July 2019 – blog digital coin share

Overview of Cancer and CBD

Cancer is a general name used to classify a large group of diseases that develop because of abnormal cells growing out of control. Normal body cells are continuously growing, dividing, and dying. When cells in a part of the body begin to grow out of control, it is diagnosed as cancer. Cancer cells will continue to grow, rather than die, and they can invade other tissues. Most of the time, cancer cells form a tumor, which can, in turn, invade nearby normal tissue and crowd it out or push it aside. The cancer cells will often travel to other parts of the body, a process referred to as metastasis, through the bloodstream or lymph vessels. According to the American Cancer Society, there are over 1.6 million new cases in the United States every year, and if left untreated, cancers can cause serious illness and death.

Cancer is considered a genetic disease because it is caused by changes to the genes that control the way our cells function. Although these changes can be inherited, they can also arise during a person’s lifetime. There are more than 100 different types of cancers, which are commonly named for the organs or tissues from where they form.

Treatment of cancer varies depending on the location of cancer and how far it’s advanced. However, there are a number of primary types of cancer treatment include the following: surgery, which involves removing the cancerous tumor; radiation therapy, which uses high doses of radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors; chemotherapy, which uses drugs to kill cancer cells; immunotherapy, which helps your immune system fight cancer; hormone therapy, which slows or stops the growth of cancer that uses hormones to grow; targeted therapy, which targets the changes in cancer cells that help them grow and divide; and stem cell transplant, which involves a procedure that restores blood-forming stem cells in people who have had theirs destroyed by high doses of cancer treatments.

Findings: Effects of Cannabinoids and CBD on Cancer

Evidence suggests that cannabis has the potential of inhibiting the growth of and even killing cancer cells and can help patients manage symptoms associated with cancer treatments. After examining the available literature, a recent research review concluded that cannabis possesses anti-tumor properties and is effective at offering pain, nausea, and vomiting relief for patients with cancer.

Two of the major cannabinoids found in cannabis, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), activate the cannabinoid 1 (CB₁) and cannabinoid 2 (CB₂) receptors of the endocannabinoid system. Activation of the CB₁ and CB₂ receptors by cannabinoids can elicit antitumor effects in a number of aggressive cancers. THC and CBD have been shown to inhibit the progression of cancers located in the breast, lung, prostate, and colon in animal models, suggesting that the cannabinoids may also be effective at mediating cancer cell death in human subjects.

CBD acid (CBDA), the acidic precursor of CBD, has shown in one study to have the capability of down-regulating invasive human breast cancer cells and therefore preventing their growth. In 2016, the same team of researchers found CBDA to effectively inhibit the migration of breast cancer cells and was able to identify the effect to be associated with the cannabinoid’s downregulation of the proto-oncogene c-fos and the enzyme cyclooxygenase-2.

Cannabinoids have long demonstrated it can provide relief for patients suffering from nausea related to cancer treatments. Studies have found that CBD is effective at treating the more difficult to control symptoms of nausea, as well as preventing anticipatory nausea in chemotherapy patients. Another study found that THC was effective at reducing conditioned rejection and chemotherapy-induced nausea.

Cannabis has also been shown to be effective at lowering neuropathic pain that traditional treatment was unable to manage. In one study, cancer patients with intractable pain who had previously and unsuccessfully tried to manage their discomfort with opioids saw significant reductions in pain levels after being treated with cannabis containing both THC and CBD for two weeks.

Weight loss due to nausea and a loss of appetite are common side effects of cancer treatment. However, THC has shown to significantly stimulate appetite in patients that have cachexia related to cancer. In addition, patients treated with THC have a larger appetite and report that food “tastes better”. The ability to stimulate appetite in cancer patients is significant in helping to prevent wasting syndrome related to cancer treatments.

A survey study analyzing the effects of cannabis in cancer patients after six to eight weeks of treatment found significant improvements in all of the measured cancer-related symptoms, which included nausea, vomiting, mood disorders, fatigue, weight loss, anorexia, constipation, sexual function, sleep disorders, itching, and pain2. Patients treated with THC also experience a higher quality of sleep and relaxation. The National Cancer Institute, an organization run by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, currently recognizes cannabis as an effective treatment for providing relief of a number of symptoms associated with cancer, including pain, nausea and vomiting, anxiety, and loss of appetite.

Article by Andrea – www.echoconnection.org

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Post-traumatic stress disorder, most common in war veterans, involves uncontrollable anxiety and flashbacks following a traumatic experience. Studies have shown cannabinoids are effective at lessening the emotional impact of traumatic events and can help patients experience less anxiety and fear and improve their sleep.

Overview of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental condition that develops after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Those suffering from PTSD experience flashbacks, severe anxiety, nightmares, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event, according to Mayo Clinic. They often feel stressed and in danger when no real threat exists. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, other symptoms of PTSD include staying away from places or events that are reminders of the traumatic experience, feeling numbness or guilt, losing interest in formerly enjoyable activities, being easily startled, feeling tense, having problems sleeping and experiencing angry outbursts.

PTSD is prevalent in military veterans but can develop following any type of traumatic event, such as a mugging, kidnapping, car accident, plane crash, physical attack or natural disaster.

Currently, PTSD is commonly treated with psychotherapy efforts that include exposure therapy, which exposes patients to the trauma they experienced but in a safe way, cognitive restructuring, which helps patients make sense of the bad memories, and stress inoculation training, which teaches patients how to reduce their anxiety. Antidepressant medications are often prescribed to help curtail feelings of sadness, anger, worry, and numbness. These medications can sometimes have side effects like headache, nausea, sleeplessness or drowsiness, agitation, and sexual problems.

Findings: Effects of Cannabinoids and CBD on Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Cannabis has been found to help PTSD patients manage their symptoms. Two major cannabinoids found in Cannabis, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), influence the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays an essential role in maintaining emotional homeostasis and in regulating memory consolidation, retrieval, and extension. Cannabinoids found in cannabis activate the cannabinoid receptors (CB₁ and CB₂) of the endocannabinoid system, which in turn modulates the release of neurotransmitter and produces a wide range of effects on the central nervous system, including an increase in pleasure and the alternation of memory processes. The cannabinoids block the continuous retrieval of the traumatic event, thus enhancing its extension and reducing its associated anxiety.

These effects help PTSD patients manage the three core symptoms of the condition, which include re-experiencing, avoidance and numbing, and hyperarousal. PTSD patients saw a 75% reduction in PTSD symptoms, as measured by the Clinical Administered Post-traumatic Scale when they were using cannabis compared to when they were not.

Military veterans use cannabis for coping purposes, especially those whose condition causes difficulties in emotional regulation or stress tolerance. An improvement in sleep patterns in those who suffer from insomnia or nightmares is another primary motivating factor for cannabis use in PTSD patients. The more severe the PTSD symptoms, the more that military veterans desire to use cannabis to cope. Preclinical evidence supports CBD as having considerable potential as a treatment for PTSD when it’s administered acutely as symptoms arise rather than chronically.

There’s evidence to suggest, however, that the benefits of cannabis for PTSD patients go beyond temporary. Findings support that cannabis has the potential to dampen the strength and emotional impact of traumatic memories. In addition, administering cannabinoids shortly after the exposure to an intensely stressful event can help prevent the development of PTSD-like symptoms.

Article by Andrea – www.echoconnection.org

An Overview of the Minor Cannabinoid CBCv

Cannabichromevarin (CBCv) was first discovered in 1975 by researchers from the University of Nagasaki who isolated the cannabinoid from the cannabis plant. However, after CBCv’s discovery, there was not much research done about it, but because of its similar molecular structure to CBC, it can be assumed that is shares some similar benefits.

CBCv is one of several minor cannabinoids found in cannabis sativa and is present in both marijuana and hemp strains of the plant. But if CBCv holds similar benefits to CBC, there could be an array of conditions and diseases that could be improved with CBCv. CBC is known for being an antidepressant and could potentially bring relief to individuals struggling with this disorder.

Being an anti-inflammatory, it may potentially help individuals who have chronic inflammation and pain. CBC has also been found to be antifungal and antibiotic, which could end up being an all-natural alternative medicine for fungal issues like athlete’s foot and ringworm. And because it has antibiotic properties, it may help fight against certain resistant bacteria within the human body.

One thing we do know about the compound is that it has the potential to be a powerful anticonvulsant. This alone makes it worthy of further investigation.

When it comes to CBCv, there is still plenty of research to be done about this cannabinoid. Researchers from the Regents of the University of California have found it important enough to patent an anticonvulsant drug for infants in which CBCv is mentioned as a potential ingredient. Going forward, scientists will no doubt be looking deeper into the properties of this mysterious cannabinoid. From what it looks like, CBCv has all the possibilities of being a life-changing cannabinoid.

By Andrea, published on echoconnection.org

An Overview of the Minor Cannabinoid CBNa

Cannabinolic acid (CBNa) is one of many compounds found in cannabis. After the process of decarboxylation, CBNa converts into cannabinol (CBN). Decarboxylation is when one compound converts into another by exposure to sunlight or ultraviolet light. CBNa is believed to portray similar benefits as CBN.

Though CBN is found in trace amounts within a cannabis plant, higher levels of CBN are found in aged cannabis. Any individual can receive the benefits from CBNa by juicing the compound. Juicing is a simple yet helpful method for ingesting the benefits of this healthy cannabinoid.

The therapeutic benefits of cannabinolic acid are very similar to the ones an individual would receive from CBN. CBNa has been found to possibly help relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and promote sleep. CBNa also fights against bacteria.

CBNa has the potential to help individuals struggling with insomnia, chronic pain, and other complicated issues. Because CBN is known to help reduce and prevent seizures and convulsions, it can be assumed that CBNa has the same effect. This potential benefit could change and improve the lives of millions of individuals struggling with life-altering issues.

A significant fact about CBN is that it stimulates appetites. It is possible that CBNa holds the same benefit due to both of the compound’s similarities. This cannabinoid could be the all-natural answer for individuals struggling with a lack of appetite. There is still research that needs to happen about cannabinolic acid. From our still limited understanding of CBNa, there appears an enormous potential to help with a variety of health conditions.

By Andrea, published on echoconnection.org

An Overview of a Minor Cannabinoid CBDVa

Cannabidivarinic acid (CBDVa) is another minor cannabinoid found in cannabis sativa. It is the acidic version of cannabidivarin (CBDv). CBDVa is non-psychoactive, which means that it does not induce a “high” when it is taken. This should be reassuring for those who may want to try this cannabinoid but are worried about mind-altering effects.

CBDVa is usually found in trace amounts within more common cannabis plants in North America. However, CBDVa is found at high levels within cannabis plants found in Nepal and India.

CBDVa is produced within raw cannabis. The best way to ingest the benefits of cannabidivarinic acid is by juicing. Juicing is an excellent way to receive any unique cannabinoids benefits. Recently, there has been a lot of research on CBDV (CBDVa’s non-acidic version) and the results are promising. With such similarities between CBDv and CBDva, it is quite likely that they hold similar benefits.

One of these benefits is its anti-inflammatory properties. In fact, nearly all the cannabinoids found in the plant exhibit this property. Many physicians believe that inflammation is responsible for a host of conditions within Western society. With that being the case, CBDVa could be a potent remedy for several issues.

Cannabidivarinic acid also has the potential to prevent vomiting and nausea in patients undergoing chemotherapy. That benefit would bring much-needed relief to individuals struggling with cancer. Chemotherapy may become less difficult for the patient if CBDVa were administered. Adding it to one’s diet in raw cannabis smoothies may be beneficial.

Additionally. CBDv is known for being an anticonvulsant and antiepileptic aid. The same can be assumed about CBDVa. Potentially, cannabidivarinic acid could help reduce convulsions during seizures, although more research is needed. The compound also could reduce the number of seizures an individual will experience.

The fact that CBDVa may be able to help with everything from inflammation to seizures is astonishing. As researchers delve deeper into the minor cannabinoids, the more we become aware of the possible life-changing benefits of these all-natural compounds.

By Andrea, published on echoconnection.org

An Overview of a Minor Cannabinoid CBDv

Cannabidivarin (CBDv) is a cannabinoid found in cannabis. Non-psychoactive, it produces no high but is one of over 100 hundred cannabinoids found within cannabis with unique benefits. There are typically high levels of CBDv in cannabis located in northwest India and Nepal.

There have been a few animal and human tests about the possible health effects CBDv could provide. Research is still in the early stages, but preliminary results indicate there are positive therapeutic effects CBDv could bring to someone’s life.

Though CBDv’s molecular structure and makeup is similar to Cannabidiol (CBD), both compounds bring different types of relief compared to one another. CBDv has been found to have both anticonvulsant and antiepileptic properties. This fact indicates that it could help individuals struggling with neurological disorders.

There is the potential for CBDv to bring relief to individuals with Parkinson’s disease and epilepsy. CBDv is thought to reduce the intensity and length of seizures. The cannabinoid could also prevent convulsions when an individual does experience a seizure.

Researchers are currently looking into the benefits CBDv could have on individuals who have disorders like Rett syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorder as well.

CBDv, like many of the minor cannabinoids, shows potential to prevent nausea and vomiting and has been a helpful tool for chemotherapy patients. It is currently being researched in depth because of all the new and hopeful information arising from other studies. From what researchers know now about cannabinoids, cannabidivarin has the potential of giving patients a new quality of life.

By Andrea, published on echoconnection.org

CBD Oil for Dogs

CBD dispensaries have popped up in many states all over the country in people’s hunt for wellness. But CBD oil can also be used to help dogs with anxiety and other issues. What is CBD and how does it work? And, will it give your dog the munchies? First, let’s define some of the terms that can be confusing.

“Cannabidiol, also known as CBD, is a cannabinoid — a naturally occurring compound found in both hemp and cannabis (cannabis is also referred to as marijuana),” says Jodi Ziskin, director of communications with Treatibles in Petaluma, California.

Hemp and marijuana are “Both members of the Cannabis sativa plant and share similarities but have very distinct differences due to each plant’s biological structure,” says Jon Neveloff, partner with King Kanine in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Consider that a rice cake and rice pudding are from the same plant but quite different.

“CBD is one of hundreds of compounds found in cannabis. It is the most prevalent compound in hemp, a special strain of cannabis that has only trace amounts of THC, the substance in medical and recreational strains of hemp that is associated with psychoactive effects,” says Joey DiFrancesco, CEO, and founder of LolaHemp in New York City. This is crucial because THC can be toxic to pets. (For more THC specifics, see “Why the Farm Bill Matters” on page 38.) “CBD is non-psychoactive,” Joey adds. It won’t get your dog high in any way.

Hemp Oil vs CBD Oil

Both CBD oil and hemp oil come from the same plant, but CBD oil comes from the flowers, leaves, and stalk of the hemp plant, while hemp oil comes from the seeds of industrialized hemp plant.

Hemp oil is a nutritional supplement full of nutrients that can be used in cooking and for moisturizing — like in soaps or lotions. It has a variety of other manufacturing uses, such as making plastic and as a bio-diesel fuel.

CBD oil is a supplement used for medicinal purposes, like treating various conditions, such as inflammation and anxiety, among others.

Help for anxiety

Many owners report benefits to using CBD oil for dogs, and CBD oil has been recommended to assist with many ailments that plague our furry friends, including anxiety.

“The most common conditions that relate to anxiety include location and separation anxiety, as well as noise phobias,” says Annie Chrysler, CBD specialist, and product manager with SpaRoom based in Cleveland, Ohio. “For example, CBD oil can provide noticeable relief to dogs who demonstrate car ride anxiety or who experience anxiety when visiting the veterinarian’s office. CBD oil can also provide noticeable relief for dogs who have noise sensitivities such as fireworks and thunderstorms.”

Amanda Howland, co-founder and CTO of ElleVet Sciences in Portland, Maine, explains further. “Pain and anxiety are so interrelated in dogs that we wanted to have both a profound anti-anxiety effect and an extremely effective pain management effect, to help the pet feel better in every way.”

Angie Krause, DVM, with Boulder Holistic Vet in Boulder, Colorado, says in her experience CBD is consistently effective for treating dogs with mild to moderate anxiety. “For severe generalized anxiety, I have more success with drugs like Prozac,” she adds.

So how does it work? It’s based on science; the same science that explains how CBD works with man and man’s best friend, who have some biology in common. That’s because all mammals have an endocannabinoid system (ECS.)

Jillian Dutson, marketing and advertising manager with Pet Releaf, based in Littleton, Colorado, explains. “When your dog consumes CBD, his ECS is activated. The ECS works as a two-way communication system with various systems in the body such as the immune, nervous and digestive systems just to name a few. This two-way communication allows these parts of the body to speak to one another to help them function at optimal levels of health.”

And there’s more to it: “Although further studies are needed, initial findings show that CBD binds to a number of endocannabinoid receptors,” says Lauren Brychell, marketing coordinator for a CBD company in Charlotte, North Carolina. “These receptors regulate everything from inflammation to pain perception, and CBD has shown the ability to potentially raise dopamine levels and improve mood while reducing symptoms of anxiety.”

Speaking of studies, “Most of the research done on cannabidiol, indeed cannabis writ large, has taken place outside of veterinary research, which is not uncommon, as vet research typically lags behind human medicine,” Joey says.

More benefits and dosage

There are many common uses for CBD oil in dogs, other than anxiety. “I use CBD for dogs with seizures, arthritis, cancer, pain, chronic inflammation, and allergies,” Dr. Krause says.

Joey, too, cites success in using CBD for the Big C. It can “Shrink tumors in several types of cancer both because it appears to have antitumorigenic properties of its own and because it appears to enhance the effectiveness of some chemotherapy agents.”

CBD oil has also been used to treat the following ailments:

Sleep issues
Vomiting and nausea
Muscle spasms
Glaucoma
Digestive issues and appetite loss
Skin conditions

As with any supplement or medication, getting the correct dose is crucial. Many of the manufacturers state dosing suggestions should be determined based on each dog’s individual stats and condition. Some suggest generic guidelines as a starting point: 1 mg per 10 pounds of body weight twice a day; Dr. Krause recommends 0.5 mg/kg of CBD twice daily for anxiety.

Of course, always get input from your dog’s vet on any treatment. “First, many symptoms that CBD may help with can be an indication of a deeper and more serious medical problem that needs to be treated,” Joey says. “Second, CBD oil can interfere with the metabolization of other drugs (in a similar way that grapefruit does). Third, the answer to dosing questions is dependent on what condition is being addressed.”

And don’t assume you and Fido are in for a quick fix. “While some dog owners may notice an immediate difference in their pet, we suggest waiting two to three weeks to see the full effects,” Lauren says.

Giving to your dog

Whatever the dosage, you have a couple of options on how to administer CBD oil: topically or ingested. But which is better?

“The answer ultimately depends on the individual dog,” Annie says. “More commonly, topical application can provide a more localized sense of relief, such as pain relief in the hips and legs. Ingesting can provide a broader sense of relief, such as separation anxiety relief.”

Angela Ardolino, founder, and CEO of CBD Dog Health in Tampa, Florida, lists other conditions that lend themselves to direct applications. “It has incredible benefits for skin issues, including allergies, hot spots, bug bites, skin tumors, warts, and cysts when applied topically,” she says.

If you do decide to go the oral route you have more choices here, too. According to Angela, “The best way to administer CBD is to lift the dog’s lip and administer it right onto the gums (it is absorbed through capillaries in the gums).” Putting it under the tongue is also common. CBD oil can be mixed in with your dog’s food or treats made with CBD oil.

It may come down to what your dog — and wallet — prefer. “The oils and treats that I use in the practice have the same hemp extract in both,” Dr. Krause says. “The oil is more cost-effective.”

Sharing the pros and cons

If you have other pets at home with similar conditions, they may also benefit from the same product your dog uses — with different dosages, of course. “There is a big difference in dosing for dogs and cats,” Amanda says. “Cats are not small dogs! The half-life in cats is extremely short, meaning they metabolize it very quickly. We have very specific dosing for dogs and for cats based on science.”

According to Colette Florido, founder, and president of CR Pets Thrive in St. Petersburg, Florida, says, “A high-quality CBD product will work equally well for both cats and dogs. The main difference you’ll find between options for cats and dogs is what other flavors are combined with the CBD, knowing that each pet has their preferences.”

Some CBD products for cats come in catnip or fish flavors, while beef or peanut butter flavors are used for dogs.

The most important part about sharing CBD oil is to never share products made for humans with your dog or any other pets. “It is vital to make sure that the oil you are buying is not just a human product with a paw print on the label,” Angela says. “Human products may contain artificial flavoring, like xylitol, that is toxic to dogs.”

Joey gave a flavor-specific example of toxicity. “Wintergreen oil, which is perfectly fine for people and probably won’t bother a dog, is potentially toxic to cats. It is commonly found in CBD products made for people.”

There is much more research to be done on using CBD oil for your dog but hopefully, you now know more about how it works and how it might help. And just to confirm: CBD oil won’t give your dog the munchies. If your dog is craving Scooby snacks, it has nothing to do with a supplement.

Reprinted from an article by Elizabeth Anderson Lopez

What Is Full-Spectrum Hemp Oil and Why is it Important?

What is Full-Spectrum Hemp Oil and Why is it Important?

Full-spectrum hemp oil refers to when the pure oil extracted from hemp contains all the same cannabinoids and compounds found in the original hemp plant. Unlike isolated or synthetic cannabinoids, full-spectrum hemp oil contains an array of cannabinoids, as well as many essential vitamins and minerals, fatty acids, protein, chlorophyll, fiber, flavonoids, and terpenes.

Cannabinoids

Full-spectrum hemp oil contains dozens of cannabinoids. The most abundant cannabinoid found in hemp oil is cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound shown to have many benefits in studies. CBD makes up over 90% of the cannabinoid content in full-spectrum hemp oil.

Hemp oil also contains cannabinoid cannabidiolic acid (CBDa). In live hemp, CBDa is more abundant than CBD. Often times hemp oil will undergo a heating process called decarboxylation, which changes CBDa into CBD and offers those seeking the highest levels of CBD a more ideal product.

Other more major cannabinoids found in full-spectrum include cannabigerol (CBG), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and cannabinol (CBN). You can learn more about these cannabinoids and what studies have so far discovered about their potential therapeutic benefits here.

Vitamins and Minerals

Extracted full-spectrum hemp oil also contains a wide list of naturally occurring vitamins and minerals. Present are vitamins A, C, and E., and well as B complex vitamins like riboflavin, thiamine, and niacin. Hemp oil is also a source of vitamins that are commonly not sufficiently present in many diets, including beta-carotene.

Minerals are essential for a variety of bodily functions, nerve function, and metabolic processes. They’re also important for building strong bones and the health of our blood, skin, and hair. Full-spectrum hemp oil contains minerals like magnesium, zinc, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, and iron.

Essential Fats and Protein

Hemp oil is a healthy source of protein, which is instrumental in building and repairing tissues. Health officials recommend refraining from regularly eating red meat because it’s higher in saturated fat, but hemp oil is a heart-healthy source of all 20 amino acids, including the nine essential amino acids that must be provided through the diet.

Essential fatty acids are necessary for maintaining heart and cardiovascular health. The two primary essential fatty acids — Omega 3 and Omega 6 — are ideally consumed at a ratio of around 3:1. Unfortunately, in the typical American diet, that ratio is close to 25:1. Full-spectrum hemp oil offers the two essential fatty acids in the optimal 3:1 ratio.

Why is Full-Spectrum Hemp Oil Important?

The health benefits of full-spectrum hemp go beyond it being a source of CBD. The array of cannabinoids and other natural constituents found in full-spectrum hemp oil work have been shown in studies to work together in what’s referred to as the “entourage effect.” Together, these compounds work harmoniously to magnify their therapeutic properties. The complex mix of cannabinoids, essential nutrients, protein, and healthy fats work synergistically to encourage homeostasis and balance in our health.

Republished from an article in ECHO

4 Differences Between CBD and THC

4 Differences Between CBD and THC

Of the more than 100 different cannabinoids so far identified in cannabis plants like hemp, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are the most abundant and best understood. Cannabinoids are a class of compounds unique to cannabis. Because they mimic the body’s own endocannabinoids, they can interact with our endocannabinoid system and alter neurotransmitter release in the brain.

Because of the lingering stigma around cannabis, a common misconception is that THC is the “bad” cannabinoid and CBD is the “good” cannabinoid. Scientists have found both to have therapeutic properties, and there’s evidence that they’re able to work synergistically with each other and the other constituents found in cannabis to maximize their natural effects.

Still, there are distinct differences between the two. Here we take a look at the four major differences:

1. THC Can Cause a High, CBD Cannot

For consumers of cannabinoids, one of the key differences between THC and CBD is whether they cause a high.

THC is psychoactive. It is the cannabinoid that’s responsible for eliciting the euphoric effect when users consume medical marijuana.

CBD is non-psychoactive. No matter how much is consumed, CBD cannot cause a high. In fact, CBD suppresses the psychoactive properties of THC.

2. THC Dominates Marijuana, CBD Dominates Hemp

While THC and CBD are each found in various concentrations in both types of cannabis plants — hemp and marijuana – THC is most plentiful in marijuana and CBD is present in higher quantities in hemp.

THC dominates marijuana’s chemical makeup. In general, marijuana plants are carefully cultivated with the intent of maximizing their concentration of THC.

Hemp’s chemical makeup, however, is dominated by CBD. Hemp is naturally abundant in CBD and contains only trace amounts of THC (no more than 0.3%), well below the psychoactive threshold.

3. THC is Prohibited Under Federal Law, CBD Is Not

In the United States, THC and marijuana are specifically listed as controlled substances under the Controlled Substances Act and therefore prohibited. Twenty-nine states and the District of Columbia, however, have passed their own laws permitting the use of medical marijuana containing THC if a licensed physician recommends it. Eight of those states and the District of Columbia have gone a step further and passed laws permitting marijuana with THC for personal use.

CBD is not specifically listed in the Controlled Substances Act. This means that the cannabinoid is federally legal, provided that it’s derived from hemp and not marijuana. CBD oil made from marijuana is prohibited federally, but CBD hemp oil products are legal under federal law. Some states have passed their own policies regulating CBD or hemp, but more often than not, hemp-derived CBD is legally accessible in the U.S.

4. THC Activates Cannabinoid Receptors, CBD Does Not

All cannabinoids, including plant-derived compounds like THC and CBD, interact with the endocannabinoid system through its two receptors – CB₁ and CB₂. The endocannabinoid system regulates the body’s homeostasis, or general state of balance, impacting many of our functions like pain, mood, sleep, and appetite.

THC is considered an agonist of the endocannabinoid system’s CB₁ and CB₂ receptors because it binds with and activates them.

CBD is considered an indirect antagonist of cannabinoid agonists. This means that it blocks the two receptors, thereby suppressing the CB₁ and CB₂ activating qualities of cannabinoids like THC.

It’s through these interactions that the two cannabinoids are able to trigger chemical responses and augment the endocannabinoid system as it works to keep our systems in balance.

Republished from an article in ECHO

CBD and Sleep

CBD and SLEEP

Studies have shown that as many as 60 percent of CBD users cite insomnia as the main reason they take CBD, and other studies have cited CBD’s ability to aid with stress and anxiety that can exacerbate sleep issues. But does CBD really make you sleepy?

The Endocannabinoid System

There is still some debate over whether CBD actually induces sleep or drowsiness. We do know that CBD interacts with our endocannabinoid system to help our bodies achieve homeostasis or balance. Homeostasis can lead to less stress and a feeling of overall relaxation and well-being, which could, in turn, improve sleep quality. The endocannabinoid system is a cellular-signaling network that plays a role in our mood, pain, appetite, and almost every physiological process in the body. Researchers are still learning more about the calming effects of CBD, but know that CBD interacts with many different brain chemicals and receptors, and these interactions influence a variety of functions, including sleep.

CBD and Sleep Research

Research on CBD and sleep is currently somewhat inconclusive. In a 2013 study in the Journal of Psychopharmacology, scientists found that mice given smaller amounts of CBD became more active, but higher doses did make the mice drowsy. A much earlier study published in 1981 found that subjects who received CBD slept longer and more deeply with fewer interruptions.

However, a 2016 study found that CBD activates neurons in the hypothalamus, which actually promotes alertness, meaning CBD could actually make you feel more focused and awake. A 2018 study found that CBD did not alter the sleep patterns of individuals with already healthy sleep cycles. A 2017 review of all literature related to CBD and sleep concluded that CBD does have potential as a treatment for REM sleep behavior disorder and excessive daytime sleepiness.

Should I Try CBD for Insomnia? In conclusion, CBD may help with many of the underlying causes of insomnia or other sleep issues, and for many, may provide effective relief. More research is needed to find out exactly why so many find CBD effective for sleep issues, and ultimately, each person’s experience with CBD is unique.

Republished from an article in ECHO