Humans have an endocannabinoid system (ECS) that is a biological system consisting of a network of receptors spread throughout the body involved in regulating a variety of physiological and cognitive processes. CBD, which stands for cannabidiol, is one of 113 different cannabinoids. These are chemicals that occur naturally in hemp and marijuana plants.

CBD differs from the commonly known tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and does not contain psychoactive properties that give the feeling of being “high”. These cannabinoids are interactive within the human body through our cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2. CB1 is found in the brain and is the receptor which THC affects most prevalently, given its psychoactive values. CB2 is found in the immune system and is affected most by CBD, which gives CBD an immense value for use in healing the body.

Medicinal hemp is grown with high amounts of CBD and very low amounts of THC and is used to make CBD products. The 2014 Farm Bill legitimized industrial hemp and declared it to be distinct from marijuana. CBD products that contain less than 0.3 percent THC are considered hemp, and therefore, legal for sale in certain states for those over the age of 21.

CBD oil is very versatile and can be consumed topically, through inhalation, or internally through ingesting or suppositories. CBD oil is most commonly found in salves, edibles, tinctures, vapes and extracts.

There are two types of CBD products, isolates and full spectrum. Isolates contain isolated CBD molecules. A full-spectrum CBD oil contains these molecules and additional plant nutrients and identifiers, such as terpenes.

Evidence suggests some terpene profiles help to lower insulin levels and suppress appetite, helping with weight loss and diabetes management. Other terpene profiles increase circulation. An analogy for this would be that consuming isolates is like taking a beta carotene supplement, while a full-spectrum product is like eating an entire carrot, which contains beta carotene. More research is needed on the benefits and differences between each type of oil. High-quality CBD products will have third party testing conducted to ensure consistency and accurate labeling of concentration.

CBD is a medicinal product that is effective for a variety of disorders, best known for its effects on pain management and mood stabilization. CBD can be used to deal with the symptoms of anxiety, depression and insomnia, and it has been proven to help with seizure regulation. CBD can also help with nausea/vomiting, chronic pain, menstrual cramps, bacterial growth and inflammation.

The recommendation is generally to start with isolates, then upgrade to full spectrum, as the person becomes more familiar with how the CBD affects their body. Due to the addition of terpenes, full spectrum oils may be less predictable than isolate products. Begin with a low dose of 5 to 10mg and increase from there to 25mg. CBD has been known to have a cumulative effect when taken daily. However, one should always consult with their physician before trying any new drug, and be especially cautious when on medication for low blood pressure or anything dealing with the heart.

Marteen Santerre is founder of Soul Being, a company specializing in connecting health seekers with wellness professionals of more than 40 therapies through their online platform. She began volunteering with hospice in 2012 and has since helped a large range of individuals using holistic therapies from ages 6 to 97. She is a reiki master teacher of the Usui Tibetan Lineage and meditation coach. For more information, visit SoulBeing.com.