In this blog we will cover the basics of what pure CBD is and its’ most common forms.
Introduction to CBD Oil
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a natural compound found in hemp plants that has been gaining popularity in recent years due to its potential health benefits. Unlike its cousin, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD does not produce a psychoactive effect, meaning it will not make you feel “high.” In this article, we will explore what CBD is, how it is extracted from hemp, and how it differs from THC. We will also provide an overview of the potential health benefits of pure CBD oil, as well as how to choose a reputable brand and any potential risks or side effects.
What is CBD Oil?
CBD is a natural compound found in hemp plants that has been used for thousands of years for medicinal purposes. It is one of over 100 different cannabinoids found in the plant, and it is the second-most prevalent after THC. Unlike THC, CBD is non-psychoactive and will not produce a high or alter your perception of reality.
How is CBD Oil Extracted from Hemp?
CBD can be extracted from hemp in a number of ways, including through the use of solvents, CO2 extraction, or olive oil extraction. Solvent extraction involves the use of a chemical solvent, such as ethanol, to strip the CBD from the plant material. CO2 extraction uses high-pressure carbon dioxide to separate the CBD from the plant, while olive oil extraction involves heating the plant material in olive oil to extract the CBD.
How Does CBD Differ from THC?
CBD and THC are both natural compounds found in hemp plants, but they have different effects on the body. THC is the compound responsible for the “high” associated with marijuana use, while Pure CBD does not produce any psychoactive effects. CBD is also legal in all 50 states, while THC is only legal in some states and only for medicinal or recreational use.
Potential Health Benefits of Pure CBD Oil
There is growing evidence that pure CBD oil (also known as CBD isolate) may have a range of potential health benefits. While more research is needed to fully understand the effects of CBD on the body, some studies have suggested that it may be helpful in reducing anxiety, alleviating pain, and improving sleep.
Reducing Anxiety
One of the most well-known potential health benefits of pure CBD oil is its ability to reduce anxiety. A 2019 study published in The Permanente Journal found that CBD may have a calming effect on the central nervous system and may be effective in reducing anxiety and improving sleep in people with anxiety disorders.
Alleviating or Managing Pain
CBD has also been studied for its potential use in reducing pain. A 2018 review of research found that CBD may be effective in reducing chronic pain in adults. Another study published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine found that CBD may be effective in reducing inflammation and pain in rats.
Improving Sleep
CBD has also been studied for its potential use in improving sleep. A 2019 study published in The Permanente Journal found that CBD may be effective in improving sleep in people with anxiety disorders. Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology found that CBD may be effective in improving the sleep of people with Parkinson’s disease.
Different Forms of Pure CBD Oil
Pure CBD oil is available in a variety of forms, including tinctures, capsules, gummies and topical creams. Tinctures are liquid extracts that are taken sublingually (under the tongue), while capsules are swallowed like traditional pills. Topical creams are applied directly to the skin and can be helpful for localized pain relief.
How to Choose a Reputable Brand of Pure CBD Oil
When choosing a brand of pure CBD oil, it’s important to do your research and choose a reputable company. Look for brands that use third-party testing to verify the purity and potency of their products. Reputable brands will also provide detailed information about their products, including the source of their hemp, the extraction process used, and the concentration of CBD in each product. It’s also a good idea to read customer reviews and check the brand’s website for information about their manufacturing processes and quality control standards. Avoid companies that make bold or unrealistic claims about the health benefits of their products, as well as companies that do not provide clear information about their products.
Note: In this blog we are not covering smokable (vape) products.
References
Shannon, S., Lewis, N., Lee, H., & Hughes, S. (2019). Cannabidiol in anxiety and sleep: a large case series. The Permanente Journal, 23.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6326553/
Russo, E. B. (2018). The Case for the Entourage Effect and Conventional Breeding of Clinical Cannabis: No “Strain,” No Gain. Frontiers in plant science, 9, 1969.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6334252/
Johnson, J. R., Burnell-Nugent, M., Lossignol, D., Ganae-Motan, E. D., Potts, R., & Fallon, M. T. (2010). Multicenter, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study of the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of THC:CBD extract and THC extract in patients with intractable cancer-related pain. Journal of pain and symptom management, 39(2), 167-179.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19896326/
Hammell, D. C., Zhang, L. P., Ma, F., Abshire, S. M., McIlwrath, S. L., Stinchcomb, A. L., & Westlund, K. N. (2016). Transdermal cannabidiol reduces inflammation and pain‐related behaviours in a rat model of arthritis. European Journal of Pain, 20(6), 936-948.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/ejp.818
Mechoulam, R., Peters, M., Murillo-Rodriguez, E., & Hanus, L. O. (2007). Cannabidiol—recent advances. Chemistry & biodiversity, 4(8), 1678-1692.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/cbdv.200790147
FDA Regulation of Cannabis and Cannabis-Derived Products, Including Cannabidiol (CBD) | FDA. (2021, June 10). U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
https://www.fda.gov/news-events/public-health-focus/fda-regulation-cannabis-and-cannabis-derived-products-including-cannabidiol-cbd
Disclaimer
The statements expressed on this website are purely opinion of the author and not factual. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Any products referenced on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. It’s highly suggested to consult with your medical professional prior to any use of the products referenced on this website. This website and author specifically disclaim any liability in connection with the products contained on the website.
