CBD: What you need to know
CBD (cannabidiol) belongs to a family of compounds called cannabinoids. They are unique because they exist outside the body and, when consumed, can influence a wide network of receptors. Keep reading to discover what CBD is and how it works exactly.
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of over a hundred organic compounds present in hemp plants. Known as cannabinoids, this family of chemical substances works alongside smaller molecules to help plants produce enzymes and repel pests.
However, when humans consume CBD and other cannabinoids, something truly extraordinary happens.
Cannabinoids interact with an extensive network of receptors that exists within all of us. The full scope of this interaction is still under investigation, but it could impact sleep, appetite, mood, and more.
Fortunately, CBD not only interacts with our bodies in various ways but is also well-tolerated and non-toxic. This beneficial combination has sparked significant interest.
The CBD (cannabidiol) is found in practically all species of Cannabis sativa, but hemp has the highest concentrations.
Hemp is a variety of Cannabis sativa that was domesticated over 6,000 years ago in ancient China. Since then, the plant has been selectively bred for its commercial properties, becoming a natural and rich source of CBD.
However, as mentioned earlier, CBD is not the only cannabinoid. While most of these compounds (including CBD) are not psychoactive, each family has an atypical member.
The cannabinoid family also includes THC.
What’s the difference between CBD and THC? You’ve probably heard of THC long before CBD. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is not only the main reason why marijuana (another subspecies of Cannabis sativa) is illegal in much of the world, but it’s also known for producing psychoactive effects (a high).
Fortunately, not all cannabinoids are the same, and although there may be subtle differences in their chemical structures, they are sufficient to significantly modify their effects.
The differences in the chemical structure of CBD mean that it doesn’t interact with the body in the same way as THC. As a result, CBD is non-toxic, non-intoxicating, and, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), not prone to abuse.
How Does CBD Work?
Understanding where CBD comes from is one thing, but what about that crucial interaction we’ve been discussing?
For CBD to exert its effects, it needs a point of contact: the endocannabinoid system (ECS). While the name might sound complicated, its role is quite straightforward.
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) exists in all mammals, including dogs, cats, and even non-mammals like goldfish.
The role of the ECS in humans is a relatively new discovery (dating back to the early 1990s), and ongoing research continues to uncover its significance.
What we do know is this: the ECS functions as a regulatory system that plays a crucial role in vital organs, the brain, and the nervous and immune systems.
Its job is to monitor all these systems, ensuring they function properly and receive the necessary resources when needed. If, for any reason, things go awry, the ECS steps in by releasing specific biological compounds and enzymes.
CBD acts as the CEO of your endocannabinoid system.
While it doesn’t directly engage in day-to-day operations, it ensures that your body’s enzymes and chemical compounds are where they need to be when necessary. However, CBD can also take charge and occasionally interact with receptors connected to the ECS.
How does CBD interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS)?
For the ECS to spring into action, it must be activated by cannabinoids like CBD.
It accomplishes this through two types of receptors: CB1 and CB2. Both receptors serve as access points for the ECS (a sort of gateway between the human body and cannabinoids).
- CB1 receptors are primarily found in the brain and parts of the central nervous system.
- CB2 receptors are present in the immune system and other peripheral tissues.
These receptors allow CBD to influence various bodily functions, from mood regulation to immune responses. So, when you consume CBD, it’s like giving your ECS a nudge, encouraging it to maintain balance and well-being
The CB1 and CB2 receptors are not the only receptors influenced by CBD. CBD’s versatile role extends beyond CB1 and CB2 receptors.
It also affects receptors that are not directly related to the endocannabinoid system (ECS), such as receptors that trigger the release of serotonin (5-HT), a chemical that promotes feelings of happiness and well-being.
CBD also interacts with TRP channels, but don’t let the name intimidate you; their role is quite straightforward.
TRP channels exist within cells and function like the dashboard of a car, controlling factors like temperature and pain. If they detect excessively low or high temperatures, they send signals for the body to respond.
Lastly, CBD also triggers a response from liver receptors (PPAR-alpha). This accelerates metabolism within the liver, and scientists are still working to fully understand this process.
CBD also plays a role in enzyme production and breakdown. As mentioned earlier, CBD belongs to a family of compounds called cannabinoids. While these exist outside the body, human physiology has developed its own type of cannabinoids called endocannabinoids.
Endocannabinoids are structurally similar to CBD but occur naturally within the body.
One of the most influential endocannabinoids is anandamide (AEA).
The body breaks down high concentrations of AEA, but CBD has the remarkable ability to slow down this process. We still have much to learn about the possibilities related to this reaction, but researchers believe that high AEA levels could influence appetite, sleep patterns, and mood
