CBD, also known as cannabidiol, is a naturally occurring substance that has just recently come into the spotlight. It is actually one of the 85 special molecules called cannabinoids that are found in the cannabis plant. The most common cannabinoid is THC, which is the primary ingredient in marijuana and responsible for causing the high associated with it. The second-most common and recognized cannabinoid is CBD, which is completely non-psychoactive. The level of THC to CBD ratio can vary in the cannabis plant and only pure CBD oil extracted from the plant can bring the benefits associated with this compound.
In the 1990s, scientists had carried out research to figure out how THC worked in the body and had discovered the Endocannabinoid System, which comprises of a network of receptors in the nervous and peripheral system and the brain. The primary purpose of the ECS is to bring balance to the body and the mind. Scientists have also found out that some of the health benefits that can be achieved through CBD oil use are because of the compound’s interaction with the Endocannabinoid system. The THC molecules fit into the endocannabinoid receptors perfectly, but CBD molecules are more subtle.
Therefore, they are able to activate the non-cannabinoid receptors as well, which are related to anxiety, inflammation and pain. Some benefits that people can derive from the regular use of pure CBD oil include:
- CBD can ease anxiety
For thousands of years, cannabis has been used by people for relaxing and there is a huge possibility that this only happened due to the CBD found in the plant. This compound has the ability of activating the serotonin 5HT1-A receptors that are found in areas of the brain-hippocampus, cerebral cortex and amygdala, which are involved in anxiety and mood disorders. In fact, it can also be effective in dealing with social anxiety. Those who consume CBD oil will notice reduced cognitive impairment and anxiety and feel less discomfort in speaking.
- CBD can relieve pain
The ability of CBD oil for reducing pain in various conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, arthritis, fibromyalgia and headaches has gained it plenty of recognition. The compound is able to bind itself to the TRPV-1 receptor that controls the inflammation and pain in the body. The inflammatory response in the body is due to the signaling proteins called pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are produced by immune cells. CBD reduces their production thereby controlling the pain.
- CBD works as a powerful antioxidant
One of the most amazing benefits of CBD oil is that it serves as a potent antioxidant. A large number of age-related health issues and problems are caused by oxidative stress. This is essentially a natural process that only occurs when waste products such as free radicals are generated. The body produces natural antioxidants for combating the damage these free radicals may cause such as heart disease, diabetes and neurodegenerative diseases. But, due to the high levels of stress, the naturally produced antioxidants are not enough and this is where CBD oil can be immensely useful.