CBD has been the trend that just keeps giving, as we learn more and more about its benefits and health effects. The cannabinoid’s craze has seemingly taken over the world, with popular products like oils, topicals, edibles, and capsules available almost everywhere, now. Even mainstream retailers, and grocers.

But not all CBD products are the same, and CBD is about as complex as its counterpart, THC. So, understanding its full potential and using it to its best ability is still presenting a learning curve for some. Here we set out to answer the question – what’s CBD good for? Exploring the inner-workings of the cannabinoid and how it delivers its unique and non-psychoactive effects.

What is CBD?

CBD is scientifically known as cannabidiol and is a cannabinoid that is found in hemp and marijuana plants. In comparison to THC, CBD is found more prominently in hemp cannabis plants, but is found in small amounts in marijuana genetics, too. But just like THC, when extracted or consumed in flower form, the cannabinoid provides a plethora of unique effects.

To do so, CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). The endocannabinoid system is a network of messengers that send signals throughout the body, for it to function optimally. For instance, the ECS plays a role in these common physiological and cognitive processes:

  • Appetite
  • Immune system response
  • Stress response
  • Mood
  • Pain regulation
  • Energy
  • Movement
  • Memory
  • Metabolism

Within the system, CBD primarily affects the CB1 and CB2 receptors. For how unknown the ECS and specific receptors are, they also are responsible for quite a few important functions. Including:

  • Coordination
  • Movement
  • Emotions
  • Memories
  • Appetite
  • Pain and inflammation

From that information alone, you can see how CBD’s soothing and healing effects can be quite effective. We’ll explore exactly how, next.

CBD as a Treatment

All About Cbd – What Is It Really Good For?

All About Cbd – What Is It Really Good For?

To summarize how CBD works as a treatment, it internally influences the systems that are responsible for balancing homeostasis. Or, the overall feeling of well-being. One way CBD does this, is by stimulating the production of natural cannabinoids. The more cannabinoids your body has, the better it can communicate, and function or run optimally.

But more in-depth CBD is proving to work as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, neuroprotective, and anti-psychotic agent. So, you can only imagine the type of health benefits that the plant compound can provide. Even though research is still catching up after years of CBD being classified as a controlled substance, so far the industry is able to confirm a few early conclusions.

Here are the most notable studies for common conditions, that CBD is showing to help treat.

Anxiety – In 2011, a study of patients with Social Anxiety Disorder reported a significant decrease in anxiety levels when dosed 300 mg of CBD. Many experts are citing CBD’s interaction with the serotonin receptor, 5-HT1A as a reason it can help decrease feeling anxious.

Headaches and migraines – A 2019 study showed CBD positively affects the functioning of pathways responsible for pain control when migraines arise. The research shows that it might be due to CBD’s anti-inflammatory effects.

Arthritis – Many studies are showing that CBD’s anti-inflammatory effects are also ideal for treating inflamed joints, like those from the arthritis condition. One study in rats concluded that CBD was effective at preventing pain associated with arthritis and protecting against nerve damage.

Fibromyalgia – Fibromyalgia is a complex disorder, based in pain. Luckily, one 2017 study concluded that CBD was one ‘pharmacological option’ effective as a ‘potential treatment avenue…for diminishing glial activity’ found in the condition.

Other conditions that CBD is being used to help treat include insomnia, lupus, ADD, ADHD, chronic pain, and epileptic seizures. In fact, there’s now a CBD derived and FDA approved medication prescribed for those who suffer from epilepsy.

How to Consume CBD

Consuming CBD is as unique as it is in effects. There are many options for consuming the cannabinoid, like CBD oil, CBD flower, CBD capsules, CBD edibles, and the list goes on and on.

Unlike THC’s psychoactive effects, CBD doesn’t come on fast and intense for new time users. In fact, it might take a few weeks for your body to get acclimated to the new compound while your body builds natural endocannabinoids.

This could be why so many consumers claim ‘CBD’ doesn’t work for them. Experts recommend continuing with consistent doses for at least two weeks, while your body adjusts for the effects to be fully felt. In addition, like THC, the effects you feel will be influenced by a variety of factors. Like your body’s metabolism, weight, tolerance, etc. Keep in mind, each person will be affected differently and it might take some experimenting to find your ideal dose.

Common Cannabis Strains High in CBD

All About Cbd – What Is It Really Good For?

All About Cbd – What Is It Really Good For?

Becoming more popular on the cannabis side of things, are high CBD strains. More and more outlets (like Greenz) are now offering CBD flower for those who like to consume with the traditional smoking method, without the elevated high from THC. But some marijuana strains have higher than usual levels of CBD, too. To give you a good guide, here are a few of the most notable strains that are CBD-rich.

    • CBD Dana – CBD Dana contains anywhere from 12-15% of CBD which is almost unheard of for flower. The strain also contains undetectable traces of THC for those who are weary.
    • Sunkiss CBD – Sunkiss CBD is a sativa dominant hybrid that delivers on soothing CBD effects, along with a euphoric energy. Making the strain ideal for daytime use, and for wake and bake sessions.
    • CBD Pennywise – CBD Pennywise is a notorious CBD-rich indica dominant strain. Uniquely delivering a 1:1 THC:CBD that’s ideal for many medical and therapeutic effects.

CBD, an Alternative to THC

The cannabidiol cannabinoid, AKA CBD, is serving as a healing and non-psychoactive alternative to THC. Many consumers who are sensitive to the effects of THC, or prefer cannabis’ healing without an elevated high are increasingly turning to the natural plant compound.

CBD can be ideal for treating a number of common conditions that affect consumers daily. Like anxiety, depression, epilepsy, ADHD, fibromyalgia, arthritis, chronic pain, etc. If you’re seeking high-quality CBD goods to try, or to add to your natural healing routine – Greenz’s got your back. Check out our CBD collection of premium wellness goods, now.