What is CBD?

Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a powerful compound that belongs to a class of over 100 cannabinoids. It is found in cannabis and hemp plants, but is usually derived from hemp to avoid any THC from the cannabis plant. 

CBD may provide many positive therapeutic effects. It has antispastic, analgesic, antiemetic, neuroprotective, and anti-inflammatory actions, and is effective against certain psychiatric diseases. Data about the therapeutic potential of CBD has been greatly improved by many scientific documents and clinical trials. Some of the potential health benefits of cannabinoids include relief from pain, stress and anxiety as well as the possibility for improved sleep, motor coordination, increased energy levels and improved wellness.

CBD is extremely safe. 

It can be used by people of nearly all ages within proper dosage ranges. Unlike THC, CBD is neither psychoactive nor is it intoxicating. It is completely legal to consume when derived from the hemp plant. In the last 5 years, CBD has emerged as one of the most medicinally potent and versatile of all the cannabinoids. 

CBD is powerful, yet gentle on the body. 

We possess a comprehensive network of enzymes, receptors, and pathways within multiple organs, glands, tissues, parts of the brain, spinal cord, GI tract, reproductive system, and various other types of cells that are indirectly influenced by it. This is known as the endocannabinoid system. 

The endocannabinoid system plays an incredibly important role in maintaining homeostasis and overall mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

Most members of the animal kingdom actually possess this important system. CBD either activates, indirectly influences, or binds to receptors such as CB1, CB2, 5-HT1A, adenosine, TRVP1, certain PPAR receptors, along with others in this vast endocannabinoid network to exert its therapeutic properties.

If you are fortunate enough to not have a specific condition or ailment for taking CBD, it may still help provide some shielding while improving your quality of life. The World Health Organization has even stated that CBD has no potential for abuse or addiction, yet another hugely positive attribute of this unique cannabinoid. 

For some people, CBD has a very noticeable and profound effect on the nervous system from the first few doses, while for others, it is a slow building and cumulative effect.

Evidence shows that certain cannabinoids can help inhibit or quiet the overactive sympathetic branch and activate the parasympathetic branch that is more conducive to healing. 

With the stresses of modern life, we are often stuck in a sympathetic dominant state for the majority of our day, which is far from optimal for the body and mind. In this state of sympathetic dominance, our DNA does not function optimally, stress based hormones are secreted in higher than ideal amounts, nutrients in our bodies are burned through at a much quicker rate, anxiety levels increase, the immune system is weaker, and there is greater damage to our cells and organs. This is another area where CBD may play a major role in the overall benefits shown in the health of millions of people that have tried CBD and those that continue to take CBD for their health.