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Eyebrows across the United States have raised at the potential health effects and benefits of Cannabis. We are going to take you through the most important facts about Cannabis, and how this plant interacts with the human body.
There are more than 100 compounds found in the Cannabis plant, but the two compounds extracted from the Cannabis plant that we will discuss are CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).
Both CBD and THC are cannabinoids that mimic our bodies natural endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a complex network of receptors throughout the body that helps regulate different bodily functions such as sleep, appetite, stress, and more. The ECS is present on immune cells in the bloodstream, on nearly every brain cell, across the spinal cord, throughout the cardiovascular system, and on our skin. There are three key components of the ECS: Endocannabinoids, Receptors (mainly CB1 + CB2), and Enzymes.
Endocannabinoids are molecules naturally made by your body, keeping internal functions running smoothly. CB1 + CB2 receptors are found throughout the body, and endocannabinoids bind to these receptors, signaling the ECS to function. Enzymes break down endocannabinoids once they have carried out their function.
By supplementing the body with cannabinoids like CBD, topically or internally, CB1 + CB2 receptors are activated, helping to balance the body and mind.
What’s the difference between these two compounds?
THC and CBD have the same chemical make-up but they don’t have the same chemical arrangement which means they do different things. THC is intoxicating which means it produces a high/euphoric feeling. When used or consumed, THC binds with CB1 + CB2 receptors, sending signals to the brain, causing a euphoric response.
CBD on the other hand is a non-intoxicating compound. This is because CBD does NOT directly bind with CB1 + CB2 receptors. In fact, CBD actually helps alleviate intoxication caused by THC by balancing the signals to receptors. So to be as clear as possible, CBD does not get you high.
CBD and THC are both extracted from the cannabis plant and there are several extraction methods to ensure that there is no THC present in CBD products. The three main methods of extraction are carbon dioxide extraction, steam distillation, and solvent extraction. The 2018 Farming Bill has regulated and legalized the sale of CBD products with less than 0.3% THC.
Why do some people still use THC?
THC provides more than intoxicating effects - it can help increase appetite, reduce stress and anxiety, alleviate inflammation, reduce nausea, and is an effective pain reliever. It also triggers the brain’s reward system by releasing dopamine. Many doctors prescribe THC to cancer patients, and those suffering with PTSD and seizures. The downside? THC may have side effects such as anxiety, paranoia, and drowsiness.
CBD is becoming more and more popular as people discover the natural benefits it can provide. CBD is commonly used to reduce inflammation, reduce anxiety and stress, and help alleviate chronic pain. It can also be used to help treat memory disorders, calm epilepsy, reduce symptoms of PTSD, lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of diabetes, combat addiction, help the digestive system, protect against bone disease, and so much more!
As a topical, CBD helps to reduce oil production and inflammation, relieve symptoms of common skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, deeply moisturize, and help to defend the skin against free radical damage and accelerated aging. Not only does it supply the skin with these benefits, but it is especially effective as a delivery mechanism. CBD actually promotes better skin absorption, supporting other ingredients to penetrate the skin more effectively. This means that your skin will benefit more from topical products that contain CBD. And just to keep things clear... no, you cannot get high!
Here at KOVO Essentials, we use Broad Spectrum CBD in our skincare products.
Broad Spectrum CBD is different from Full Spectrum as it contains a range of various cannabinoids including CBG, CBN, and more. The purpose of this is to enable what we call the entourage effect. The entourage effect is a phenomenon where multiple different compounds work together to be more effective. These other compounds included in Broad Spectrum CBD are all safe, beneficial to use, and ultimately make the CBD even more effective.
For topical use, CBD levels should be fairly high to actually work. When looking for CBD in your skincare products, make sure to keep an eye on the dosage. As a reference, our Face Serums contain 500mg of CBD. This may sound like a lot, but for topical use this is ideal. To learn more about our products and ingredients, take a look at our product collection page.