What is CBD? 🥦
Everything you need to know about Cannabidiol
Introduction:
CBD, also known as Cannabidiol, has become increasingly popular in recent years. The substance has shown numerous potential health benefits that appeal to many people.
But what exactly is CBD and how can it help you? In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about this fascinating compound.
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of over 100 known compounds found in the cannabis plant. Unlike Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive element in cannabis, CBD is not intoxicating, meaning it does not cause "high" feelings. Instead, it offers a variety of potential health benefits without the unwanted side effects associated with THC.
How is CBD obtained?
CBD is usually extracted from the hemp plant, a subspecies of the Cannabis sativa plant that contains only trace amounts of THC. The extraction of CBD can be done in various ways, such as CO2 extraction, alcohol or ethanol extraction, or the use of carrier oils like olive oil. CO2 extraction is considered the most effective and safest method to obtain the highest quality CBD.
How does CBD work in the body?
CBD interacts with our body's own endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays an important role in regulating various physiological processes such as pain perception, mood, appetite, sleep, and immune response. By binding to specific receptors in the ECS, CBD can help restore balance in the body and thus alleviate various health complaints. Potential health benefits of CBD: Pain relief: CBD is known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. It can help in the treatment of chronic pain, arthritis, and muscle pain. Anxiety and depression: Studies have shown that CBD can have similar effects to antidepressants and anxiolytics, without the typical side effects of these medications. Sleep disorders: CBD can help alleviate sleep disorders like insomnia by improving sleep quality and supporting the body's natural sleep rhythm. Skin problems: Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, CBD can help in the treatment of skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Epilepsy: CBD has shown promising results in clinical studies in reducing seizures in patients with epilepsy, especially in those who do not respond to conventional treatments.
CBD FAQ
Hemp is one of humanity's oldest cultivated plants and has been valued and used worldwide for centuries due to its versatility. The Chinese used hemp and CBD as food and medicine as early as 2800 BC, and in Europe, clothing was made from hemp in ancient times. Currently, hemp and CBD are on the rise again worldwide after the plant's existence was almost denied by the "anti-marijuana lobby" in the USA in the middle of the last century.
Therefore, in this section of our website, we would like to debunk myths and briefly answer the most important questions about CBD:
CBD oil is primarily known for its calming and relaxing properties, and initial scientific studies such as "Cannabinoids as novel anti-inflammatory drugs"¹ by Nagarkatti, Pandey, Rieder, Hegde & Nagarkatti already concluded that "cannabinoids possess significant potential to be used as novel anti-inflammatory drugs against a variety of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases." Therefore, it is not surprising that researchers worldwide are currently investigating the anti-inflammatory effects of cannabinoids like CBD more closely, and CBD companies in the United States of America are already offering CBD products for inflammation² or relaxation³. However, CBD is not only valued for its anti-inflammatory properties. For example, medical professionals such as Abraham Benavides, M.D. in the USA, believe that CBD can improve muscle regeneration as it relaxes muscles, relieves cramps and tension, reduces the transmission of pain signals, and at the same time improves sleep quality.⁴
Hemp oil is extracted from the seeds of cannabis plants and is called "hemp seed oil" or "hemp oil" in English. Hemp oil contains protein, fatty acids, vitamin E, carotene, and various plant active ingredients such as phytosterols and minerals, but no cannabis active ingredients such as CBD, and is therefore not the same as CBD oil, which can contain the full spectrum of hemp active ingredients.
Studies have already observed that CBD led to a reduction in seizure frequency in patients with Dravet syndrome⁵. Since further research results suggested that cannabidiol, due to its anticonvulsant properties, can help reduce seizure frequency in tonic-clonic seizures⁶, experts are currently working intensively on new studies to validate these theses.
Although Manzanares, M.D. Julian and Carrascosa conclude their publication named "Role of the Cannabinoid System in Pain Control and Therapeutic Implications for the Management of Acute and Chronic Pain Episodes"⁷ with the conclusion that "extracts of the Cannabis Sativa plant containing amounts of the active ingredients (THC and CBD) may be helpful for neuropathic, inflammatory, and oncological pain that does not respond to available treatment methods" and in their view "especially cannabis extracts […] prove effective in alleviating some symptoms of patients with multiple sclerosis – mainly pain and spasticity," research regarding the treatment of diseases with the help of CBD is still in its infancy. Numerous positive findings, such as those by Blessing, Steenkamp, Manzanares & Marmar, who concluded in their study⁸ that "the efficacy of CBD in reducing anxiety behavior relevant to several disorders such as PTSD is given," give reason for joyful anticipation of the future.
Many users of CBD products feel that cannabidiol reduces their nervousness⁹, and a study called "Cannabidiol as a Potential Treatment for Anxiety Disorders"¹⁰ already concluded in 2015 that "CBD can be helpful for anxiety or panic attacks." Although it could therefore be assumed that CBD could also have a regulatory effect on general nervousness (e.g., test anxiety and stress), further investigations of this matter are still necessary.
Since research teams like Nagarkatti, Pandey, Rieder, Hegde & Nagarkatti assume that "cannabinoids possess significant potential to be used as novel anti-inflammatory drugs" and Vincent Maida, M.D. even suggests in his case study "Medical Cannabis in the Palliation of Malignant Wounds" ¹¹ that "cannabis can accelerate wound healing," more and more suppliers are currently developing special CBD products for the treatment of tattooed skin.
While the body's own endocannabinoid system (ECS) also regulates appetite, among other things, according to current research, there is no clear connection regarding the positive relationships between CBD and weight loss. Nevertheless, more and more CBD products that are supposed to help with weight loss are currently being launched on the market in the USA¹².
In countries like the USA, medical professionals and publishers of specialist journals¹³ are dealing with the effect of CBD on rheumatism, and researchers like Gonen and Amital, M.D. already concluded in their publication "Cannabis and Cannabinoids in the Treatment of Rheumatic Diseases"¹⁴ that "the use of cannabinoids and cannabis can improve some common and debilitating symptoms of rheumatic diseases, making them an appropriate potential treatment option when other treatment options are exhausted." Nevertheless, research regarding the mode of action of CBD in rheumatic pain and inflammation is still in its early stages.
The website Leafly, known as a knowledge portal for cannabis as medicine, describes the relationship between CBD and THC as follows: "THC binds well to CB1 cannabinoid receptors. When this binding occurs, the psychoactive cannabinoid activates or stimulates the CB1 receptors. That is why the cannabinoid is also called a CB1 receptor agonist. THC partially mimics the (body's own) endocannabinoid anandamide, which also activates CB1 receptors. CBD, on the other hand, has a low binding affinity for CB1 receptors. It is categorized as an antagonist of CB1 agonists. This means that it does not act directly to activate or suppress CB1 receptors. Rather, it suppresses the CB1-activating properties of a cannabinoid like THC. When both cannabinoids are taken simultaneously, THC directly stimulates the CB1 receptors, while CBD has a kind of modulating influence on THC. CBD reduces or 'antagonizes' THC's ability to stimulate CB1 receptors. This can reduce some of the effects of the psychoactive cannabinoid, especially negative psychological effects such as anxiety and short-term memory impairment." From this, experts conclude that "cannabidiol can alleviate the intoxicating effects of THC"¹⁵.
CBD oil is obtained from CBD-containing hemp plants (EU-certified industrial hemp), which are processed into a full-spectrum oil. The extracted CBD is mixed with a carrier oil from hemp seeds. Some manufacturers also use alternative oils such as rapeseed or coconut oil as carrier oil and add isolated CBD to it.
These drops consist of about 98% water, which is mixed with cannabidiol extract. Unfortunately, it is not a full-spectrum oil and therefore does not contain terpenes, flavonoids or other components of the hemp plant
Hemp (oil) has been used for medicinal purposes for at least 4500 years. The ancient Chinese, for example, used hemp and hemp extracts to treat rheumatism, malaria, and inflammation. CBD oil in its current form, however, is a product of modern times.
In our blog you will find an article that shows 10 possible applications of CBD oil.
There are a variety of manufacturers who specialize in CBD for dogs. In the category CBD for animals we have summarized a selection of great products.
CBD oil must be used regularly so that the body's own endocannabinoid system (ECS) is sufficiently supplied with exogenous cannabinoids such as cannabidiol (CBD) and an effect can occur. In some cases, an effect may only be possible after 3 to 10 days.
Since the active ingredient THC, which causes the "high" feeling, is filtered out of the CBD oil to a minimum, you cannot get high even with larger amounts of CBD oil.
Depending on the reason for wanting to use CBD oil, you can choose a suitable concentration. However, it should be noted that people who regularly supply their body with cannabinoids, e.g., in the form of marijuana consumption, have a higher tolerance limit and therefore the desired effect often only occurs with higher-dosed products.
Morning and evening
Daily, morning and evening
Treatment is not necessarily shortened by CBD. However, there may be a shortening of the period of suffering or a weakening of symptoms.
In our blog you will find an article that shows 10 possible applications of CBD oil.
Depending on the raw materials used (plant parts or flowers), CBD oil has a brownish to golden color.
CBD oil smells slightly herbaceous to nutty and tastes similar, or can be slightly bitter. However, there are sometimes significant differences depending on the quality of the oil and the type of production.
In general, CBD oil should be stored in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. If stored correctly, the oil generally does not go bad.
In our online shop, you will find many premium CBD oils from selected suppliers in the CBD oil category. Ideal for a comparison!
While CBD oil is often produced more naturally and gently, the capsules are tasteless and ideal for on the go.
Only buy from reputable suppliers! The THC content must be below 0.2%. Find out if it is really a full-spectrum oil. Study the ingredients carefully.
The elaborate manufacturing process of the oil. Large machines for optimal extraction cost a lot of money. When cultivating hemp, chemical fertilizers and pesticides are avoided. The yield of extract is very low, as often only CBD is filtered out.
Between €25 and €130 depending on quality, manufacturer and concentration. Our CBD Oil category is perfect for a comparison.
CBD oil is freely available and does not require a prescription.
The active ingredient CBD is separated from the plant material, for example, by CO2 extraction. What remains is a pure extract, which must then be mixed with a carrier oil (e.g., hemp seed oil), as it would otherwise evaporate.
Those who don't own expensive machines can use alcohol extraction. In this method, the crushed plant material is mixed with 95% food-grade alcohol and left to stand for a few minutes before the solid components of the mixture are separated from the liquid with a sieve. Subsequently, the liquid is boiled until the alcohol has evaporated and only the oil remains, which must then be mixed with a carrier oil (e.g., hemp seed oil), as it would otherwise evaporate.
Depending on the manufacturer and concentration, the price in pharmacies also starts at around €49.
Since CBD has no intoxicating properties and can often even have a positive effect on concentration, there is no need to fear a drop in performance at work.
The consumption of pure CBD (CBD flowers are not included) is permitted in almost all EU countries and the USA. However, before traveling with CBD products, one should always study the laws of the destination country regarding CBD.
CBD has a relatively long half-life in the body and can still be detected in the blood days after use. However, factors such as frequency of use and the amount applied play a crucial role.
Drug rapid tests screen urine for metabolites of illegal substances. Since CBD is not classified as such, it cannot be detected in a drug test using urine. See also: CBD Driving Germany
CBD has a relatively long half-life in the body and can still be detected in the blood days after application. However, factors such as frequency of use and the amount applied play a crucial role.
In Germany, medicinal cannabis is often prescribed as a Ritalin substitute for ADHD. Although cannabidiol is known by many for its calming effect, there are currently no specially developed CBD products for the treatment of ADHD.
An animal study has already shown that deep sleep phases can be positively influenced by CBD¹⁶. However, since other compounds contained in the cannabis plant, such as terpenes, can also influence human deep sleep phases, more and more CBD products are being marketed in both the USA and Europe to help with problems falling asleep or frequent waking.
Pain sensation is regulated by the endocannabinoid system. The study "Role of the Cannabinoid System in Pain Control and Therapeutic Implications for the Management of Acute and Chronic Pain Episodes" by Manzanares, M.D. Julian, and Carrascosa not only indicates that "active ingredients like THC and CBD can be helpful for neuropathic, inflammatory, and oncological pain" but also provides a precise explanation of the connection between pain perception, the endocannabinoid system, and exogenous cannabinoids like CBD:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2430692/
Cannabinoids like CBD can support the skin's biochemical defense reactions and provide relief from inflammations like acne.
A selection of hemp cosmetic products with CBD & valuable oils for the treatment of skin conditions can be found in the Cosmetics & Care category of our online shop.
Pain sensation is regulated by the endocannabinoid system, and chronic back pain is often due to inflammation. Since the study "Role of the Cannabinoid System in Pain Control and Therapeutic Implications for the Management of Acute and Chronic Pain Episodes"¹⁷ by Manzanares, M.D. Julian, and Carrascosa concludes that "active ingredients like THC and CBD can be helpful for neuropathic, inflammatory, and oncological pain" and Nagarkatti, Pandey, Rieder, Hegde & Nagarkatti in their publication "Cannabinoids as novel anti-inflammatory drugs"¹⁸ were able to demonstrate the anti-inflammatory effect of cannabinoids, it is hardly surprising that in countries like the USA, more and more CBD products are being offered for the treatment of back pain¹⁹.
CBD has no intoxicating effect whatsoever.
CBD can have many positive effects on the human body. However, if you want to use it as an alternative to medication, you should discuss this with your treating doctor beforehand. See also: CBD helpful for depression and anxiety
CBD can have many positive effects on the human body. However, if you want to use it as an alternative to medication, you should discuss this with your treating doctor beforehand.
CBD can have many positive effects on the human body. However, if you want to use it as an alternative to medication, you should discuss this with your treating doctor beforehand.
CBD can have many positive effects on the human body. However, if you want to use it as an alternative to medication, you should discuss this with your treating doctor beforehand.
CBD can have many positive effects on the human body. However, if you want to use it as an alternative to medication, you should discuss this with your treating doctor beforehand.
Tobacco and CBD are not similar in terms of effect, and cannabidiol is not an alternative to tobacco.
The ingestion of CBD does not induce a "high". Although CBD and THC have almost the same molecular formula and mass, the compounds react completely differently, which means their effects vary greatly. THC, the psychoactive component of marijuana, causes the so-called "high" (Sativa) or "stoned" (Indica) depending on the strain consumed, while CBD combats the effects of THC and can simultaneously inhibit inflammation and reduce feelings of anxiety or stress.
CBD is known by many for its antispasmodic and pain-relieving effects and has already been investigated for such properties in relevant studies²⁰. To help women suffering from severe menstrual pain with a natural alternative, companies like Osiris have developed special products for use during menstruation.
Further information regarding CBD for menstrual pain can be found in the blog.
Doctors in the USA assume that CBD can improve muscle regeneration, as it relaxes muscles, relieves cramps and tension, reduces the transmission of pain signals, and simultaneously improves sleep quality²¹. Since CBD could thus support the body's regenerative capacity and contribute to quick recovery after strenuous training, there are now a whole range of CBD products developed specifically for athletes²².
Possible interactions between CBD and anesthetics should definitely be discussed with a doctor.
Sources and Links
¹ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2828614/
² https://www.ravereviews.org/cbd/best-cbd-for-inflammation/
³ https://www.thegrowthop.com/cannabis-news/5-cbd-products-to-help-you-relax
⁴ https://dailycbd.com/en/best-cbd/muscle-recovery/
⁵ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28538134/
⁶ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26724101/
⁷ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2430692/
⁸ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4604171/
⁹ https://www.bbc.com/news/av/uk-politics-51210239
¹⁰ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4604171/
¹¹ https://www.jpsmjournal.com/article/S0885-3924(16)30328-1/fulltext
¹² https://www.healthline.com/health/10-best-cbd-oils-for-weight-loss
¹³ https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319796#what-is-cbd-oil
¹⁴ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7000161/
¹⁵ https://www.leafly.de/glossar/cbd/
¹⁶ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23343597/
¹⁷ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2430692/
¹⁸ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2828614/
¹⁹ https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/cbd-cream-for-back-pain
²⁰ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2430692/
²¹ https://dailycbd.com/en/best-cbd/muscle-recovery/
²² https://www.gearpatrol.com/outdoors/a588567/cbd-oil-products-fitness-trainers-use/