What do you picture when you hear “cannabis chocolate”? Go ahead and giggle – or shudder at the thought – then take that image and let it go. Times are changing, and the mainstream wellness world is benefiting from cannabis in amazing ways even the straightest-edged among us can get in on.
Products containing CBD, a cannabis derivative, are now popping up everywhere with science-backed promises of natural healing: From oil that super-charges immunity to raw chocolates that squelch stress and anxiety. If it sounds too good to be true, or too sketchy to be trusted, you’re not the first to think it. There are a lot of misconceptions about CBD, but we’re here to help clear the air with a few facts from Kendra Mark, CEO of 2Rise Naturals, and a breakdown of three (non-psychoactive) products we think are worth exploring…
We currently have a national fad happening around cannabinoids like CBD. While extremely effective for a myriad of health issues, we are still only in the infancy stages of understanding the full brilliance of the hemp and cannabis plants. Speculation that a broad spectrum extract containing more of the essential oils, terpenes, omega fatty acids, and chlorophyll seems to be the future of the industry: A future where producers allow the plant to determine its healing potential rather than a human.
While many companies are forging ahead with their decision to use the term “CBD” on their products, there remains legal debate whether this is a safe choice moving forward. CBD is still considered a Schedule 1 drug according to the DEA, yet it is legal on the state level in all 50 states. Some companies are making the decision to move forward in the industry by removing the term “CBD” from their products and marketing and using a term similar to “hemp oil or hemp extract”. These products are essentially the same type of product as the ones that are being called “CBD”. In fact, they are more accurately named because a hemp extract containing CBD is going to have other cannabinoids and plant material present in the formula. Here are a few other facts you should know…
CBD will not get you high.CBD can actually reduce undesired psychoactive effects from consuming THC: Biochemists refer to CBD(cannabidiol) as a negative modulator for THC. Meaning, CBD actually negates some of the psychoactive effects of THC. Consuming CBD actually blocks some of your brain’s receptor sites that interact with cannabinoids, meaning that THC will begin to have a dramatically decreased effect on them. Additionally, a 2011 review published in Current Drug Safety concludes that CBD “does not interfere with several psychomotor and psychological functions.” The authors add that several studies suggest that CBD is “well tolerated and safe” even at high doses.
Your body already loves it. Cannabinoids are naturally occurring chemical compounds found in plants like echinacea, flax, and of course, hemp. However, plants aren’t the only source of these wonderful phytonutrients. Cannabinoids also exist naturally in the human body, within the Endocannabinoid system- a system which regulates proper functioning of your cells, and so much more. Cannabinoids can even be found in breast milk!
CBD is adaptive. CBD will effect each individual differently based upon their level of inflammation in the body, ability to produce naturally occurring cannabinoids, and absorption rate. If someone is in acute or chronic pain, they will require more than someone who is generally healthy. The same guideline must be applied across the board. Self-experimentation and intuitive judgement is required to know what amount of CBD is necessary for any individual. A good starting place is 10-15mg of active ingredients and increase or decrease as needed.
The benefits build. Your body will build up a storage of CBD in the body, which is unlike most chemicals. Unlike alcohol, which is usually absent from the blood stream and body within 24-48 hours after ingestion, CBD is fat soluble and may stay bound to the cells of the body for weeks.
2Rise Naturals Calm Body Drops | Scientists believe cannabinoids work synergistically to support the human body through the endocannabinoid system. The hemp extract used in the Calm Body Drops is a full spectrum cannabinoid extract, specifically formulated with potent botanicals to calm the body and soothe the senses, naturally. LEARN MORE
Sakara Life CBD Chocolates | This raw, organic dark chocolate is made with pure cannabidiol oil to help you relax and find your bliss. Unlike THC, which acts on the brain’s CB1 pathway to produce a high, CBD is completely non-psychoactive. However, studies show it has anti-inflammatory powers, making it an effective natural therapy for chronic pain and some auto-immune disorders. It’s also known to reduce stress, relieve anxiety and induce a subtle state of tranquility, relaxation and bliss. LEARN MORE
Khus + Khus Sen Face Serum | The star of this product is the CBD Oil – one of the best ingredients for skincare with more than 500 powerful compounds that lend skin strong antioxidant protection and anti-aging benefits. The formula features European eco-certified CBD Oil (derived from marijuana plant), which provides the ultimate in cellular healing by assisting the basal cell life cycle, promoting cell turnover, helping to discard old cells and grow healthy new ones. LEARN MORE
The Chalkboard Mag and its materials are not intended to treat, diagnose, cure or prevent any disease. All material on The Chalkboard Mag is provided for educational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition, and before undertaking any diet, exercise or other health related program.
