The Green Science of CBD
Cannabis and cannabis-based medicines such as CBD (cannabidiol) are finally enjoying recognition as valid forms of medicine. Although cannabis has been used for pain, nausea, and convulsions for millennia, negative propaganda in the early 20th century led to its fall from favour.
Promisingly, the global use of medicinal marijuana is increasing at an unprecedented rate. Patents related to recreational and medical cannabis have increased by 257% in recent years.
Solid scientific evidence underpins the newfound enthusiasm for CBD as a universal panacea. As research drives forward CBD’s success, at Purity Hemp Company we continue to deliver educational resources centred in evidence-based research.
Read on to explore the science of CBD, and how this incredible product rooted in traditional medicine could benefit your wellbeing.
“As research drives forward CBD’s success, at Purity Hemp Company we continue to deliver educational resources centred in evidence-based research.“
What is CBD?
CBD is the second most prevalent active ingredient of cannabis. The Cannabis sativa (C. sativa) plant contains around 500 known compounds, of which at least 100 are chemical structures called cannabinoids, each of which has unique therapeutic properties.
Many people recognise the name THC, which is the most well-known of the cannabinoids. However, don’t confuse THC with CBD. The two cannabinoids share the same molecular formula, C21H30O2, and practically the same molecular mass, however, the difference of just one atomic bond between them elicits differing mental and physical effects.
Whereas THC is the primary psychoactive component of cannabis that imbues the recognised state of “high,” non-psychoactive CBD does not mirror this effect.
THC is the factor used to determine the legality of cannabis products. CBD is typically derived from the hemp plant, a specific variety of C. sativa traditionally used for its fibre. Legally in the UK, hemp and hemp products like CBD must have a THC content of below 0.2%.
Like THC, CBD delivers a spectrum of health benefits and is safe and typically well-tolerated. A fact highlighted by the World Health Organization in a report stating, “CBD exhibits no effects indicative of any abuse or dependence potential.” They continue, “To date, there is no evidence of public health-related problems associated with the use of pure CBD.”
“CBD exerts its therapeutic effects by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), the universal regulator of homeostasis.”
Human Physiology and CBD Oil Science
CBD exerts its therapeutic effects by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), the universal regulator of homeostasis. It’s a complex and widespread biological system with three core components: endocannabinoids, endocannabinoid receptors, and enzymes that break down the endocannabinoids once processed.
Homeostasis regulates every aspect of human physiology and is critical to the maintenance of perfect physiological and mental balance. A single event can cause a ripple effect that challenges this equilibrium and can sequentially affect every element the body depends on for health.
If an outside force such as pain or fever impact homeostasis, the ECS immediately acts to reinstate biological stability.
Research confirms the ECS has an essential role in many bodily processes, including:
- appetite and metabolism
- immunity
- inflammation
- metabolism
- pain
- reproduction and fertility
- sleep
Endocannabinoids interact with two principal cannabinoid receptors:
- CB1 receptors are found in the brain and central nervous system
- CB2 receptors are prevalent in the peripheral nervous system and immune cells
Endocannabinoids can bind either type of receptor, with the results dependent on the receptors location and the bound endocannabinoid.
THC interacts with the ECS and can bind with cannabinoid receptors in the same manner as endocannabinoids. In contrast, CBD does not bind to these receptors. Although scientists have not fully elucidated how CBD interacts with the ECS, they have found it acts as an agonist, preventing enzymes from breaking down endocannabinoids.
Additionally, CBD binds with TRPV ion channels, which are involved in pain perception and inflammation, and activates the GPR55 receptor, which has the potential to treat pain and inflammation.
“Don’t confuse THC with CBD. The two cannabinoids share the same molecular formula however, the difference of just one atomic bond between them elicits very different mental and physical effects.”