So, you’ve heard about CBD and all the hype surrounding it’s “magical” effects on the body. But you don’t know what CBD is? Is it safe for dogs and cats? You may even think it’s illegal? Well, don’t worry this article will have you covered on all you need to know about CBD or cannabidiol.
– I apologize but here begins the science lesson –
What is CBD? What is Marijuana? What is Hemp?
The naturally growing plant, Cannabis sativa has two species; marijuana and hemp. The Cannabis plant contains more than 400 chemical compounds, 113 of which are known as CBD (cannabidiol). The hemp extract contains all of the 113 CBDs except for the one called tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This is the compound that causes the “high” that is felt by consumers of marijuana. CBD is commonly used in an oil form known as CBD oil.
Hemp plants do not produce much THC but their concentration of CBD is great, which is a non-intoxicating compound that is used for its numerous health benefits. Because of the lesser amount of THC produced, many countries differentiate it from marijuana. The entire hemp plant is of use from the seeds to the stalk. Hemp, additionally, contains an enzyme that promotes a greater production of CBD which makes it highly beneficial for use in medicinal practice and also for basic natural remedies.
Marijuana is the cousin of hemp that will get you high. This is mainly because of the THC that it produces. It is due to this THC production that it causes euphoria when ingested. Marijuana also does not have the enzyme that produces the CBD that hemp does.
In 2018, The Farm Bill was passed making CBD legal across the nation. As long as the CBD was hemp derived and contained less than 0.3% THC – it was considered safe and legal according to the bill. All of Ahimsa Pets CBD Oil are in compliance with these legal parameters! Find out more on the legal situation surrounding CBD here.
How Does CBD Work In The Body?
The body has two CBD or cannabinoid receptors, CBD 1 and CBD 2, which are part of the endocannabinoid system in our bodies. They are located all over the body and not just in the brain and some people commonly presume. CBD 1 receptors are mostly in the brain and integrate with the body’s mood and pain receptors in the head. CBD 2 receptors are throughout the body and relate to the pain and inflammation of our body. THC activates both receptors, while CBD doesn’t directly interact with the receptors. Rather it produces an immune reaction from the body naturally that interacts with the receptors.
The effects of CBD correlate with the Vanilloid, Adenosine, and Serotonin Receptors. The Vanilloid receptors regulate body temperature. The Adenosine receptors have to do with energy levels as they are responsible for adrenaline and interact with the caffeine in our coffee. Lastly the Serotonin receptors cause emotional changes, usually a happy sensation.
Health Benefits of CBD Oil
With the CBD boom, growing research has been put into the benefits of CBD oil in the past decade and the use of the substance has grown all around the world. There are numerous health benefits that the regular use of CBD oil brings to individuals, some of which are:
- Preventative Medicine
- Anxiety
- Pain Relief
- Combating Cancer Symptoms
- Skin Health
- Depression
The Wrap Up
Additionally, CBD products are available in a lot of different types including tablets and tinctures. For people that are not fond of using it in oil form, there are tablets available that can be placed under the tongue for it to be rapidly absorbed by the capillaries located under the tongue, and enter the bloodstream. You can also swallow the CBD pill but that will elongate its effects as the pill has to go through the entire digestive system.
As more and more states legalize the use of cannabis sativa, CBD is becoming more popular and also being more readily available. However, it is very important to have a complete research into the topic and understand exactly what sort of a product you are looking to buy.
– Alright, enough with the science lesson –
What Does This Mean For Your Pet? This is great news for your pet! All the facts stated about CBD have to do with your pet too. Not only that, but the health benefits of CBD for humans overlap with the benefits to your pet. With so many illnesses plaguing our furry friends, CBD oil is an amazing way to help them feel better. Take a look at our CBD Oil For Pets article for more about the benefits of CBD specifically for pets!