CBD plant (Hemp) and THC plant (Marihuana) with Cannabis flowers, both come from the same parents, Cannabis Sativa, but they come from different strains. The CBD plant strain is one with very low or almost zero THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) level. THC plant has a higher THC level that varies between 0.3% to 40% depending on its seed. Currently there is a medicinal use for both extracted oils, either from CBD plant or from THC plant. CBD plant, has a potential as a dietary supplement, since it has a high level of protein and fatty acids, including essential oils such as omega 3. The part of the plant used for this purpose is the stem and the seeds. THC plant, on the other hands having a higher level of THC makes it ideal for medicinal use, due to the fact that THC achieves the interaction of all the cannabinoids and terpenes of the plant, maximizing its potential and benefits for the body.
TYPES OF OILS
- CBD OIL FULL SPECTRUM: It includes all the plants cannabinoids and terpenes that have up to 0.3% THC, which is the legal limit.
- CBD OIL BROAD SPECTRUM: It has other cannabinoids and terpenes added to the oil, but it does not have any active THC percentage.
- CBD OIL (ISOLATE): It refers to the pure oil obtained from cannabis without adding other cannabinoids or terpenes, therefore they do not have detectable levels of THC.
Why is so important to know about endocannabinoid system.
Basically, the endocannabinoid system is an essential biological network similar to the central nervous system and vital for the proper functioning of the body that is not limited to one organ or part of the body. Interestingly, it was discovered thanks to the use and users who consume cannabis regularly.
What is the endocannabinoid system?
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is made up of neurons, endocannabinoids, and cannabinoid receptors.
There are nerve cells called neurons throughout the brain and body, and they are linked together by neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters are molecules called agonists that move from one neuron to another through the tiny space between them, called synapses.
Agonists connect to neuronal receptors and cause a chain reaction. In the case of the endocannabinoid system, these receptors are called CB1 (cannabinoid receptor 1) and CB2 (cannabinoid receptor 2).
CB1 receptors are found primarily in the brain, with some in the liver, lungs, and kidneys.
CB2 receptors are found throughout the body. There are more cannabinoid receptors in the brain than any other type of neuronal receptor.
How does the endocannabinoid system work?
The ECS is activated by cannabinoids. Cannabinoids produced naturally by the body are known as endocannabinoids; and the cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant are called phytocannabinoids.
CB1 receptors are activated by THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), so when we talk about the "head high" effect produced by sativa-dominant strains with high THC content.
CB2 receptors are activated by CBD (cannabidiol), which is non-psychoactive and is most associated with cannabis strains (and pure CBD products) that provide a relaxing, body-focused high.
What is the endocannabinoid system for?
The ECS regulates the body's systems to maintain homeostasis - the state of balance necessary to function properly.
For example:
1. Blood sugar levels.
2. Internal temperature.
3. Blood pH levels.
4. Regulation of the amount of water and minerals in the body, and elimination of metabolic waste are all regulated by homeostatic processes.
Once we understand how SEC works, and how CBD / THC can supplement our system, we will go on to talk about the presentations of Cannabinoids that we can get in the market.
There is a wide variety of presentations between edibles, vaporizers and topical use:
• Oils and tinctures (droppers)
• Concentrates (isolated CBD oil)
• Topicals (creams, gel, spray, ointments)
• Capsules.
• Suppositories.
• Oils for vaporizers.
• Gummies or other edibles.
Even though there is a great variety to choose the best option that suits each one, the most recommended and used for its effectiveness, useful life, absorption and ease of administration are oils and tinctures.
At www.integrityhempceuticals.com we offer a range of droppers with different classifications, as well as soft capsules and creams or roll-ons in the case of topical use when appropriate and it is the most advisable at the muscular and joint level.
• DROPS
• SOFT GELS
• ROLL-ON
How to dose CBD?
When starting to use CBD for the first time it is to determine the correct dose to take. Dosage is confusing because it can be different from person to person. It is advisable to start from the minimum dose and gradually adjust until you achieve the dose that works best for you.
Comment and let us know if this quick guide to CBD was helpful, and if you'd like more details on dosing.