Regardless of how much you know about CBD, one thing’s for certain: this microscopic molecule is generating some serious buzz. While the scientific community is hard at work learning everything they can about CBD, a surprising number of Americans have already tried it– about 64 million, to be exact.
As our understanding of CBD continues to grow and expand, so does the long list of reasons why CBD might be a great addition to nearly any adult’s well-being. If you’ve been on the hunt for an all-natural, plant-based product to integrate into your everyday routine, CBD might be what you’re looking for.
We’re breaking down everything you need to know about how CBD works, giving you the information you need to make the right choice for you.
What is CBD?
Before we can talk about how CBD works, it’s important to understand exactly what it is. CBD is the shorthand name for cannabidiol, a molecule that naturally occurs in the flowers of plants belonging to the Cannabis genus.
CBD is one of more than 120 different cannabinoids, a specific category of molecules unique to Cannabis plants. The Cannabis genus is a large and varied group that includes such well-known plants as marijuana and hemp, with each species (and its strains) containing varying ratios of cannabinoids.
Each type of cannabinoid possesses its own unique attributes, many of which are still the subject of many scientific studies. CBD is one of the most prevalent cannabinoids found in the Cannabis genus, and its potential for a versatile range of applications has earned it plenty of attention from researchers and everyday people alike.
Add that to the recent statement from the World Health Organization that CBD doesn’t demonstrate any potential for abuse or addiction. It is easy to understand why this plant-sourced molecule has such an exciting future ahead.
CBD Receptors
Researchers are still studying the specifics of how CBD works on a molecular level, but scientists have been able to share some of what they’ve learned so far.
At the core of our current understanding of CBD is the endocannabinoid system, which is a complex system within the human body responsible for regulating many biological processes and maintaining internal balance in various ways.
This system is primarily made up of naturally-produced endocannabinoids and the receptors they are designed to interact with, and your general well-being depends on all parts functioning as they should. As it turns out, plant-sourced
cannabinoids have demonstrated the capacity to support certain aspects of the endocannabinoid system, leading researchers to wonder if molecules like CBD could be the key to unlocking new treatment options and more.
Current scientific literature has shown that CBD has more than 65 different molecular targets within the brain and body, making it impressively versatile.
This means that there’s not just one CBD mechanism of action – in fact, it’s possible that CBD could be useful in an incredible myriad of ways. Here are a few things that researchers have learned about how CBD may function in the human body:
Serotonin Receptors
When scientist Jose Alexandre Crippa and his research team at the University of San Paulo in Brazil and King’s College in London set out to explore the effects of CBD, serotonin receptors emerged as a major area of interest.
They discovered that at certain concentration levels, CBD was able to activate the 5-HT1A serotonin receptor in the brain in a way that decreased symptoms of anxiety. This specific receptor is also involved in many other processes, including addiction, sleep, pain, and appetite.
Vanilloid Receptors
Researchers have also discovered that CBD may be able to provide relief from pain and inflammation, through its direct interactions with TRPV1 receptors (also known as vanilloid receptors).
Because CBD binds with these receptors, it may influence the perception of pain and thus act as an effective pain reliever.
GPR55 Receptors
GPR55 is a receptor in the brain that scientists still want to learn more about. Nevertheless, they do know that, when activated, it may encourage the growth of cancerous cells as well as the progression of osteoporosis.
Interestingly, the University of Aberdeen scientist, Ruth Ross, found that CBD may serve to deactivate the GPR55 receptor, which could slow the production of cancer cells and help prevent the worsening of osteoporosis-related bone reabsorption.
While researchers are still working to understand how CBD may help combat debilitating conditions, the studies that have been completed thus far are giving much hope to many people in need.
Does CBD Get You “High”?
Understanding how CBD works is key in realizing that, while CBD does share some common characteristics with other cannabinoids, there are also plenty of differences as well.
Because of the way that CBD interacts with your brain and body, it does not produce the feeling of being “high.” Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the cannabinoid most commonly associated with marijuana, CBD generally doesn’t have intoxicating effects.
Is CBD Right for Me?
One of the most common questions about CBD we receive from customers is, “Will CBD work for me?” Scientists are still delving into the specific ways CBD may be able to help people, and there’s considerable research aimed at developing a clearer understanding of the complex world of cannabinoids.
Even conducting a cursory search for CBD studies results in a massive collection of research, with focus areas including everything from epilepsy and insomnia to anxiety and cancer – it’s clear that there’s still so much to learn.
As we continue to study CBD, the best way to know if it’s right for you is to give it a try. Consider sampling a variety of CBD products to find one that you enjoy.
Be open to taking a “trial and error” approach when it comes to determining preferred serving, concentration, and other factors. And of course, anytime you add a new product to your daily routine, consulting with your doctor is a good idea.
Find Industry-Best CBD Products from VaporFi
Finding CBD for sale online has never been easier, especially with the rapidly growing industry welcoming new retailers every day. But before you hand over your hard-earned money and hope for the best, it’s important to make sure you’re shopping with a CBD retailer you can trust.
Don’t waste your money and time on poorly-formulated products with next to no CBD content, and save yourself the hassle of dealing with companies who are only interested in your cash, not your well-being.
VaporFi partners with the top CBD brands in the industry to offer our customers an expertly-curated selection of premium CBD vape juice, oils, edibles, topicals, and so much more. Here, you can explore an extensive range of CBD product types, making it simple to find an option that suits your needs, preferences, and lifestyle.
No matter which of the many types of CBD products you’re interested in, you can find exceptional choices from VaporFi. Explore our expanding selection of CBD products and discover how CBD can contribute to your everyday life today.
