A = Ask Us!
We know that there is a ton of “hempful” (see what we did there?) information on the internet today about cannabis. One of the most common questions we get is, “what makes them different?” And, “I just don’t know what all these words mean.” Cannabis requires a whole new dictionary for sure. We’re here to help with the ABC’s of CBD!
B, C & D =CBD
We know it’s a “C”, but it’s where the conversation begins. We’ll do better with our alphabetization later. We promise. Your body naturally mimics cannabidiol (CBD), a Phyto cannabinoid found in cannabis plants. It is a chemical that facilitates the Endocannabinoid system (don’t worry, we will cover this term) in its job. While your body does produce some on its own, supplementing your body with CBD from other sources (like the hemp plant) better enables your Endocannabinoid system to do its job. CBD is also fully legal on a federal level in the United States, unlike its cousin, THC.
B=Broad Spectrum
Similar to a Full Spectrum CBD (reference below), Broad Spectrum contains all of the Cannabinoids, Terpenes, and Flavonoids, but does not contain any of the THC. It is a good choice for people who are unable to take Full Spectrum CBD due to drug testing, but still want the full benefits of the cannabis plant.
C=Cannabis Sativa
This is one species of the Cannabis plant. Cannabis Sativa contains all cannabinoids found in Cannabis Indica and is known for its mellow or cerebral psychoactive effects. It’s widely cultivated for industrial-scale production of fiber and cannabinoids like CBD.
C=Cannabis Indica
C=Certificate of Analysis (COA)
A Certificate of Analysis proves that a reliable third party has tested your CBD and published all details about its chemical contents. It is always wise to ask to see these results in order to verify if your batch is free of pesticides, chemicals or toxins. Most companies freely offer these COAs on their websites, and you can search for your test results by looking at the batch number printed on the side of your product label.
D=Decarboxylated
D=Dose
We do not diagnose, prescribe or treat at Green Wellness Life.
E=Endocannabinoid system
The endocannabinoid system regulates cognitive processes, mood, pain sensation, appetite, and memory throughout your body’s nervous system. This system also uses CBD as the primary chemical for its function, which is to keep your body in homeostasis. While these discoveries are exciting, what’s even more intriguing is that researchers have only scratched the surface of understanding this system, which emerged in the last forty years.
E=Entourage Effect
Referring to the synergistic interplay of cannabinoids and terpenes within a Full Spectrum or Broad Spectrum product, the Entourage Effect is a recently understood phenomena. When studied, the Entourage Effect appears to be the complementary effects of multiple chemicals found within cannabis on the body. When taking an isolate (definition below) there is not an Entourage Effect as you are only taking one compound, rather than a groups of them. So the short version is that the compounds, like the Turtles song from the 1960’s, are “happy together.”
F=Flavonoids
Flavonoids are additional chemicals found within plants that offer beneficial effects. Flavonoids, specifically, are compounds in plants which give plants their pigmentation (color), filter out UV rays, attract pollinators, and prevent plant diseases. Like Terpenes (see below), they can have such benefits as helping to stem inflammation, acting as antioxidants, and are anti-bacterial.
F=Full Spectrum
This term is often found on CBD products, but not a lot of people know what it means. It refers to the contents of a CBD product. Specifically, a “Full Spectrum” CBD product will contain all of the chemicals and natural elements of the cannabis plant. Within Full Spectrum products one can find CBD, THC, Terpenes, and other natural plant elements. So, everything growing in that plant in the ground makes it into the bottle. While great for inducing the Entourage Effect, THC can pose issues for individuals facing drug tests, and some plant compounds may also trigger allergies. It’s always best to consult with us and a doctor before deciding which CBD product best suits your needs
I=Isolate
T= Terpenes
Like CBD, terpenes are found in various plants and provide health benefits when used. They do not occur naturally within the human body, but are found within the oils and cells of plants. One example of a Terpene is what is called Pinene. Found in pine needles, citrus peels, and cannabis, this terpene offers benefits like asthma relief (by naturally opening airways), reducing inflammation, and antibacterial properties. Terpenes are often combined with CBD in tinctures for added benefits.
T=THC
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol), like CBD, is a Phyto cannabinoid (definition above as part of CBD explanation). These are naturally occurring chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant.. However, unlike CBD, THC is not created within the human body. It also has a mind-altering effect when used that is typically known as the “high” that one receives when they consume THC in high volume. Unlike CBD, THC is a scheduled drug and is illegal in most U.S. states and is fully illegal federally. The THC in hemp is legal as it contains 0.3% or less, which is too low to cause psychoactive effects.
A-Z= ALL Terms
Now that you grasp key CBD terms, you’re ready to understand how our products can enhance your well-being. While this list isn’t exhaustive, feel free to contact us via phone, email, or social media with any questions. We’re here to help!
By Op-Ed Blogger Quinton Charles