The Ultimate Guide to CBD
The explosion of interest in CBD in the past decade is an exciting development in the health and wellness space. As we look for ways to manage stress, deal with chronic pain, and ensure great sleep for packed days, CBD is one of the most promising tools in each of these realms. Overall, users find CBD as a great way to manage and restore functioning in their daily lives without the negative side effects associated with other tools such as grogginess or even addiction. So what is CBD, and how can those seeking peak performance utilize this in their everyday lives? Here we venture to showcase what CBD is, and how it can make all the difference in living life optimally.
What is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is 1 of over 100 natural compounds found within the cannabis sativa plant. CBD is one of the most prevalent cannabinoids, or compounds, in the industrial hemp plant. As a cannabinoid, CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system which controls things such as mood, appetite, and energy. As a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, CBD mainly functions to prevent the breakdown of the endocannabinoid system.
CBD and THC are the most popular cannabinoids to date. Researchers study CBD for its health benefits due to the fact that it does not have the same ‘high’ feeling associated with THC. This property makes CBD a promising tool, with researchers conducting studies on how it can possibly help certain medical conditions. Scientists continue to research these benefits.
How do we use CBD?
In today’s market, CBD comes in many different forms. There are 4 main ways to consume CBD: sublingual (drops under the tongue), inhalation, transdermal (through the skin), and through digestion. A tool known as bioavailability measures how effective a certain ingredient is in entering the bloodstream. This tool shows us that the highest proportion of CBD entering the bloodstream comes through inhalation, with sublingual methods being the next best way.
While vaping may be the best bioavailability, there are potential effects that could lead to lung damage. In order to avoid this, the next best format is sublingual, or drops used under the tongue. Digestibles are also a possibility, however, they enter the bloodstream at a lesser rate, making it less viable or effective in the body.
What are the different types of CBD?
There are several different types of CBD to look out for if trying to use the compound. Each different type is based on its refinement process from the cannabis plant.
CBD Isolate: This form is crystalline solid CBD powder - it contains no other compounds. This is the best form of CBD for accurate dosing and avoiding THC. This form is best if you absolutely must avoid THC.
Full Spectrum CBD: This form contains every cannabinoid in the hemp plant, meaning it has not gone through any additional refinement once extracted. Full Spectrum CBD contains a range of terpenes and cannabinoids, including THC. Preliminary research indicates that this may be most effective as the body responds positively to CBD with select other compounds.
Broad Spectrum CBD: Similar to Full Spectrum CBD, this form goes through a slightly more rigorous refinement process. This form extracts cannabinoids such as THC, leaving a more refined formula than Full Spectrum CBD.
What are the benefits of CBD?
As a non-psychoactive compound, CBD is utilized for many different health benefits. Currently, there is one prescription drug for the treatment of seizures that helps those with epilepsy. As scientists research these possibilities, there are ways CBD can help manage parts of daily life.
Stress Relief: One of the primary benefits of CBD is its stress management capability. According to Harvard Medical School, CBD targets the central nervous system, allowing the body to calm down when it needs help. The cannabinoid interacts with the endocannabinoid system to return your body to homeostasis, naturally restoring its balance to help you manage stress.
Sleep Aid: Another benefit of CBD is its ability to act as a sleep aid. Sleep is one of the most important bodily functions; acting as a time of rest and recovery. Anyone who has trouble sleeping knows how frustrating this is, which is why CBD can be a critical tool. For help sleeping when needed the most, VRB Lab’s Sleep Blend is a mix of CBD with other ingredients such as melatonin and valerian, helping to support restful sleep.
Pain Management: A final benefit of CBD is its ability to manage pain. In a research study published in the National Library of Medicine, scientists found a link to CBD and lowering the effects of arthritis due to targeting inflammation. This allows chronic pain due to inflammation to become more manageable. It can also help prevent inflammation from occurring, aiding in workout routines that may otherwise aggravate the body.
Effects of CBD
Scientists are still exploring the range of the effects of CBD, however overall it is not known to cause issues with users. CBD does not interact negatively with other compounds, and even is in some cases used to help with addiction to other prescription substances. CBD is non-addictive, which means it is a helpful tool with minimal risk of forming unhealthy habits. As with all new substances, it is important to see how the body reacts to introducing a new compound into the system. In certain cases, users report side effects such as loss of appetite or nausea. It is important to see how your body responds.
Bottom Line
As more research begins to unlock the full benefits of CBD, VRB Labs offers both Full-Spectrum and CBD Isolate options to promote sleep, recovery, and renewal. As a veteran-owned company, we know what it means to put our bodies on the line and how important it is to find effective and natural solutions to keep us performing at our best.. When looking for a product to ensure your success, consider VRB Labs as a partner in your wellness journey.
