CBD. You’ve seen it. You’ve heard of it. Yet, you haven't fully grasped it. Let us walk you through CBD 101.
What is CBD?
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is just one of many natural compounds called cannabinoids found in the hemp plant. You’ve probably heard of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the cannabinoid found in marijuana associated with psychoactive effects, but what makes hemp different from its cannabis sativa L cousin is that it contains only trace amounts of THC (less than .3%) — so you won’t experience any kind of high or be left with a case of the munchies. CBD is valued in the wellness community for its therapeutic benefits, like easing pain and inflammation and promoting better sleep and a sense of calm.
What are the types of CBD?
Most CBD falls into three different categories: full-spectrum, broad-spectrum and CBD isolate.
1) Full-spectrum hemp extract is nearly an exact mirror of the hemp plant itself. It’s packed with all sorts of naturally occurring nutrients and phytocompounds such as an array of cannabinoids including CBD, CBG, CBC and trace amounts of THC. Full-spectrum also contains terpenes, flavonoids, chlorophyll, vitamins and minerals. Many scientists agree that hemp’s phytocompounds work concurrently, creating what’s called an “entourage effect” that actually improves overall efficacy. This is one reason many people choose full-spectrum hemp extract and why Woven Earth chooses to use this CBD type in our products.
2) Broad-spectrum extract simply has the THC removed for people with sensitivities, but still includes the phytocompounds, vitamins and minerals mentioned in full-spectrum.
3) CBD isolate means further refinement & the CBD cannabinoid is isolated from the rest of the plant. This doesn’t include THC, terpenes, flavonoids, vitamins or minerals.
You can read this article if you want to know the differences between CBD and CBDA.
How does CBD work?
CBD interacts with your endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is a network of endocannabinoids, enzymes, and receptors found all throughout the body (your brain, gut, spinal cord, soft tissues, etc). The same way your respiratory system helps you breathe and your circulatory system helps blood flow, your ECS helps maintain that ‘just right’ balance called homeostasis, correcting for physical or emotional imbalances. That means the ECS has a hand in everything from pain regulation to sleep, mood, appetite, memory, and even your immune system response.
I’ve heard CBD oil referred to as hemp extract. Are they the same?
Yes, often these terms are used interchangeably. Since CBD is the highest occurring cannabinoid by volume in the hemp plant, people often think of hemp extract as CBD oil. However, along with CBD, Woven Earth full-spectrum hemp extract contains other cannabinoids like CBG and CBC, plus terpenes, flavonoids, chlorophyll, vitamins and minerals naturally occurring in the hemp flower. Importantly, hemp extract is not the same thing as hemp seed oil. The seeds of the hemp plant, while nutritious, do not contain any cannabinoids and therefore do not offer the same benefits.
Does CBD relieve pain?
Nagging, everyday aches is one main reason people turn to CBD instead of pain medications with undesirable side effects. While larger studies are still required, a recent study supported by Syracuse University concluded that CBD does affect several dimensions of pain reactivity1
When should I take CBD?
If you’re new to Woven Earth, try taking your capsules or oil at night. Since it has a mildly calming effect, most people prefer to take it 30 minutes before going to bed. However, there is no definitive answer on when to intake CBD as there may be several factors in how your body absorbs it. Try different times to notice the effect and find a sweet spot.
How much CBD should I take?
Everyone is different, so it’s important to find the right amount for you and your needs. We recommend starting with 20mg nightly and adjusting as needed. That’s one capsule or one and a half droppers of oil. How and when you see the benefits of CBD will depend on many factors, including your metabolism, weight and how often you take CBD.
Can I take CBD every day?
Yes! Like any healthy lifestyle regiment, CBD works best when it’s taken daily. CBD is lipophilic (fat soluble), so it compounds in your body over time and its benefits become cumulative. Taking CBD daily helps to maintain and support an effective endocannabinoid system, which overall regulates homeostasis within the body. Most people feel the full benefits after 14-30 days of regular use but can also feel a difference in as little as 30 minutes.
Will hemp or CBD products get me high?
No. Numerous studies have shown that CBD is a safe and non-habit-forming substance that does not produce the ‘high’ associated with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
Why is Woven Earth’s hemp extract deep green?
Unlike more processed products that use chemicals and solvents, Woven Earth hemp extract is made with a gentle lip extraction process that preserves the integrity of the plant’s many nutrients and phytocompounds. In our process, finely milled hemp flowers are mixed with MCT oil from coconuts — which allows for more rapid absorption and maximum bioavailability of the CBD — resulting in a rich, deep green hemp oil.
Have another question for us? Find us on Instagram at @wovenearthwellness and send us a DM or write us an email at hello [at] wovenearth.com.
Citations
- De Vita, Martin J. “The Analgesic Effects of Cannabidiol and Expectancies on Human Pain Reactivity: A Pilot Trial.” OSF, 3 Oct. 2019. Web.
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