THC or Marijuana or CBD or Cannabidiol or Hemp – while of these are the names that are associated with cannabis and refer to varied implications to different substances. And, here we are confused about cannabis. How is it that you can purchase CBD or Cannabidiol oil legitimately when you cannot buy Marijuana in states? Why this specific substance suddenly become so famous? What are the risks and benefits? Can it be addictive?

One thing is for sure: today, CBD business is growing at an exponential rate. According to the research by the Hemp Business Journal, by 2020, CBD sales are projected to reach a whopping figure of $1.15 billion.

Starting from basics: What is CBD

Cannabinoids are chemical substances that are generated naturally in some plants and human bodies. In plants, they are called phytocannabinoids, and in humans, it is known as endocannabinoids. In a human system, it acts as an operating system for our collection – it affects neurotransmitters that impact the pain by binding to receptors. Not just pain, also it affects how we react, move, feels as well as our mood, sleep, and appetite.

On the other hand, phytocannabinoids are derived from certain types of plants that mimic the same function for the human system as their chemical composition is similar to endocannabinoids. In cannabis, CBD is one of the most common cannabinoids – belongs to the genre of a flowering plant.

To add more, here is an analogy shared by Echo Connection initially, is to think of this: “Marijuana and Hemp are to cannabis as oranges and lemons are to citrus. Two are related but different plants that happen to belong to the same ‘family.’

In the case of CBD, it is easy to see where the confusion lies. Often, we used the term Marijuana referring to the dried form of the cannabis plant. Some use the term cannabis while some use the term hemp to see variations of the cultivated plant for non-drug purposes, such as fiber. The primary difference in varieties comes down to THC or tetrahydrocannabinol content.

What is THC (tetrahydrocannabinol)

You will find hundreds of active chemicals in the cannabis plant, including more than 110 cannabinoids found in the flowers, seeds, and stalks.

The two most copious cannabinoids are tetrahydrocannabinol and Cannabidiol – found in both hemp and Marijuana. Among them, the concentration of THC is higher in Marijuana. Since compounds have varied chemical structures, they have diverse psychoactive effects.

THC, which is an addictive compound, breaks down when the heat is applied and gets human’s high with mind-altering effects as it binds with cannabinoid receptors in the brain. However, when consuming raw cannabis, the human does not experience such effects. This process is known as decarboxylation. Based on the level of THC, it can include enjoyable altered perceptions and relaxation in some people. It also provides psychosis, paranoia, hallucinations, increased blood pressure, and anxiety.

Effectiveness of CBD Oil

Industry experts agree that this substance has different implications for every human being. However, a considerable large amount of CBD oil users reported feeling more focused, less anxious, and more relaxed. It does not make you feel high.

Even some people reported that using CBD oil helped them with headaches and chronic pain.

Others mentioned that it helped them with insomnia. Even some take the CBD oil as an anti-inflammatory.

One study comparing the consequences of THC and CBD found that our neurotransmitters for the “fight or flight” response get activated by THC. Alternatively, CBD suppresses automatic arousal, the nervous system response linked with increased respiration or heart rate, which is one of the reasons many people buy it for relaxation benefits. In a 2015 study CBD oil also proven as one effective method for treating anxiety; however, it also pointed out the requirement for more detailed scientific research of therapeutic and chronic effects.

Where to buy CBD?

You can easily buy CBD oil at online stores, wellness boutiques, gas stations, health food stores, head shops, and dispensaries. Both Walgreens and CVS have announced plans to sell it over the counter in selected states only.

How to use CBD?

You can easily mix the oil from the capsule into food like chocolate or gummies or any of your drinks. Most people consume it as a tincture typically made from high strains of CBD of hemp combined with 60-70% alcohol. These tinctures can be applied by massaging on your skin as oil or balm or lotion or sprayed under your tongue or consume using a dropper.

Is CBD addictive?

This is the most concerning question about CBD. However, it is not addictive. The challenge is whether you are buying it from reliable or reputable suppliers and retailers. If your CBD contains a high level of THC, then it is an entirely different story.

You can learn more about Cannabidiol here or drop your query for a detailed explanation.