What is CBD? A complete guide

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a natural compound found in and derived from the hemp plant.

It is one of 104 cannabinoids (chemical compounds) that are also found in hemp.

CBD is extracted from industrial hemp plants and added to a carrier oil to be ingested orally, or used externally on the body.

Hemp has been grown for industrial purposes, to make textiles, rope and raw food materials for centuries.

The difference between hemp and marijuana

The hemp plant is under the umbrella of the genus cannabis plant, where it has 2 strains, marijuana and hemp.

Although hemp has been used in foods, oils and natural remedies for centuries, the scientific discovery of the actual CBD compound was in the 1940’s.

After the discovery, chemist Raphael Mecholulam has pioneered research and carried out experiments testing various cannabinoid extracts. He discovered in primate testing that THC was the distinctive psychoactive compound and CBD the compound with therapeutic remedial effects.

It is really important to emphasise the common miss-conception, that CBD does not have the psychoactive effects like marijuana. It is made from hemp, which does not contain THC.

In the last few years, research and evidence to the health, wellness and medical benefits of the hemp plant are emerging. In most places, the active ingredient within the hemp plant, CBD, is legal while the cannabis plant itself still remains illegal.

The difference between hemp and marijuana is one of the most important things to define when asking “What is CBD?”

How does CBD work in the body?

Over the last few years CBD has become hugely popular as a natural supplement.

It is most widely used as an oral tincture (CBD drops) where it is absorbed into the bloodstream and is received by CBD receptors of the Endocannabinoid system.

The Endocannabinoid system regulates many of the different systems we have to control our natural functions, like Sleep, Anxiety, Relief, Energy, and Skin health.

There is research to suggest that by using CBD as a supplement it will support and balance these functions to maintain overall wellness, this is homeostasis.

There is a growing evidence to support the claim that CBD is anti inflammatory and soothing, which leads to a number of health possibilities.

What is inflammation?

When you bang your head on the door or have pushed your muscles extra hard in the gym, your body will respond by increasing blood flow to that area. The area can be become painful, swell, heat or stop moving. Immune cells from the blood will fight the damage and start to build new tissue.

When our immune system is working properly Inflammation helps our body to heal and fight against infection

The danger arises when we experience chronic inflammation. Our immune system changes from protecting us to being the cause of damage.

Unhealthy food, polluted air that we breathe or other toxins can tell our immune system to fight.

The cells of our body suffer because of non-stop attack by unstable and defensive molecules causing our health to be impacted.

If you have signs of chronic inflammation, naturally you need to see a medical practitioner.

How Could CBD Fight Inflammation?

Scientists are continuing the research on the ways in which CBD is able to fight inflammation. Studies have found that this natural substance may have many anti-inflammatory properties, by inhibiting the enzyme, which is responsible for the production of the compound that controls inflammation

CBD may encourage the body to reduce the production of inflammatory molecules and increase the number of antioxidant defences.

By taking CBD oil or using CBD Balm as a natural anti-inflammatory it is proving to help relieve muscle soreness and joint inflammation. Studies are also showing the reduction of the intensity of chronic pain as well as several inflammatory diseases.

CBD for anxiety

Several studies have shown that CBD reduces anxiety when used regularly.

Although the way CBD affects CB1 receptors in the brain has not been fully identified, however, it does seem to alter serotonin signals.

Serotonin, a neurotransmitter, plays an important role in your mental health. Low serotonin levels generally occur in people who have depression. Low serotonin may also cause anxiety.

A natural alternative

The traditional treatment for low serotonin is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), such as sertraline (Zoloft) or fluoxetine (Prozac). These antidepressants are only available by prescription.

Anxiety may be managed with CBD instead of an SSRI. However, you should talk to your doctor before making changes to your treatment plan.

One of the most-studied claims to CBD is its treatment of epilepsy, especially in children. CBD and various medications based on CBD now help treat the condition.

CBD and sleep

CBD may also allow for easier and deeper sleep. CBD seems to help calm down an anxious state of mind by balancing some of the hormones that may be working on overdrive to keep you awake.

Many researchers say that CBD improves sleep because it tackles the root causes of insomnia, like pain, or anxiety.

Studies show how CBD is very effective at helping to overcome anxiety.

This is partly due to the interactions with the natural cannabinoids found in the body which regulate natural functions. One of these is the activation of serotonin receptors in the brain.

When the body’s natural chemical balance is achieved by supplementing with CBD, natural functions like sleep are likely to be restored.

How is CBD made?

CBD is made from the hemp plants, either by indoor or outdoor cultivation methods.

Once the plants mature, they are harvested and then cured or air-dried.

At this stage the plant can be used for making tea or for smoking.

The plant is also ready for the CBD to extracted, a variety of processes are used.

CO2 extraction

CO2 extraction is widely the most acclaimed method. At a low temperature it puts carbon dioxide under pressure. This gas becomes a liquid and is passed though the plant and extracts the CBD with it.

Another extraction method is with ethanol.

After the CBD has been extracted, it is combined with a carrier oil to dilute it and make it easier to consume as a tincture

Which type of CBD should I choose?

This depends on the matter you’re trying to address. If your shoulders are sore from sitting at your desk or your body aches from exercise, the CBD balm could help. If work or parenting is stressful you could take the edge of with CBD oil.

To help with a long nights sleep, the tea is a favourite as it aims to keep you asleep for longer.

There are many ways to use CBD. Look at your needs and circumstances, and you will see there are several options to consider.

CBD oil

CBD oil is the most widely used CBD product. It is a tincture, to be dropped under your tongue. Here it will absorb into the blood vessels, and go straight to your bloodstream without having to pass through the digestive system or liver first.

This means that you will benefit from all of the CBD compounds as they are not broken down by enzymes or digested in any way. This rapid absorption means that the effect of the oil starts working quicker. Which is why in our sleep kit, we like to use the oil to help you to fall asleep, whereas the tea which has to be digested, may help you to stay asleep for longer.

Full spectrum CBD

Full-spectrum CBD is made from the entire hemp plant, it contains all of the extracts naturally found in the plant, including a trace amount of THC (not enough to have a psycho-active effect) Legally it has to be below 0.3% in France.

As well as CBD, the Hemp plant is also full of other cannabinoids and nutrients. Research is showing that when they are all present they all work together for a greater therapeutic effect. This is called the Entourage effect.

The other cannabinoids are CBG, CBN, CBDA.

Terpenes are also present, they are also found in herbs, trees and fruit it is what gives cannabis its distinctive smell.

Vitamin A, C, E and B complex vitamins (niacin, riboflavin, and thiamine) and beta-carotene are also found in full spectrum CBD oil. Zinc, potassium, iron, calcium and phosphorus are minerals found.

20 amino acids, Omega 3 and omega 6 are also found

CBD Isolate

CBD isolate is CBD in its purest form. It is extracted from the plant and isolated from any other compounds.

It is CBD in its purest form, for those people who prefer to avoid even the smallest traces of THC.

Isolate is suitable for drug-tested athletes, or if you want to use CBD without THC for moral or professional reasons.

CBD tea

Is made from the dried hemp plant by using the leaves and the flowers.

The leaves and flowers can be used alone or combined with your choice of herbal tea, or caffeine tea for a delicious calming blend.

As you drink your CBD tea, it goes through your digestive system slowly before entering the blood stream. This process can take a few hours so your body will feel the relaxing effects of the CBD for longer. This means it can promote a sense of calm for when you need it in the day or to help with a longer deeper sleep.

Discover CBD tea for relaxation and sleep

What is CBD balm

Sore muscles and aching joints can slow down daily life, and stand in the way of sports or physical activities. Recovery CBD balm is formulated to help you to take care of aching muscles and sore joints so you can keep doing the activities and sports you love. A balm, also called a topical, absorbs easily into the skin. It is a great way to deliver CBD directly to problem areas and target discomfort. It can be used on it own or combined with other CBD products to benefit from the wide range of natural healing properties of CBD.

How does it work?

When a recovery CBD balm is rubbed or massaged into the skin it will diffuse the active components, notably CBD. CBD receptors are found naturally all over the body. By applying a product containing CBD, these receptors will be activated to promote the soothing and anti-inflammatory effects of CBD. When blended with other natural plant extracts, the healing components can work together to provide relief from your symptoms and help to manage discomfort.

Why is CBD balm so efficient?

A CBD balm offers an ideal way to administer CBD when you want to relieve sore muscles and joints. It could give you fast relief from your symptoms and help you to manage discomfort by applying it directly to the area needed.

Questions….

Is CBD legal in France and the rest of Europe?

Yes CBD is legal is France, however it cannot contain more than 0.3% THC. More than 0.3%, it falls outside the brackets of the law for a hemp plant so considers it psychotropic and therefore illegal.

CBD is legal in most EU countries but this THC % does vary. For example, in Italy it is 0.6%, and Switzerland is 1%.

Is CBD ok to use as an athlete?

CBD has been allowed in international competition since 2018, so yes it is legal for athletes.

To be as safe as possible using CBD as an athlete who is tested for banned THC, it a good idea to use to CBD isolate that does not contain even a trace of THC.

Am i ok to use CBD with Other Medications?

If you’re considering using CBD to manage a specific illness or symptom, it’s important to be aware of any other medications you’re taking. While CBD is generally considered safe, there is a possibility that it could interact with other substances in your system.

In particular, if you’re taking medications that can cause side effects like light-headedness, drowsiness, dry mouth, or nausea, using CBD simultaneously might amplify these effects. Additionally, CBD has the potential to interfere with how some drugs work. For instance, medications like Warfarin, Amiodarone, Levothyroxine, and certain anticonvulsants (Clobazam, Valproate, Lamotrigine) may have negative interactions with CBD.

However, when used as a topical application, CBD is much less likely to cause adverse effects, making it a safer option for localized relief.

Ask your doctor or physician if you are concerned this may affect you.

Are there any side effects or contra indications?

Evidence has accumulated to show there has never been a serious medical incident linked to CBD. It is also impossible to overdose.

CBD is suitable for most people, though it is recommended you check in with a medical professional before you start using it regularly. Especially, if you are being prescribed a medicine, or have any existing medical conditions that may conflict.

CBD and children

As studies on the use of CBD is in its infancy, so the long term effects have not been studied.

Parents sometimes use commercially manufactured CBD to treat some conditions in children, such as anxiety and hyperactivity. Care givers may also use it for children on the autism spectrum to try to reduce certain symptoms of autism.

CBD hasn’t been tested extensively for safety or for effectiveness. While there is promising research about CBD, especially for seizure control, much is still not known about it.

Some parents are comfortable giving it to their children, while others are not.

Although CBD is usually obtained without a prescription, Epidiolex a medication for children with epilepsy is made from CBD, is available with a prescription from your doctor.

How Much CBD should you take?

The amount of CBD that you should use, depends of various factors including your body weight, conditions you’re trying to treat, how it CBD affects you, and more.

It also depends on the product you are using and the strength.

It is best to start on a lower dose and you can adjust it accordingly after a few days depending on how you feel.

Other compounds found in Hemp THE ENTOURAGE EFFECT

As well as CBD, the Hemp plant is also full of other cannabinoids.

CBG, CBN, CBC which all work together. This is called the entourage effect.

Terpenes are one of them, found in herbs, trees and fruit it is what gives cannabis its distinctive smell.