First things first, what is CBD?
You hear these three letters all the time but CBD actually stands for the cannabinoid Cannabidiol.
As one of the 113 active compounds within cannabinoids, CBD works naturally to reduce anxiety, pain, and sleep disorders without giving the user feeling a “high” or any mind-altering effects compared to their more well-known counterpart, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) which is highly associated with the cannabis plant or marijuana.
Now that we know what it is, we address the question “what does CBD do to your body?” with what we currently have studied and researched on the subject.
How does CBD work?
Your body naturally produces its own endocannabinoids to support your endocannabinoid system, however just like with any other nutrient, people can have a deficiency and may need extra support.
Micro receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system play a vital role in regulating mood, pain, and daily experiences. CBD encourages these receptors to do what is needed to spark all kinds of beneficial changes throughout the body.
The most basic way CBD works with our body is by blocking the breakdown of our own endocannabinoids, allowing our bodies to use more of what it’s already naturally producing.
The following areas have had proven success in relation to how cannabinoid can be beneficial:
1. Brain & Mood
- Alzheimer’s Disease
- Substance Abuse
- Epilepsy / Childhood Epilepsy
- Fun Fact: CBD is also the active ingredient in an epilepsy drug called Epidiolex.
- Anxiety
- PTSD
- Autism
2. Bones & Muscles
- Pain and Inflammation Relief
3. Skin
- Psoriasis
- Pruritus
- Atopic Dermatitis
- Systemic Sclerosis
- Acne Vulgaris
4. Gut
- Bowel Disease
5. Overall Health
- Anti-Tumor
- Diabetes
The health benefits are endless. But not all CBD is the same – there is full-spectrum and isolate and as a consumer, it’s important to know the difference.
Not all CBD is created equal
Full-spectrum CBD is made with an extract that contains all or nearly all of the compounds naturally present in the cannabis plant. This obviously includes CBD, as well as other cannabinoids (CBN, CBC, and CBG to name just a few), terpenes, flavonoids, and much more.
CBD isolate, on the other hand, contains only cannabidiol. Cannabidiol companies can achieve this either by isolating cannabidiol from cannabis extract, or by making it artificially in a lab.
Research also shows that full-spectrum CBD tends to offer better relief from some symptoms than isolates. The entourage effect is a theory that claims that the compounds in cannabis can synergize in the body, producing unique effects. Due to what’s known as the “entourage effect” full-spectrum CBD is considered to be much more effective.
Powered by nature. Proven by science
“I became interested in CBD after combing through the research and seeing all of the potential benefits. The general themes in these studies include promising effects on various disorders including pain, anxiety, epilepsy, etc. with great tolerance and minimal adverse effects. We do not intend to make any medical claims but simply support further research being done in several key areas based on the available literature and personal experience.”
Dr. Vishal Verma, Co-Founder and Chief Medical Director
Topical CBD
A topical CBD is any cream, lotion, or salve that’s infused with cannabidiol and can be applied directly to the skin.
Rich in vitamins A and E, magnesium, zinc, iron, calcium, and phosphorus, CBD is an excellent natural preservative and antioxidant that hydrates, revitalizes, and protects the skin against environmental influences.
Try any of our Le Pragma 5-Step Skincare Products to see for yourself. Additionally, it provides essential fatty acids that deeply moisturize the skin and boost the skin’s ability to retain moisture.
Full Spectrum is known for anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which can calm irritated and inflamed areas of the body and provide targeted pain relief. Our Le Pragma’s Roll-On Massage Cream does that and more. Our cream utilizes a specially formulated full spectrum hemp extract that is high in CBD-A, combined with menthol to help soothe everyday aches and pains.
Consumable CBD
When using , hemp-derived oil tinctures are proven to be one of the most effective delivery methods. For maximum benefit, it should be taken sublingually, or under the tongue.
This ensures the cannabidiol is delivered rapidly and efficiently. Try Le Pragma’s CBD Oil Tinctures that come in 4 different flavors for wellness within.
Are There Any Risks to CBD’s Effect on the Body?
There are no known severe side effects reported from CBD. Though it’s often well-tolerated, a common mistake CBD users make is taking more than the recommended dose, especially if they haven’t started to feel any effects.
Although you can’t overdose on CBD, your body may have some adverse effects like nausea, diarrhea, cramping, and fatigue. Cannabidiol can also interact with other medications, such as blood thinners.
Is CBD Legal?
CBD is everywhere. But its legality is depended on several factors, including the type of plant it comes from. CBD products (with less than 0.3 percent THC) are legal on the federal level, but are still illegal under some state laws.
Marijuana-derived products are illegal on the federal level, but are legal under some state laws. Check your state’s laws and those of anywhere you travel.
Closing Thoughts
CBD may be proven to be an option for managing anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain, and more. While CBD is currently mostly available as an unregulated supplement, it’s difficult to know exactly what you are getting so do your research and make sure it is from a trusted source like Le Pragma.
If you decide to try CBD, talk with your doctor — if for no other reason than to make sure it won’t affect other medications you are taking or preexisting conditions.
