CBD, short for cannabidiol, is one of the many compounds found in cannabis plants, commonly known as cannabinoids. Unlike another well-known cannabinoid called THC, CBD does not have psychoactive effects, meaning it doesn’t make you feel a euphoric high. Studies suggest that CBD may have numerous potential health benefits. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help alleviate pain, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep quality. CBD has also shown promise in managing seizures in certain types of epilepsy.
In recent years, CBD (cannabidiol) has gained significant attention for its potential health benefits. CBD interacts with the human body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network of receptors, enzymes, and endocannabinoids found throughout the body. Let’s delve into the fascinating world of CBD and how it can support the optimal functioning of the ECS.
Understanding the Endocannabinoid System
The ECS is responsible for maintaining balance and harmony within the body, regulating various physiological processes such as mood, sleep, appetite, pain sensation, and immune response. It consists of three main components: endocannabinoids (produced naturally in the body), receptors (CB1 and CB2), and enzymes that facilitate the breakdown of endocannabinoids.
CBD and the ECS
CBD acts as a phytocannabinoid (cannabinoids naturally occurring in plants), helping to modulate the ECS by interacting with its receptors. Unlike its counterpart THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD does not produce psychoactive effects. Instead, it promotes homeostasis by stimulating the production of endocannabinoids, inhibiting their breakdown, and influencing receptor activity.
Pain Management
CBD has shown promise in alleviating chronic pain by interacting with the ECS’s receptors. It may help reduce inflammation and desensitize pain receptors, offering a natural alternative to conventional pain management methods. Migraine sufferers may find relief in using CBD.
Mental Well-being
Stress, anxiety, and depression are common challenges in our fast-paced world. CBD has been studied for its potential anxiolytic and antidepressant effects, as it can interact with the ECS to regulate mood and emotional responses. It may promote a sense of calmness and relaxation without causing the euphoria associated with THC. However, it should be noted that CBD can be mood altering as it can relieve anxiety. Unlike THC, CBD will not reduce your ability to function. You will still be able to drive a car, cook dinner, and work.
Sleep Support
Sleep disorders affect millions worldwide, impacting overall health and well-being. CBD has shown potential in improving sleep quality by modulating the ECS and addressing underlying factors like anxiety or pain, which can disrupt sleep patterns. CBD as a sleep-aid will not leave you groggy in the morning. Instead it simply promotes relaxation and a sometimes bit of a sleepy feeling but nothing overwhelming. Where melatonin can cause some people to feel a physical buzz or anxious sensation, CBD can feel more like a comfortable well placed blanket.
Skin Health
CBD’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can enhance skin health. It may help manage various skin conditions like acne, psoriasis, and eczema by reducing inflammation and regulating sebum production. Additionally, CBD-infused topicals may alleviate muscle soreness and joint stiffness.
Neuroprotection
Research suggests that CBD may possess neuroprotective properties, potentially benefiting conditions like epilepsy and neurodegenerative disorders. By interacting with the ECS, CBD could help reduce seizure activity and inflammation in the brain, offering hope to those seeking alternative treatments.
How to Use CBD
Now that you understand a bit about what CBD can do it is time to learn about how you can use CBD. There are four common ways in which CBD is often consumed. They are smoking, vaping, oil or tincture, and edibles.
Dry Herb Vaping Cannabis
Dry herb vaporizing is by far a healthier and more efficient way to consume cannabis. Here are some reasons why dry herb vaping may be right for you:
- Healthier Alternative: Vaporizing dry herbs heats them at a lower temperature than traditional smoking, leading to the production of fewer harmful compounds. This can be beneficial for individuals who want to avoid the potential health risks associated with smoking.
- Enhanced Flavor and Aroma: Vaporizers heat the herbs without combustion, preserving the natural flavors and aromas of the plant. This can provide a more enjoyable and authentic experience for cannabis enthusiasts who appreciate the nuances of different strains.
- Efficient Use of Cannabis: Vaporizers are known to be more efficient in extracting the active compounds from dry herbs. This means you may require less cannabis to achieve the desired effects, ultimately saving you money in the long run.
- Discreet and Odor Control: Vaporizers produce less noticeable odor compared to smoking, making them a discreet option for those who prefer to keep their cannabis consumption private. Additionally, some vaporizers have features like temperature control and low odor output, further minimizing the scent.
- Versatility: Many dry herb vaporizers are designed to accommodate different types of herbs, not just cannabis. This makes them versatile for those who enjoy experimenting with various herbal blends or aromatherapy.
If you decide to vape oil-based cartridges, you are taking into your lungs, the bi-products of the heated oil as well. It is very important to understand what is in the oil and if there is any vapor produced by the oil itself. With dry herb vaping you know you are only inhaling the vapor (cannabinoids and terpenes) of the plat alone.
CBD Dry Herb Distributors
There are many distributors selling CBD products online, however, they are not all equal. Before we suggest some distributors we should talk about what to look for when seeking CBD products.
Understand what you are trying to treat. The product you may use for joint pain could be different from the product used to treat sleep or migraine headaches. Plants have these nifty things called terpenes. Terpenes give the plant its scent and taste. They also have therapeutic impacts on humans as well. See our article on terpenes.
We recommend these distributors:
- Holy City Farms: By far our favorite distributor! Excellent CBD flowers, dry sift pucks, and other CBD products. This vendor also accepts cryptocurrency for payment as well.
- WNC-CBD: Lots of CBD and THCa products.
- 25 Hour Farms: We’ve only purchased bulk trim from 25 Hour, but it was excellent for use in making our own CBD oil.
Dry Herb Vaporizers
There are many different vaporizers on the market from portable to desktop versions and electronic to analog. We heavily suggest the POTV XMAX V3 Pro Vaporizer from Planet of the Vapes. The V3 Pro is a USB-C rechargeable portable vaporizer. It is fairly easy to clean and even easier to use. It produces decent vapor (flower-depending) from a very small amount of material. The device has on-demand and session modes. You can even add an adaptor to connect it to a water pipe for a superb cool vapor session.
The V3 can accommodate dosing capsules, which we highly recommend. The dosing capsules can be pre-packed and ready to go when you are. Simply place your capsule in the V3, heat it up to the desired temperature, and enjoy vapor from your favorite flower. The capsules hold about .06g – .10g of material which sounds like a small amount and it is. But here’s the thing, because vaping is pulling the essential components you are seeking from your flower, you are getting all the best parts without burning the plant. This means you are not taking smoke into your lungs and you are using a fraction of what you may be used to smoking.
Dry herb vaporization is excellent because it is easy, doesn’t stink up the place like smoking flower does, and can be used anywhere cannabis use is legal.
CBD Oil and Tinctures
There are a few method through which CBD oil or tinctures are commercially produced. Tinctures are generally alcohol-based mixtures where as oils are infused. Both can be made easily at home. In fact our easy CBD oil recipe will show you how. Both oils and tinctures are generally taken sublingually (under the tongue). Smply place the does under the tongue and hold there for 30-90 seconds allowing the liquid and CBD to be absorbed by your body. The effects take about 5 – 20 minutes to be realized and can last for 4 – 6 hours depending. This method allows you to start small and titrate up as you feel the need.
If you rather purchase your CBD from a distributor we advise against purchasing from a gas station, or shady smoke shop. We can recommend Lazarus Naturals classic high potency formula. Their products are a bit expensive but you do get what you pay for. There are many other distributors which produce fine products as well.
Edibles
Finally there are edible products. These can be very convenient and easy to take with you. Edibles can take up to 45 – 90 minutes for the effects to be realized and can last for 8 hours or more. It is not uncommon for inexperienced users to belay this fact and instead take more then one dose assuming the first didn’t work. The can result in a higher than needed or tolerated dose which can have uncomfortable effects. Start small and take your time.
No matter what method you decide to use, it is important to go slow and notice how CBD effects your body before taking more or a larger dose.
Recommended Reading
While we hope this information has been helpful we encourage you to read some books which help start our CBD journey. CBD and THC have only been recently legalized in various states. If you are new to this legalization, it can be difficult or uncomfortable to get past the previous stigma and assumptions surrounding the cannabis plant. These books can help you to better understand cannabis for what it really is (a medicine and supplement).
- Marijuana is Safer: So Why Are We Driving People to Drink?: This book was a game changer. It really puts into perspective the skewed, confused, and down right incorrect perception of cannabis in comparison to the socially accepted alcohol consumed by many. The authors present their information well without being in your face.
- Cannabis Pharmacy: This books offers evidence-based information on using cannabis to treat an array of ailments and conditions.
Conclusion
CBD’s potential health benefits in supporting the ECS are an exciting area of research. From pain management and mental well-being to sleep support and skin health, CBD’s interaction with the ECS opens up a world of possibilities for naturally enhancing our overall wellness. As always, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating CBD into your routine to ensure it aligns with your specific needs and any existing medications.
Remember, your well-being matters, and exploring the potential of CBD alongside a healthy lifestyle may help you unlock a happier, healthier you!
