CBD, or Cannabidiol, is part of a family of biologically-active substances called phytocannabinoids, including THC, CBN, CBG and many others, all of which are manufactured within the cells of Cannabis sativa (Hemp).
Will CBD get me high?
No, although many report feeling sleepy or relaxed after taking it, especially the first time.
Is CBD psychoactive?
Psychoactive means having an effect on the brain or nervous system. CBD crosses the Blood Brain Barrier and has effects on many aspects of human neurophysiology. This is why CBD works to treat pain, epilepsy, anxiety, insomnia, etc. There are many sources that claim that CBD is “not psychoactive”, however it is more accurate to describe it as non-intoxicating, or non-psychotropic. CBD does not elicit euphoria, time dilation or the other effects associated with the “high” of THC.
How long will the effects of CBD last?
The discernible effects of CBD for pain or nausea may be only for a few hours, however the elimination half-life of CBD is long– for a moderate dose between 10- 30 hours , for a very large dose, around 51-60 hours. This makes it a good candidate to use as an anti inflammatory as consistent or frequent dosing is not required.
How is CBD broken down?
CBD is broken down in the liver by the Cytochrome P450 family of enzymes, like alcohol and most medications. Because it can compete for these resources, it has the potential to cause interactions with cardiac, psychiatric, renal, and other medications, especially at high doses.
Is CBD safe?
CBD is non-toxic and well tolerated even at exceedingly high doses. With the exception of possible interactions with medications, CBD is a very safe substance. One study pushed the boundaries of megadoses and gave the patients up to 6000mg a day. Effects reported were deemed to be mild to moderate, and mostly consisted of sleepiness and the occasional headache.
What does CBD do to the body?
CBD has affinity for a number of receptor families, in varied physiological systems, including the endocannabinoid system, where it exerts some of its anti inflammatory effects, and the serotonin system, where it affects pain and anxiety. Additional effects such as anti-cancer, and multiple anti inflammatory pathways are regulated by G-protein and Vanilloid receptor interactions.
Stay tuned for Part 2, Published next week, where we answer questions such as:
Is CBD Safe for Pets?
Where is it legal?
What’s the difference between full-spectrum and isolate?
Have another question for us to consider? Respond in the comments!