What is CBD?
The cannabis plant has a naturally occurring chemical compound called CBD. CBD works in a similar way that THC works in that it binds with the CB1 and CB2 receptors found in the endocannabinoid system to create a physiological reaction. CBD was first isolated in 1940 while THC was isolated in 1964 by cannabis scientist Raphael Mechoulam. The biggest difference between CBD and THC is that CBD is non-psychotropic while THC is. This means that THC is the only compound that is expected to elicit a “high”. However, some people will use CBD as medication or combine THC and CBD together to feel more pronounced effects.
What are the effects of CBD?
Although research suggests that only THC will get you “high”, this is not always the case. People react differently to CBD from case to case. CBD is not biologically psychoactive but it has been noted that it gives off feelings of relaxation and calm without being outright sedating. Also, the method in which you take your CBD (whether it be eating, applying topically or smoking) may affect the effects. You never know how your body will react to a new supplement so it is advised to go slow and test all the options.
CBD as medication
Although CBD is federally legal, the FDA has not yet regulated it. Therefore, when purchasing a CBD product over the counter, you might end up with a product that is less potent than advertised. The only FDA approved CBD medication as of 2019 is “Epidiolex”, a medicine used to treat certain types of epilepsy. Due to the lack of scientific research, it is hard to say what the real benefits of CBD are or how to properly dose it. CBD will not fix everything but it is worth trying out.
Using CBD and THC together
CBD is federally legal but THC is not. So some states are beginning to open CBD shops or sell CBD products at gas stations or beauty stores as long as it contains less than 0.3% THC. Arguably, CBD can be more effective with the presence of some THC due to the entourage effect. It may be beneficial to experiment with products that have a 1:1 or 2:1 CBD/THC blend if you are looking to try something that has the medicinal properties of CBD but also a little bit of the fun, euphoric high from THC.
Ready to try some CBD yourself?
Smoking: Smoking CBD is a good option if you’re wanting to feel the effects immediately. After smoking or vaping CBD, you could feel the effect as quickly as within 10 minutes. Unlike edibles, the effects won’t last very long.
Edibles: Eating CBD is a good option for someone who is looking for a prolonged experience. It may take longer to feel the effects of CBD after eating (up to 2 hours).
Topicals: If you don’t want to smoke or eat your CBD, there are topical options including balms, lotions or soap for localized relief.
Click here to read our article on using cannabis and working out.
Products listed are available at Cinder locations: Cinder North, 6010 N Division St, Spokane, Wa 99208; Cinder Downtown, 927 W 2nd Ave, Spokane, WA 99201; and Cinder Valley, 1421 N Mullen Rd B, Spokane Valley, Wa 99206
This product has intoxicating effects and may be habit-forming. Which is to say, cannabis can impair concentration, coordination, and judgment. Therefore, do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of this drug. Furthermore, there may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. For use only by adults twenty-one and older. To sum up, keep out of the reach of children.