WHAT IS CBD? | BENEFITS OF CBD | IS CBD RIGHT FOR ME?
WHAT IS CBD? | BENEFITS OF CBD | IS CBD RIGHT FOR ME?
These are all questions I asked myself several months ago after getting many questions from friends and clients, and hearing about it on the news, in social media and “on the street”. So, I set out to do my research and try it myself. Here is what I learned.
WHAT IS CBD?
CBD is short for Cannabidiol and is a category of chemical that is found in different varieties of cannabis plants. Cannabis is a plant category that includes hemp and marijuana, two completely different species of Cannabis. The main difference between the two is in its chemical composition, specifically in tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC is the chemical responsible for Marijuana’s psychological effects and the associated high. CBD isn’t the only cannabinoid found in cannabis; over 100 cannabinoid varieties have been discovered so far. This blog focuses on the CBD variety that comes from hemp; a plant that has been used for centuries in many cultures.
WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM TAKING CBD?
I believe everyone can benefit, as CBD is an all-natural product that helps maintain overall health. As we can not often predict when our physiological systems will fall out of balance, by maintaining a daily routine of CBD oil we are proactively maintaining homeostasis and balance within our Endocannabinoid system. Research on the potential health benefits of CBD oil is ongoing, so new therapeutic uses for this natural remedy are sure to be discovered. As always, you should check with your physician if taking other medications to learn how CBD may inhibit or amplify the effects.
WHAT IS THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM?
We are “hardwired” with a master control system called the Endocannabinoid System (ECS). The ECS is made up of cell receptors that act as messengers, giving your body specific directions on what to do. The main messengers are located in the brain and the spinal cord, but ECS cell receptors are found in immune cells, the gastrointestinal tract and every other major organ group in the body.
WHY IS THE ECS IMPORTANT?
The ECS helps in regulating:
Endocannabinoids are the chemical messengers that tell your body to get these processes moving and when to stop. They also help maintain optimal balance in the body, known as homeostasis.
If your body does not produce enough endocannabinoids or cannot regulate them properly, you are more susceptible to illnesses that affect one or more of the functions listed above. External sources of cannabinoids like CBD can help regulate your ECS to improve health.
HOW DOES CBD WORK WITH THE ECS?
Hemp offers a unique ratio of cannabinoids that are non-euphoric but still beneficial in supporting the body’s natural processes, like the processes that are controlled by the ECS. CBD helps to balance and maintain the ECS, providing therapeutic potential in almost all conditions.
HOW DO YOU TAKE CBD?
There are many ways you can take CBD. The most common are tinctures (oil droppers) which are used sublingually under the tongue, capsules and topical applications, such as salve or patches.
WILL YOU FEEL HIGH AFTER TAKING CBD?
No, you will not feel high after taking CBD. To be legal, the THC level (the cannabinoid which produces the “high” feeling) must be less than 0.3%, which is not enough for a psychoactive experience. Some people notice they feel less anxious when they use CBD. Hemp contains many other cannabinoids and phytonutrients like CBN, CBL, and CBDA. These cannabinoids, terpenes and phytonutrients all play an important role in supporting your endocannabinoid system and help regulate normal cell functions.
IS CBD LEGAL?
Yes, when properly derived from industrial hemp, CBD is federally legal in all states. And, you will not fail a drug test if taking Hemp CBD.
AND, HERE IS MY EXPERIENCE
Because I would never recommend something I had not previously personally vetted, I started taking CBD oil in January. Here is what I have experienced:
Severe arthritis and pain in both wrists - GONE. My yoga practice, which had been impacted due to pain, is now back in full-force!
Debilitating neck pain due to arthritis and stress - GONE. Anxiety and stress have been replaced with patience and understanding. Everyone is enjoying this positive change in me!
Trouble falling back to sleep - GONE. I no longer lay awake for hours trying to fall back asleep. With a balanced system and focused breathing I am now able to get a great night sleep.
And it’s not just me. Here is what others are saying:
Because of the positive impact I have personally experienced with CBD Oil, I want to share this with others who are in pain or suffering. I have expanded my ShipShape services to include Natural Healing. If you or anyone you care, about are interested in trying CBD Oil or want to learn more, check out my Natural Healing page, or send me an email. My goal is help you feel your best!
