Cannabidiol is one of the world’s most popular drugs, thanks to increasing evidence regarding its medicinal properties. The cannabis market has grown exponentially owing to claims cannabidiol is Nature’s gift to solving a sea of medical ailments. There are claims that cannabis-infused products can help treat everything from insomnia and anxiety to pain and epilepsy. However, there are many misconceptions and urban legends regarding hemp. People unlearned many of these and learned the truth about hemp extracts like cannabidiol. Here’s a look at things you need to unlearn and relearn about cannabidiol in 2021.
What is Cannabidiol?
Cannabidiol, better known as CBD, is one of over a hundred cannabinoids found within the Cannabis Sativa plant. These are chemical compounds that interact with our body’s endocannabinoid system. They bind with various receptors and neurotransmitters in our bodies, help impact several bodily functions. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol or THC, CBD does not possess any psychoactive properties that produce mind-altering effects. As a result, THC products containing these hemp extracts are safe to use for extended periods as they do not form dependencies or addiction.
10 Things to Unlearn and Relearn About CBD
Let’s quickly take a look at a few common hemp-related myths and the truth behind them to help you relearn some things about CBD.
1. THC and CBD are two different names for the same thing!
Tetrahydrocannabinol is a cannabinoid like cannabidiol, but it interacts with our bodies differently. While THC induces the intoxication that most people associate with cannabis, the latter produces no such effects. Therefore, it is entirely wrong to conclude that both these compounds are the same because both marijuana and hemp contain them. While they share some similarities concerning medical benefits and chemical properties, they interact differently with various receptors.
2. CBD and hemp oil are the same and provide the same benefits!
While both these products come from hemp, they are different and produce varying results when used. Though hemp oil shares some medical properties, it does not have anti-inflammatory properties like oils containing hemp extracts. Hence, consumers should be careful when purchasing products and avoid those marketed as hemp oils. Such oils come from the hemp plant seeds, whereas the latter requires specific extraction techniques. Hence, hemp oil does not contain cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD.
3. CBD gets people high!
Most people believe that all compounds derived from marijuana or cannabis have the power to intoxicate people and leave them high. However, this isn’t how things work because not all cannabinoids are psychoactive. Tetrahydrocannabinol, better known as THC, is responsible for inducing most people intoxication with cannabis. Consuming pure isolates of cannabinoids will not get people high, making it safe for consumption. Unlike THC, hemp extracts help calm our nerves and induce a feeling of relaxation by removing anxiety and stress.
4. CBD and THC are the only chemicals in the cannabis plant!
The cannabis plant hosts over a hundred different cannabinoids, out of which THC and CBD are the most popular. These cannabinoids come from their acidic precursors, known as THCA and CBDA. Exposing these acids to temperatures greater than 110°C leads to decarboxylation, which produces their active forms. Additionally, the cannabis plant features several other variants, including CBN, CBG, and Delta-8 THC. If that wasn’t enough, the plant also contains several terpenes and anti-oxidants, which serve as ingredients in several products.
5. Cannabis is a drug and has no medical value, except pain relief!
Most people wrongfully conclude that cannabis is a drug-associated with laziness, lack of motivation, and addiction. These claims are far from the truth, as hemp products can do so much more than merely helping relieve pain. The compound produces several medicinal qualities, which help alleviate and treat the following ailments.
- Pain relief
- Inflammation management
- Seizures and epilepsy
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Anxiety and depression
- Nausea and vomiting
- Migraines and insomnia
- Psychosis
- Mental disorders
6. Weed can cause severe, life-threatening side effects!
Contrary to the belief that cannabis has far-reaching side effects, products infused with hemp extracts are generally very safe to use. Unlike synthetic over-the-counter medications, these do not produce adverse drug reactions or create dependencies. These work as natural remedies for a variety of illnesses and interact with our bodies organically. As a result, they can be a more sustainable and healthier option when compared to medications. Some of the mild side effects associated with cannabidiol are as follows:
- Changes in appetite
- Changes in weight
- Mood shifts
- Fatigue
- Dry mouth
7. Cannabis usage is addictive and becomes a life-long habit!
While research on cannabidiol’s effect on humans is in its nascent stages, studies have been promising up till now. No studies have proved that cannabidiol is an addictive substance that leads to dependencies in users. Research also shows that these compounds only remain in our body for a maximum of four days after ingestion. However, their effects wear off after three to four hours, making them a safe and healthy alternative to other intoxicating substances. Additionally, a WHO report concluded from human studies that CBD is non-addictive.
8. We can trust all hemp products sold in the US!
One of the most significant mistakes that consumers make when purchasing hemp products in the US is believing the manufacturer. There is a lack of regulation in marketing and selling products containing hemp extracts, and so consumers need to be more careful to avoid frauds. There aren’t many dosage guidelines or labeling standards for such products, making it essential for users to perform market research before purchasing anything. A 2017 study showed that 70% of hemp products sold online do not contain appropriate labels and instructions. Consumers should ensure they buy products from reputable, credible, and trustworthy companies to prevent such issues.
9. Any form of cannabis is legal in America!
It is wrong to assume that all products derived from cannabis are legal in the US, and such assumptions can land you on the wrong side of the law. The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp products for sale in the US and not cannabis-infused products. Hemp products refer to those containing less than 0.3% THC, and hence, consist of products that do not cause any intoxication.
Hence, only cannabidiol derived from hemp is legal in the US. Since there are other methods that manufacturers can use to extract CBD from hemp or marijuana, consumers need to be careful while purchasing. Additionally, certain states only allow the sale of medical marijuana, whereas others allow recreational usage. Hence, consumers must check their local laws and guidelines to ensure they stay on the right side of the law.
10. Cannabidiol works the best alone, so it’s better not to mix products!
A 2015 study highlighted that the medicinal potency of cannabidiol is highest when mixed with other extracts. Scientists call this phenomenon the ‘entourage effect’ wherein whole-plant extracts which contain the full cannabinoid and terpene profile work better. Such decoctions have a superior therapeutic value when compared to singular compounds. Hence, it might be better in certain instances to opt for full-spectrum products to enjoy all the benefits of the hemp plant.
Conclusion
As this article clarifies, people need to unlearn and relearn several things about cannabis. Hopefully, we have encouraged you to research and educate yourselves about the medicinal and therapeutic properties of hemp. What are the most insane pieces of misinformation you believed in about hemp products? Let us know about these in the comments and highlight how hemp products have made your lives easier and more comfortable!
