What is CBD, How Does it Work?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a cannabinoid derived from the Hemp Plant. It is used for its effective and non-intoxicating relieving properties. Not to be confused with THC, CBD does not get you high in any way. This is because CBD does not effect the same receptors as THC. CBD is an entirely different compound from THC, and its effects on the human body are complex. It is non-toxic, meaning it does not produce a “high” or change a person’s state of mind, but it influences the body to use its own Endogenous Cannabinoids more effectively. For example, CBD stops the body from absorbing anandamide, an Endogenous Cannabinoid naturally produced in your body associated with regulating pain, happiness and more. So, increased levels of anandamide in the bloodstream may reduce the amount of pain a person feels.

Although it is a cannabinoid, CBD does not directly interact with the two classical cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2). Instead, it affects signaling through the CB1 and CB2 receptors indirectly. These indirect actions include activating TRPV1 receptors that work to control important functions like pain perception, body temperature and inflammation. In addition to its indirect influence on the CB1 and CB2 receptors, CBD can increase levels of the body’s own naturally-produced cannabinoids known as Endogenous Cannabinoids (Endocannabinoids) by inhibiting the enzymes that break them down. These natural Endogenous Cannabinoids are neurotransmitters produced within our bodies that bind to cannabinoid receptors in the brain, immune system, and elsewhere. Examples include Anandamide, 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), n-arachidonoyl dopamine (NADA) and virodhamine (OAE). CBD also influences many non-cannabinoid receptor systems in the brain, interacting with receptors sensitive to a variety of drugs and neurotransmitters. These include opioid receptors, known for their role in pain regulation. Opioid receptors are the key targets of pharmaceutical pain killers and drugs of abuse such as morphine, heroin, and fentanyl. CBD can also interact with dopamine receptors, which play a crucial role in regulating many aspects of behavior and cognition, including motivation and reward-seeking behavior.

The Endocannabinoid System:

The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is involved in a host of homeostatic and physiologic functions, including modulation of pain and inflammation. Only discovered in the early 1990’s, the Endocannabinoid System’s (ECS) purpose is to respond to Endogenous Cannabinoids produced within the human body. The ECS is located in the Mammalian Central Nervous System (Brain and Spinal Cord), and the peripheral nervous system (Nerves and ganglia outside of the brain and spinal cord). Scientists have learned that the ECS will also recognize and respond to cannabinoids from external sources, including CBD. According to the National Institute of Health, manipulating the Endocannabinoid System by introducing external cannabinoids like CBD could be useful in treating a variety of medical ailments.

When the ECS is working properly, then all systems of the human body are harmonized and are working as one unit. This can also be called “Homeostasis”, which influences stability, balance, or the equilibrium within a cell or body.

Cannabinoid Receptor Type 1 (CB1):

CB1 receptors (first discovered in 1990) exist in high numbers in the brain (especially the hypothalamus, hippocampus, and amygdala), central nervous system (CNS), intestines, connective tissues, gonads, and various other glands.

Cannabinoid Receptor Type 2 (CB2):

CB2 receptors (first discovered in 1993) occur most commonly in the spleen, tonsils, thymus, and immune cells such as mast cells, monocytes, macrophages, B and T cells, and microglia; only a small number exist in the brain. Changes in CB2 receptor function is synonymous with virtually every type of human disease; be it cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, neurodegenerative, psychiatric, and autoimmune. It even plays a role in liver and kidney function, bone and skin health, and even pain-related illnesses.

Professional Athletes are Turning to CBD, Should You?

CBD for athletes has become a popular topic in locker rooms and gyms as a safe alternative to medications. Not only because it is non-psychoactive and not addictive, but also due to CBD’s effectiveness in supporting health and wellness among athletes. The damage to the human body from competition and exercise comes in various forms. From the oxidation of cells to the subtle tearing of the muscles, your body is put to the test after years of activity. The antioxidant properties of cannabinoids can help prevent this oxidation, and their analgesic characteristics have been proven to assist with the soreness and pain of overexertion. For Athletes, having safe and effective methods of relief and muscle recovery can mean the world to their growth. Many have cried out stating they are sick of taking Opioids and prescription pills as it may mask their pain, but leaves them feeling weighted down, unhealthy and in some cases can cause addiction. When our bodies are taken to their limits time and time again, it is important to take correct steps to promote overall health and wellness. When you are subjected to taking Opioids or prescription pills on the daily it is very hard to fully promote wellness, as you are putting your liver and kidneys at risk. CBD promotes wellness, and has been demonstrated to have properties that are now effectively being applied to sports medicine. Please call our Call Center, or send us an Email if you have any Questions about CBD or usage.