What is CBD?

The CBD landscape can be pretty overwhelming, and figuring it out can definitely cause its own form of anxiety. So if you’re new to this whole thing, don’t worry—we’re here to help. The first thing you should know about CBD is that it stands for cannabidiol. The second thing you should know is that it’s incredibly hard to say five times fast. Trust us on this one.

CBD was first discovered in 1940 by Roger Adams and his colleagues at the University of Illinois, and the rest is history. Literally. It happened decades ago. Nowadays, CBD is one of the most well-known and studied phytocannabinoids (or cannabinoids) produced by a plant.

People are becoming more and more interested in CBD because it doesn’t produce the same intoxicating effects that THC does. In simpler terms, CBD won’t make you feel “high” the same way THC would.

But why?

Well, THC binds to the CB1 receptors in your endocannabinoid system to give you those intoxicating effects. CBD, on the other hand, doesn’t bind well to CB1 or CB2 receptors. That’s not to say you might not feel “different” after taking CBD; it just won’t be the same.

So...what does CBD do? It’s currently being studied for its therapeutic uses, which is another reason CBD has piqued peoples’ interest. The actual benefits of CBD oil and other CBD products haven’t been nailed down, but anecdotal reviews suggest that people have found it can help them feel more relaxed, calm, and balanced.

Is all CBD the same?

Different strains of hemp will have different proportions of cannabinoids and terpenes, but all CBD that comes from hemp is structurally identical on a molecular level. So in that sense, yes, all CBD is technically the same.

Here’s where things get tricky, though. Not all CBD is sourced the same, so when you buy a product that isn’t legally regulated, you’re running the risk of receiving something that isn’t exactly what you think it will be. Without proper regulated testing, knowing the actual amount of CBD (or any other cannabinoid, for that matter) is impossible. Add to that the fact that products coming from an unauthorized retailer could use CBD that’s been treated with harsh fertilizers or chemicals, and you might find yourself in an unwanted situation.

Now you can see why a simple “no” wasn’t going to cut it. When talking about it on a molecular level, all CBD is structurally the same. However, when it comes to specific CBD products, the answer depends on where you purchased it.

1. CBD is a cannabinoid that doesn’t produce the same intoxicating effects as THC.
2. All CBD is molecularly the same.
3. Lists are fun.

REMEMBER: It’s always important to start low and go slow when trying new products.