Covering the Basics of CBD

What is CBD?

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a therapeutic compound found in the cannabis plant. Studies have shown that CBD has potential anticonvulsant, antispasmodic, anxiolytic, antinausea, antirheumatoid arthritis, and neuroprotective properties. Owing to its non-intoxicating effects (unlike its counterpart, THC), CBD's popularity is growing as a natural option to improve mood and well-being.

CBD is also being widely used as an antioxidant supplement, and incorporating CBD into our daily routines can help promote proper functioning of the endocannabinoid system (ECS), the sole purpose of which is to maintain homeostasis in our bodies.

Of all our physiological systems, the ECS is the most important to establishing and maintaining our health. The ECS exists not just in our brains, but literally everywhere else in our bodies: our skin, glands, organs, tissues, and cells. According to a growing body of research, CBD has the potential to aid in the process known as neurogenesis - which is responsible for new brain cell growth - possibly reversing harm caused by stress.

Applications of CBD

CBD has incredible potential to be the next household necessity for every health-conscious home, and we want to make sure your CBD experience is a positive one!

If you have heard of CBD before, you may have also noticed that there seems to be increasing confusion about what CBD is and what it can and can’t do for you. As a consumer, it can be difficult to feel confident in not only what you are consuming, but why you are consuming CBD. You may also want to know how to properly consume CBD or how much to take at one time.    

The abundance of products containing CBD - and their multitude of claims - can be mystifying and overwhelming. Here is a breakdown of (sometimes surprising) reasons why you might use CBD even if you are not using it to treat a specific condition/diagnosis:

• Use CBD to compliment your THC use. CBD can amplify the positive effects that come with consuming THC (euphoria, a sense of well-being, enhanced relaxation) while also reducing the less desirable potential adverse effects such as anxiety and paranoia. When used together, referred to as the entourage effect, both cannabinoids work better. Basically, these two compounds are soul mates, and it just makes sense to employ them together. Note that the necessity of establishing a personalized ratio of THC to CBD intake cannot be overstated.
  
  
• Use CBD to subdue/manage racing thoughts. CBD can help mellow you out without getting you high. Research shows that those who use CBD may be better able to cope with stress. Maintaining a consistent, even relaxed, state of mind can allow users to maximize productivity.
  
  
• Use CBD to improve alertness and to facilitate better sleep. CBD has biphasic properties which means users can experience contrasting effects based on how much or how little is consumed. When consumed in small doses, users can experience increased wakefulness and enhanced positive mood. Alternately, consuming more substantial amounts of CBD may increase sedative effects and even bring about sleepiness.
  
  
• Use CBD before and after a workout/strenuous physical activity. Because of CBD’s potential anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, it can be a more-natural option for relieving muscle soreness arising from exercise and over-exertion of the body. When consumed in small doses, CBD can give you the energizing boost you need to meet your fitness goal. Whether using CBD in a tincture, topical, or vapor, a physically active person could benefit from incorporating CBD into their pre- and post-workout regimen.
  
  

Determining Your Dosage

CBD’s effects can be highly dependent on how much CBD is consumed and for how long. CBD may be understood to have three distinct applications: therapeutic, supplemental, and medicinal. Find the right dosage for you, using these categories for guidance.