What Is CBD? Here’s What You Need To Know

CBD is making quite the splash in the wellness world these days. You’ve probably heard about it, seen it on coffee shop menus, and maybe even tried it, but do you know what CBD actually is? If not, don’t worry—that’s exactly what we’ll be covering in this article. Here’s what you need to know about this popular wellness product. 

What is CBD? 

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a naturally occurring chemical compound found in the cannabis plant, Cannabis sativa. There are more than 100 known cannabinoids in the cannabis plant, including CBD and THC (the substance that creates the “high” when using marijuana). Unlike THC, however, CBD has no psychoactive effect. This makes it an appealing option for those who are looking for symptom relief without the mind-altering affects of marijuana. 

How does CBD work? 

The human body has a complex cell-signaling system called the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is involved in regulating a variety of functions, including sleep, mood, memory, appetite, reproduction, and fertility. The body produces endocannabinoids, which are neurotransmitters that bind to cannabinoid receptors in your nervous system. Recent research has found that the ECS does not only respond to cannabinoids produced in the body, but also responds to CBD as a means of enhancing the body’s ECS function.

What’s the difference between full-spectrum CBD and CBD isolate? 

While both full-spectrum CBD and CBD isolate are extracts from the cannabis plant, there are differences between them. When extracting CBD for use in products such as oils and edibles, manufacturers have the choice to extract all of the compounds found in the cannabis plant or isolate only the CBD. When all of the compounds are extracted together, the resulting product is known as full-spectrum CBD. Alternatively, if only the CBD is extracted, the resulting product is called CBD isolate. 

Unlike CBD isolate, full-spectrum CBD contains multiple cannabis plant extracts, including essential oils, terpenes, and other cannabinoids. Additionally, full-spectrum CBD may contain up to 0.3 percent of THC. The amount of THC in full-spectrum CBD is so low, however, that it’s not strong enough to produce significant psychoactive effects. 

Which is better: CBD isolate or full-spectrum CBD?

The type of CBD you choose to use depends on the effects you’re seeking. CBD isolate is best for those looking for benefits without high-inducing effects. It’s been shown to offer many positive benefits, including reducing pain levels, calming anxiety, soothing inflammation, reducing nausea, and reducing seizures in epilepsy sufferers, just to name a few. 

Since full-spectrum CBD contains dozens of additional compounds, it offers an “entourage effect,” meaning the increased number of compounds may increase its effects. Full-spectrum CBD offers the same benefits as CBD isolate, however, research shows that the effects of full-spectrum CBD are typically more pronounced and effective. It’s important to note that because full-spectrum CBD usually contains traces of THC, it may give you a very mild high and THC could show up on a drug test. 

The bottom line 

CBD offers incredible benefits like reducing pain, anxiety, and inflammation. Whether you choose to use CBD isolate, full-spectrum CBD, or both, adding CDB to your wellness routine is certainly a worthy investment. 

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References

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• A Simple Guide to the Endocannabinoid System
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