CBD is one of the 480 compounds found in cannabis. Together with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), it is present in the plant in the highest concentration. However, unlike THC, it does not have psychoactive properties, and its use does not adversely affect consciousness. Both of these compounds have been studied most thoroughly of all the substances that Cannabis Sativa L has. CBD is also not addictive or intoxicating. The most frequently mentioned pro-health effects of CBD oil are:
- painkillers
- anti-inflammatory
- sedative
- anxiolytic
- relaxing
- antioxidant
- antiemetic
- anticonvulsants
- neuroprotective
- immunological
How does CBD work on the human body?
There are two types of cannabinoids:
- phytocannabinoids – found in plants (e.g., THC, CBD, CBN),
- endocannabinoids – found in the human and animal body.
Feelings, emotions, and feelings in the mind and body are controlled by cannabinoid receptors, which are designed to interact with, among other things, the cannabinoids found in plants. Cannabinoids also occur naturally in our bodies. When necessary, they are produced by the brain. The sensations that are under the control of cannabinoid receptors include pleasure, appetite, mood, pain, sensation, concentration, immune suppression, and memory, for example. Endocannabinoid receptors are divided into two categories: CB1 and CB2. CBD does not bind to either cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) but activates non-cannabinoid receptors. In addition, CBD increases the levels of naturally produced cannabinoids by inhibiting the action of enzymes that break them down. CBD can also react with dopamine receptors responsible for regulating our behaviour, cognitive aspects and the desire for self-development, i.e., simply the motivational aspects. CBD is involved in stimulating the 5-HT1A serotonin receptor. It is known to have an anti-depressant effect. This receptor is responsible for many other processes, such as appetite, nausea, pain perception, anxiety and addiction mechanisms. Using CBD oils also supports the work and reconstruction of the hippocampus. Most importantly, CBD protects the hippocampus from changing its size and protects the created neural systems. Thanks to the correct work of the hippocampus, we learn better, absorb more knowledge, and remember the transferred and acquired information more easily, as well as memories.
What feelings does taking CBD cause?
CBD, unlike THC, does not cause intoxication. Feeling its effect is an individual matter; it also depends on the admission method; for example, dried hemp will work more intensively due to faster absorption, but its action lasts much shorter than the oil. Body weight, hydration level, metabolism, dose, frequency of use, and previously eaten meals also play a role. Some people’s bodies can build a tolerance to CBD; then it is necessary to increase the effective dose. However, this process is very slow, so there is no need to increase the amount consumed. The speed of action of CBD ranges from about 5 minutes to as much as 2 hours. This discrepancy is due to the reasons mentioned above. The duration of its work is determined at two to eight hours. It then remains in the body until it is eliminated. So how does CBD oil make you feel?
The most popular experiences after taking CBD include, among others, calmness, peace, relaxation, emotional balance and energy balance, reduction of pain and stress, as well as greater focus and concentration level.
What ailments does CBD help with?
CBD has a huge spectrum of pro-health properties. It has a positive effect on the human body in diseases such as:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Parkinson’s disease
- multiple sclerosis
- Huntington’s chorea
- hypoxic-ischemic injury
- pain
- psychosis
- anxiety
- depression
- tumours
- nausea
- inflammatory diseases
- rheumatoid arthritis
- infections
- enteritis, Crohn’s disease
- cardiovascular diseases
Scientific research shows that endocannabinoid deficiency occurs under stressful conditions and accompanies depression, migraines, fibromyalgia, and irritable bowel syndrome. In turn, dysregulation of the endocannabinoid system is observed in obesity and people with metabolic syndrome. The latest research suggests that the current lifestyle associated with constant exposure to stress affects the work of the endocannabinoid system, which is manifested by an endocannabinoid deficiency. Implementing CBD oil supplementation may help prevent endocannabinoid deficiency.