CANNA 101
As CBD becomes more popular, many are wondering whether it can live up to the buzz. The compound seems to be popping up everywhere in beverages, lotions and more. But why? Is it all just hype or is the next big thing here? Check out the FAQ below to find out more.
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a naturally-occuring phytocannabinoid that is found in high concentrations in certain strains of hemp. Cannabidiol interacts with the human endocannabinoid system and has non-intoxicating effects.
Cannabinoids are a group of 100+ naturally occurring chemical compounds. This includes CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) which are produced by the cannabis plant along with many other botanicals as well as the human endocannabinoid system (ECS). These compounds interact with cannabinoid receptors within the ECS to produce a variety of non-psychoactive and psychoactive effects.
The genus Cannabis plant consist of 3 different species; Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis. CBD is derived from specific cultivars of Cannabis sativa which are bred specifically to contain high levels of CBD and low levels of THC. Cannabis sativa, which is below 0.3% THC is classified as hemp. All of the CBD that we carry at Hope’s Organics is derived from hemp.
Cannabinoids can be classified as phytocannabinoids or endoccanabinoids, based on where they are derived. The prefix ‘Phyto’ means’ plant which refers to the plant=based origin of phytocannabinoids. On the other hand, ‘endo’ in endocannabinoids means ‘within’, indicating these cannabinoids are produced within the body. Both forms of cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system of the nervous system.
The endocannabinoid sytem (ECS) is a complex cell-signaling biological system composed of cannabinoid recepotrs, internal neureotransmitters (endocannabinoids) and cannabinoid receptor proteins expressed throughout the central nervous system (CB1) and peripheral nervous system (CB2). This molecular system is responsible for regulating and balancing a range of functions involved in cognitive and physiological processes and contributes to the homeostasis of the body’s internal environment through modulation of immune, cardiovascular and reproductive systems. The ECS is linked to immunity, sleep, mood, learning memory, appetite & digestion, metabolism, bone & muscle formation, skin & nerve funtion and motor control. As a result, it plays a vital role in holistic health.