What is CBD?
CBD is a compound known as cannabidiol with therapeutic properties and is not known for intoxication like its cousin THC. It is found in both cannnabis and hemp and can be made into edibles like gummies, cookies, brownies, tinctures, oils and more.
The difference between CBD and THC is the molecule known as tetrahydrocannbinol that is found in THC and is responsible for the High you feel if you use it. It’s nice to know we can reap the benefits of the plant and eliminate the psychoactive effects of THC by using CBD. But the other news is that because of the way the molecules work on the receptors in the body, with that little dab of THC present it actually causes the CBD to be more effective.
CBD can be used to help manage stress, anxiety, pain, insomnia and many of the symptoms associated with menopause.
The really cool thing is that since CBD/hemp was made legal in most states with the passing of the Farm Bill in 2018, researchers have been discovering more and more therapeutic compounds that are in the plant that can help with our health concerns.
How Does it Work in the Body? 
We have receptors all over the body that make up part of the endocannabinoid system. This system, also referred to as ECS, is very complex. It helps our bodies get into and stay in a state of balance or homeostasis. We have a load of natural endocannabinoids in the body. CBD helps the receptors of those natural endocannabinoids and also encourages the body to produce more of the natural endocannabinoids.
CBD not only interacts with endocannabinoids but also interacts with other important neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine and opioid receptors. This is one of the reasons THC and CBD have been legalized for medical purposes. Here are some of the issues this plant based medicine can help.
Anxiety: Because of the endocannabinoid receptors known as CB1 receptors that are abundant in the brain, the theory is that the serotonin neurotransmitter is involved in this pathway. You can use a dry herb vaporizer to inhale CBD flower for a fast result or use a quality, lab tested oil or tincture. I have a couple of companies I love that are quality pure products and have transparent lab testing.Pain: People suffer with pain. Sometimes it's from nerves or other times it is inflammatory musculoskeletal pain. People who struggle with chronic pain can use CBD since it binds to the opioid receptor thereby, reducing discomfort associated with chronic pain. Either way, CBD is a great choice for addressing this problem and even better with a very small, teeny tiny amount of THC
Insomnia: My favorite use of CBD by far is to help with sleep issues. I can use CBD and a small amount of THC and sleep like a baby. I used to wake up to go to the bathroom and then toss and turn and then my mind would start churning and couldn't go back to sleep. This regimen allows me to wake up and go right back to sleep most nights. Depending on the person, body habitus, other medications, etc. CBD dosing needs to be higher for most folks. This is something you can work with me to figure out.
Where does CBD really come from?
It can come from hemp that traditionally contains <0.3% THC. It can come from cannabis as well but will have higher levels of THC.
Will CBD show up in a drug test?
No. CBD won’t show up and people aren’t tested for CBD. BUT…..if you live in a state where THC is illegal or you work for a federal government agency, you will need to be very careful as you could test positive for THC since there may be trace amounts of THC in CBD.
Would you like to WORK WITH ME? I am a Certified Cannabis Coach with another certification as an Educator. When I first started looking at trying CBD, I was so confused, it was overwhelming going to the dispensary and I just didn’t know where to start with dosing and all the many kinds of products. Together we can figure out the best solution for your health concerns.
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