CBD oil is the future. Cannabis has been stigmatized for decades, despite proof of its various beneficial attributes – mostly because they come hand-in-hand with psychoactive elements that get you high. But in recent years, scientists have pinpointed that cannabinoids (CBD), the non-psychoactive ingredient in marijuana, are responsible for many of the plant’s abilities to support immune system health.
“There is SO much confusion and even mis-information in the marketplace about the benefits of this wonderful plant,” says Stephen T. Smith, President/Co-founder of Petreleaf, a CBD and hemp oil infused pet products company. “THC does have many benefits beyond just “getting stoned” but it plays a minor role in improving our health.”
It’s possible to breed marijuana to the point of getting all the cannabinoids out of the plant – and little to none of the THC. The result, CBD oil, has reportedly been shown to promote healthy immune response, reduce hunger, and sweeten the mood.
The Science
According to research, cannabinoids synergize and help support humans’ built-in Endocannabinoid System (ECS). The ECS is our body’s way of communicating with itself to properly regulate bodily functions. It acts on the hippocampus, central nervous system, creates energy balance and supports the reproductive system. Consider it the main command center.
ECS has been shown to control pain sensation, appetite, temperature regulation, stress reactivity, immune function, sleep, and many other processes. Even more interesting is muscle and fat tissue also utilize these receptors to control their processes.
Scientific studies and data show Hemp CBD (Cannabidiol) Oil, as well as all micronutrients (phytonutrients) and phyto-cannabinoids found in the oil, work in harmony with the human body, creating a positive effect for overall wellness.
To demystify any confusion surrounding CBD, let’s go over some basics:
Hemp Oil VS CBD Oil
Hemp oil commonly refers to hemp seed oil, which is obtained by pressing hemp seeds that contain low levels of CBD, typically less than 25 parts per million (ppm).
In contrast, CBD is extracted and produced directly from cannabis flowers that are up to 15 percent CBD (150,000 ppm). Other times, flowers and leaves are mixed in with the stalks during hemp stalk processing for fiber. Basically, if the oil is derived from the seed, it’s hemp oil.
Hemp oil is primarily used for cooking and known for its high omega-3 and omega-6 content. It can be used as a skin moisturizer, replacing lotions and soaps. Commercially it can be used as the base for different forms of plastic (typically a role that petroleum plays). This may include eco-friendly paints, or bio-diesel fuel that are used in the same way as vegetable-based fuel.
CBD oil differs from hemp because it is primarily known for its medical benefits.
What Is The Difference Between CBD And THC?
Similar to CBD, THC is not a product of hemp seeds, but from various other parts of the plant. However, THC produces psychological effects, while CBD use doesn’t provide any adverse effects. A little confusing? Let us explain how THC and CBD are similar, and how they’re different.
According to the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Institute of the University of Washington, CBD is one of more than 50 natural components of the hemp plant classified as “cannabinoids,” and are separated into subclasses.
Some of the more well-known sub classes include cannabigerols (CBG), cannabichromenes (CBC), cannabidiols (CBD), tetrahydricannabinols (THC), and cannabinodiol (CBDL).
“The major differences between cannabinoids are determined by the extent to which they are psychologically active.”
Some of these subclasses, such as THC, CBN and CBDL are known to have varying degrees of psychological effects. Others, such as CBG, CBD and CBC are not known to have these effects.
Because of the negative rap surrounding hemp plants and THC in general, federal standards ensure the product you are buying does not contain THC. To be defined as “industrial hemp,” cannabis plants may contain less than 0.3 percent THC in their flowering tops. This is important because otherwise, on a federal level, the hemp plants in pilot programs and research could be treated as marijuana.
Basically, cannabinoid oil has vastly more medical benefits than hemp oil, and does not have the psychological effects that people receive from marijuana. It is a specific subclass of chemical compounds contained by the hemp plant, isolated from other subclasses and used for its medical benefits.
“CBD…decreases activity in the limbic system. It also plays a large role in the formation of memories. Emotional life is largely housed in the limbic system which supports epinephrine flow, emotions, behavior, motivation, long-term memory, and olfaction,” attests Anthony Franciosi Colorado “Pot-repreneur” and founder of The Honest Marijuana Company.
All the excuses that have been made about medical marijuana’s validity as a health supportive agent (due to its various psychoactive side-effects) can now be thrown out the window. CBD offers you all the research supported abilities of the plant – and you don’t have to worry about paranoia, munchies, becoming non-social or non-functional. Because the high is out.
