Is a Cannabidiol a Phytocannabinoid?

Is a Cannabidiol a Phytocannabinoid? A phytocannabinoid is a compound found in the cannabis plant. The most well-known phytocannabinoid is THC, the compound in marijuana plants that have a psychoactive ingredient that creates a “high effect” and can become addictive. Another phytocannabinoid is Cannabidiol (CBD). Cannabidiol is actively being researched because it is not addictive, and the benefits derived from this compound have the potential to help a myriad of ailments. CBD has been used for thousands of years as a homeopathic remedy but is just now being taken seriously by the medical community as a viable method of pain management. The neurological benefits of phytocannabinoids are believed to help the body’s natural endocannabinoid system be more effective, possibly providing natural relief from brain tumors, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, neuropathic pain, childhood seizures, schizophrenia, anxiety, depression, addiction, post-concussion syndrome, and posttraumatic stress disorder.

Are Phytocannabinoids Legal?

Cannabis, or the marijuana plant has been a controversial topic for a very long time. Now that some of the compounds within the plant are being legalized, it can be confusing to know what is and isn’t legal in your state. There are two main plants that come from the cannabis plant family-marijuana and hemp. Both of these plants contain phytocannabinoids, but hemp does not contain THC. Most CBD products on the market come from hemp plants. Both THC and CBD are legal in states where medical and recreational marijuana have been legalized, such as Colorado, Nevada, California, Oregon, Washington, Maine, Vermont, Michigan, Massachusetts, and Alaska. There are some states, however, where CBD is legal, but THC is not. THC being legalized is controversial because though it can help some people medically, it does come with addictive qualities. Side effects can include:

  • Dizziness
  • Sleepiness
  • Dry mouth
  • Red, itchy eyes
  • High
  • Increased appetite
  • Paranoia
  • Increased heart rate

 

What are the Benefits of CBD?

CBD, on the other hand, is much less controversial because it is not addictive and has been known to have minimal side effects that are well tolerated by most people. In fact, most people who have tried CBD products say that CBD has amazing benefits that can help a number of pain symptoms disappear. There is still much more research that needs to be done to scientifically prove the beneficial properties of CBD, but online reviews alone may convince you to try it. Because it is not regulated by the FDA, there’s unfortunately no way to tell how concentrated some CBD products are and what dosage is correct for you. CBD can also interact negatively with some prescription medications and may cause liver toxicity. Before using CBD, make sure you discuss it with your doctor and follow their advice. The most common side effects of CBD are:

 

  • Drowsiness
  • Appetite changes
  • Dry mouth
  • Fatigue
  • Nausea

Find out how much CBD is right for you using our dosage calculator.

Though we don’t have all the answers, the initial research on the CBD compound looks promising. According to Medical News Today, some of the benefits of CBD products that have been somewhat researched are:

 

  • Natural pain relief and anti-inflammatory properties
    • o One study published in Addictive Behaviors found that smokers who inhaled CBD smoked less cigarettes than usual and had no further nicotine cravings.

 

  • Epilepsy

 

  • Neurological symptoms and disorders
    • o A study published in Current Pharmaceutical Design, discovered that CBD may produce similar benefits to those of antipsychotic drugs and CBD may be a safe treatment for people with schizophrenia.

 

  • Fighting cancer
    • o Researchers found that CBD can help the spread of cancer and may even possibly destroy cancer cells.

Where Can I Purchase CBD Products?

 

If you’re interested in trying CBD for yourself, you’re in luck because it is more widely available now than ever before. CBD products come in a variety of forms including oil drops, gummies, capsules, vaping, and more. They also come in several different ways. Some have carrier oil added to them, others have fragrances or a combination of different phytocannabinoids. Full spectrum CBD products have all phytocannabinoids and THC. It’s possible to buy CBD isolate products, that only contain CBD and nothing else. Depending on where you live, you may be able to find a store that sells CBD or medical marijuana. Most people buy CBD products online and have them delivered straight to their door. It’s important to research a company before buying anything to make sure you’re getting a high-quality product free from chemicals and other additives.