CBD (cannabidiol) is one of more than a hundred “phytocannabinoids" naturally occurring in the cannabis plant. One of the main ways these cannabinoids affects us is by imitating the effects of the compounds in our bodies called “endogenous cannabinoids” which are similar to the compounds found in the cannabis plant. These "endocannabinoids” are part of a regulatory system called the "Endocannabinoid System." The discovery of the cannabinoids and the Endocannbinoid System has greatly impacted the understanding of natural wellness and homeostatis.
HEMP
Since the Neolithic Period, cannabis has been a beneficial crop providing fiber for ropes and cloth, seeds for nutrition, and roots, leaves and flowers for ritual and healing. Through education we have learned that cannabis plants have different species, which allows the plants to develop differing cannabinoids. Cannabis sativa species is known as "hemp" because it usually has a lower THC content (THC is an intoxicating compound) and higher amounts of the non-intoxicating cannabinoid, CBD. Cannabis indica is generally known as "marijuana" since the THC compound is highly developed in that species.
Hemp plants include plants grown for fiber and plants grown for seed oil, which do not contain beneficial cannabinoids. Additionally, some hemp strains produce flowers with high amounts of cannabinoids that can be extracted and isolated, providing us with CBD.
Terps
Terpenes give plants a specific aroma which encompasses a variety therapeutic traits that promote wellness and relaxation. The development of terpenes in cannabis begins for purposes such as to repel predators and lure pollinators (this is why it's a natural pesticide and desirable for honeybees). There are over 100 different terpenes that have been identified in the cannabis plant, and the presence of any given terpene creates an "Entourage Effect," enabling cannabinoids, like CBD, to have a stronger affect throughout the body.
Hemp isn't the only plant that contains terpenes!
LIMONENE
A-PINENE
MYRCENE
LINALOOL
BETA
CARYOPHYLLENE
Found in citrus.
Promotes happiness and eases acid reflux.
Found in pine needles. Aids memory and increasing airflow through your lungs.
Found in hops. Contributes to the sedative effect of strong indicas. Promotes sleep.
Found in lavender. The aromas are relaxing and stabalizing.
Found in black pepper.
Safegaurds cells lining the digestive tract.
If you're interested in learning more about CBD and hemp feel free to give us a shout anytime!