A molecule derived from cannabis, CBD is often mistaken for a drug. In fact, authorized in the UK since 2017, it is attributed with numerous properties that promote well-being and relaxation. In this article, we take stock of the situation and answer the question: "What is CBD?"
What is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of the many cannabinoids found in hemp - or cannabis. CBD is an active molecule that reacts with the human and animal body, and is renowned for its many potential virtues. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD has no psychotropic effects and is therefore not considered a narcotic. It is a substance authorized for possession and consumption in the UK.
Today, CBD can be found on sale in several forms: in flowers, in oil, in cosmetics, in e-cigarette liquids and in concentrates.
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Learn more about cannabinoids
CBD is far from the only cannabinoid present in hemp plants. There are a handful, the best-known of which are CBD, CBG, CBN and THC, the only psychoactive molecule present in cannabis. All the other substances derived from the plant have no psychotropic effects, but all, at different levels, offer various benefits contributing to well-being and relaxation.
Cannabinoid-based products, and CBD-based products in particular, have been legal in the UK since 2017, where they are not classified as drugs. Note, however, that the sine quinone condition for a CBD-based product to be legal in the UK is that it must contain less than 0.3% THC.
How does cannabidiol affect the human body?
The human body naturally has an endocannabinoid system. Like the endocrine system, the endocannabinoid system triggers reactions in the brain and body. We naturally produce cannabinoids, but when we supplement our bodies, they activate related physical and mental responses more intensely.
These responses are made possible by the presence of CB1 and CB2 receptors which, once activated, enable functions such as biological systems, the digestive system and metabolic function to take effect. In the brain, CBD consumption activates several neurotransmitters, including endorphins.
What is CBD bioavailability?
The bioavailability of CBD takes into account two parameters related to the consumption of the molecule, namely:
- The speed at which the molecule reaches the bloodstream for distribution throughout the body.
- The proportion of the administered dose that finally reaches the bloodstream.
This figure is calculated as a percentage and represents the proportion of the substance consumed that will actually reach the bloodstream quickly enough for the body to feel the benefits.
This parameter varies according to the method of consumption. For example, CBD taken sublingually does not offer the same bioavailability as CBD taken in a culinary preparation.
The potential benefits of CBD
We're hearing more and more about the benefits of CBD, and many new virtues are regularly being added to the list of potential benefits that CBD could bring to mankind.
So, while serious studies are still underway, there are already some promising potential effects, including a general feeling of well-being and relaxation. CBD is therefore recommended for helping to relax and reduce the side effects of stress. We're also hearing more and more about CBD for athletes, as it could help muscle relaxation and recovery. What's more, the substance is widely reputed for its analgesic effects.
CBD is also mentioned for more serious health problems and for its anti-inflammatory actions. It could therefore help with arthritis, or even be beneficial in the treatment of serious illnesses such as multiple sclerosis or cancer.
Finally, in the context of daily well-being, CBD consumption is said to be effective in improving the quality of sleep, helping people to fall asleep faster than usual. Last but not least, the substance is making waves in the world of cosmetics, as it is said to combat premature ageing and soothe sensitive scalps.
Learn more about the benefits of CBD oil.
What is the entourage effect?
We're all familiar with the expression "when there's strength in numbers", and the entourage effect is a bit like this idea applied to cannabinoids. Hemp is made up of over 120 different cannabinoids, including CBD, THC, CBC, etc., as well as terpenes and flavonoids, which are responsible for the plant's flavors and odors.
All these substances work together to enhance each other's effects and effectiveness. This is known as the "entourage effect", and is particularly favored in full-spectrum oils.
Hemp and CBD, not to be confused
Hemp, CBD, cannabis, etc. There's so much vocabulary around the subject, and the semantics can sometimes confuse novice consumers. When talking about CBD, it's important to differentiate it from hemp.
Hemp refers to the plant from which cannabidiol (CBD) is extracted. It's a leafy green plant that blooms according to the season and is cultivated in Europe. From leaves to flowers to seeds, all parts of the hemp plant are used for a variety of purposes.
CBD, on the other hand, is a molecule present in this same plant that needs to be extracted or activated in order to be effective on the human organism?
CBD and medical Cannabis, there are differences too
As explained throughout this article, CBD refers to one of the active molecules present in cannabis. Medical cannabis, on the other hand, represents the hemp plant consumed in its entirety (with a full THC content) for medical purposes.
It's important to differentiate between the two products, and to know that the consumption of CBD in the UK is authorized, while that of medical cannabis is not. In fact, cannabis with a THC content of no less than 0.3% is considered a narcotic in the UK.
Conclusion
The subject of CBD is a rich and complex universe that has yet to be fully explored, but holds great promise for many uses. Confusing for novice consumers and fascinating for enthusiasts, CBD is full of surprises and benefits that science is increasingly interested in.
