It is necessary to view the interesting intersection between medicine and nutrition through the lens of innovation. Various discoveries concerning the efficacy of natural remedies have been made and one stellar discovery is that of the Cannabis plant. This plant is known as the Cannabis Sativa plant. The cannabis Sativa plant contains a truckload of active compounds reaching.
However, among these compounds, cannabidiol, and tetrahydrocannabinol are the most popular ones. There has been constant hype surrounding the efficacy of CBD as a compound. CBD has various modifications channeled at exploring its medicinal and nutritional potential. Hence it is not surprising to see it being infused into capsules, spices, gummies, or oils.
The former has a non-psychoactive effect while the latter gives a euphoric feeling. The major difference between both compounds lies in the significant mental changes that occur after intake.
Chill or High? Necessary parameters to consider
This question is one on the mind of the average cannabis user or enthusiast. CBD normally shouldn’t get you high. Though this is dependent on if the CBD was isolated from the THC and plant or if the CBD was a full-spectrum one (CBD containing other extracts). However, there are different strains of the Cannabis plant which contain the prevalence of THC ( the chemical compound responsible for psychoactivity).
The word ‘psychoactivity’ has been the subject of recent medical debates concerning cannabis usage. Medical experts opined that both variants are psychoactive, the only difference being their methods of manifestation. CBD according to medical evidence affects the human mind. However, it doesn’t impair normal functions nor intoxicates its users.
A good example is the Cannabis indica which contains a THC rate of 12% and less than 0.15% of CBD (the non-psychoactive compound). Hence, during the usage of this variant of cannabis, feeling a little euphoric would be perfectly normal.
Hemp on the other hand is a non-intoxicating variant of the Cannabis Sativa plant genus. It contains a 0.3% concentration of THC and an 18% rate of CBD.
This brings into the limelight another parameter to ascertain if your cannabis would get you stoned which is the ratio factor. Hypothetically speaking, you would get stoned if you consume cannabis with a higher degree of THC than CBD. Although, the presence of the CBD would reduce the degree of euphoria you would feel as they are counter-productive compounds.
The brain (the battleground for the combat between CBD and THC)
Our bodies in general contain the Endocannabinoid system and a group of Cannabinoid brain receptors (CB1). THC activates these receptors thereby causing incidences of ecstasy while CBD antagonizes them. CBD is termed a CB1 antagonist because it blocks any intoxicating impacts caused by the CB1 receptors.
In the medical lingua, THC binds with these receptors while CBD doesn’t.
Hence, it is safe to say that CBD inhibits the function of THC when taken together as CBD binds to the receptors. This action of CBD binding to the receptors prevents THC from binding, thereby mitigating the effects of THC on the human body.
How does CBD make people feel? Usefulness and applications
It would be deceit to say that there are no bodily changes after taking CBD. Research has shown that some bodily changes, especially a state of relaxation and calm usually occurs. Hence, it is not surprising to find an improvement in unhealthy sleep patterns after intake of CBD products. Also, muscle stiffness and pain are significantly reduced as it eases joint tension.
As a result of the calming aura that this natural remedy brings (the oil), it is an efficacious treatment for depression and anxiety.
According to the World Health Organization, CBD is beneficial in treating the following conditions:
- Brain Injuries
- Psychosis
- Neurodegenerative diseases like Parkison’s and Alzheimer’s disease.
Also, cannabis seeds are highly rich in minerals and vitamins, hence the reason they are termed superfoods. People with certain nutritional deficiencies can resort to its usage to ensure optimal performance of the body.
There have also been industrial applications of this natural gem. Their efficacy is readily manifested in the modification of CBD into cooking spices and infusion of CBD in bras.
Side effects and risks
Although the average individual’s system tolerates CBD, you must consult your doctor before ingesting CBD. This is a result of the complaints of several individuals who have reacted adversely to this natural remedy.
The side effects you might experience don’t negate the efficacy of CBD as a drug. This strongly reinforces the concept of pharmacodynamics and the uniqueness of your system when pitted against other people’s systems.
Below is a list of the side effects :
- Drowsiness or unnecessary fatigue
- Nausea and feeling of irritation
- Liver damage due to interaction with other drugs
- A fluctuation in the degree of appetite
- Mood swings are characterized by feelings of agitation and irritation.
- Heightened risk of injuries when used with alcohol.
Before you make use of any CBD product you should ensure that the product has undergone third-party testing. Some products or modifications have not undergone this standard test hence you can’t ascertain their compliance with industry standards.
It is also appropriate for you to verify if you have any underlying medical conditions that would adversely affect the functionality of CBD.
People with kidney, liver, and heart issues are prone to various risks if they take CBD.
Wrapping up
As a result of the vast array of learning resources bordering on cannabis, it is easy to get confused. Hence, you should conduct adequate and goal-oriented research.
One fact you should keep at the back of your mind is the non- psychoactivity of CBD in its isolated state. Before buying any CBD product ensure you make inquiries on the particular CBD you want. Different strains translate to different constituents. Buying from a trusted seed bank eliminates the doubt usually associated with buying CBD online.
Also read: 10 Tips on Shopping for THC Safely Online for Beginners
