Cannabidiol (CBD) is derived from the hemp plant. It is non-psychoactive (it does not make you feel “high”) and has known pain relieving and anti-inflammatory properties.
How Does It Work?
CBD binds to receptors located throughout the body. These receptors comprise the Endocannabinoid System (Figure 1) There are two main types: CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are primarily in the brain, but are also located in the liver. CB2 receptors are located in immune cells (such as T-cells and macrophages) and peripheral nerves (nerves located outside the brain and spinal cord). When the active components of CBD oil bind to the receptors, they initiate reactions that result in specific physiologic effects.
What is it good for?
It is important to note that research on the medical uses of CBD is in the early stages. Most of our information is anecdotal. However, there are some studies that describe the benefits of CBD for pain and inflammation1, degenerative neurologic disorders such as Multiple Sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease and Traumatic Brain Injury2. Literature review cites some evidence for help with sleeplessness3 and anxiety4.
Figure 1
The Endocannabinoid System
Are there interactions or side effects?
Potential side effects include GI discomfort, mood changes, sleeping difficulty, dry mouth, dizziness, and fatigue. If you are on medications, you should consult with the prescribing physician or your pharmacist to determine if CBD oil interacts with any of your medications.
Which Product Should I choose?
We have chosen NuLeaf Naturals CBD oil because:
· It’s US grown & organic
· It’s full spectrum(CB1 and CB2)
· It’s minimally processed
· It contains no solvents, artificial colors or flavors.
Studies have show that full spectrum CBD oil is more effective at alleviating pain and inflammation compared to products that contain only an isolate. Each batch is fully tested to assure potency, so you can be confident in each and every dose. We currently carry 240mg and 725mg bottles.
Of course, we are always here to answer any questions you may have.
1. Philpott, HT, et al. Attenuation of early phase inflammation by cannabidiol prevents pain and nerve damage in rat osteoarthritis. Pain 158 (2017) 2442–2451.
2. Kendall DA, Yudowski GA Cannabinoid Receptors in the Central Nervous System: Their Signaling and Roles in Disease. Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience January 2017.
3. Babson KA, et al. Cannabis, Cannabinoids, and Sleep: A Review of the Literature. Curr Psychiatry Rep. 2017 Apr;19(4):23
4. Crippa, J. A et al. (2011, January). Neural basis of anxiolytic effects of CBD in generalized social anxiety disorder: A preliminary report. [Abstract]. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 25(1), 121-130.