Cannabidiol (CBD) oil is gaining increasing interest as a natural remedy for various ailments. It is an extract from the hemp plant, and unlike THC, another compound in cannabis, CBD does not produce psychoactive effects. In this article, you will find all the information you need to know about CBD oil.
CBD oil: what it is and how it works
Cannabidiol (CBD) oil is a natural extract derived from the hemp plant, which contains one of the plant's main compounds, called cannabidiol. CBD is one of over 100 chemical compounds known as cannabinoids and is different from tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in that it is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not produce the euphoria associated with marijuana use.
The origin and history of CBD oil
The cannabis plant, with a history spanning thousands of years, has been used extensively by ancient cultures in different regions of the world for various purposes. During the 20th century, scientists were able to isolate and identify the active compounds in this plant, including CBD and THC. The discovery of CBD occurred in the 1940s, but more research into this compound and its effects began to take shape in the following decades.
Since the 1960s and 1970s, CBD has been studied for its potential therapeutic benefits, including in the treatment of epilepsy, anxiety, and chronic pain. However, its medical recognition was a long process, and it was only later that it began to gain wider recognition and be integrated into alternative and complementary medicine. In parallel, the evolution of legislation regarding cannabis and CBD in different countries has varied considerably, with some adopting more relaxed laws while others maintain strict restrictions.
Key Compounds of CBD Oil
CBD oil contains a variety of active compounds and nutrients that can vary depending on the source and the extraction and purification methods used. Some of the active and nutritional substances found in CBD oil include:
- Cannabidiol (CBD) – is the main and most active compound in CBD oil, known for its various therapeutic benefits.
- other cannabinoids – in addition to cannabidiol, CBD oil may also contain other compounds of this type, such as cannabigerol (CBG), cannabinol (CBN), cannabichromene (CBC) and others.
- terpenes – flavoring compounds that give the hemp plant its distinct smell and aroma.
- Flavonoids – natural pigments that may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- essential fatty acids – carrier oils used in some CBD products, such as hemp oil or olive oil, may contain essential fatty acids like linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid.
- Vitamins and minerals – small amounts of vitamins and minerals may be present in CBD oil.
CBD oil interacts with the endocannabinoid system in the human body, a complex system responsible for regulating a variety of physiological functions. This system, composed of endocannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes, is involved in controlling a wide range of processes, including:
- Pain : Endocannabinoid receptors can be activated to relieve painful sensations.
- Sleep : The endocannabinoid system can influence sleep and relaxation cycles.
- Mood : regulates neurotransmitters and can have an impact on states of anxiety and depression.
- Immune system : plays an important role in controlling the immune response and inflammation.
- Inflammation : regulates inflammatory responses, helping to maintain balance in the body.
These are just a few of the functions that the endocannabinoid system influences in the body. Experts believe that CBD may impact the functions of the endocannabinoid system through various mechanisms. Specifically, it is believed that CBD may block the breakdown of endocannabinoids, thereby increasing their levels in the body and allowing them to have a stronger effect on these physiological functions.
While there is still much to learn about the exact interactions between CBD and the endocannabinoid system, current research suggests that CBD may be beneficial in managing pain, inflammation, and other symptoms associated with various conditions.
The benefits of CBD oil for physical and mental health
CBD oil is increasingly being used due to its numerous benefits for physical and mental health.
CBD oil - physical health benefits
- Pain relief : CBD oil has been shown to reduce pain associated with conditions like fibromyalgia and arthritis. Studies have shown that it interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid receptors to reduce inflammation and the activity of receptors that regulate pain levels.
- Cancer symptoms : Although research is still ongoing, CBD appears to reduce symptoms associated with cancer treatment, such as nausea, vomiting, and pain.
- Neuroprotective properties : the oil holds great promise in treating neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis and Dravet syndrome, a rare form of epilepsy.
- Heart protection : Research has shown that CBD can influence blood pressure and arterial function, helping to reduce the risks of heart attack and stroke.
- Potential in the treatment of substance addiction: CBD oil could be useful in treating anxiety and depression in people addicted to certain drugs, such as heroin.
Discover the products in CBD Shop
CBD oil - mental health benefits
- Mental health : reducing symptoms related to mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. There are studies that show it can even help reduce symptoms related to PTSD.
- Improved sleep : CBD oil may improve sleep quality for people with certain sleep disorders.
CBD oil – top 5 conditions treated
- Chronic pain : CBD is useful in reducing chronic pain, including that associated with conditions like arthritis or neuropathy. Its ability to interact with specific receptors may help reduce inflammation and the sensation of pain.
- Anxiety and sleep disorders : CBD oil may be helpful in reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality. People who suffer from anxiety, panic disorders, or insomnia have reported benefits from using CBD.
- Epilepsy : CBD has been the subject of intense research for treating epilepsy, especially treatment-resistant forms. Studies have shown it can reduce the frequency and intensity of seizures in certain types of epilepsy.
- Acne : CBD's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties have suggested its potential use in the treatment of acne. It may also regulate sebum production, helping to reduce the appearance of acne.
- Neurological conditions : CBD oil is being studied for its potential in neurological conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's. Preliminary studies suggest that it may have beneficial effects on inflammation and nerve cell protection.
Dosage and methods of administration of CBD Oil
CBD oil comes in different forms and can be administered in several ways, and dosage can vary depending on the person and the purpose of use.
Forms of administration of CBD oil
- Oils and tinctures: These are liquids that usually come in dropper bottles. Dosage can be more precise because you can measure the amount of drops needed to achieve a specific dose of CBD.
