What is CBD?
CBD is one of more than 120
compounds called cannabinoids.
Many plants contain cannabinoids, but people most commonly link them
to cannabis.
Unlike other cannabinoids — such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) — CBD
does not produce a euphoric "high" or psychoactive effect. This is because CBD does not affect
the same receptors as THC.
The human body has an endocannabinoid system (ECS) that receives and
translates signals from cannabinoids. It produces some cannabinoids of its own, which are called
endocannabinoids. The ECS helps to regulate functions such as sleep, immune-system responses,
and pain.
When THC enters the body, it produces a "high" feeling by affecting
the brain's endocannabinoid receptors. This activates the brain's reward system, producing
pleasure chemicals such as dopamine.
Not to be confused with oil from hemp seeds (which doesn’t contain
cannabinoids), CBD comes from the flowers and leaves of the hemp plant.
Why does CBD work? The human body has a vast network of receptors, the
endocannabinoid system, that helps us maintain overall wellness and helps support many of our
body’s physical processes. CBD and cannabinoids fit into these receptors, helping the body in
its efforts to help maintain good health.
Different cannabis plants — often called hemp or marijuana — contain
different levels of chemical compounds.
How people breed the plant affects the CBD levels. Most CBD oil comes
from industrial hemp, which usually has a higher CBD content than marijuana.
Makers of CBD oil use different methods to extract the compound. The
extract is then added to a carrier oil and called CBD oil.
CBD oil comes in many different strengths, and people use it in
various ways. It is best to discuss CBD oil with a doctor before using it.
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