to its activation by a lipid called tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). CB1 is mostly expressed in the brain, adipocytes (fat cells), hepatocytes (liver cells), and musculoskeletal tissues.
Cannabinoid Receptor 2 (CB2) is associated with anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects but no psychoactive effects. CB2 is expressed in body cells controlling immune function and (potentially) the central nervous system (CNS). Additionally, research suggests that secondary metabolites from phytonutrients in plant-based foods (such as CBD products) enhance the activity of CB2 receptors and confer healthy inflammatory responses.
Essentially our bodies are predisposed to gain benefits from hemp cannabinoids as they bind to these receptors in our respective bodies.
Possible Side effects
CBD is generally considered safe for users. However, users may experience mild side effects[101] such as:
- Tiredness
- Diarrhea
- Changes in appetite
- Changes in weight
CBD may also interact with certain prescription medications, dietary supplements, and over-the-counter drugs.
More commonly, it is known to interact with medications that contain a grapefruit warning. Nevertheless, it is essential to speak with your physician to discuss potential side effects before using CBD products.
Conclusion
Since CBD is now legal in every state in the United States, many people are interested in using CBD products. The FDA has recognized the potential for CBD to help treat numerous ailments and has ramped up studies to fill in current gaps in scientific evidence.
Although we need extensive studies to verify its effectiveness and side effects, research appears very promising. CBD seems to be a natural complement to the traditional treatment of a wide variety of health conditions. However, if you’re considering using CBD, it’s essential to speak with your healthcare provider to discuss potential risks and benefits before use.
1 Sublingual
How do I properly use CBD under my tongue? Taking CBD sublingually is incredibly easy. CBD oil, such as Tinctures, needs to be put under the tongue and held for at least 60 seconds to allow sufficient time for the molecules to diffuse across the epithelial cells..
Benefits of Taking CBD Oil Sublingually
- Increased Bioavailability
Since sublingual application bypasses the metabolic process of digestion, far less of the raw CBD is lost. The term bioavailability refers to how much of a substance can be utilized by the body and differs depending on the method. As for CBD products, the only method with higher bioavailability than sublingual is inhalation.
- Faster to Take Effect
Similarly to increased bioavailability, bypassing the slow digestion process means that the effects of CBD tinctures taken sublingually can be experienced much faster. Whereas it can take upwards of 30-45 minutes to benefit from oral consumption of CBD, taking CBD oil sublingually can yield results in only a few minutes.
2 Oral dosing of CBD/eating
Eating CBD through edibles such as gummies or treats is a popular way to enjoy the benefits of CBD. It is important to note that when ingesting an edible, you will have to wait 30-45 minutes to begin the benefits of the product.
For our customer that doesn’t like to drink or smoke their CBD, ingesting our products is the most popular way to enjoy a “treat” and gain the benefits of the hemp cannabinoids.
3 Smoking or Vaping CBD
This is the fastest way to gain bioavailability and begin to enjoy the benefits of CBD. It is the least popular way our customers enjoy our products. If you are an ex-cigarette or nonsmoker, the benefits of CBD can be enjoyed by eating or sublingual methods.
4 CBD Topical/Rubs
CBD can be absorbed in the skin. However, it is important to understand that this technique is much different than ingesting CBD sublingually or via inhalation. When CBD is absorbed topically it does not enter the bloodstream but rather connects with nearby cannabinoid receptors through the skin pores.
This is most popularly used for tissue injuries by rubbing creams directly where the aches and pain are occurring in the body. It takes 15-30 minutes to gain relieve when using this method.
