How Does CBD Work & Using CBD

Despite CBD's increasing popularity, the classification of cannabis as a controlled substance has hindered research and studies on the plant and its many components. Only recently have scientists been able to look deeper into the chemical processes that occur within the body when cannabinoids like CBD are introduced.  

What we do know about CBD is that it helps the body maintain homeostasis (the ability of an organism to maintain equilibrium achieved by physiological processes) with the help of cannabinoid receptors placed all over the body within the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The endocannabinoid system is a master regulatory mechanism for the whole body. The ECS is equipped with special receptors that pick up all forms of cannabinoids: endocannabinoids, synthetic cannabinoids, phytocannabinoids. These cannabinoid receptors function as tiny sensing devices, picking up on subtle biochemical fluids surrounding each cell. There are two main receptor types, CB1 and CB2. 

CB1 receptors are most abundant in the nervous system and interact mostly with the brain, glands, organs, the cardiovascular system, bones, and the GI tract. CB2 receptors are mostly present throughout the body and are often found on immune cells, the peripheral nervous system, and the gastrointestinal tract. Many tissues in the body contain both CB1 and CB2 receptors making them the most abundant receptors in the body. These receptors help regulate biological processes including memory, appetite, mood, and pain-sensation, just to name a few.


CBD impacts our bodies by working indirectly on CB1 and CB2 receptors. Depending on the particular receptor, CBD will slightly have different chemical interactions that help regulate a variety of functions. Most commonly, CBD is known for being a reuptake and breakdown inhibitor, meaning it prevents reabsorption of our body’s own endocannabinoids. CBD does not directly fit into the CB1 or CB2 receptors, instead, it activates other receptors that play a role in the mediation of pain perception, inflammation, and body temperature.

Additionally CBD (and other phytocannabinoids) have potent antioxidants and neuroprotective properties. A diet rich in antioxidants has been shown to reduce the risk of diseases like cardiovascular disease, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, and arthritis. CBD’s neuroprotective properties help protect the brain by encouraging the growth and development of new neurons.

 

USING CBD

CBD is not one-size-fits-all medicine. Finding the right balance will require some tailoring to your specific needs. Using CBD is a personal and individual experience. Its effectiveness can vary from person to person, dose, source, delivery method, and condition. Consequently, each treatment regimen is individual and unique to each person.

Before you begin taking CBD, ask yourself, what do you want to take it for? Think about what you hope to achieve out of using CBD, and what your priorities are? For example, are you seeking out CBD because you hope to get better sleep, is it for chronic pain or anxiety? Going through this process will help you figure out the products you need, the dosing amounts, and time(s) of day.

As always, before trying CBD be sure to talk to your doctor about the appropriate dosage and potential risks. This is especially important if you are taking prescription medication, pregnant, nursing or are already using a CBD product or CBD-based medication.

 

How Much CBD Is Right For Me?

There are many variables that go into deciding how much CBD you should take and each variable needs to be understood and taken into account for correctly dosing your right amount of CBD.

Your individual dosage of CBD is determined by the concentration of CBD that you are taking, your weight, the severity of the condition you are treating, and your body chemistry. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all dosage and most people will experience a period of trial and error before they find their right dose- and it is completely normal! As your physiology changes from age, internal and external factors so do your endocannabinoid receptors which are responsible for the interactions with CBD. As a result, your ideal dosage of CBD will most likely change over time. 

 

What Are You Treating?:

As with any regimen, it is imperative that you have a goal of what you want to accomplish and stick with it. The same applies to your CBD wellness journey.

Because CBD can help alleviate many ailments you may assume taking one method of CBD will treat everything all at once. Although it may be true for some people, most will not completely have their anxiety and joint pain alleviated by one method of CBD. For instance, topicals are great for relieving joint pain, inflammation, muscle soreness, cramps, arthritis, and many other chronic body pains, while tinctures can help with mood, anxiety, and overall wellness. In turn, many people greatly benefit from a combination of CBD delivery methods.

We do recommend a combination of a CBD Oil Tincher and a topical for complete and quicker relief.