Cannabidiol

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Cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound that is extracted from a certain type of cannabis plant, most commonly known as the hemp plant. The two most familiar compounds of the many that are derived from cannabis are THC and CBD. However, unlike THC, CBD does not produce the same euphoric effects. CBD is a non-psychoactive that provides the same benefits as it’s THC counterpart, which has made it favorable among doctors wishing to explore alternative methods of pain relief.

CBD works by sending certain signals to the body’s endocannabinoid system. The endocannabinoid system contains cannabinoid receptors (CB1 & CB2), and as opposed to THC, CBD utilizes these receptors indirectly. CBD has the ability to increase the amount of the body’s natural cannabinoids by preventing certain enzymes from breaking them down properly.

CBD interacts with the body’s opioid receptors, which has posed to be very fascinating. Opioid receptors produce dopamine, a natural pain reliever that, when produced in excess, may cause an addiction. While further research needs to be conducted on just what effects CBD has on our opioid receptors, there is hope that CBD can negate the cravings that come with opioids, and perhaps suppress the withdrawal symptoms that occur when someone has stopped using these types of drugs.