By now, everyone's heard of CBD, and it's a molecule that's spread like wildfire. However, we still don't know everything about cannabidiol, and it's worth taking a look at the big picture! No more grey areas, you'll know everything about CBD.
The origin of CBD: the hemp plant
You may already know this, but it's always good to be reminded: if we go back to the origins of CBD, or cannabidiol, we find a plant: hemp, or cannabis sativa. It's an annual herbaceous plant.
This plant has been cultivated by mankind for thousands of years, and its various parts (fibers, seeds, flowers, straw and dust) were used for specific functions.
To obtain CBD , the molecule must be extracted from the plant's flowers, which are first harvested and then dried, before the technical extraction stage. Flowers contain many cannabinoids in addition to cannabidiol.
CBD is a non-psychotropic cannabinoid, which means it doesn't alter mental faculties or produce euphoric effects. This is not the case with THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, which is known for its psychotropic effects. That's why CBD is so popular!
Why are we looking for the CBD molecule?
The CBD molecule is said to interact with our body's endocannabinoid system. The latter includes receptors to which CBD binds indirectly. This endocannabinoid system plays a role in regulating such functions as sleep, stress, pain and mood.
CBD modulates and balances our endocannabinoid system. This is why cannabidiol is thought to contribute to general well-being. Of course, its potential effects vary from person to person, and studies are still underway to better understand all its aspects.
Among its potential benefits, some are regularly cited by CBD consumers. Support for sleep, help in falling asleep, more peaceful nights... CBD is thought to play a role in the quality of our sleep!
You could also use cannabidiol to relieve stress or anxiety. In fact, CBD is often taken for its potential relaxing effect, for example, after an intense day, or even during the day, to take a break.
This cannabinoid is also used in pain management, where it is recommended to combat certain chronic pains.
How to use CBD?
Yes, now that you're a little more familiar with this cannabinoid, you're wondering: how do you actually use it on a daily basis? We're telling you right now: CBD is very easy to use and to integrate into your wellness routine!
You can consume it in several ways, depending on what's most convenient for you. CBD can be used as an infusion (diluted in a fatty substance to facilitate assimilation by the body), as a vapour with suitable equipment, be it a refillable vape pen or a puff puff. It can also be used in the form of oil (edible or cosmetic), THC candies (gummies), cookies, capsules...
The potential effectiveness of CBD depends on a number of factors, such as dosage, regularity, mode of consumption, consumer physiology and so on.
Is CBD safe?
Is this cannabinoid legal? What are the dangers of CBD ? As far as legality is concerned, it's legal in many countries, as long as THC levels don't exceed the authorized threshold. Always find out about the legal framework surrounding CBD before you travel to a country.
As a precaution, we advise you to always start with small quantities of CBD, in whatever form, and then adjust according to how you feel. It's essential to listen to yourself and adjust accordingly. If you have the slightest doubt, don't hesitate to consult a health professional. If you have a particular health problem, consult a health professional before trying CBD.
In terms of transparency and quality, we recommend that you buy your CBD from serious sites that provide you with analyses carried out by independent laboratories. Indeed, it's best to buy a CBD product that has been tested, to be sure of its quality and purity.